Day 1 Quito – Otavalo (L,D)

This morning we depart Quito at 09h00 and head north to the Otavalo region of Ecuador. After around 1 and a half hours of travelling we reach the Quitsato Museum, with its unique sundial, located exactly on the Equator line. Here our traditional thinking about the Earth is challenged through revolutionary theories proposed by the museum Have your photo taken with one foot in the northern hemisphere and one foot in the southern hemisphere.

We then continue on to the town of Cayambe to see the local bakers at work and sample their bizcochos, a delicate savoury biscuit, served with coffee and fresh cheese or “dulce de leche”.

Lunch included in a local restaurant.

After enjoying the wonderful views of the San Pablo Lake at the base of the Imbabaura Volcano we continue on to Peguche. Here we can visit a master weaver’s home and learn more about the traditional art of back-strap weaving, and also visit a family of Andean musicians who elaborate their musical instruments by hand and happily share their music with us. A short walk can be enjoyed to the mystical Peguche waterfall.

Dinner and overnight in a local hacienda.

Day 2 Otavalo (B,L,D)

A morning visit to the market town of Otavalo, where we can learn more about this industrious people of the Andes. The traditional local market is full of a variety of aromas and colours – try some of the local fruits, vegetables and spices.

Later we visit the handicraft market in Otavalo, where many different indigenous people, with their unique traditional dress and customs, from all across Ecuador, sell their artisan products and wares.

Lunch included in a local restaurant.

In the afternoon we visit the Condor Park, a local rescue and rehabilitation center, where we can learn about the foundation’s important work with raptors from Ecuador, including the endangered Andean Condor. Their bird of prey show is highly informative and entertaining. (Open Wednesday to Sunday)

Dinner and overnight in a local hacienda.

Day 3 Otavalo – Quito (B,L)

Today we head up into the mountains to visit the beautiful Cuicocha Crater Lake. The views across the green blue waters of the lagoon and of the surrounding mountains are spectacular. On a clear day you get wonderful vistas of the imposing Imababura volcano and snow-capped Cayambe volcano. A short but steep walk can be enjoyed up to a look out with 360 degree views or you can take a boat ride onto the waters of the lake to get a closer look at the volcanic islands and bubbling waters of the lagoon.

Lunch in the local leather-market town of Cotacachi with it’s pretty main plaza and church, before returning to Quito.

Hotels:

3 Star Superior: Las Palmeras Inn (with photo)

4 Star: Hacienda Cusin (with photo)