Ecuador Holidays
Not only is Ecuador blessed with a delightful temporate climate, but despite its relatively small size, it is also a treasure chest of some of nature’s most exotic marvels. Coursing like a backbone through the middle of the country are the Andes mountains with their snow-capped volcanoes and stunning scenery. To the east of the country is the Oriente which is home to the Amazon basin and a dizzying array of the world’s exotic flora and fauna, whilst to the west lie the rich farmlands of the coastal plain and the sand beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean.
The Amazon Rainforest
Most of the lowlying area to the east of the Andes is known as El Oriente and is part of the upper Amazon Basin with all the rivers eventually reaching the mighty Amazon River itself, but outside of Ecuadorian territory. El Oriente itself can be divided into the Northern Oriente to the north of the town of Puyo and the Pasraza River and then the Southern Oriente to the south of the town. The north has much better communications in terms of road and air networks with the rest of the country as well as having a better visitor infrastructure and so when visiting the Amazon jungle, the north is the preferred option.
In the Northern Oriente it is possible to enjoy trips into the jungle from towns such as Misahualli on the edge of the Oriente, but for those who are keen to see primary rainforest then it is better to fly to the town of Coca and then head by speedboat up the Napo River to one of the excellent forest lodges. Activities at the lodges are similar and include hiking in the forest in search of the fantastic flora and fauna with your naturalist guides as well as exploring the lakes and rivers by motorised dug-out canoe. We would recommend a 3 night stay as a minimum in order to make the visit worthwhile and in fact some of the lodges have a minimum stay policy of three nights anyway.
In the Southern Oriente, the only accommodation of real quality is far more remote than most other jungle lodges and offers a fascinating programme of activities not only in search of the beautiful wildlife, but also trips to visit isolated tribal communities.
Our recommended lodges:
In the Northern Oriente:
Napo Wildlife Centre
Sacha Lodge
La Selva Lodge
In the Southern Oriente:
Kapawi Lodge
The Avenue of Volcanoes
To the south of Quito lies ‘The Avenue of Volcanoes’, which stretches down through the centre of the country. This is home to some of Ecuador’s wildest and most spectacular scenery with nine of the ten highest mountain peaks, Chimborazo at 6,310 meters and Tungurahua at 5,033 meters, just to mention a couple. There are dozens of pretty little villages inhabited by indigenous Indians who live as their forebears have for centuries working the rich volcanic soils. Traditional dress is worn by much of the population here and their hugely colourful and vibrant markets are a fascinating and hugely rewarding experience.
Cotopaxi National Park covers almost 34,000 hectares and is Ecuador’s most famous and popular National Park and is dominated by the beautiful snow-capped cone of Cotopaxi Volcano (5,897meters), which is the country’s second highest peak.
There is some excellent hiking within the park where you will enjoy some fabulous scenery and the possibility of seeing a wide variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, red brocket deer, Andean fox and many bird species including the occasional Andean condor.
As in the north, there are a number of lovely private properties to stay where horse riding, mountain biking, fishing and trekking are just a few of the activities that you can enjoy.
Our preferred haciendas and lodges include:
Hacienda San Agustin de Callo
Hosteria La Cienega
Hacienda Chillo Jijon
Hacienda Abraspungu
The Cloudforest
Various reserves and national parks lie just a couple of hours from Quito, such as Maquipucuna, where the rare Andean spectacled bear has been sighted, and the Mindo area, home to myriad species of hummingbird.
The region of Mindo lies within the protected Mindo-Nambillo forest, which is about two hours northwest of Quito. Mindo Cloud Forest is one of he best areas in Ecuador for bird watching and has immense biodiversity including many endemic plant species such as orchids, bromeliads, heliconias, ferns, vines, mosses and lichens.
The private Mashpi Biodiversity Reserve, within the Mindo area, again, offers great birdwatching, numerous waterfalls and rivers to bathe in, orchid gardens to explore and a two kilometre aerial tram allowing visitors to enjoy an unparalleled extended exploration of the forest canopy, which is one of the Earth’s richest and least-explored biomes. The reserve is home to animals such as monkeys, peccaries and even puma, stunning butterflies such as the electric blue Morpho and a host of insects and amphibians such as the glass frog. The area is home to lichens, mosses, giant fern and many orchid species.
Our preferred lodge is:
Mashpi Lodge
Cuenca & Ingapirca
The original city of Cuenca, known as Tomebamba, was built by the Incas as a city to rival the imperial capital of Cusco in its beauty and importance. This may well have been so, but when the Spanish arrived in the 16th Century, the old city lay in ruins and its demise is still a mystery. Cuenca was rebuilt and is a beautiful old colonial city with its cobbled streets and red tiled roofs. UNESCO named it a World Heritage Site and despite being Ecuador’s third busiest city it also enjoys a delightfully provincial and tranquil atmosphere.
A visit to the colonial town of Cuenca should include Parque Calderon, the plaza lying at the heart of the city and dominated by the old El Sagrario and new Inmaculada Concepcion Cathedrals, the Plaza de las Flores with its daily flower market and the Panama hat factory, just to name a few of the sights.
If one can enjoy the luxury of staying in Cuenca for a few nights, the surrounding area is definitely worth a visit. There is the Parque Nacional Cajas to the south, famous for its many beautiful lakes, and to the north, located at over 3200 meters, is Ecuador’s most important archaeological site, the Ingapirca Ruins. The first European to map the ruins was a Frenchman called Charles-Marie de la Condamine who did so in the early 18th Century and deemed the site to be a fortress, but with a small garrison. The principal building and main focus of the complex was the Temple of the Sun, which was important for religious and ceremonial purposes and boasts a number of excellent examples of mortarless stonework for which the Incas were well known. There are a number of less preserved buildings in the complex which are thought to have been store houses.
Our preferred hotels in Cuenca include:
Hotel Mansion Alcazar
Santa Lucia Hotel
Galapagos Islands
Lying 1000 kilometres (600 miles) off Ecuador’s Pacific Coast, the Galapagos Islands emerged approximately five million years ago as a result of violent volcanic action. As the young islands were cooling off some two million years later, a few species gradually started to arrive. They were live organisms riding on ‘rafts of vegetation’ from the shores of Central and South America. Unusual climatic events, like flooding, can take lots of vegetation rafts to the ocean. Therefore, it is pure chance that allowed such a raft to eventually reach the Galapagos. These early immigrants had to adapt to a peculiar new environment, and simply evolved — slowly — in a different direction from their continental ancestors. And, wonders of nature, they developed into species unique to the islands, with features not seen in their past ancestors.
The Galapagos Islands archipelago consists of 13 major islands, 6 smaller ones, and scores of islets that are all part of Ecuador’s National Park system.
In 1835, the naturalist Charles Darwin visited the islands and discovered this ‘living laboratory’ which inspired his writings on the theory of evolution. Many of the animals on the Galapagos Islands have developed into different species from their continental relatives, and because they have never experienced man as a predator, they show no fear of humans. In fact, when Darwin published his book ‘The Origin Of The Species’, the nineteenth-century thinkers confirmed long held suspicions that species were not immutable, and praised the archipelago as a living laboratory, which has become the greatest observatory of the process of evolution.
The best way to visit the islands is to join a cruise, most of which last for 7 nights, although it is possible to join a shorter cruise of 3 or 4 nights on selected boats. There is a wide variety of boats, ranging from the small motor yachts with just a few cabins to larger boats with up to 46 cabins. The cruises consist of a variety of activities led by extremely knowledgeable naturalist guides, including on-board lectures, hikes on the various islands and snorkelling as well as relaxing aboard your luxury yacht.
It is also possible to stay at one of the hotels, most of which are located on Santa Cruz Island, and explore the other islands on daily cruises arranged by the hotels.
Our recommended cruise ships and hotels are:
Santa Cruz (46 cabins)
Eclipse (24 cabins)
Isabella II (20 cabins)
La Pinta (20 cabins)
Evolution (16 cabins)
Eric, Flamingo & Letty (10 cabins each)
Anahi (8 cabins)
Grace (9 cabins)
Finch Bay Eco Hotel
Galapagos Safari Camp
Loja
The province of Loja in Ecuador’s southernmost highlands is a wonderful area, still undiscovered by mainstream tourism.
Loja was founded by the Spanish captain Alonso de Mercadillo in 1548 and is therefore one of Ecuador’s oldest towns. Sadly none of the earliest buildings have survived, but buildings from the 18th Century can still be seen.
Loja is also the departure point for visiting Vilcabamba and its legendary elders, known to the world as the Sacred Valley of Longevity, whose inhabitants supposedly live to 100 years or more.
Saraguro, a small town named after the Saraguro Indians who are said to have been relocated from Lake Titicaca by the Incas, is only a short drive from Loja and worth a visit on a Sunday when local Indians show up in their traditional black clothing.
Another day trip from Loja is the stunning Podocarpus National Park, one of the most important biodiversity areas in the world. The park was created in 1982 and it covers a wide range of habitat, from lake covered mountains at an altitude of 3600m to rainforest at an altitude of 900m and it is possible to see a wide variety of rare animals and plant species within the park. It is also home to the famous cinchona tree, from which malaria-fighting quinine was obtained.
Otavalo & Northern Highlands
The area to the north of Quito is part of the Andean highlands and is well known for its spectacular scenery. Snow capped volcanoes such as Cayambe tower over rolling hills interspersed by lakes and beautiful farmland.
Scattered amongst this countryside can be found a number of charming little hamlets with their whitewashed churches and El Quinche is one such village which you can visit en route from Quito.
The small town of Otavalo has become internationally famous on the back of its remarkably colourful and vibrant weekly market that stretches back to pre-Inca times, selling woven products such as ponchos, jumpers, blankets, gloves & tapestries as well as many other things such as embroidered wares and jewellery for example. The indigenous Indian population has rigidly clung to their cultural identity and still wear their traditional dress, which includes white calf length trousers, rope sandals, blue ponchos and dark felt hats for the men, whilst the women are truly striking in their embroidered shirts, black skirts, shawls and brightly coloured beaded jewellery.
The village of Agato is worth a visit to see the Tahuantinsuyo Workshop where traditional weavings are still made using the backstrap loom, handspun wool and natural dyes as opposed to the modern chemical dyes that are used in many garments today. Iluman is another nice little village where you can see weavers at work and is also known for its dolls. Cotacachi is a lovely village which should be visited if you like leather goods as it is where much of the country’s excellent leather work is carried out and shops sell just about anything you could think of made out of leather at great value prices.
The old colonial town of Ibarra is the local provincial capital and a charming place full of cobbled streets, quiet shady plazas and traditional houses with terracotta tiles and white washed walls which has led to its nickname of La Ciudad Blanca or ‘the white city’.
Lake Cuicocha is the perfect place to escape from the hustle & bustle of the towns and here there is an eroded volcanic crater that is now a large crater lake almost three kilometres wide with islands in the middle and overlooked by the impressive Cotacachi volcano. A path leads around the lake and takes you through some beautiful countryside full of flowers and birds, but the round trip does take half a day, so a shorter walk is generally recommended.
Our preferred haciendas in the Otavalo area include:
Hacienda Cusin
Hacienda Pinsaqui
La Mirage
Hacienda Zuleta
Quito
The capital of Ecuador has a setting that few cities can match. During the 13th Century it was the prosperous centre of the Kingdom of Quitus. It later became the northern capital of the Inca Empire and in the 16th and 17th Centuries, colonial architects built formidable temples, monasteries and mansions, creating an urban jewel designated by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Quito’s artistic creativity awaits the visitor in cosmopolitan galleries and boutiques filled with contemporary paintings, sculptures and exquisite traditional crafts.
A stay in Quito must include a visit to the Colonial sector, the old and charming city with 400 years of Spanish heritage. Plaza de la Independencia is the principal square in the city and is home to the Presidential Palace, which is a beautiful white building flanked by handsomely uniformed presidential guards. The cathedral is also on the plaza and is a delightful building with a variety of interesting statues, paintings and artistic features. There are also a number of even more richly decorated churches, chapels and monasteries in and around the centre such as the Church of La Merced, the Monastery of San Agustin, the Church of Santo Domingo and the Church of La Compania de Jesus.
El Panecillo (‘the little bread loaf’) is the small rounded hill that dominates the old town and it has a huge statue of La Virgen de Quito with her crown of stars, eagle’s wings and chained dragon and this is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Also from the top of the hill you can enjoy panoramic views of not only the city, but also of the chain of volcanoes that are the backbone of central Ecuador. The Quito Teleferico takes you to 4,050 meters and offers further spectacular panoramic views over the city and the surrounding mountains. Further pathways from the top can take you up to 4,600 meters.
There are a number of interesting museums in both the new and old parts of the city such as Casa de Sucre, which was the home of Mariscal Antonio Jose de Sucre, the hero of Ecuadorian independence who lent his name to the country’s old currency. Antiguo Cuartel de la Real Audencia is a lovely old building with a fascinating colonial art collection as is the Museo de Arte Colonial, a delightful 17th Century property full of many famous works. Casa de la Cultura is a museum with a large collection of contemporary Ecuadorian work within a circular glass building.
Parque La Alameda is on the edge of the old town and is a popular spot for families to visit and enjoy a picnic in the sun. There are a number of ornamental lakes as well as a few statues and monuments to important historical figures such as Simon Bolivar, the man who achieved independence for Ecuador by defeating the Spanish. The Quito Observatory is also in the park and this is the oldest on the continent and still used for astronomy and meteorological purposes. You can also visit the Middle of the World, the very center of the earth, at latitude 0°, and enjoy a performance of the Jacchigua Folklore ballet featuring a troupe of brilliantly costumed dancers reenacting traditional rituals and celebrations.
Our preferred hotels include:
Casa Gangotena
Plaza Grande
Swissotel
Casa Aliso
Casona de la Ronda
Hilton Colon
Riding Holidays
Horse Riding in the Andes
We can offer set departure dates as well as private rides between the historic haciendas in two stunningly beautiful but very distinct areas of the Ecuadorian Andes. These trips will give you a real insight into local life as you ride between patchwork fields in pastoral valley and then ascent onto the wild open plains of Cotapaxi, the snow-capped Andean peaks providing a magnificent backdrop.
Andean Highlands Tours
The Andean Highlands Tour takes you on a complete circuit of the perfectly conical, snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano, through breathtaking, wild open country including Cotopaxi National Park and seldom-visited open plains high in the Andes. You get a chance of seeing the Andean wildlife (the mighty Andean condor among other raptors, high altitude hummingbirds, foxes and deer) as you cross a variety of scenery including rugged passes, barren, luna-like landscapes and rolling, grassy hills. The pace is varied, including plenty of chances for long canters across the wilderness. Where there is a break in the sea of high Andean grasslands the ground is carpeted with wild flowers and you pass by primary woodland with native trees and shrubs. During part of the ride you cross old lava flows dotted with rocks catapulted out from the erupting volcano, where only lichens grow and the streams fed by snowmelt run red from the iron deposits.
M/C Anahi
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 8 cabins, 16 passengers
Facilities: Bar, restaurant, lounge, jacuzzi and sundeck
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Lovely small boat, good guiding, ideal for those who want to be in a small group.
M/V Eclipse
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 24 cabins, 48 people
Facilities: All cabins have outside views, dining room, al fresco dining area, library, boutique, lounge infirmary with doctor on board at all times, observation/sun deck & jacuzzi
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children are welcome, special family departures
Our View: Beautiful, spacious accommodation, excellent guiding, delicious food – we love it.
M/Y Eric, Flamingo & Letty
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 3 identical boats with 10 cabins, 20 guests each
Facilities: All outside cabins, dining room, bar, conference area, library, observation areas and open sundeck
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children aged 12 years and above are welcome, children ages 7 and above are welcome on designated family departures
Our View: Lovely small sister ships with strong eco credentials. We use these a lot with great feedback.
M/V Evolution
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 16 cabins, 32 guests
Facilities: Dining room, al fresco dining, bar, library, saloon, boutique, infirmary with Doctor on board, sundeck & Jacuzzi
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activties
Children: Children are welcome, and there are designated family departures
Our View: Nice small to mid-size boat, great service and guiding, one of our favourites.
Finch Bay Eco Hotel
Location: Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Rooms: 27 rooms
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, lounge, beach front access, pool
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our View: Good option for those who want to avoid being on a boat all the time. Still a good way to see the Galapagos.
M/Y Grace
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 9 cabins, 10 passengers
Facilities: Al fresco dining area, dining room, lounge, bar, library, sundeck with jacuzzi
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children are welcome and there are family designated departures
Our View: Small, exclusive boat, arguably the best in the Galapagos. Great history, we highly recommend it.
Galapagos Safari Camp
Location: In the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, bordering the national park.
Rooms: 9 luxury tents & 1 family suite
Facilities: Dining room, lounge, bar and infinity pool
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our View: Fantastic option for those who want to visit the Galapagos but not spend all their time on a boat. Lovely camp with great activities.
Hacienda San Agustin de Callo
Location: 5km off the highway and close to the entrance to Cotopaxi National Park
Rooms: 10 rooms and suites
Facilities: Dining room, Inca Chapel
Activities: Horse riding, trekking, trout fishing and mountain biking, visits to the Indian markets, tours to Cotopaxi National Park, Banos, Puyo & Riobamba
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Built on the site of an Inca palace, one of the two most important archaeological Inca sites in Ecuador, a wonderful colonial hacienda with great history and charm. Still very much a working farm with wonderfully decorated rooms.
Hosteria La Cienega
Location: Near Cotopaxi National Park
Rooms: 34 rooms
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, historical chapel
Activities: Horse riding,bike tours, trekking, visits to Cotapaxi National Park, Lake Quilotoa, Yambo, Loz Illinizas (Hot Springs), La Chilintosa & Pujili
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: One of Ecuador’s oldest colonial haciendas constructed in the 17th century, with fascinating history. In beautifully kept grounds.
Hacienda Chillo Jijon
Location: 30 minutes south of Quito.
Rooms: 10 rooms and suites
Facilities: Restaurant, chapel
Activities: Walking, bicycling, horse back riding, tennis courts, visit to the city
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: In 20 acres of gardens, owner run by the Jijon family who owned the property since 1850. Not open to the public, operates by previous reservation only, thus feels quite exclusive.
Hacienda Abraspungu
Location: Just outside the centre of Riobamba, 3 hours south of Quito
Rooms: 42 rooms
Facilities: Restaurant & bar, games room with billiards, darts, table football and board games, handicraft shop & playground for children. Massages and natural therapies available.
Activities: Tours around Chimborazo Province – climbing, trekking, horseback riding, mountain biking, lakes tour in the Achupallas area, polo classes and Riobamba city tour and visits to indigenous markets
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Comfortable hacienda, quite simple, but nice enough.
Hotel Mansion Alcazar
Location: In the centre of Cuenca, a short distance from the famous square of Parque Calderon
Rooms: 24 rooms and suites
Facilities: Restaurant & bar, tea room, library and massage service
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: A beautiful little hotel in the centre of Cuenca, with its own peaceful gardens. One of our favourites in Cuenca.
Hacienda Cusin
Location: Close to Otavalo
Rooms: 42 rooms and suites
Facilities: Restaurant & bar & wonderful gardens, games room with billiards, darts and ping pong, film library
Activities: Horse riding, mountain biking, walking, hiking, golf nearby, visiting craft villages and markets
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Wonderful country inn, with lovely gardens. The hacienda dates from 17th Century and has lots of history, antique furniture and many rooms have unique features. Rooms are located in the old hacienda, the newer ‘Monastery’ building as well as several cabanas in teh garden. A really lovely option!
Hacienda Zuleta
Location: Within the valley of Angochagua, in the province of Imbabura, close to Otavalo.
Rooms: 15 rooms
Facilities: Dining room, lounge, bar
Activities: Horse riding, hiking, trekking, horse drawn carriage rides, mountain biking trails, bird watching, visiting craft villages and markets
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Another authentic hacienda with a great history, dating from the 16th Century, in the family of Mr. Galo Plaza Lasso, a former president of Ecuador, for more than 100 years. Small with only 15 rooms, exceptionally friendly service and beautifully decorated rooms.
Hacienda Pinsaqui
Location: In Otavalo
Rooms: 30 suites
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, reading room & historical chapel
Activities: Horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, visiting craft villages and markets
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Another hacienda full of history! A former textile workshop employing nearly 1000 workers in the 1800s , the hacienda is now owned by the Freile-Larrea family who have been there for 5 generations. Lovely gardens and courtyard. The restaurant serves good food but can be busy with visitors not staying at the hacienda. Another lovely option.
Hilton Colon
Location: In the La Mariscal district of Quito
Rooms: 255 rooms and suites
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, swiming pool, fitness room, shops
Children: Children of all ages are welcome
Our View: Typical Hilton hotel, with good service and nice rooms, centrally located, although not in historical part of town. Good option but perhaps not with the character and charm of some of the other options in Quito.
M/Y Isabella II
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 20 cabins, 40 people
Facilities: Dining room, bar, lounge, gift shop, business centre, al fresco bar, fitness area and jacuzzi
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children aged 6 and over are welcome
Our View: Another good mid-size option, operated by Metropolitan Touring who are very good.
Kapawi Lodge
Location: In the Southern Amazon, deep in the nearly two million acres of the Achuar people’s territory
Rooms: 18 cabins
Facilities: Restaurant and small souvenir shop
Activities: Bird watching, kayaking and river activities, trails, night walks or canoe rides, Ahuar community visits and overnight camping in Achuar village.
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Great Ecolodge in one of the most remote and well protected parts of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Accessible only by air, located a 10 day walk from the closest road. Amazing biodiversity and wildlife. Wonderful option, but due to its remoteness maybe not for everyone.
M/Y La Pinta
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 20 cabins, 40 people
Facilities: Dining room, sky bar, jacuzzi, natural history library, exercise room, boutique, medical office, observation lounge & bar
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children aged 6 and over are welcome
Our View: Nice mid size boat, operated by Metropolitan Touring who know their stuff!
La Selva Lodge
Location: In the heart of the Amazon rainforest, on the border of Yasuni National Park, 60 miles from Coca
Rooms: 23 cabanas
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, yoga retreat, massage service and observation tower
Activities: Daily rainforest excursions, canoe rides, night excursions, bird watching
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Another lovely Amazon option. Completely re-modeled and re-opened in July 2012, a lovely Ecolodge. Great bird watching, good guides, relatively easy to get to.
La Mirage
Location: In Cotacachi
Rooms: 23 rooms and suites
Facilities: Separate dining and breakfast rooms, lounge, spa, swimming pool
Activities: Horseback riding, hiking, visiting craft villages and markets such as Otavalo and other excursions in the surrounding area
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: A former hacienda, this is one of he few true 5 star properties in Ecuador. Each room is individually decorated with unique artworks, fireplaces and views to the gardens. Lovely indoor swimming pool and spa. A much ‘grander’ option than the other haciendas in the area, maybe hasn’t quite such an ‘Ecuadorian feel’ to it, but if one wants true luxury, this is hte place to get it.
La Casona de la Ronda
Location: Historic centre of Quito
Rooms: 22 rooms & suites
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge, patio, viewpoint
Activities: 22 rooms and suites
Children: Children are welcome
Our View:
Napo Wildlife Centre
Location: In Yasuni National Park, 3.5 hours from Coca, on the banks of the Rio Napo
Rooms: 16 cabanas
Facilities: Dining hall, bar, reading lounge, library, souvenir shop, observation tower
Activities: Various forest hikes, canoe trips on the river and lakes, visits to the clay licks and to local communities, birding tours,
Children: Children are welcome, but it is recommended that they are at least 5 years old
Our View: Various spacious cabanas with views to the lake. Located in an 82 square mile Nature Reserve, based on a conservation partnership with the local coimmunity. Another really good Amazon option.
Plaza Grande
Location: In the heart of colonial Quito on the Plaza de la Independencia
Rooms: 15 suites
Facilities: 2 restaurant, bar, spa
Activities: Tours of the historic centre in horse-drawn carriages
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Great colonial building which first opened its doors as a hotel in 1943, and then, after years of being used as a bank and administrative offices, was re-opened as a boutique hotel in 2005. one of Quito’s finest, great location, marvellously opulant decor, but pricey!
Casa Gangotena
Location: In the heart of Quito’s historic centre
Rooms: 31 rooms & suites
Facilities: Restaurant, garden, library, panoramic terrace
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Beautiful hisotical mansion, in excellent location with great service, arguably the best in town!
Sacha Lodge
Location: Within a 5000-acre private ecological reserve in the Amazon, overlooking Pilchicocha lake
Rooms: 26 cabanas
Facilities: Dining area and bar
Activities: Canopy walkway, observation tower, butterfly house, Yasuni Parrot Lick, bird watching, wildlife viewing, jungle treks, night walks, dugout canoe trips, swimming, piranha fishing
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: The lodge is home to one of Ecuador’s largest butterfly farm and has a fantastic 135-foot observation tower constructed around an ancient Kapok Tree, with an amazing 360 degree view. Lovely lodge but one of the more basic Amazon options.
M/V Santa Cruz
Location: Galapagos
Rooms: 46 cabins
Facilities: Restaurant, gift shop, library, bar, lounge, medical office, sundeck bar & relax area & jacuzzi
Activities: Daily land and waterbased activities
Children: Children aged 6 and above are welcome
Our View: Large boat operated by Metropolitan Touring, a good option for those who are worried about getting seasick as larger boats are more stable.
Santa Lucia Hotel
Location: In the old part of Cuenca, a short distance from Parque Calderón
Rooms: 20 rooms
Facilities: Restaurant, bar and tea room
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: A charming restored colonial house with many antiques. The restaurant is located in a pretty courtyard. Very central, one of our favourites.
Casa Aliso
Location: In “La Floresta”, a beautifully traditional area in the northern sector of Quito
Rooms: 10 rooms
Facilities: Dining area and garden
Children: Children are welcome
Our View: Lovely small option in a residential area of the new town, very near to great restaurants and shops. A good option for a quiet stay.
Description
But perhaps the coutry’s greatest prize are the Galapagos Islands that lie 1000 kilometres off the coast in the middle of the ocean. On account of their extreme isolation from the rest of the world the remarkable wildlife that lives here were to become the very basis of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution as discussed in his book ‘The Origin of Species’. These are one of the world’s greatest natural wonders and remain to this day a living laboratory and close encounters with the wildlife are normal here due to their complete lack of fear.
On account of its rich Inca and colonial history, the country remains a cultural gem. The Andean highlands remain home to large populations of indigenous Indians who still live the colourful rural lives of their forbears with their vibrant, bustling markets, whilst the larger cities such as Quito and Cuenca are still cloaked in an enchanting display of beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture.
Ecuador is a small, peaceful and truly beautiful country.
Colonial Ecuador
The two week Colonial Ecuador itinerary starts off with some time in Quito at Patio Andaluz, a lovely hotel at the heart of the historical centre with a strong colonial influence. After exploring Quito’s colonial sector, an old and charming city with 400 years of Spanish heritage, your journey continues north to the famous market town of Otavalo. You stay at Hacienda Zuleta, a wonderful old hacienda, first built in 1691, and have a full day to explore the surrounding colonial towns and villages amongst wonderful scenery. From here you continue to Cotapaxi and Hacienda San Agustin, one of the country’s most historic properties dating back to around 1440. After two days of exploring this stunning area, you continue south to the old colonial city of Cuenca with its cobbled streets and red tiled roofs. You have two days to explore the old centre of Cuenca which was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1999, as well as the beautiful surrounding area, before returning to Quito and back home.
Day 1 – Fly from London Heathrow to Quito via Amsterdam
Day 2 – Arrive Quito – Afternoon sightseeing – Patio Andaluz – 2 nights
Day 3 – Sightseeing in and around Quito
Day 4 – Transfer to Otavalo, sightseeing en route – Hacienda Zuleta – 2 nights
Day 5 – Full day sightseeing of Otavalo and surrounding area
Day 6 – Morning at leisure – Transfer back to Quito and Patio Andaluz – 1 night
Day 7 – Transfer to Cotapaxi and Hacienda San Agustin – 3 nights
Days 8 & 9 – At Hacienda San Agustin
Day 10 – Transfer back to Quito – Fly to Cuenca – Mansion Alcazar – 3 nights
Day 11 – Full day sightseeing in Cuenca
Day 12 – Full day sightseeing Cajas National Park
Day 13 – Fly to Quito – Transfer to Patio Andaluz – 1 night
Day 14 – Transfer to airport and fly to London Heathrow via Amsterdam
Day 15 – Arrive in London
2012 price from £2,465 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international flights London/Quito/London).
Markets & Mocking Birds
The Markets & Mockingbirds itinerary is a two and a half week trip through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands offering a great insight into Ecuador’s fascinating culture and wildlife. Having explored Quito and its surroundings you will be taken north, through spectacular scenery, to the small market town of Otavalo. Its weekly market has become world famous for its colourful wares, such as woven and embroidered products, jewellery etc sold by the local people. The Spirit of the Andes programme then takes you along the Avenue of Volcanoes, through the spectacular scenery of the Andes to Riobamba and finally Cuenca, Ecuador’s beautiful colonial city, named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. From here your journey continues to the Galapagos Islands for a once in a lifetime experience to enjoy some of the finest wildlife viewing in the world.
Day 1 – Fly from London Heathrow to Quito via Amsterdam
Day 2 – Arrive Quito – check-in at hotel – Afternoon sightseeing – Transfer to the Swissotel – 2 nights
Day 3 – Half day scenic tour of Quito & surroundings
Day 4 – Transfer to Otavalo, sightseeing en route – Hacienda Cusin – 2 nights
Day 5 – Full day sightseeing of Otavalo and surrounding area
Day 6 – Transfer back to Quito – Swissotel – 1 night
Day 7 – Spirit of the Andes tour – Cotapaxi NP – Hacienda Leito, Patate – 1 night
Day 8 – Visit Banos, continue to Riobamba – Hotel Abraspungo – 1 night
Day 9 – Riobamba to Cuenca, sightseeing en route – Hotel Santa Lucia – 2 nights
Day 10 – Full day sight seeing in Cuenca
Day 11 – Transfer to Guayaquil – Cajas National Park – Oro Verde Hotel – 1 night
Day 12 – Fly to Galapagos Islands – Board the M/V Santa Cruz – 4 nights
Days 13/15 – Cruise in the Galapagos Islands
Day 16 – Fly to Quito – Transfer to Swissotel – 1 night
Day 17 – Transfer to airport and fly to London Heathrow via Amsterdam
Day 18 – Arrive in London
2011 price from £3,554 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international flights London)
The Origin of Species
The Origins of Species itinerary offers those interested in Natural History the opportunity to discover the extraordinary flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands, which was made famous by Charles Darwin and is often described as a ‘living laboratory’. After a couple of days exploring the historical delights of Quito you then fly to the Galapagos Islands and board the luxurious and newly launched La Pinta yacht for a 7 night cruise. You will enjoy encounters with the unique fauna, like the famous giant Galapagos tortoises, land and marine iguanas, flamingos, penguins, blue-footed boobies and the famous Darwin’s finches.
Day 1 – Fly from London Heathrow to Quito via Amsterdam
Day 2 – Arrive Quito – Afternoon sightseeing – Hilton Colon – 2 nights
Day 3 – Half day scenic tour of Quito & surroundings
Day 4 – Fly to Galapagos – Board La Pinta – 7 nights
Days 5 – 10 – Cruise in the Galapagos Islands
Day 11 – Fly to Quito – Transfer to Hilton Colon – 1 night
Day 12 – Transfer to airport and fly to London Heathrow via Amsterdam
Day 13 – Arrive in London
2012 price from £3,729 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international flights London/Quito/London).
The Best of Ecuador
The Best of Ecuador itinerary is a wonderful journey through Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, taking in the greatest highlights of the country. The itinerary starts off with a night in Quito after which you are then taken north to the small market town of Otavalo, famous for its vibrant and colourful market. You then have two days exploring the surrounding colonial towns and villages and the beautiful surrounding scenery. You then fly to Coca from where a boat takes you deep into the Ecuadorian Amazon basin. After two days of exploring the jungle and its amazing flora and fauna you return to Quito to explore the country’s capital and its wealth of cultural gems. The trip finishes off with a spectacular 7 day cruise through the Galapagos Islands on the M/Y Parranda, one of the most stylish motor yachts in the Galapagos.
Day 1 – Fly from London Heathrow to Quito via Amsterdam
Day 2 – Arrive Quito – Transfer to the Plaza Grande Hotel – 1 night
Day 3 – Transfer to Otavalo, sightseeing en route – La Mirage & Spa – 2 nights
Day 4 – Full day sightseeing of Otavalo and surrounding area
Day 5 – Transfer back to Quito, fly to the Amazon – Napo Wildlife Centre – 3 nights
Days 6 & 7 – At Napo Wildlife Centre, activities & excursions
Day 8 – Fly to Quito – Plaza Grande Hotel – 2 nights
Day 9 – Full day sightseeing of Quito and surroundings
Day 10 – Fly to Galapagos – Board the M/V Evolution – 7 nights
Day 11/16 – Cruise in the Galapagos
Day 17 – Fly to Quito – Transfer to Plaza Grande Hotel – 1 night
Day 18 – Transfer to airport and fly to London Heathrow via Amsterdam
Day 19 – Arrive in London
2012 price from £5,270 per person
(Price based on two people sharing a twin/double room excluding the cost of international flights London/Quito/London.)