A JOURNEY THROUGH THE ANDES – nature, culture and active experiences included.

From € 2,597.00 p.p.

Ecuador, one of the most diverse countries in the world, is located in western South America and owes its name to the equator, which divides the country in half. Despite its relatively small size, Ecuador fascinates with an impressive geographical diversity.

The four regions of the country could not be more different: the Pacific coast with its wide sandy beaches and tropical climate, the Andean highlands ("La Sierra") with majestic mountain ranges and a deep-rooted culture, the mysterious Amazon with its breathtaking flora and fauna, and the unique Galapagos Islands, which significantly inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. In no other country are these four worlds so close to each other.

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DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN QUITO

Upon arrival, your tour guide will welcome you at the airport (pay attention to a welcome sign with your name when you enter the arrivals area), assist you with your luggage and provide a stress-free transfer to your hotel. As soon as all participants have arrived, we will start with a short introduction before ending the evening with a delicious welcome dinner.

Accommodation: Patio Andaluz

Meals: Dinner

DAY 2: CITY TOUR & COOKING CLASS

Today we begin a special tour of discovery through Quito, a city rich in history and culture. We travel through time – from the pre-Columbian era to the colonial period to the time when Quito became the capital of the republic. But we will also admire the modern beauty of the city, which ensured Quito the title of the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.

In addition to the well-known history, we also take a look at the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Quito. We visit hidden places where LGBTQ+ people gathered before the decriminalization of homosexuality. This part of the tour gives us a deep insight into the challenges and strength of this community.

As we visit these important sites, we experience an abundance of emotions and discover both celebrated and untold stories that have shaped today's Quito.

After the tour, we continue to a lively food market in the historic center. In this place, where women significantly shape the event, we find not only fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and meat, but also a living tradition of the Andes. Here you have the opportunity to spiritually cleanse yourself with herbs, flowers, perfumes and incense and listen to the fascinating stories of the women who fill this market with life. Afterwards, we learn all about the unique Ecuadorian fruits and vegetables from a local chef. Finally, we prepare traditional Ecuadorian dishes together in a cozy restaurant. After a pleasant lunch, we go back to the hotel, where the afternoon is at your disposal.

Accommodation: Patio Andaluz

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 3: QUITSATO SUNDIAL / LAKE SAN PABLO / OTAVALO MARKET

We leave Quito and drive two hours north on the Panamericana, past varied landscapes with rolling hills and snow-capped volcanoes. Our first stop is the Quitsato sundial, a cultural and tourist place on the "Mitad Del Mundo", the actual equator.

Then we continue to a beautiful hacienda, where we enjoy a delicious lunch before leaving for our next destination. Our journey takes us to the quiet Lake San Pablo, nestled between the imposing volcanoes Imbabura and Cotacachi. The peaceful waters and breathtaking nature offer the perfect place for a relaxing walk or a moment of reflection.

Finally, we visit the world-famous indigenous market of Otavalo, known for its lively atmosphere and extraordinary craftsmanship. The heart of the market is the Plaza de los Ponchos, where colorful stalls offer a large selection of handmade goods. Here we have the opportunity to discover beautiful woven textiles, including artfully decorated ponchos, scarves and blankets, made by talented craftsmen with traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation. In addition to textiles, there is an impressive selection of jewelry, pottery, wood carvings and leather goods - each piece reflects the unique culture and traditions of the Otavalo community.

While we stroll along the lively market, we are accompanied by the thrilling sounds of traditional Andean music. The local musicians play instruments such as the charango, pan flutes and drums and thus create an unforgettable atmosphere. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the very special charm of Otavalo and take home a piece of its living culture.

Accommodation: Pinsaquí

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 4: CUICOCHA CRATER LAKE / CALERA COMMUNITY

Cuicocha Crater Lake Byp

Distance: 14 km

Duration: 4.5 hours

Path type: Circular route

Maximum height: 3512 m

Ascent: 575 m

Descent: 620 m

This morning we make our way to the impressive crater lake Cuicocha, which is located in a secondary caldera of the extinct volcano Cotacachi. Cuicocha, which translates to "lake of guinea pigs", owes its name to the shape of its two central islands. The lake and the surrounding slopes are under nature conservation, and at an altitude of about 3,000 meters, Cuicocha combines a rare mixture of Paramo and Andean Forest ecosystems. This special combination offers a home to numerous unique plant species. Our hiking trail takes us along the crater rim and gives us breathtaking views of the lake as well as the imposing volcanoes Cotacachi, Mojanda and Imbabura. We are on the lookout for native animals, and with a little luck we can even see the majestic Andean condor high up in the sky.

Then we continue our journey and drive to the municipality of Calera, where the communal dining room "Sabores y Tradiciones" awaits us. Here we enjoy a delicious traditional lunch, prepared with fresh, organic products directly from the gardens of the community - a truly authentic taste of local cuisine.

Finally, we take a look at various community projects that are committed to ensuring that tourism has a positive impact on the quality of life of indigenous communities in the region.

Accommodation: Pinsaqui

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 5: OTAVALO COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK / LIMPIOPUNGO LAGOON

Today we drive along the legendary "Road of Volcanoes" that leads us to the Cotopaxi National Park. Our adventure begins at Lake Limpiopungo, which is picturesquely located on the slopes of the Rumiñahui volcano - from here we enjoy spectacular views of the Cotopaxi. If you wish, you can then climb to the refuge at 4,864 meters and experience the breathtaking view even more intensely.

Afterwards we continue to a beautiful hacienda, where a delicious lunch awaits us. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the impressive surroundings. We can settle down in front of the cozy fireplace with a hot drink or pamper ourselves in the APU Mountain Spa (at an additional cost).

Optional activity: For the adventurous, there are two self-guided hiking trails around the Hacienda area, which we can explore at our own pace (free of charge).

Accommodation: El Porvenir

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 6: COTOPAXI / QUILOTA KRATERSEE / BANOS DE AGUA SANTA

After an early breakfast, we make our way south and make a stop at the picturesque village of Tigua, which is known for its colorful paintings. The art of painting has a long tradition here, going back to the time when the villagers painted sheepskin with chicken feathers. Today you can find this unique painting style on plates, picture frames and many other souvenirs throughout Ecuador.

Then we continue to the impressive crater lagoon Quilotoa. We start at the crater viewpoint – and for good reason! As soon as we get the first glimpse of the lake, we will all reach for the camera. But even away from the viewpoints, an unforgettable experience awaits us: The hike to the Quilotoa crater is not only very popular, but absolutely worthwhile. The descent to the lake shore takes only 20 to 30 minutes and leads over steep, sandy terrain, where we will encounter numerous photo motifs along the way. However, the ascent back is much more strenuous, especially at this height! Most take less than an hour, but take your time – it's not a race. Then we continue to Baños de Agua Santa, where more adventures and relaxation await us.

Accommodation: La Floresta

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 7: BANOS DE AQUA SANTA / BIKE TOUR

Bike tour: Distance: 17 km

Maximum height: 2660 m

We go on a scenic drive to visit the famous Casa del Árbol, which is enthroned at an altitude of 2,660 meters. Here we enjoy a magnificent view of the volcano Tungurahua.

If you feel like thrills, you can swing on the swing at the end of the world. Fly over the edge of the cliff and be enchanted by the spectacular view of the breathtaking Ecuadorian landscape!

After a short safety briefing, we get on our bikes and cycle along the beautiful Baños Puyo Road. Our first stop – the impressive Agoyán waterfall – will blow your mind. Continue to the breathtaking Manto de la Novia waterfall. Here you can feel the adrenaline rush as we cross the river either by cable car or over a suspension bridge while enjoying the fantastic views of the waterfalls of San Jorge and San Pedro - perfect for unforgettable photos!

Then we reach the village of Río Verde, where we exchange our bikes for a short hike to the spectacular El Pailón del Diablo waterfall. Here you get very close to the roaring water!

Tip: If you prefer not to cycle, you can also ride the route in a relaxed way by car. And if someone needs a break while driving, the car is always ready to continue comfortably.

Accommodation: La Floresta

Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch

DAY 8: BATHS OF AQUA SANTA / MACHICA / QUITO

After a delicious breakfast, we continue our journey towards Latacunga, where we visit the charming town of San Felipe. Here we dive into the traditional production process of Máchica, a flour made of ground and roasted barley grain. Máchica plays an important role in Ecuadorian cuisine, as it refines the taste and texture of various drinks. It is also used to make an alcoholic beverage that is similar to beer and has been enjoyed by locals for centuries.

We have the opportunity to observe the over 100-year-old method of grinding and roasting barley – a craft that has been preserved for generations. This gives us a deeper insight into the local traditions and cultural significance of Máchica. Afterwards we return to our hotel in Quito.

Accommodation: Casa Ilayaku

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 9: HOME

Depending on the flight schedule, you can either go to the airport for the trip home - or you can continue your trip with an unforgettable extension on the Galapagos Islands. You can choose from 5- or 8-day programs where you can experience one of the most extraordinary ecosystems in the world up close - with unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. This extension offers the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the themes of marine and species conservation – in a truly unique environment.

Meals: Breakfast

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