Unique Lodges of Ecuador

In the morning, you are picked up from your Quito hotel* and driven north, passing Latitude 0 before stopping at Calacali Pass to view dormant Pululahua, one of the world’s largest volcanoes. As you continue west, begin the decent into the northern lowlands, a sumptuous, humid but pleasant ecosystem. Upon arrival, you are greeted with a refreshing drink and will be shown to your room in the clouds. After settling in, meet your naturalist guide for a briefing about the reserve and the activities that begin after lunch. Tonight, dive into a delicious dinner and relaxing evening. For those inclined, take advantage of the night walks when many species are most active. (B,L,D)

Enjoy a full day at Mashpi Lodge with activities arranged by the lodge staff. Early risers can enjoy coffee on the terrace, a great observation point for morning bird watching. Daily excursions may involve nature hikes to destinations such as the 85-foot observation tower, a hummingbird view point, a ride on the 655-foot sky bike, a tour through the Life Center and the waterfall visit. Your naturalist guide will point out different flora and fauna and share their extensive knowledge of this uniquely biodiverse ecosystem. For an additional cost, you may wish to engage in optional activities including kayaking, biking, zip lines or spa services. Spend another tranquil night at your home in the clouds. (B,L,D)

After a hearty breakfast, set out on your final cloud forest excursion with Mashpi Lodge. Return to the lodge and check out at 11AM. Your Southern Explorations guide will meet you in the lobby. On the way back to Quito, stop to explore the pre-Incan ruins of Tulipe, an archaeological site comprised of pyramids surrounded by human-made pools. Here you will learn about its creators, the indigenous Yumbos, at an on-site museum. We will have lunch enroute.

This evening get acquainted with Ecuador’s capital city on a breathtaking night tour of its illuminated churches, picturesque plazas and other landmarks of colonial architecture. Your driving tour takes you into the city’s 16th century historic center with stops at the Monastery of San Francisco and the Church of Santo Domingo plus a short walking tour around the Plaza de la Independencia, home to the palaces of the President and the Archbishop. Get glimpse of modern Quito in its bustling northern residential neighborhoods and see the magnificent Basilica del Voto Nacional, which looks amazing under the evening light.

At the conclusion of the tour, enjoy dinner* at Casa Gangotena’s exquisite restaurant known for their traditional Ecuadorian and international cuisine. *Dinner not included. (B,L)

Early this morning you are transferred from Casa Gangotena to the Quito airport for your flight to the Galápagos. Upon arrival, you are met by your guide who takes you to a farm in the Santa Cruz Highlands where you enjoy a welcome lunch.  Next, explore the various vegetation zones, experience Los Gemelos, massive pit craters, and seek giant tortoises in their natural habitat.  After your highlands excursion, continue to the Galápagos Safari Camp where you will settle in for the next few nights. Enjoy a sunset cocktail followed by dinner. (B,L,D)

After breakfast, take a boat trip to explore one of the neighboring uninhabited islands (North Seymour, Bartolomé, Plazas, or Santa Fé). Each island has its own unique natural habitat and your guide will take you through the evolutionary marvels of your destination. Wildlife is abundant and photo opportunities are endless. Jump in the water with your snorkel gear to experience the richness of the aquatic species of the Galápagos Marine Reserve, the second largest reserve in the world.  Please note that we cannot guarantee a specific island. (B,L,D)

Spend another day exploring the Galápagos. Alternatively, if you are keen to explore the underwater world of the Galápagos, we can arrange a scuba diving excursion for you. If you are interested in scuba diving, please contact us for more details. (B,L,D) 

In the morning, head to the eastern part of the island toward Cerro Mesa, which, at 1600 feet above sea level offers dramatic views of the area. Here you can find the largest crater on Santa Cruz and numerous endemic plants as well as up to seven subspecies of finches and the vibrant vermillion flycatcher. After lunch, visit Garrapatero, a pristine beach where you can see the sensational contrast of mangroves, black lava, white sand and turquoise water. You will also experience the buzzing coastal bird life and a pink flamingo lagoon. Kayaking and mountain biking are available; please notify us in advance if you are interested. (B,L,D)

This morning you are free to enjoy your final hours at your leisure.  Enjoy the sunrise from the viewpoint and one last hearty breakfast before heading to the Baltra Airport for your return flight. Once in Quito, your guide meets your for the drive to your next destination. Travel north toward the Otavalo region and on to Hacienda Zuleta, a historic working colonial farm set on 4000 scenic acres. Choose from an array of activities during your stay at this lovely property. All activities can be arranged upon arrival.  In addition to the 60km of self-guided hiking trails, guests are free to wander through the grounds which include a cheese museum, organic vegetable garden, milking sheds, and more. A variety of horseback riding activities, mountain bike rentals, guided hikes, cooking classes, and guided tours of the surrounding areas such as the famed Otavalo Market and Cuicocha Crater Lake can all be arranged upon arrival for an additional cost. (B,D)

Today, explore the grounds of Hacienda Zuleta. The friendly staff can guide you in choosing your adventures for the day. After a hearty breakfast, you may decide to hike the self-guided trails on the property, sample fresh cheese from the creamery, wander the gardens or explore the Condor Reserve. Visit the local community where you can browse and purchase the beautiful embroideries handcrafted by locals. Hacienda Zuleta has many cozy common areas should you prefer to read a book by the fire or enjoy some tea. (B,L,D)

Enjoy another splendid day at leisure! There are plenty of included self and host guided activities to choose from, or you may opt to take advantage of guided tours, horseback riding, or perhaps relax at the spa. These optional tours can be arranged and paid for onsite, no need to pre-reserve! (B,L,D)

Spend your final morning in Ecuador exploring the grounds. Later today, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your international flight home. (B,L)