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Stage 1:
Southern Ecuador and the
Andes to Quito
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The fascination to travel seems
to be particularly great in Ecuador, as numerous visits from
some of the World's most famous travellers prove.
In relatively recent history, Alexander Humboldt admired and
studied the diversity of nature along the equator during his
American journey from 1799-1804.
By visiting the Andes of Ecuador, you too can explore the
exclusive scenery and the fascinating cultures here at the
equator.
You start your journey in colourful
Guayaquil where you get to know the tropical life of this
fascinating harbour. Then you start your exploration travelling
up the slopes of the Andes.
You will hike in three Andean national parks: Podocarpus,
Cajas and Cotopaxi. You
will get to know different lifestyles of the Andes in Vilcabamba,
Cuenca and Quito and you will live the Andean day to day life at
Angamarca - Face to face with majestic volcanos. |
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Stage 2: Cloud Forrest and the Pacific Coast
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The journey from the north of Ecuador to the
Pacific Coast reveals the incredible diversity this small
country has, as you journey from arid highlands, into
tropical cloud forests, on to wide beaches, absorbing the
sights, aromas and cultural wealth of this beautiful
country.
You will visit one of South Americas most famous indigenous
markets in Otavalo, bath in hot thermal water surrounded by
Andean mountains, explore one of the world’s lasts intact
tropical cloud forests at Tinalandia before travelling to
Ecuadors pacific Coast.
Take this excellent opportunity to explore a beautiful
stretch of Ecuadors coastline. In just four days get a feel
for coastal life, see some of the areas of outstanding
natural beauty and delve into the delicious cuisine provided
by the Pacific.
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Stage 3: Galapagos Islands
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This stage is the highlight of your ecuadorian adventure.
We have received a very exclusive offer from the modern
cruiseship Yolita 2 carrying only 16 people.
Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands in
1835: Deeply impressed by their unique nature, flora and fauna,
he was inspired to write his theory of evolution.
By visiting the Galapagos Islands, you too will be inspired by
the exclusive scenery at the equator line. You
experience some of the worlds most abundant and exclusive
wildlife close up.
The Galapagos, and the country of Ecuador, to which it belongs,
are rapidly becoming top holiday destinations and are still
regarded as an exclusive travel choice off the beaten track.
Make time to discover the wonders of the animal and plant
kingdom evolving on the Galapagos Archipelago exploring 8 of its
islands as well as the surrounding marine reserve while at the
same time enjoying all the comfort of a modern cruise yacht that
has been built in 2007 especially for the Galapagos.
Photos of Yolita 2 |
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Stage 4: Cuyabeno, Amazonas
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In 1979 the Cuyabeno Nature Reserve
was founded between the rivers Aguarico and San Miguel in the
northeast area of the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest, protecting
603.380ha of untouched primary forest.
This spectacular trip introduces you to the complex system of
tropical lagoons, swamps and rivers inhabited by the Siona
Indian Community.
Cuyabeno's abundant aquatic and land habitats are home to fresh
water dolphins, turtles and monkeys and uncountable tropical
birds.
A huge range of vegetation flourishes in this tropical
rainforest: palms, bromeliads, helicons and orchids are
frequently seen.
One of the best ways to explore the rainforest is by canoe and
Cuyabeno with its maze of waterways provides you with ample
opportunities to experience this wet and wild green world.
You are guided through the forest by an indigenous guide as well
as a bilingual naturalist. This once-in-a-lifetime trip will
definitely be a memorable experience for everyone. |
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August 14: Arrival Guayaquil and city tour of Guayaquil
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Stagestart 1
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Arrival in
Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, which is also the financial,
commercial and industrial centre of the country. We pick you up
from the airport and bring you to the Hotel in a central
location. After a short rest you start the city tour by visiting
the Seminario Park, a very popular meeting point for young
Ecuadorian lovers. Furthermore this little park is well-known
for its land iguanas which laze about in the trees, catching the
sun.
We will visit the Cathedral, built in classical gothic style and
then we move on to Guayaquil’s famous wide, tree-lined
waterfront, “el Malecon”, that runs alongside the river Guayas.
Next stop will be the historic local government buildings, the
“Palacio Municipal” and then the “Palacio de Gobernacion” (the
Government Palace). Right in front of this palace is the Moorish
clock tower “La Torre Morisca”, which was constructed in 1843,
and with a little effort climbing its steep stairs, we can enjoy
the views across the city. La Rotonda, another historic
monument, is a statue that marks the meeting between Simon
Bolivar and Jose San Martin in 1822.
The old district of Las Peñas, a vestige of old Guayaquil to the
north end of the Malecon, is a picturesque neighbourhood built
on the Cerro Santa Ana hill on the edge of the river. Climbing
another steep stairway amid the brightly painted wooden houses,
we will gain a different perspective of Ecuador’s largest city.
We continue our visit with the Historical Park of Guayaquil, a
thematic park with three zones: wild life, traditions and urban.
This is a great source of information about the local area and
its development, looking at details such as the flora and fauna
of the Guayaquil area, as well as the customs and traditional
life of coastal farmers working on large haciendas. In the late
afternoon we will finish our tour and the rest of the day is
free for further exploration.
***(*)Grand Hotel Guayaquil -/L/- |
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August 15:
Guayaquil - Zaruma - Loja
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You leave
Guayaquil in the early morning taking advantage of the cooler
morning hours and drive south through the coastal lowlands
before you change direction at Santa Rosa and head to the east.
Driving up the Andean slopes you soon gain altitude and passing
the little villages of Saracay and Piñas you reach the gold
mining town of Zaruma. Founded in 1549, Zaruma is an insider tip
to see painted wooden buildings along steep twisting streets out
of colonial times. Enjoy a walk through this little town and
have a coffee from the local production !
In the afternoon you
continue to the little village of Catamayo in a setting of wide
sugar cane fields before after another hour you finally reach
Loja, the capital of the province of the same name.
***Grand Hotel Loja. B/L/- |
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August 16:
Loja – Podocarpus National Park - Vilcabamba
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In the morning
you get to know the city during a walk. Afterwards you travel
about 10 Km south of Loja to the Cajanuma park entrance of the
Podocarpus National Park.
Created in 1982, this is the only
national park in the southern Andes of Ecuador. Its 146,280
hectares comprise of a wide range of habitats including
highlands with lake covered mountains and even rainforests in
the lowlands.
The biological diversity of the area is remarkable
and animals include the Andean spectacled bear, mountain tapirs,
puma, two species of deer and the Andean fox. Following
different trails (“The spectacled bear trail”, “The cloud forest
trail”, “The trail of the viewpoints”) your trekking leads you
from ca. 2750m up to 3050m.
The roundtrip will lead you back to
the national park refuge where your transport awaits you. From
here you continue travelling further south through green
mountainous scenery to Vilcabamba which lies in a wide valley
some 45Km from Loja.
Vilcabamba is famed as the village of
longevity with a reputation for a healthy climate and complete
relaxation. Accompanied by a welcome cocktail at the hotel bar
in the evening, your guide will give you an introduction to the
next day’s activities and answer any questions about your
travel.
***Hosteria Izhcayluma. B/BL/- |
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August 17:
Vilcabamba
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Today you will
spend as you wish. Relax in this beautiful and tranquil place or
explore the area, hike along the “Mandangotrail” or take an
optional excursion on horseback.
***Hosteria Izcayluma. B/-/- |
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August 18:
Vilcabamba – Loja - Saraguro - Cuenca
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Today you will drive from
Loja to Cuenca, visiting Saraguro on your way. The Saraguro
Indians were forced by the Incas from Bolivia to settle in this
small Ecuadorian town, which was a typical political movement of
the Incas in order to control conquered cultures and maintain
the occupied ones installing themselves in their new home.
Cuenca is considered as both the cultural metropolis and the
arts and crafts centre of Ecuador. The city and its surrounding
countryside are fantastic places to buy ceramics, embroidery,
leather goods and woven baskets.
On arrival you will check in to the Hotel Posada del Angel.
After a short break you will start with a visit of the Panama
hat factory for which the city is famous. Afterwards you will
explore the colonial part of the city where you will encounter
historic churches, many art and craft shops and a colourful
flower market.
Set amongst beautiful old colonial houses, the
area has a charming atmosphere for which UNESCO declared Cuenca
as World Heritage Site in 1999.
At midday you will feast on local cuisine in a typical town
restaurant, after which you will have a pleasant stroll along
the river to aid digestion!
***Hotel Posada del Angel B/L/- |
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August 19:
Cajas National Park - Ingapirca
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El Cajas National Park is
considered a paradise for hikers due to its ecological
conservation and natural beauty. You will drive 15km West of
Cuenca to the Cajas National Park entrance where you will start
a moderate hike for about 3 hours admiring the moorland
vegetation (high Andean grassland, like moors at high altitude)
with amazing micro flora, some patches of Quinoa primary forests
and spectacular rock formations.
Here you will find around 200
lagoons left over from the ice age, today forming an extensive
recreation area at a height of 3.150m to 4.450m. Small rivers
connect the series of lakes and these eventually flow into both
the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans.
In the afternoon you
continue to the little Andean town Cañar. In the afternoon you
will reach the famous ‘Ingapirca’ ruins (Quechua for “wall rocks
of the Inca”) the most important and well preserved of Ecuador’s
Inca ruins situated to the North of Cuenca.
There you can wander
around the beautiful site and imagine the scenes prior to the
Spanish conquest. A visit to the museum will reveal further
details of life there at the end of the 15th Century. After the
visit you will have dinner and accommodation at the Posada
Ingapirca about 500m from the ruins.
***Posada Ingapirca B/BL/D |
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August 20:
Ingapirca – Riobamba
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You leave Ingapirca and follow
the Pan-American Highway north traveling into the Andean
highlands. Passing the Laguna de Colta you reach the little
chapel of La Balbanera, the earliest church in Ecuador dating
from August 15, 1535.
The road keeps climbing up the Andes
giving great views of Volcano Chimborazo (6310m) in the horizon
long before you reach Riobamba, the capital of Chimborazo
Province at 2750m altitude.
In the afternoon you explore
Riobamba, especially its colourful and lively markets where you
will have the chance to taste some of the tropical fruits like
Granadilla (yellow passion fruit), Guaba fruit or Taxo.
*** Hosteria Bambú B/L/- |
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August 21:
Riobamba – Volcano Chimborazo – Hacienda Angamarca
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In the morning you visit the
local markets in the centre, a great opportunity to get to know
the many exotic fruits the country offers.
Later you drive from
Riobamba north up the slopes of Volcano Chimborazo. Not only is
the 6310m extinct Volcano Chimborazo the highest mountain in
Ecuador, but its peak is also the farthest point from the center
of the earth due to the earth’s equatorial bulge. There are two
refuges; your transport will bring you up as high as to the
first refuge at 4800m altitude ! According to your
acclimatization to the altitude, your physical fitness and the
climate you can hike up to the second refuge and reach a massive
5000m!
Later, traveling through a picturesque landscape; the
road winds itself down, passing fields, valleys and the volcano
Carihuayrazo, from the wide high plain at the slopes of
Chimborazo down to Ambato, the capital of Tungurahua Province.
Every now and then you see llamas, which are still common useful
animals in this region. With a little bit of luck you also might
see some alpacas and even vicuñas; the latter live in a wide
reserve near Chimborazo.
In the afternoon the journey goes over
the Pan-American Highway, north to Latacunga where you leave the
highway and enter the western Andes. After passing the small
Andean villages of Pujilí, Collas, Casa Quemada, Tigua and
Zumbahua you arrive in the early evening at Hacienda Angamarca
and after a delicious meal you’ll experience a typical Andean
night, with traditional music and dances!
**Hacienda Angamarca (Shared
accomodation can uccor) B/BL/D |
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August 22:
Andean Life at Angamarca
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The beautiful farm is located
just at 4 hours to the south of Quito, capital of Ecuador; in
the heart of the Western Mountain range of the Andes.
It is surrounded by golden moor lands, high mountains, and a deep
valley that is in the middle of a culture that keeps the Andean
originality and a natural land of cultivations and colours in
its heart.
Angamarca Farm has an extension of 1000 hectares,
including in its area you find a diversity of life from the cold
Andean moor (4200 meters above the sea-level) to the humid
forest (1800 meters above the sealevel) with high biodiversity
rates and endemism.
Before enjoying a delicious breakfast its time to milk and to
feed the lamas. After you‘ll visit the beautiful moors between
mountains and abysses in over 3800 m above sea level with a
spectacular view to the Andean sandbank and rocks of more than
30 meters high incrusted in the summit of the mountains; then
you will make a visit to the El Chivo mountain, which is a Magic
Place of Rituals.
After lunch you are going to visit the town
Angamarca, its church, its famous carpenters school Don Bosco
and the Shuyo Farm.
**Hacienda Angamarca (Shared
accomodation can uccor) B/BL/D |
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August 23:
The Quilotoa Loop – Chugchilan
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After a delicious breakfast you
continue your travel to the small picturesque village of
Zumbuahua. Only 60 families live in the vicinity. A short 10 km
north you encounter the brilliant turqoise waters of the volcano
lake at Quilotoa.
This lake is one of the most beautiful volcano
lakes in the Ecuadorian Andes. From the crater and on a clear
day you can see the different snow topped volcanoes. Once again
if weather permits you will have the chance to admire some of
Ecuadors most spectacular volcanoes including: Illinizas,
Cotopaxi and Chimborazo hiking around the lagoon (ca. 5 hours).
Afterwards you continue the circuit to the little Andean village
Chugchilan where you will stay in the simple hotel Mama Hilda’s.
**Hotel Mama Hilda’s B/L/D |
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August 24:
Cotopaxi National Park
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Today, following first the
circuit passing the Andean village of Sigchos and later the
Pan-American Highway will bring you to the Cotopaxi National
Park. You will make a stop at the visitor centre Campamento
Mariscal Sucre to visit the natural history museum.
After that
you drive to the lagoon Limpiopungo crossing the wide high
plateau at the slopes of Cotopaxi volcano. During an easy hike
around the lagoon you get to know the typical vegetation of the
Andean highlands and watch out for the local birds as the Andean
humming bird and the condor.
After the hike you continue to the
rustic mountain refuge Tambopaxi on the high plateau. Here you
will eat lunch with great sights of the Lahar fields of the
Cotopaxi Volcano and the wide expansion of the nature park.
In
the afternoon you hike over the high plain to an old ritual
place of the Incas, from which you have an excellent view across
the high plain and the surrounding mountains Ruminahui,
Sincholagua and of course the Cotopaxi Volcano. Dinner and
accommodation at Tambopaxi mountain refuge.
***Tambopaxi Mountain Refuge B/L/D |
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August 25:
Ruminahui Volcano – Quito
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Today, you will climb Rumiñahui
volcano, which is a rather gentle but long altitude hike. We
will pass by Limpiopungo Lake and following an ancient trail
reach a long ridge which divides some of the hidden valleys.
Excellent views on the National Park Cotopaxi as well as
Chimborazo in the horizon and the Ilinizas in the West will be
the best rewards of the day. In the afternoon you return to
Lake Limpiopungo and later you leave the national park and
continue to Quito, Ecuador’s capital, on the Pan-American
Highway.
***Zentrum B/L/- |
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August 26:
Quito and city tour
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In the morning we will
meet you at your hotel in Quito and start the city tour. This
city tour covers the major colonial churches and monasteries in
Quito such as La Catedral, El Sagrario, La Compañia and San
Francisco. Visit Independence Plaza flanked by the Cathedral,
the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the
Archbishop’s Palace.
Continue to the Church of San Francisco,
one of the greatest religious buildings in South America. Its
impressive façade and atrium lead to an opulent gold interior, a
Baroque influence with the winged Virgin of Quito at its main
altar.
You visit the historic colonial quarter of Quito,
resplendent with its churches, gilded altars and religious
sculptures and paintings dating from the 17th; 18th and 19th
centuries.
The tour continues through narrow streets, ancient
colonial houses with Moorish-style arches and mysterious patios
to El Panecillo, and a neutral vantage point for an overwhelming
view of the city.
From here you drive to the northern modern
part of Quito to the city park “La Carolina” in order to visit
the botanical garden of Quito where you will get a good
impression of the great diversity of the Ecuadorian Flora. La
Carolina Park is also a good place to watch the national sport
Ecua-volley.
***Zentrum B/L/- |
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August 27:
Quito
Rucu Pichincha or free day
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According to you we can plan this day on
short notice, e.g. take photos in the morning light in the
colonial centre before taking the Teleferico up the slopes of
Rucu Pichincha.
You can then either climb up to the top of the
volcano or after having enjoyed the sights from the viewpoint
return back to Quito. You could also enjoy the
nice capital of Ecuador on your own after an adventourous trip
through the Ecuadorian Andes.
***Zentrum B/L/- |
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August 28:
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Quito - Otavalo Indian Market
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Stagestart 2
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After meeting the new members of the
group at the airport (08:05am KLM), you travel north along the
Pan-American Highway through astonishing mountain scenery
crossing the equator line to visit the Otavalo Indian Market.
For centuries, regional markets have played an important role in
Indian life, providing regular gathering places for trade and
socializing. The colourful local markets of the Andean valleys
are famous for their fine handicrafts.
The Otavalo Indian market
dates back to pre-Inca times and is famous for its textiles
woven on back strap and shuttle looms. Otavalo is South
America’s most famous Indian fair. Here Otavaleños barter in
silence, in marked contrast to the raucous noise of other
markets.
You will have time to visit the famous market and
stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets filled with Otavalo
Indians wearing blue ponchos, white trousers and long braided
hair.
After lunch you will walk from Otavalo to the waterfall of
Peguche which is in a small sanctuary, and from there you will
continue on to the San Pablo Lagoon.
This area around the lake
below the Imbabura volcano is the home of the Otavalo Indians.
Following the ridge of the lake on an old cobblestone road
through pastureland and fruitful fields you pass small villages
still with Adobe houses inhabited by Indio farmers and art
craftsmen.
Clear mountain air and the wonderful sights on the
landscape with the many small bird-rich side valleys as well as
the enormous Cayambe in the background make this ride a genuine
experience. Finally you reach Hacienda Cusin where you will have
dinner.
***(*)Hacienda Cusin -/L/D |
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August 29:
Otavalo - Papallacta
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Termas de Papallacta SPA,
Resort and Convention Centre is located 40 miles east of Quito,
the capital city of Ecuador balanced on the rim of the equator. Perched on a high Andean valley at the entrance route to the
Ecuadorian Amazon jungle, the spa resort offers its visitors
health, recreation, adventure and rest.
Whether relaxing in the
thermal baths, indulging in pampering spa treatments, or
embarking on relaxing walks at the Rancho del Cañón (Canyon
Ranch), you are sure to enjoy the Papallacta experience
complemented by the restaurants which serve a range of culinary
delights to tickle your tastebuds.
From Otavalo you drive southeast to Cayambe to visit Quitsa-To,
the equator monument with an adjacent museum about the cultures
that worshipped the sun at the equator.
Later you continue to
Pifo and on the transoceanic highway on to Papallacta. This
village is situated at 3.700m in the midst of an evergreen
Páramo landscape. The area is renowned for its hot springs.
Relax in the scenic pools and see if you can spot the ice giant
Antisana (5.758m).
***(*)Termas de Papallacta Spa Resort
B/L/- |
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August 30:
Papallacta – Tinalandia
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Today you follow first the
transoceanic highway from Papallacta back into the central
valley of the ecuadorian andes and then head south on the Pan
American Highway for roughly 40 km to Aloag where you turn west
towards Sto. Domingo del los Colorados.
After about 70km of this
road you will leave the highway and enter into the Tinalandia
reserve and reach the lodge of the same name. A unique ecolodge
in the cloud forests of Ecuador, Tinalandia rests on the Western
slope of the the Andes, at the southern end of the Choco
bio-region.
At an ideal altitude of ca. 600m above sea level,
Tinalandia is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and is
considered to be a premiere location for bird watching in
Ecuador.
Explore the surroundings of the lodge and with a bit of
luck you can observe one of the flocking groups of up to 15
Toucans! In the evening enjoy dinner at the lodge. The meals at
Tinalandia are wholesome, home-cooked, delicious dishes.
Most of
the fruits are collected from Tinalandia´s own gardens -
We
harvest only that which is necessary and leave the rest to drop
to the ground for the birds and insects of the region.
***Tinalandia Lodge B/L/D |
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August 31:
Tinalandia
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Today a short trek from the
lodge brings you to the edge of the primary rainforest, spanning
over 60 acres. Three trails offer 1 to 4 hour hikes on cascading
hillsides with a whitewater stream of rocks and boulders to
challenge ultimate sport enthusiasts.
The highlands of
Tinalandia offer a panoramic view of the rainforest canopy.
Being eye to eye with the rainforest canopy, these hikes give
you the opportunity to face the birds inhabiting the forest from
a new perspective.
The furthest trek takes you on foot to one of
the world’s few remaining moss forests. Back in the lodge enjoy
its comfort. The recreation hall is formed of an enormous
interwoven network of "hard as stone" wooden floorboards.
card
tables, several sofas and hammocks provide rest and relaxation
after a long day of observation and adventure.
A spectacular
view from the screened windows spanning the length of the wall
reveals the splendour of Tinalandia’s location. For those who
choose to spend the night listening to the nocturnal symphony of
birds and insects, an Old-World patio grants you an extended
vista over the valley of the river Toachi.
***Tinalandia Lodge B/L/D |
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September 1:
Tinalandia to the Pacific Coast
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Today is a long drive from Tinalandia down to the
Pacific Lowlands and on to Puerto Rico, a small village at the
Pacific Coast.
In Puerto Rico you will stay in the Hosteria
Alandaluz, mainly built of bamboo, right in front of the private
beach on the Pacific Ocean.
The hosteria “Alandaluz” has become
an alternative development centre through the implementation of
agro-ecologic systems, bio-architecture techniques, the
development of gardening and landscaping, recycling systems, the
use of appropriate technologies, the management of natural areas,
the recovery of craftsmanship, etc.
All of these processes have
generated dozens of jobs and permanent training opportunites.
Likewise, it constantly motivates the local development,
encourages self-esteem, reinvestment in the area by promoting
the human capital and strengthening of rural communities.
During
its long lasting and prolific trajectory, “Alandaluz” has
demonstrated that the tourist activity combined with an ecologic,
social, cultural and integral vision is both productive and
sustainable.
***Hosteria Alandaluz B/L/D |
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September 2:
Isla de la Plata – whale watching
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After breakfast you will drive to the
fishing village of Puerto Lopez. Here you will board a small
yacht, which takes you to the amazing Isla de la Plata in the
Pacific Ocean. The name (Silver Island) derives from the local
legend that Sir Francis Drake buried some treasure here – also
it is said to be Robert Louis Stevenon’s Treasure Island.
The island is part of the Machalilla National park and sea lions and
blue-footed boobies are amongst the main characters to be viewed.
You can also observe frigate birds, red-footed and masked
boobies and tropicbirds among others.
After a walk around the
island’s guided trail there will be time to explore beneath the
ocean whilst snorkelling. In the afternoon you will return to
Puerto López and on to Alandaluz.
From mid-June to mid-October humpback whales can often be
sighted on the journey to and from the island.
***Hosteria Alandaluz B/L/D |
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September 3:
Machalilla National Park
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The Machalilla National Park extends over
55000 hectares and is concerned with preserving marine
ecosystems as well as the dry tropical forest and archaeological
sites on shore.
After breakfast you will drive along the coastal
road to Agua Blanca. This little village has an archaeological
museum explaining the excavation of the Manta site, which is
about a half-hour walk through tropical dry forest away.
After
the visit you continue to the nearby beach - Los Frailes, said
to be the most beautiful beach of the Ecuadorian coast.
Later
you have the chance to explore the pleasant little fishing town
Puerto Lopez. The town is beautifully set in a horseshoe bay,
with a broad sweep of beach enclosed by headlands to the North
and South. In the afternoon you return to Alandaluz.
***Hosteria Alandaluz B/L/D |
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September 4:
Alandaluz - Guayaquil
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Enjoy the morning at Alandaluz, have a swim in the
sea or the sweet water pool and relax in the typical laid back
atmosphere of the tropical Pacific Coast.
After lunch you leave
this little oasis and drive along the “Ruta del Sol” (The route
of the Sun) along the coastal highway south to Guayaquil which
you will reach in the evening.
After the check in at your hotel
you will have a big dinner to end this beautiful journey with a
culinary highlight.
***(*)Grand Hotel Guayaquil B/L/D |
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September 5:
Flight to
Galápagos – Baltra/Island
Santa Cruz – Bachas -
Stagestart 3
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In the morning a transfer brings you
from your hotel to the national airport in Guayaquil. Here you
take your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival at the
airport on Baltra you will go immediately to the Galapagos
immigration area. Here you will need to present your passport
and pay your USD 100,- Galapagos National Park fee. This payment
must be made in cash. The National Park Service does not accept
traveller’s cheques or credit cards.
The park officials will
then inspect your carry-on luggage to ensure that you have not
inadvertently brought in prohibited plant or animal products
(see the Galapagos National Park rules). As you exit the
immigration area, you will be met by your guide who will take
you to the boat Yolita II.
Photos of Yolita 2
In the afternoon you will visit the
long sandy “Las Bachas” Beach. Here you encounter sea lions,
herons and marine iguanas and with good luck penguins.
You also
have the opportunity to swim offshore of this soft white sand
beach. Snorkelling enthusiasts can explore the fascinating
underwater world as well.
B/L/D |
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September 6:
South Plaza Island / Island Santa Fé
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Today you will explore South Plaza Island, the more
southernly island of the both Plaza Island, located in the east
of Island Santa Cruz.
On this island so full of life you will
encounter colonies of sea lions and land iguanas. On the steep
banks it is possible to see a great number of birds such as
nesting tropic birds and fork-tailed seagulls. But most of all,
enjoying the beautiful view from atop the steep banks or
strolling along the base of the cliff is an extremely
pleasurable experience.
The Opuntia cactus and red coral bushes
grow here and the vegetation changes colour according to the
seasons of the year.
In the afternoon you visit Santa Fe Island,
a small rocky peninsula which is covered by little Palo Santo
trees and by up to 6m high opuntia cacti.
Inhabitants of this
island are a specific species of large yellow land iguanas, the
Galápagos buzzard, some blue footed boobies and pelicans.
After
the hike you can swim or snorkel in the bay in company of sea
lions and marine turtles. Finally you can observe the tropic
underwater world.
B/L/D |
 |
September 7:
Española Island – Point Suarez – Gardner Bay
TOP
Española is the southernmost and oldest island of the
Galápagos archipelago. Because of its isolated position you can
explore a lot of endemic wildlife.
In the morning you will have
an excursion to Point Suarez which is one of the most
outstanding wildlife areas of the archipelago, with a long list
of species found along its cliffs and sand or pebble beaches.
In
addition to five species of nesting seabirds there are the
curious and bold Española Island mockingbirds, Galapagos doves
and Galapagos hawks. Several types of reptiles, including the
marine iguana and the oversized lava lizard, are unique to this
island.
When heavy swells are running, Point Suarez is also the
site of a spectacular blowhole, with thundering spray shooting
30 yards into the air.
The walkabout on a stony path is about
2km (duration about 3 hours). Gardener Bay is on the eastern
shore with turquoise shot coloured water and a magnificent
beach.
Around the small islets nearby, snorkelers will find lots
of fish and sometimes turtles and sharks.
The bay is also
frequented by a transient colony of sea lions which like to swim
with you. Birds, like the endemic Hood-Mockingbird and different
species of Darwin finches, are omnipresent.
B/L/D |
 |
September 8:
Floreana Island – Cormorant Point – Devils Crown – Post Office
Bay
TOP
Floreana Island is perceived as one of the most
exotic Island of the archipelago. At Cormorant Point you land on
a green olivine sand beach. Following a 100 m long path you will
soon reach a lagoon with flamingos, white-checked pintail ducks
and other shorebirds.
Then you will reach Devils Crown (Corona
del Diablo), a broken volcanic cone, which is one of the most
beautiful places to go snorkeling on Galápagos Island.
You can
dive or swim between riff sharks, star fishes, marine turtles,
sea lions and many tropical ornamental fishes.
Afterwards you
will visit the famous Post Office Bay which keeps the legendary
post barrel that whalers historically used to post their mail
in.
Nowadays you can leave a letter and hope that it will make
its destination via another tourist.
B/L/D |
 |
September 9: Island
Santa Cruz – Charles Darwin Station - Highlands
TOP
Today you anchor at the harbour of Puerto Ayora on
Island Santa Cruz. Beside its rank as homestay for sea lions and
pelicans, the marina is a popular starting point for
round-the-world-yachtsman.
The island itself has come to be both
touristic and scientific center of the archipeleago. The Charles
Darwin Research Station and the Galapagos National Park offices
are based on Santa Cruz Island. The station encompasses an
information centre, a museum, a library and the tortoise
breeding station as well.
Here you will have an opportunity to
visit some of the best scientists of the Galápagos. Park rangers
and park managers among others, who make huge efforts to
preserve this Unesco World Heritage Site, conduct the
conservation of the islands.
In the tortoise breeding and
rearing centre you can encounter tortoises of different
subspecies, which are prepared for reintroduction to their
natural habitats.
The most popular inhabitant of this island is
probably Lonesome George. He is the only survivor of his
specific turtle species. In the past all approaches to find a
partner for him failed.
In the afternoon you will visit the
highlands of Santa Cruz. The lush landscape there is a welcome
contrast to the arid scenery of the smaller, lower islands.
On
your way you will cross the different zones of vegetation, from
the dry lower region full of cactuses to the woods of scalesia
in the higlands. There you will visit the private owned finca
“Las Primicias”, which is open to the territory of the National
Park of Galápagos.
This reserve offers you one of the best
possibilities to see the huge turtles of Santa Cruz island in
their natural habitat.
You can observe them from very close and
learn more about their daily activities. Furthermore you will
encounter one of the most beautiful lava tunnels in this area.
B/L/D |
 |
September 10:
Rábida Island / Chinese Hat
TOP
Today you will
make an excursion to the small volcano island Rábida with its
dark red beach. A small path there leads you to the little
lagoon, which is often visited by flamingos.
On your way to this
lagoon you will pass nesting pelicans and other sea birds. The
beach of Rábida Island is considered as one of the most
beautiful places to go snorkeling.
Because of a huge richness of
fishes you can also observe a lot of sea lions there.
After a
wet landing at Chinese Hat, you will encounter a small colony of
sea lions and then proceed to hike for approximately one hour up
this dark unyielding solid rock island.
Amazingly you will
encounter a certain type of cacti vegetation growing here; the
only flora on the island. From a distance, before you arrive,
you will notice the shape of the island, hence its name! At the
top of the hat you can enjoy stunning views of other islands.
B/L/D |
 |
September 11:
Bartolome Island / Black Turtle Cove
TOP
Arriving at Bartolomé you will ascend a lookout point
from where you can admire the spectacular panorama of the
Sullivan Bay and the famous needle shaped rock, the so called
Pinnacle Rock.
The beaches at the foot of the Pinnacle Rock
boast some fine snorkeling spots from which you can discover the
marvelous underwater world with a good chance to encounter
penguins or the softly gliding turtles.
In the afternoon you
visit the Black Turtle Cove, a nesting site for marine turtles.
With good luck you can observe different types of sharks in the
calm water, so for example the white-tipped shark or schools of
golden mustard rays as well.
B/L/D |
 |
September 12:
North Seymour Island – Baltra – Quito
TOP
After a dry landing, you will have a short walk along
the coast of the northernmost island of Seymour.
Guests will
encounter swallow tailed gulls, sea lions and cliff crabs. This
site is also known for being a major nesting colony of blue
footed boobies, and the largest colony of the magnificent
frigate bird, a species different to the great frigate bird.
You
can also spot both endemic species of iguanas, the marine
iguanas and land iguanas. You will enjoy this relaxing hike
around the nesting sites.
Afterwards you will be escorted to the
airport of Baltra island and from there you will fly back to
Ecuador mainland to Quito. Here a transfer will bring you to
hotel Zentrum in the modern centre of the city.
***Zentrum B/-/- |
 |
September 13:
Quito
- Coca – Cuyabeno -
Stagestart 4
TOP
In the morning,
you transfer from your hotel to the national airport of Quito to
take your flight to Coca (San Francisco de Orellana).
You will
then continue by private transportation to Puerto Gregorio (2 ½ hrs approx.), where you start your canoe journey down the
Aguarico and continue along the Cuyabeno black water river, to
the Lodge. (3 hours aprox.).
Keep your eyes and ears open all
the time and spot all sorts of birds and butterflies, making
extra effort to listen out for the howler monkey.
During this
journey you will already be able to appreciate the richest
nature reserve of Ecuador concerning wildlife and primary
forest.
After dinner your naturalist bilingual guide give you a
captivating lecture.
***Nikki Lodge B/BL/D |
 |
September 14:
Cuyabeno
TOP
In the morning you will wake up with the most varied
range of bird song. If you rise at dawn, you’ll have the best
opportunity to watch the birds before breakfast.
After
breakfast, you trek in primary rainforest. Your guide will
teach you about the forests and its medicinal plants and you
might be able to spot insects and frogs, or even an armadillo, a
tapir or the traces of a snake.
After lunch and a siesta you
will take a trip by either paddling or motorized canoe to
explore the enchanted landscape with all shades of green, with
abundant epiphytes – like bromeliads, whose glowing colours
break the deep green of the impenetrable vegetation.
Here, you
can also often spot the active monkeys, jumping about in the
canopy, and birds such as the prehistoric-like Hoatzin, parrots
and maybe even the pink-bellied freshwater dolphins.
After
dinner there will be an excursion to spot the nocturnal active
inhabitants of the jungle.
***Nikki Lodge B/L/D |
 |
September 15:
Cuyabeno
TOP
Starting early in the morning
you will spend the whole day exploring.
Observe the enchanting
salt lick (exposed clay bank) where colourful Parrots and
Parakeets feed on the clay to draw the toxins from their bodies.
After breakfast you trek into pristine primary rainforest.
Your
native guide shares his wealth of knowledge, showing you the
medicinal and practical uses of the rainforests flora and fauna
that their ancestors have taught throughout generations and we
learn how all life in the tropical rainforest co-exists in a
fragile balance.
In the afternoon, you travel on the small
rivers to visit the Quichua Birdwatching Tower.
Here above the
canopy you have a breathtaking view of the surrounding
rainforest. From the tower you can observe a variety of species
including Toucans, Parrots, Monkeys, and many more.
While
travelling along the rivers you have good chances to see the
freshwater pink and grey river dolphins (Inia geoffrensis and
Sotalia fluviatilis). After dinner there will be a nocturnal
excursion to spot the gleaming red eyes of the caimans.
***Nikki Lodge B/L/D |
 |
September 16:
Cuyabeno
TOP
In the morning you will board a dug-out motorized
canoe with which you follow the winding Cuyabeno River. Keep
your eyes and ears open all the time and spot all sorts of birds
and butterflies, or just listen to the howler monkey.
Your
destination is the Laguna Grande, the largest lagoon in the
Cuyabeno Reserve.
During this journey you will already be able
to appreciate the richest nature reserve of Ecuador concerning
wildlife and primary forest.
Finally you reach a village of the
indigenous people in Cuyabeno, the Siona. A picnic lunch will be
served by our cook. Here, you will learn about the traditions
and living habits of the indigenous community.
Later you return
to the Laguna Grande and explore the flooded Igapo. Enjoy an
enchanted landscape with all shades of green, with macrolobium
trees covered with abundant epiphytes – like bromeliads, whose
glowing colours break the deep green of the impenetrable
vegetation.
Here, you can also often spot birds like the
prehistoric Hoatzin, parrots and maybe even the harpy-eagle. In
the afternoon you follow the Cuyabeno river downstream back to
the lodge.
***Nikki Lodge B/BL/D
|
 |
September
17:
Cuyabeno – Coca – Quito
TOP
The brisk morning hours are the best time to see the
rainforest thriving activity. Therefore today you have another
chance to go on an early morning canoe excursion.
After
breakfast, you visit to the Quechua Indian Community where our
naturalist guide explains the culture and traditions of the
native people from the past to the present.
Afterwards you
continue by canoe down the Cuyabeno River and back along the
Aguarico river to Pto Gregorio where you will drive back to
Coca. From here you fly back from rainforest up the slopes of
the Andes to Quito; on clear days you can see several summits of
the Andean volcanoes.
After your arrival in Quito you will be
brought to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your own
disposal.
***Zentrum B/BL/- |
 |
September
18: Departure Quito or
individual
extension
TOP
According to your
travel plans we will accompany you to the airport to take your
international flight or help you with any desired individual
extension.
B |
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Yolita 2
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Yolita 2
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Yolita 2
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Yolita 2
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Yolita 2
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Map of Ecuador / Kort over Ecuador
TOP |
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Map of Galapagos
/ Kort over
Galapagos
TOP |
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Web: Copyright Jan Tvernø and Happy Lama Travel
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