EXPERIENCING ECUADOR

 

Join us for our Ecuador safari exploring the old and new: Quito, the cloud forests of Mindo, Antisana volcano reserve and the Andes. We'll hunt for the magnificent Andean condor, admire the tiny hummingbirds of Guango and then visit the Amazon basin. This is an exploration that spans the Andes and experiences Ecuador's magnificent forests and creatures.

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Day 1

Airport meet and greet.

Overnight at Patio Andaluz.

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Day 2

Full day in Quito, visiting the old (colonial town): visit the main square followed by a short walk through the colonial and commercial districts. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

Conclude with a drive to El Panecillo Hill for a panoramic view of the town OR we can add a drive north of town to visit the Equator landmark and the anthropological museum.

Overnight at Patio Andaluz. 

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Day 3

We drive north-west of Quito for a full day tour of the cloud forest region of Mindo located at about 1300 m above sea-level, 1500 meters lower than Quito. The lush vegetation with its characteristic epiphytes and hanging moss is home to a plethora of colourful bird species and several mammals.

Today we will experience a rich combination of natural highlights and the cultural aspects of this area.

We will enjoy lunch at “Sachatamia” where we will have the opportunity to explore some of the local trails. Back to Quito in the late afternoon/evening for dinner. 

Overnight at Patio Andaluz. 

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Day 4

An early start heading east toward the Antisana Volcano reserve located at approximately 3900 meters above sea level. This high-altitude Andean environment is known as Paramo, characteristic landscapes with low growing vegetation and its own local bird life. As we hike in the reserve surrounding the Mica Lake, we will look out for Andean Condor.

Our descent over the eastern side of the Andes will take us to a small lodge (Guango) where we will take advantage of their hummingbird feeders in an effort to photograph these magnificent little birds. We will be taking a packed lunch with us.

Our final destination today will be Termas de Papallacta where there will be the chance to relax in the hot springs or even enjoy a massage in their spa.

Dinner and overnight at Termas. 

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Day 5

Our driver will collect us from Termas de Papallacta to take us to the airport for our flight to Coca. Here we will be met by representatives of the lodge to start our programme in the Amazon basin.

Dinner and overnight at Napo Wildlife Centre located inside the Yasuní National Park.

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Day 6

Return from Coca to Quito and on to our hotel, Patio Andaluz.

Dinner and overnight at Patio Andaluz.

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Day 7

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.