Geography
Roughly the size of Colorado, no country in Latin America offers such diversity in such a small area. From the high Andes … (read more)
Culture - Quito
Situated in a high valley in the Andes, Quito has views to hills and mountains in all directions. The colonial part … (read more)
Community Connections
Ecuador has two of our favorite community-based lodges and guesthouses. One is the Runa Tupari project … (read more)
Country Overview:
EcuadorEcuador has amazing diversity for a relatively small country. From the islands of the Galapagos to the 20,000 foot peaks of the Andes, down to the Amazon rainforest, Ecuador offers markets, hot springs, wildlife, rafting, and more. All these are easily accessible from Quito, which enjoys a spring-like climate year-round because it sits at over 9,000 feet just a few miles south of the equator.
Our Amazing Ecuador adventure vacation combines two days of hiking in the Andes near the famous market town of Otavalo, three days in the Amazon at the lodge the Lonely Planet guidebook calls the best example of ecotourism in Ecuador, and rafting the Rios Toachi and Blanco outside Quito. We are guests of ecotourism projects in both the Andes and Amazon, providing us a unique view of local communities along with the wildlife and spectacular mountain scenery.
Highlights include:
- Exploring the Amazon rainforest from Yachana Lodge on the Rio Napo
- Shopping for tapestries at the market in Otavalo
- Hiking around Lake Cuicocha in the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve and perhaps climbing the nearly 14,000 foot extinct Fuya Fuya volcano
Interested in a little more or a little less? Are your interests more focused? There are plenty of choices available to combine into a tailored adventure vacation at a competitive price. Here are just a few of the options we can combine into your ideal Ecuador adventure:
Amazon rainforest and Yachana Lodge: Hike through the rainforest, float down the Rio Napo, and explore the jungle at night....
Andes markets, hikes and homestays: Make time for the unique Andean highlands—visit the market in Otavalo for colorful rugs, tapestries, weavings, and jewelry; hike through the grassy paramo...
Hot springs and spa : Perched on a high Andean valley and on the entrance route to the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle, the Termas de Papallacta hot springs and spa is located...
Galapagos extension: Expand your exploration of Ecuador with a 4, 5 or 8 day trip to the evolutionary wonders of the Galapagos Islands. Live aboard...
