INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY – MAMA CUNA PATH

Following your breakfast at sunrise, you will have an exciting day awaiting you. You will visit the sustainable community projects, talk about the worldview Kichwa Addition to medicinal, and walk along the Mama Cuna path. It is an excellent opportunity to see extended wildlife, ceiba trees, strangler, bamboo cane, vines, and shrubs endemic from Yasuní.

In the afternoon, after a nice local lunch, you will paddle around the Añangu stream— a black water ecosystem where you can spot monkeys jumping from tree to tree, caiman, and at times even giant river otters trying to catch fish. You will then prepare for a traditional dinner and enjoy the taste of local flavors of the Amazon, such as the maito, which is grilled fish wrapped in a “Bijao” leaf.

If you feel adventurous, try the grilled worms of the “chonta” locally known as “chontakuru.” After dinner, prepare your flashlight for a night walk around the lodge to see various reptiles, insects, and even nocturnal mammals like the night monkeys.

CLIMB A CANOPY TOWER, ENJOY A RAINFOREST HIKE & CANOE RIDES

After an early breakfast, leave the lodge to experience an amazing view of the rainforest from a 118-foot (36 m) high canopy tower—a great way to see life above the ground. The tower is located about 30 minutes from the lodge, deep within the Terra Firme forest. As you ascend the 12-floor tall tower, you’ll pass through different levels of the forest. Flocks of colorful tanagers pass right through the trees, blue-and-yellow macaws fly past, and in nearby trees, spider monkeys search for fruit. The life of the forest canopy will open up before your eyes!

Lunch is served at the lodge. In the afternoon, hike along another Terra Firme forest trail to discover more flora and fauna. You may find lizards, colorful manakins, or the unique and endemic golden-mantled tamarin monkey. After the hike, explore the nearby lake and creeks by dugout canoe. There’s a high chance you may run into a giant otter family on the way.

ARRIVING AT MASHPI LODGE (THE CLOUD FOREST OF MINDO)

Prepare to indulge in a truly luxurious exploration of the Cloud Forest as you immerse yourself in the unrivaled experience of Mashpi Lodge. Nestled approximately 100 kilometers (60 miles) northwest of Quito, this remarkable lodge awaits to offer you an unforgettable journey.

Situated at an elevation of 950 meters (3,117 feet) above sea level, Mashpi Lodge stands as a testament to its breathtaking surroundings. The encompassing reserve encompasses a range of altitudes, stretching from 500 to 1200 meters (1,640 to 4,000 ft) above sea level. This transitional ecosystem, coupled with the tropical and subtropical climates, creates an awe-inspiring sanctuary teeming with an abundance of rare and diverse flora and fauna.

More than just a luxurious five-star hotel, Mashpi Lodge is a gateway to the forefront of rainforest protection, housing a prominent research station known as the Mashpi Reserve.

Prepare to be enthralled by the wonders that await you at Mashpi Lodge, captivating even the most seasoned urbanites. Here, you have the privilege of uncovering the world of Mashpi, cherishing its beauty, and embarking on an unforgettable journey guided by our knowledgeable expedition leader and expert naturalist guides, many of whom hail from the region itself.

Following a warm introduction and a delectable lunch, you will venture to the bird watching station, where you can marvel at the vibrant display of hummingbirds and even catch a glimpse of majestic toucans. Afterward, embark on a captivating excursion through the mountainous cloud forest, passing by serene waterfalls and picturesque lakes. This enchanting exploration spans approximately two hours, allowing you to immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the surroundings.

As dusk descends, join a tranquil walk to listen to the symphony of croaking frogs and the gentle buzz of insects. Equipped with flashlights, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the enchanting display of fireflies illuminating the night.

For an additional cost, you can further pamper yourself with the luxurious amenities of the SPA and the Samay Wellness Center, ensuring a complete and rejuvenating experience.

Retire for the night in the comfort of Mashpi Lodge, where you can rest and rejuvenate, eagerly anticipating the adventures that await you on the morrow.

ANOTHER EXTRAORDINARY DAY AT MASHPI LODGE

The early morning presents the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the melodious symphony of countless birds perched on the nearby trees, as they diligently seek insects and fruits. Once you’ve enjoyed a hearty breakfast, your next destination is the observation tower, a mere 15-minute journey away. Positioned at an impressive height of 30 meters, this tower offers an ideal vantage point to explore the vibrant life thriving within the treetops. Ascending the tower requires ascending 162 steps, but the reward is well worth the effort.

From there, embark on an exhilarating «bike tour» that spans approximately 200 meters, meandering through the lush treetop canopies and traversing a gully. The entire bike ride lasts no more than 20 minutes, culminating in reaching yet another breathtaking viewpoint. Once you’ve completed the bike tour, you have the option to choose from various hiking trails that lead you back to the lodge. The duration of the entire trip can range from two to four hours, depending on the route you select.

Upon returning to the lodge, you’ll be greeted with revitalizing natural juices and fresh towels. After a satisfying lunch, set off on a captivating forest hike in search of elusive howling monkeys and rare bird species. Your knowledgeable naturalist guide will share insightful information about the surrounding plant life, including the medicinal properties of certain plants. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the «Life Centre,» an optimal location for observing diverse wildlife. Take a moment to relax in this serene oasis and delve into the fascinating world of butterfly metamorphosis.

As evening approaches, savor a delectable dinner before engaging in a short lecture that delves into scientific research projects taking place in the Masphi area. Expand your understanding and appreciation of the region’s ongoing scientific endeavors.

BIRD-WATCHING AND ETHEREAL HIKING ADVENTURE IN THE ENCHANTING CLOUD FOREST

Kickstart your morning with an exhilarating bird-watching tour, immersing yourself in the captivating melodies and vibrant plumage of the avian residents. As the sun rises, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a diverse array of species in their natural habitat, creating lasting memories of the remarkable biodiversity found in the region.

Following the bird-watching adventure, prepare for an invigorating 2-hour hike through a breathtaking landscape that beckons with its ethereal beauty. Traverse winding trails adorned with ancient moss-covered trees, create an enchanting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Along the way, be mesmerized by the delicate elegance of bromeliads and the vibrant splashes of color from exquisite orchids, further enhancing the surreal ambiance of the surroundings.

As you delve deeper into the verdant forest, a moment of awe awaits as you stumble upon an impressive waterfall, its majestic cascade plunging from a height of approximately 50 meters. Take a moment to soak in the sheer power and beauty of nature, and perhaps even feel the gentle mist upon your skin. This natural marvel serves as a reminder of the raw grandeur that lies within the Cloud Forest.

FROM QUITO TO THE ANDEAN PARAMO (COTOPAXI GLAMPING)

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be taken on the Avenue of the Volcanos towards the Andean Paramo.

You will be glamping on a unique and special place located on the slopes of the Sincholagua Volcano, found in front of the Cotopaxi Volcano, the tallest active in the world.

The lodge is located at an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level and surrounded by beautiful and wide open grasslands in the Andean paramo with a combination of forest, streams, waterfalls, and rivers such as the Pita that passes by peacefully near the lodge. The property is found in the middle of a private hacienda where wildlife roams freely including red-brocket deer, Andean fox, Andean pumas, White-tailed deer, and even the rare Andean-speckled bear, along with wild horses and a huge variety of endemic birds.

Upon check-in in the afternoon, you will reach a deeper connection to the pure and raw natural areas of the Cotopaxi moorlands. As you walk along, your guide will give further explanations on the location and what you can see and hear while you walk and discover. During your hike, you may encounter wild rabbits, Andean foxes, deer, owls, and a large diversity of birds.

Return back to the lodge, for a well-earned rest and evening enjoying the Andean landscape.

ANDEAN PARAMO (COTOPAXI GLAMPING)

After a delicious typical breakfast at the lodge, you will embark on a horseback riding adventure through the Cotopaxi National Park outskirts, this will be one of the most beautiful ways to admire the wild landscapes of the Cotopaxi region on horseback.

The horse trails are within the Lodge property and a local guide will join you. Not only can you see the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, but with favorable weather, you can view other nearby volcanoes such as Rumiñahui, Pasochoa, the Sincholagua in which we are located, and others. As the wind blows effortlessly around you and your horse, you can feel the Andean moorlands come to life with many opportunities to see wildlife like the Andean deer, rabbits, wild horses, highland bird species, and with some luck, the Andean Condor. During your ride, you will be equipped with water and snacks like delicious cookies and nuts, helmets, and the required riding gear.

In the afternoon, you will hike for a short while, and learn about how the local communities also play a large part in the activities offered, allowing for an insightful experience milking the cows, feeding various farm animals, harvesting potatoes, or the Andean blueberry variety of mortiños and their imaginations will have no limit while treasure hunting on the Cotopaxi paramo.

WELCOME TO CUENCA! THE ATHENS OF ECUADOR – CITY TOUR

Once you’ve settled into your accommodations in Cuenca, join a tour to get to know the city, especially its UNESCO-recognized historic center. The tour starts in the San Sebastián neighborhood on the western edge of the city center. You’ll visit the Museo Municipal de Arte Moderno (Modern Art Museum) and its colorful gardens. Then it’s time to visit Cuenca’s famous cathedrals: the Iglesia El Sagrario, also known as the «Old Cathedral,» and the Catedral Metropolitana de la Inmaculada Concepción, aka the «New Cathedral.» While the old cathedral is now a museum, the new one, with its famous blue and white domes, is an operating Catholic church.

Later, visit Museo del Sombrero de Paja Toquilla, the Panama hat museum. Yes, those famous hats are made here in Ecuador from toquilla straw. Learn how weavers create these hats and the techniques that can turn one of these everyday hats into an expensive accessory.

Next up, head to El Barranco, the part of the historic center that borders the Tomebamba River. Here, you can walk along the verdant riverbanks and admire the terraced houses alongside the river. Finally, end the tour at the Mirador de Turi, an observation deck where you can enjoy stunning views of the whole city and nearby mountains and, more often than not, catch a beautiful sunset. Return to your hotel in Cuenca for a well-earned restful night.

CACAO & MILK HACIENDA LA DANESA GUAYAQUIL

Your next stop today is the beautiful hacienda La Danesa, an Hacienda in Naranjito. The Hacienda surounders claims the tropical of the ecuadorian coast. “Deep green” with discrete luxury, a subtle traditional aesthetic, privacy, and graciousness, Hacienda La Danesa models hospitality with enduring expressions of land.

More than warmth and welcome, Hacienda La Danesa is built upon the possibility of a meaningful exchange between the traveler and the host. Here you will enjoy the curated experiences embrace the hacienda’s efforts to provide authentic experiences with cacao plantation tours, wet tubing in lazy rivers, horse riding, cooking classes, and bike rides. All excursions are focused on preserving local traditions.

PRIVATE TRANSFER TO GUAYAQUIL AIRPORT

On your last day, we have arranged for a seamless departure. At the designated time, your private driver will be ready to pick you up directly from your hotel. They will ensure your comfort and convenience as they transport you to Guayaquil’s José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), where your scheduled flight awaits.

As you bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes, captivating culture, and warm hospitality of Ecuador, we sincerely hope that this trip has exceeded your expectations. It has been a privilege to be part of your adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future for more remarkable experiences.