Day 1 : Arrival to Quito
Arrive at Quito airport, where you will be met by a Travel The Unknown representative and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Quito.
Overnight in Hotel Patio Andaluz, Quito
Meal plan: n/a
12 days
Ask us for pricing
This is the price per person for a private tour (based on 2 people travelling) excluding international flights. Contact us for pricing for other group sizes including individuals.
Intro
Experience diverse landscapes and a melting pot of cultures as you uncover some of Ecuador's best-kept secrets. Step back in time in colonial Quito. Descend the verdant slopes of Pinchincha Volcano and venture into the verdant Mindo Cloud Forest to spot the colourful flashes of exotic birds and butterflies. Visit the crater lake of a still active volcano in Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve and discover Otavalo market, the largest indigenous market in Latin America. Enter the unique highlands and explore the mystical Polylepis Forest in El Ángel Ecological Reserve, before taking in the spectacular volcanic views of the Laguna del Voladero. Board La Libertad train for an incredible journey to the Afro-Ecuadorian community in Salinas de Ibarra, and learn about the cultural and agricultural projects of Zuleta. Discover some of South America's most pristine landscapes surrounding the snow-capped Antisana Volcano. Finally, relax in the Papallacta thermal hot springs as you reflect on your journey through Ecuador's hidden highlands.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Magnificent churches of Quito
- Hummingbirds and endemic species of Mindo Cloud Forest
- Visit the largest indigenous market in Latin America at Otavalo
- Breath-taking scenery of the Andean highlands in El Ángel Ecological Reserve
- Scenic train journey across the Andean plains
- Thermal springs in Papallacta
Places Visited
Quito - Mindo Cloud Forest - Otavalo - El Ángel Ecological Reserve - Polylepis Forest - Papallacta
What's Included
Arrival & departure transfersGround transport with driver
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks
Day 2 : Quito
Spend the morning touring the historic city centre of Quito. Visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional and walk the iconic Inca street known as Calle de las Siete Cruces to the Plaza de la Independencia, where you will see La Catedral de Quito. Visit the Iglesia de la Compañia de Jesús, before reaching Plaza de San Francisco. Enjoy a traditional lunch then the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore Quito at your leisure. Overnight in Quito.
Overnight in Hotel Patio Andaluz, Quito
Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch
Standing on San Juan Hill, the staggering 115-metre Catholic Basilica del Voto Nacional is the tallest church in Ecuador. Although construction began in 1892, it is technically unfinished, with local legend telling that if the church is ever completed then the world will end. It is a stunning example of Gothic architecture with an Ecuadorian twist; turtles, armadillos and iguanas replace the classic protruding gargoyles. Those with a head for heights can climb the basilica's towers for impressive views across the city below.
The main square of Quito, Plaza de la Independencia has always been a prominent meeting point in the city. Originally the site of a protected well in the 16th century, built by the Spanish amidst fears that the Incas were poisoning water supplies, it went on to serve as a central market place and bullfighting arena. Today, the square is still bustling with activity, with students, elders and street vendors all congregating. At the centre of the square stands a 20th century memorial to the Heroes of Independence, while 4 key buildings surround it: the Presidential Palace, Archbishop's Palace, Municipal Palace and Cathedral of Quito.
Considered Quito's most ornate church, Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús showcases exquisite Spanish Baroque décor. Construction took 160 years before its completion in 1765, with the main altarpiece alone taking 20 years to build. The central nave is extravagantly decorated with gold leaf, gilded plaster and wood carvings, while impressive green and gold domes cap the outside. Indigenous features were utilised throughout the church in an attempt to entice more local people to the Jesuit religion, including volcanic Ecuadorian andesite in the façade, Ecuadorian faces and plants subtly hidden on the pillars, and iconic Inca sun symbols placed in the entryway and ceiling.
Built atop an ancient Incan temple, Quito's Plaza de San Francisco is steeped in history. A bustling centre for social gatherings, it has served as a marketplace since pre-Incan times and was a place of religious celebrations, political rallies and protests in the Republican era. Nowadays, it holds open-air music concerts. Featuring stunning 16th century architecture, the monumental Catholic Church of San Francisco is the plaza's centrepiece. Spanning almost two blocks of the Old Town, it is one of the largest ensembles of historic buildings in colonial Latin America.
The main square of Quito, Plaza de la Independencia has always been a prominent meeting point in the city. Originally the site of a protected well in the 16th century, built by the Spanish amidst fears that the Incas were poisoning water supplies, it went on to serve as a central market place and bullfighting arena. Today, the square is still bustling with activity, with students, elders and street vendors all congregating. At the centre of the square stands a 20th century memorial to the Heroes of Independence, while 4 key buildings surround it: the Presidential Palace, Archbishop's Palace, Municipal Palace and Cathedral of Quito.
Considered Quito's most ornate church, Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús showcases exquisite Spanish Baroque décor. Construction took 160 years before its completion in 1765, with the main altarpiece alone taking 20 years to build. The central nave is extravagantly decorated with gold leaf, gilded plaster and wood carvings, while impressive green and gold domes cap the outside. Indigenous features were utilised throughout the church in an attempt to entice more local people to the Jesuit religion, including volcanic Ecuadorian andesite in the façade, Ecuadorian faces and plants subtly hidden on the pillars, and iconic Inca sun symbols placed in the entryway and ceiling.
Built atop an ancient Incan temple, Quito's Plaza de San Francisco is steeped in history. A bustling centre for social gatherings, it has served as a marketplace since pre-Incan times and was a place of religious celebrations, political rallies and protests in the Republican era. Nowadays, it holds open-air music concerts. Featuring stunning 16th century architecture, the monumental Catholic Church of San Francisco is the plaza's centrepiece. Spanning almost two blocks of the Old Town, it is one of the largest ensembles of historic buildings in colonial Latin America.
Day 3 : Quito - Mindo Cloud Forest
Depart Quito and begin your journey to the Mindo Cloud Forest. Enjoy views of Pichincha Volcano, before stopping at Nambillo River, where you will take a short walk through the forest to observe the vegetation, including many orchid species. After checking in to your lodge, embark on optional activities including canopying and canyoning (please note some activities have an additional charge). Return to the lodge to observe hummingbirds and a beautiful sunset before dinner.
Overnight in Sachatamia Lodge, Mindo Cloud Forest
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Situated two hours north-west of Quito, Mindo Cloud Forest is one of Ecuador's best-kept secrets. Set in a valley surrounded by the Andes Mountains, this beautifully tropical region is home to more than 450 species of birds and a rich variety of endemic animals - it is one of the most biodiverse locations in the world. Activities include birdwatching, visiting tumbling waterfalls or marvelling at the forest from above, on Mindo's canopy cable car.
Day 4 : Mindo Cloud Forest - Cotacachi Highlands
Today you will cross the Chocó cordillera and arrive in the pristine highlands of Imbabura province. Enter the inhospitable Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, one of the most beautiful areas of the highlands, to visit the Cuicocha Lake for a short hike. After a box lunch, you will head down to the town of Cotacachi to browse the handicraft shops then transfer to Hacienda Pinsaqui for the evening. Overnight in Hacienda Pinsaquí.
Overnight in Hacienda Pinsaquí, Otavalo
Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch
Extending from the Sierra Mountains to the western edge of the Esmeraldas region, the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve encompasses Andean, sub-tropical and rainforest ecosystems at varying altitudes. The reserve has particular importance as a safeguard for one of the few remaining areas of Ecuador's threatened coastal rainforest. It holds a rich variety of flora and fauna, with more than 2,000 types of plant and 500 species of bird, as well as endangered species including the Andean condor, pumas and jaguars. Geological attractions include Cuicocha Lake and the rocky summit of the Cotacachi Volcano, which stands at almost 5,000 metres.
Lying at 3,100 metres, Cuicocha Lake is a 3 kilometre-wide and 200 metre-deep lagoon cradled in a collapsed volcanic crater created over 3,000 years ago. It holds two islands - Yerovi and Teodoro Wolf - formed by later eruptions, and is named after its resemblance to the backs of two guinea pigs, with "cuicocha" meaning "guinea pig lake" in Kichwa. It is home to a myriad birdlife, including colourful hummingbirds and soaring condors. While the islands cannot be accessed, there are numerous hiking trails of varying lengths running along the crater rim.
Lying at 3,100 metres, Cuicocha Lake is a 3 kilometre-wide and 200 metre-deep lagoon cradled in a collapsed volcanic crater created over 3,000 years ago. It holds two islands - Yerovi and Teodoro Wolf - formed by later eruptions, and is named after its resemblance to the backs of two guinea pigs, with "cuicocha" meaning "guinea pig lake" in Kichwa. It is home to a myriad birdlife, including colourful hummingbirds and soaring condors. While the islands cannot be accessed, there are numerous hiking trails of varying lengths running along the crater rim.
Day 5 : Imbabura Cultural Marvels
After a hearty breakfast at the hacienda, drive a short distance to Otavalo indigenous market. After the market you will have lunch at a local restaurant then go to Peguche, for a rewarding walk to reach the Peguche Waterfall, keeping an eye out for the birdlife that inhabits the area. In the vicinity you will also visit the Huarmi-Maqui project to learn about the techniques used for many generations by the artisans to produce the beautiful textiles and carpets that you will have seen at the market. After this, return to Hacienda Pinsaquí for a good night's rest.
Overnight in Hacienda Pinsaquí, Otavalo
Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch
The city of Otavalo is surrounded by the striking peaks of the Imbabura, Gotacchi and Mojanda volcanoes. Due to the nature of the rich volcanic soils in the Otavalo region it has developed with a focus on farming. The settlement is still populated by indigenous Otavalo people, who are famous for weaving textiles that are sold at the Saturday market.
Day 6 : Imbabura - El Ángel Highlands
Travel to El Ángel Highlands and the Polylepis Forest. As you ascend to the highlands, passing Yaguarcocha Lake, the vegetation changes from the dry forest near Ibarra to the very wet highlands of El Ángel. The afternoon will be free to spend at your leisure. After dinner, enjoy an evening walk through the forest, where you will discover the legends surrounding the indigenous communities of the region. Overnight in El Ángel highlands.
Overnight in Polylepis Lodge, El Ángel Ecological Reserve
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
El Ángel Ecological Reserve is a protected area in the north-west of Ecuador with vast moorlands, lagoons and mountains. Wildlife including the paramo wolf and condors inhabit these wild Andean highlands. El Ángel Ecological Reserve is also one of the few locations where the rare frailejón plant (part of the sunflower family) can be found.
The mystical Polylepis Forest is located in El Ángel Ecological Reserve and is named after a group of tree species belonging to the rose family of South America. The exotic plants and tropical trees of the forest are home to colourful parrots and toucans. The Andean people use the forest for medicines, food, construction and cultural rituals, amongst other purposes.
The mystical Polylepis Forest is located in El Ángel Ecological Reserve and is named after a group of tree species belonging to the rose family of South America. The exotic plants and tropical trees of the forest are home to colourful parrots and toucans. The Andean people use the forest for medicines, food, construction and cultural rituals, amongst other purposes.
Day 7 : El Ángel Highlands
Begin the day with a hike through the surrounding forests, venturing into the highlands (minimum recommended hike time is two hours). Look out for the rare endemic and migratory species that inhabit this unique environment. Return to the lodge for lunch then visit the Laguna del Voladero for spectacular landscapes and great views of the Chiles Volcano. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure before you reconvene for dinner. Overnight in El Ángel higlands.
Overnight in Polylepis Lodge, El Ángel Ecological Reserve
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 8 : La Libertad train - Zuleta
After breakfast, you will head south to the railway station in Ibarra and board La Libertad train for a special rail journey to the valley of Salinas de Ibarra and the Afro-Ecuadorian community that calls it home. At Salinas, you will be welcomed by traditional songs and invited to a freshly prepared lunch using local produce at the Gastronomy Centre, run by the community. After lunch, we depart towards Zuleta, located to the south-east of the imposing Imbabura Volcano. The route comprises secondary roads, passing the towns of La Esperanza and Agochagua, to finally reach Zuleta, where you will learn about several community projects relating to culture and agriculture. Overnight at the hacienda.
Overnight in Hacienda Zuleta, El Ángel Ecological Reserve
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
La Libertad train was named after Ecuador's struggle for liberty and independence from Spanish rule 200 years ago. Covering 30 kilometres from the city of Ibarra to the town of Salinas, it was once one of the most important commercial routes in Ecuador, used to transport materials to and from the textile hub in the north. It now provides an exciting journey for passengers with scenic countryside views as it passes across the Andean plains, through seven hand-carved tunnels and over tall bridges above steep canyons.
Imbabura is a long-extinct volcano that stands outside of Otavalo. The high peaks were once an important source of ice for locals, who would climb the mountains to collect and carry ice back to their villages. Grassy valleys and rocky outcroppings offer beautiful, yet challenging, trekking conditions.
Imbabura is a long-extinct volcano that stands outside of Otavalo. The high peaks were once an important source of ice for locals, who would climb the mountains to collect and carry ice back to their villages. Grassy valleys and rocky outcroppings offer beautiful, yet challenging, trekking conditions.
Day 9 : Hacienda Zuleta
Spend the day enjoying the many activities on offer at the hacienda. These include hiking and trekking, biking, cookery and embroidery classes (please note some activities have an additional charge). Overnight at the hacienda.
Overnight in Hacienda Zuleta, El Ángel Ecological Reserve
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 10 : Zuleta - Papallacta
The morning is at leisure to make the most of the activities at Hacienda Zuleta. After a relaxed lunch, you will depart for the town of Cayambe then ascend towards the cordillera to cross the Cayambe-Coca National Park. Upon your arrival at Papallacta, the rest of the day is at leisure to explore the surrounding highlands or relax in the thermal springs. Overnight in Papallacta.
Overnight in Termas de Papallacta, Papallacta
Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch
Papallacta is a small village in the Napo Province, located in the mountains at an altitude of 3,300 metres. The village provides scenic views of glaciers, forests and valleys, and is particularly renowned for its hot springs and health spas.
Day 11 : Papallacta - Antisana Volcano
After breakfast, depart for the Antisana Volcano and natural reserve, passing through the main square in Pintag, a charming Andean town named after a Caranqui chief. As you wind your way up through the fields, a giant path of broken rocks from a relatively young lava flow will lead you up to the former temporary home of naturalist and geographer, Alexander von Humboldt, Hacienda Antisana (at 4,120m). A box lunch will be provided during the excursion, as there are no restaurants within the reserve.On your return to Papallacta, the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the surrounding highlands and thermal springs.
Overnight in Termas de Papallacta, Papallacta
Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch
Antisana Volcano in the northern Andes is Ecuador's fourth-highest volcano. Covered in snow and glaciers, it is considered one of the most challenging technical climbs in the world, but you don't have to climb Antisana to appreciate its dramatic beauty. It has only had one confirmed eruption, at the beginning of the 19th century. Antisana Volcano is part of the Condor Bioreserve, established to protect the incredible biodiversity of the region.
Day 12 : Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight or on to your next adventure in Ecuador.
Meal plan: Breakfast
Accommodation
All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.
Hotel Patio Andaluz
Quito (2 nights) The historic and boutique Hotel Patio Andaluz is located in Quito's Old Town, a short walk from the iconic Plaza de la Independencia. The hotel's elegant, wooden décor and beautiful interior patio are reminders of Quito's colonial history. The on-site restaurant serves both traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and Spanish dishes inspired by the country's colonial past. Each bedroom includes modern amenities, including air conditioning, to allow for a comfortable stay.
Sachatamia Lodge
Mindo Cloud Forest (1 night) Sachatamia Lodge is an ecological reserve in the depths of Mindo Cloud Forest. The wooden cabins exude a feeling of peace and serenity that matches the beautiful natural setting. Each bedroom is decorated in a traditional and warm style, fitted with basic amenities and overlooking the lush rainforests. Guests to the lodge can enjoy traditional local cuisine at the restaurant.
Hacienda Pinsaquí
Otavalo (2 nights) Located on the flanks of the Imbabura Volcano and set within a charming former textile enterprise built 300 years ago, Hacienda Pinsaquí now provides comfortable accommodation in beautiful surroundings. Each room is uniquely decorated with charming colonial-era furniture, wooden floors and traditional art, with most having views overlooking the hacienda's beautiful gardens. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas, while guests can enjoy a range of regional dishes in the two on-site restaurants.
Polylepis Lodge
El Ángel Ecological Reserve (2 nights) Located in Ecuador's northern highlands, Polylepis Lodge focuses on ecotourism and environmental conservation. Surrounded by rivers and lagoons in a private and protected reserve, the lodge exudes a rustic charm. Guests can enjoy the natural setting from the comfort of airy rooms, complete with modern amenities, and see fish swimming below them in the on-site restaurant, which is built over water. The spa and museum are also excellent amenities.
Hacienda Zuleta
El Ángel Ecological Reserve (2 nights) Dating back to 1691, Hacienda Zuleta is a converted eco-farm with beautiful colonial features. Situated in the Andean mountain range, it provides a peaceful atmosphere where guests can relax in cosy living rooms decorated with parquet flooring and stylish furnishing. Each room has its own traditional fireplace and private bathroom, and is equipped with free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy regional dishes in the restaurant, made from organic ingredients from the farm's orchard, and witness the cheese-making process in the on-site cheese factory.
Termas de Papallacta
Papallacta (2 nights) Located in the High Andes, Termas de Papallacta provides a peaceful and relaxing environment for guests within stunning natural beauty. Rooms and bungalows are available with free Wi-Fi, decorated with rustic wooden walls and furnishings. Guests can unwind in the hot springs and outdoor swimming pool, while a variety of local and international dishes are served in the three on-site restaurants. Outdoor activities, including trekking are also available.
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