Astride the Equator
Ecuador Small Group Tour
Tour Overview
Take an exciting journey astride the equator through the rugged landscapes of the Andes Mountains and the lush rainforest.
Observe the diversity of cultures from the Otavaleños and Afro-Ecuadorians in the north, to the Quichua and Shuar in the rainforest, and finally to the Kichwa in the central Andes at the foothills of the mighty volcano Chimborazo.
On our journey visit vibrant markets, marvel at the impressive highland scenery on leisurely walks and enjoy the flora and fauna of the jungle.
Tour Highlights
• Explore the colonial capital of Quito
• Enjoy the atmospheric and vibrant highland market of Otavalo
• Observe the practices and customs of indigenous communities
• Enjoy walks in magnificent Andean scenery and the Avenue of the Volcanoes
• Relax in a rainforest lodge and observe tropical flora and fauna
Tour Rating
To help our travellers choose the right tour for them we have applied a grading system of 1 to 5. Tours with a fitness level of 1 will generally be suitable for all ages and will not be particularly strenuous, whereas tours with a fitness level of 5 are likely to be physically challenging. To find out more please contact our well-travelled team who will often have first-hand experience of the destination.
Fitness
3/5
Unexplored
3/5
Culture
4/5
History
3/5
Wildlife
3/5
Tour Pace
4/5
Map + Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Quito
(approx. 1 hr driving)
Arrive in Quito and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, you may have time to explore the city. Overnight Patio Andaluz or similar. No meals are included today.
Quito
Quito has long been a city of two halves. Occupying a highland valley flanked by volcanoes, the setting of its historic centre and adjoining modern quarters is breathtaking. The formerly dark and run-down colonial heart has been magnificently restored. Cobbled lanes and whitewashed façades, scrubbed up churches and renovated theatres now gleam and echo with the sounds of the everyday life of its traditional inhabitants. Beyond are the skyscrapers and broad avenues of the contemporary commercial city, with flashy shops, offices and restaurants, where busy young workers flock to the many bars and nightclubs.
Day 2: Quito – Cotacachi
(approx. 3hrs driving)
This morning explore the colonial old town of Quito (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Visit the major colonial churches and monasteries including La Catedral, El Sagrario, La Compañia and San Francisco. Later, visit Independence Plaza flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace. Continue to the Church of San Francisco, one of the greatest religious buildings in South America. Its impressive façade and atrium lead to an opulent gold interior, a Baroque influence with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main altar. Visit the historic colonial quarter of Quito, resplendent with its churches, gilded altars and religious sculptures and paintings dating from the 17th 18th and 19th centuries. The tour continues through narrow streets, ancient colonial houses with Moorish-style arches and mysterious patios to El Panecillo, a vantage point for a stunning view of the city. This afternoon, drive from Quito north to Mitad del Mundo (literally middle of the world) where the Equatorial Line Monument is located. Here you can stand with one foot in the Northern, and one in the Southern hemisphere. Leaving Quito behind, continue to Cotacachi where you are welcomed by a local family. Overnight at Runa Tupari or similar (BLD)
Day 3: Cuicocha Lagoon
(approx. 2hrs driving)
Today we explore the surroundings of the Cuicocha Crater Lagoon during an easy to moderate grade 4-5 hour hike through the flora of the Andean highlands. We also visit Cotacachi, known for its handmade leather articles. Overnight Runa Tupari similar (BLD)
Note – Alternatively it is possible for clients to take a boat tour of the lagoon instead of doing the hike. This is subject to availability and cannot be booked in advance.
Day 4: Otavalo – Peguche Cascades – Papallacta
(approx. 3hrs driving)
Today visit Otovalo market and meet skilful native merchants that create colourful pieces using the same techniques as their ancestors, such as alpaca sweaters, ponchos, hammocks and pan flutes. We then visit a house of a respected maestro in rondador, a small panpipe producing a distinctive sweet sound. After the visit we continue to Peguche waterfall, an important place for the local people, where we take a short walk and be educated about the importance of this sacred place. We then make our way to Papallacta, a first-class hot springs resort, located in the Amazon region. Overnight Termas Papallacta or similar (BD)
Day 5: Amazon Adventure
(approx. 5hrs driving)
This morning, we head to the upper Amazon along a scenic stretch of road that takes us out of the Andes highlands and into the Amazon. We stop at Wayra Reserve, where you can find a large variety of flora and fauna, and home to some amazing birdlife such as the Rufous-Breasted Wood Quail. After the visit we head to our lodge where we will spend the next 3 nights. Overnight Suchipakari Lodge or similar (BLD)
Day 6: Amazon Experience
Today explore the jungle with your native guide, observing the variety of flora and fauna. We also visit the famous animal refuge known as AmaZoonico, founded to protect the native and wild animals of the area that have been injured, mistreated or confiscated due to smuggling. After lunch we visit a native Quichua family where we will learn how ‘chicha’, their local alcoholic drink, is prepared. You can also experience using the blowgun – an important weapon used by the people of the jungle when hunting food. After the family visit, explore the caiman lagoon where you can view the reptiles that live here. Overnight at the lodge (BLD)
Day 7: Amazon Experience
This morning take a hike through the protected rainforest of the lodge. Your nature guide will point out interesting medicinal plants and talk about the wildlife in the area. After the walk and lunch, we discover why Ecuador is the best place to enjoy chocolate. Learn how to make delicious chocolate from the local cocoa beans. After returning to the lodge, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at the same lodge (BLD)
Day 8: Macas
(approx. 4hrs driving)
After breakfast, travel through the rainforest to Puno where we visit an Animal Rescue Centre to observe tropical animals of the Amazon region and meet some monkeys face to face. From here, continue deeper into the rainforest to the small jungle town of Macas. Here there will be some time to relax at leisure in the afternoon. Overnight Hosteria Piedra Amazónica or similar (B)
Day 9: Macas - Shuar Waterfall – Lagoons of Atillo – Guamote
(approx. 3hrs driving)
A short drive, takes us to Shuar territory. Take a round trip of walk of around 3 hours through the forest to a sacred waterfall, where we participate in the spiritual waterfall ceremony of the Shuar, after which enjoy a soak in the waterfall and taste the typical food of the Shuar. Later, continue to the Atillo Lakes, crossing the Andean highlands to Guamote. Overnight Inti Sisa Hotel or similar. (BD)
Day 10: Guamote – Riobamba
(approx. 1hr driving)
Our day begins with a visit to the Church of La Balbanera on the outskirts of Riobamba, first built by the Spaniards, making it the first catholica church in the region. Continue to Colta Lagoon and explore the area before driving to the community of La Moya, formed of 68 families. Experience the man’s relationship with the sacred mountain Chimborazo with their legends and traditions rooted in the community, and visit the mountain museum ‘Urkukunapak Wasi’ where the myths and legends are on display. Our final destination is Riobamba, Ecuador’s first capital city. Spend the evening at leisure. Overnight Mansion Santa Isabella or similar (BL)
Day 11: Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve - Tigua
(approx. 5hrs driving)
Today we visit the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, located on the slopes of the highest mountain in Ecuador. We begin at the reserve’s interpretation centre (starting at 4630m) where you will hear about the flora and fauna of the reserve, before heading to the mountaineer’s refuge. After we continue to Tigua, a small village close to Quilotoa. Overnight Posada de Tigua or similar (BD)
Avenue of the Volcanoes
The aptly named Avenue of the Volcanoes is flanked by eight dizzyingly-high snow-mantled mountains striding south of Quito down the Andean spine. It passes through a valley rich with a landscape of dense forest and tiny fields plastering impossibly steep slopes. Dotted around is a mix of deeply traditional indigenous and colonial settlements with horticultural and artisan markets and cottage industries. There’s also a clutch of old estates gifted to conquistadores where the grandiose buildings are now countryside hotels. This is supreme hiking country, with trails leading to craters harbouring turquoise volcanic lakes, usually with views of the biggest peaks, Chimborazo and Cotopaxi.
Day 12: Quilotoa Lagoon
(approx. 3hrs driving)
This morning visit the Andean market of Zumbahua and experience the noisy and chaotic market before heading to the beautiful crater lagoon, Quilotoa. On a short hike, enjoy the changing views of the lagoon and the surrounding Andes Mountains. Overnight Mama Hilda Hotel or similar (BLD)
Day 13: Cotopaxi National Park
(approx. 4hrs driving)
This morning we travel south to the central Ecuadorian Andes and Cotopaxi National Park. and enjoy an easy walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon, learning about the typical vegetation of the Andes and, with good weather, enjoy superb views of the impressive Cotopaxi. Lunch is taken in the mountain refuge Tambopaxi surrounded by the impressive peaks of Sincholagua and Cotopaxi. Overnight El Porvenir or similar (BLD)
Day 14: Departure from Quito
(approx. 2hrs drving)
Time at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Please book a flight after 1500 hours.
Tour Inclusions
Arrival and departure transfers
Overland transport throughout with professional driver
All accommodation
Services of English-speaking guide / tour leader - combined driver/guide for 3 pax or less
Meals as listed
B – Breakfast
L – Lunch
D – Dinner
Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
Feedback from our Travellers
Foreign Office Travel Warnings
Before booking your tour, please familiarise yourself with the country specific information provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This includes important information such as latest immigration requirements, and details of any travel advisories.
We constantly monitor the advice posted by the FCDO. In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At present there are no warnings against travel to the parts of Ecuador that we visit on this tour. Please feel free to contact us should you have any specific concerns or would like to know in detail what measures are being taken to ensure visits remain trouble free and without incident.
It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government.
Visa Information
At the time of writing British, US and Australian nationals do not require a visa for a tourist visit to Ecuador. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.
British Nationals - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
US Nationals - travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html
Australian Nationals - www.smartraveller.gov.au
Other nationals should check the latest requirements with the authorities in their home country, or with the destination’s nearest embassy or consulate.
Should you require any documentation to support a visa application, such as a letter of invitation, upon request this will be provided by Undiscovered Destinations after receipt of your balance payment.
As it is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure that they meet all entry requirements it is essential that you check the rules and any other conditions at the time of booking and again when making your balance payment. In addition, we would strongly advise that you make a final check around two weeks before your arrival. This is important as requirements can change at short notice. Undiscovered Destinations, when possible, will provide guidance about entry rules, but in the first instance please contact the relevant authorities, including the applicable embassy or consulate for assistance.
Passports
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to your country.
We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition, certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities.
For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively, UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
Vaccinations & Protection
As with travel to most parts of Latin America, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice, and the necessary vaccinations. For a visit of less than one month you maybe advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. The use of a DEET-containing insect repellent may also be recommended.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses (including cover for Covid-19 conditions) and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday.
Altitude
Please note that your tour involves some walking/trekking at altitude. Some travel insurance policies may exclude walking and trekking above a certain altitude. Please ensure that your travel insurance is valid for walking at altitude and if you have any doubts please contact your insurance provider.
Local Conditions
When travelling to our destinations, many of which are underdeveloped and untouristed by mainstream tourism, a good deal of patience and a sense of humour is an important attribute. This will help you to cope with problems such as ageing or poor infrastructure and when maintenance may not be as high as we would always like.
The choice of appropriate accommodation in some towns and cities (particularly the smaller places) can be limited, and standards of both service and maintenance can be less than polished. Guides and other service providers in some of our destinations do not always have the decades of collective practice and experience that their counterparts in more developed countries can draw upon. Although we will always try and resolve any issues as quickly as possible, on occasions there may be some shortcomings which no matter how hard we try will be unavoidable.
Essential Info
