MORNING WITH WHALES

After a very early breakfast, you will join a small group to become marine scientists for a day on an exciting expedition off the coast of Puerto López and Machalilla National Park!

On a speedboat you will track one of the most fascinating creatures on earth: the humpback whale; from June until October humpback whales travel more than 7,000 km from Antarctica to the shores of Machalilla National Park in Ecuador. La Isla de La Plata is considered a breeding area for different species of whales and dolphins and it is also a place where they unite together. Keep in mind that only in these few months, you can enjoy acrobatic shows from these wonderful animals and a perfect chance for perfect pictures!

You will then, pack your bags for a drive to Manta and onward flight to Ecuador’s capital: Quito

BOAT TOUR TO ISLA DE LA PLATA

This morning, board a small yacht in Puerto López to Isla de la Plata (Silver Island). This natural landmark earned its name from local lore that claims Sir Francis Drake buried treasure here. Part of the Machalilla National Park, the island is home to sea lions, blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and waved albatrosses. Walk around the island before snorkeling to explore the world beneath it.

On the way back to the mainland, you may see humpback whales in the middle of their migration. Even if it’s not the right season, the scenic journey will be pleasant. Once you’re back in Puerto López, your private guide will drive you back to Guayaquil for the night. If you feel like going out, visit the Malecón 2000 boardwalk, or walk around cafés and galleries in Santa Ana Hill.

LOS FRAILES BEACH

Today you will visit Los Frailes Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in mainland Ecuador, just keep in mind that there are no stores as it is a reserve, so you should bring some snacks and water.Los Frailes and its surroundings are part of the Machalilla National Park. Here you can Swim, snorkel or just relax on the beach.

The beach of Los Frailes, in Ecuador, is one of the best in the country for its extension, for being isolated, separated from the road, and because it is usually practically empty. In addition, not only this beach is interesting in the area, but there are two others that can be reached from Los Frailes and also an amazing viewpoint of the entire coast and the Machalilla National Park.

PRIVATE TRANSFER FROM PUERTO LOPEZ TO GUAYAQUIL

After a full day of activities, private transportation will pick you up and take you to Guayaquil, make sure to have your camera ready as this is a scenic drive through the coast of Ecuador!

GUAYAQUIL – CAJAS NATIONAL PARK – CUENCA

After breakfast, your guide/driver will pick you up from your hotel in Guayaquil, you have the chance to buy last-minute souvenirs to remind you of the Pearl of the Pacific, before starting your journey toward the colonial city of Cuenca.

On the way there, you will visit the Cajas National Park. The Cajas National Park is a system of more than 200 interconnected high-altitude lagoons. The Cajas is not only the source of many rivers but even connects to the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean.

After a hike (up to 3 hours) around the most prominent lagoon, you will continue to Cuenca to spend the night there.

CUENCA – INGAPIRCA

Today, you will leave the colonial city of Cuenca and head north toward Riobamba, making a stop at Ingapirca, one of the most important ruins from Pre-Inca times. Afterward, we will continue north passing through gorgeous paramos towards Riobamba for an overnight stay.

EXPLORING CUENCA AND SURROUNDINGS, GUALACEO, CHORDELEG

You can always wander the orderly, cobblestone streets of the historic district, but if you want to explore farther afield today, consider traveling outside the city and taking a guided visit of Azuay Province. Each town and village around Cuenca has its own special feature; Chordeleg has its silversmiths, Gualaceo its gorgeous orchids and traditional weaving, and Sígsid its hand-woven Panama hats. After a full day touring the province, head back to the hotel for a restful night in, or whatever else you’re looking for!

POTTERY CLASS IN CUENCA WITH A LOCAL ARTISAN

Cuenca is where you can learn and perform the traditional pottery process. A local artisan will welcome you to the workshop, and you’ll hear how he started more than 40 years ago in this art that he hopes will not be lost, so he shares this tradition with his family.

It begins with the raw material, which comes from the clay mines of the Sinincay, a nearby village. All impurities are removed to proceed to the grinding and then mixed with water to be kneaded. The next step is to spread the dough on a surface to mold it into the desired shape. Once done, the pieces are polished and sanded to be left to dry and baked in the oven.

The experience of modeling clay on a potter’s wheel is different and, to some extent, magical. In the workshop, some pieces are for sale to the public, beautiful pots, ornaments, crockery, ornaments, and black pottery.

CACAO & MANGO HACIENDA – GUAYAQUIL

Head westwards for a cacao and chocolate-making tour at a traditional hacienda, where you’ll have lunch. In the afternoon, drive through verdant landscapes covered in lush vegetation until you reach Guayaquil, Ecuador’s biggest city. If you have time, head to the Simón Bolívar waterfront promenade to see La Rotonda monument.

TRANSFER OUT

Upon arrival to Quito airport, you will connect on the same day with your international flight so you can return home with some everlasting memories. See you next time!