Itinerary

1. Day 1: Welcome to Ecuador - The Adventure Begins!

   • Extend a warm welcome to Ecuador.
   • Begin the journey with relaxation and anticipation.
   • Embark on a scenic 45-minute drive into the enchanting city of Quito.
   • Enjoy picturesque landscapes along the way.
   • Receive a comprehensive overview of the itinerary.
   • Check-in at the hotel.
   • Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Quito.
   • Discover its captivating cultural offerings.
   • Experience the astonishing elevation of 9,350 feet (2,850 meters).
   • Marvel at the breathtaking views.

   Meals: Not included.

2. Day 2: Discovering Quito's Rich Heritage

   • After breakfast, your English-speaking guide will pick you up from your hotel.
   • Enjoy a morning walking city tour of Quito.
   • Explore the colonial center, designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1978.
   • Visit Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica churches.
   • Walk down the oldest street of Quito—La Ronda.
   • After lunch, head to the equatorial monument, Mitad del Mundo.
   • Mitad del Mundo is located just 26 km (16 miles) north of Quito.

3. Day 3: Mindo Cloud Forest Expedition

   • Explore the lush green cloud forest of Mindo.
   • Located on the western slopes of the Andean highlands.
   • Enjoy mild temperatures and abundant rainfall.
   • Experience the incredibly high biodiversity of the Mindo forest.
   • Encounter countless birds, butterflies, and insect species.
   • Visit the butterfly garden.
   • Hike to beautiful waterfalls.
   • Fly between the treetops on a zipline.
   • Learn to make chocolate.
   • Taste your creations.

   Meals: Breakfast.

4. Day 4: Otavalo Market and Cuicocha Lake Adventure

   • Wake up early to visit the biggest indigenous city in Ecuador.
   • Explore the well-known indigenous market. Artisans sell colourful textiles and other traditional goods.
   • Snack on fruits and other snacks while browsing the stalls. Discover paintings, carvings, and hand-painted bowls.
   • Enjoy street food, such as salted mango or fritada con mote (fried pork with cooked corn).
   • Continue to the nearby town of Cotacachi for more shopping. Cotacachi is famous for its leather products.
   • In the afternoon, stroll along the shores of the volcanic crater lake of Cuicocha.
   • Learn about the high-altitude flora and fauna and the history of the lake from your guide.
   • Optionally, take a boat ride around the two islands.

   Meals: Breakfast.

5. Day 5: Relaxation at Termas de Papallacta Hot Springs

   • Wrap up the trip with a relaxing visit to a hot spring in Papallacta.
   • Papallacta is home to the Termas de Papallacta spa, consisting of eight natural geothermal pools.
   • Take a dip in the warm water and unwind while admiring views of polylepis trees and the Antisana Volcano. Papallacta Hotsprings is a popular tourist destination known for its therapeutic and healing powers.
   • Located in a mountain valley near the Andes, the hot springs boast high mineral content.
   • Enjoy activities such as soaking in hot pools, steam baths, and Jacuzzis.
   • Choose from a variety of treatments, including massages and mud baths.
   • Additional amenities include a spa, restaurants, a pool, and various lodging options.
   • Papallacta Hotsprings offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors.

   Meals: Breakfast.

6. Day 6: Farewell Ecuador - Private Transfer to Quito Airport

   • At the designated time for your international flight, your private driver will be waiting for you at your hotel lobby.
   • They will assist you with your luggage.
   • Drive you to the airport for your departure.

   Meals: Breakfast.