Ecuador Explorer (Private)

Welcome to Quito, South America's cultural heart and a UNESCO-listed treasure. Nestled at the foot of the Pichincha volcano, this colonial gem straddles the equator. Depending on the arrival time, wander its cobbled streets, uncover centuries-old plazas, and feel the pulse of history come alive in the old town.

Airport transfers are not included on this tour, but we can arrange them for you.

Quito - Mindo. This adventure begins with a journey north of Quito to the iconic Equator Monument, stand in both hemispheres at once and feel the magnetic pull of the Middle of the World. En route, pause to admire the Pululahua crater, a vast volcanic caldera - remarkably it is home to over 400 residents.

From here, descend into the lush cloud forest of Mindo, a haven of biodiversity and a paradise for bird lovers, keep an eye out for hummingbirds! In the afternoon, indulge your senses at a local chocolate producer, and follow the journey from cocoa bean to rich brownie or velvety hot chocolate. Spend the night in Mindo.

Today, delve deeper into Mindo’s magical cloud forest, riding cable cars and hiking to waterfalls through emerald canopies alive with toucans, hummingbirds, and other colourful birdlife.

In the afternoon, choose from a range of optional activities. Soar across treetops on a zip-line or brave the rapids with white water tubing as expert guides navigate the current (included). Then, visit to a butterfly sanctuary, where giant-winged beauties flutters around, dip your fingers in banana nectar and feel them gently land on your outstretched hands. Spend a second night at the hotel in Mindo.

Mindo - Otavalo. This morning explore the vibrant Otavalo Market, meeting the Otavalo Indigenous people dressed in their traditional blue ponchos, white trousers, and long braided hair. Learn about their daily life, local cuisine, and native language and wander through the market’s colourful stalls brimming with textiles, alpaca throws, rugs, knitted clothing, ceramics, jewellery, tapestries, and more—all at bargain prices.

For lunch, visit Pijal, a charming Andean village, where you join the women of Sacha WarmiKuna to prepare traditional “Aji” sauce and enjoy a meal made from fresh local ingredients. Explore their crafts, gain insight into Andean culture, and pick up a handmade scarf as a meaningful keepsake. Later, continue to your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Otavalo - Cotacachi - Papallacta. Today begins with a visit to the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve. Here, take a walk around the crater and take in the breath taking scenery of Cuicocha Crater Lake, its crystal-clear waters fed by an active volcano. Enjoy a boat ride to the centre of the crater and observe the volcano’s bubbling activity up close.

Next, continue to Cotacachi, renowned for its fine leather goods. Explore the charming village or unwind with a cup of Ecuador’s finest coffee in the peaceful plaza.

Later in the afternoon, head to the volcanic hot springs of Papallacta, and unwind in the soothing waters surrounded by the breath taking Andean mountains.

Papallacta - Cotopaxi - Quito. After breakfast and a final soak in the hot springs, head south along the Pan-American Highway to Cotopaxi, the world's highest active volcano. Surrounded by a national park teeming with diverse flora, fauna, and Inca ruins, the adventure begins at the park's interpretation centre.

Drive across the Cotopaxi National Park to Limpiopungo Lake, where a short walk offers spectacular views of the nearly perfect cone of Cotopaxi and an opportunity to spot local birdlife. Afterward, return to Quito for the final dinner together (not included).

This tour ends today after breakfast. Your airport transfer is not included, so you can make your way to the airport or continue your travels independently.