Overview
Welcome to an extraordinary 12-days adventure through the captivating landscapes and vibrant culture of Ecuador! Our journey begins in the historic capital, Quito, where you’ll explore its stunning colonial architecture and rich history. From there, we’ll head to Mindo, a lush cloud forest teeming with biodiversity, where you can enjoy thrilling activities like waterfall hikes, and birdwatching. Next, we’ll visit the breathtaking Antisana Ecological Reserve, home to majestic Andean wildlife and stunning volcanic views. Our adventure continues in Baños de Agua Santa, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hot springs and exhilarating adventures like canyoning and hiking. We’ll then ascend to the majestic Chimborazo, the highest peak in Ecuador, where you can marvel at its breathtaking landscapes. As we make our way to Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll be enchanted by its charming streets and vibrant arts scene. Finally, we’ll visit Otavalo, renowned for its colorful indigenous market, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and immerse yourself in local culture. This 12-days journey promises unforgettable experiences, stunning scenery, and a deep connection to the heart of Ecuador. Join us and discover the magic that awaits!
Encounters with biodiversity
- Amazing Birds
- Lush flora
- Night walks
- Cultural connection
- Nature photography
- Encounters with biodiversity
Tour Itinerary
On the day of your arrival, we will collect you from Mariscal Sucre Airport and take you to your accommodation, You will be in Quito, you will have the afternoon at your disposal to become accustomed to the city of Quito. The journey from the airport to your destination will take approximately 45 minutes.
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, offers a unique blend of historical, cultural and natural attractions. The day's itinerary commences with a visit to the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional, followed by a stroll along Calle García Moreno, also known as the 'Street of the 7 Crosses'. This is due to the numerous churches and crosses that have adorned it since the 16th century.
We will then proceed to the Plaza Grande, where the Monument to the Heroes of Independence is situated. The monument is surrounded by a number of significant buildings, including the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Municipal Palace. Additionally, we will visit the Iglesia de la Compañía, a notable example of Latin American Baroque architecture, constructed by the Jesuits between 1605 and 1765, and the historic Iglesia de San Francisco, the first Franciscan temple in Quito.
Following a lunch in the historic centre, we will proceed to the emblematic Middle of the World, where visitors can stand on the equatorial line that divides the planet into northern and southern hemispheres. (Overnight stay)
We will collect you from your hotel. There, a guide will provide us with general information about the city before we embark on our journey along the Calacalí-Los Bancos road. Our first destination will be the Mitad del Mundo, followed by a breakfast at the Pomasquinde Reserve, where we will enjoy a guided walk to explore the local flora and fauna. Subsequently, we will visit the Maraksacha Reserve, renowned for its rich biodiversity of hummingbirds and colourful avifauna, before proceeding to the Pahuma Orchid Reserve, a cloud forest habitat supporting over 200 species of orchids. We will then proceed to the Guaycapi restaurant, situated in a prime location overlooking the cloud forest, where we will enjoy lunch. Following this, we will take a revitalising dip in a waterfall. Subsequently, we will proceed to the Alambi Reserve, a conservation project where we will undertake a walk along the Alambi River trail and observe the coffee drying process. The final stop on our itinerary will be Nanegalito, where we will have the opportunity to sample local produce, including the zalac fruit. We will return to Quito at approximately 17:30, marking the conclusion of a day that has provided ample opportunity to experience both nature and culture.
Antisana offers a distinctive experience, commencing with a sumptuous breakfast in a breathtaking natural environment. Following a brief interlude in the parish of Píntag, guests will have the opportunity to observe the Antisanilla lava flow. The tour offers the opportunity to admire the beautiful Tipopugro and Secas lagoons, as well as learn about the conservation of the Andean condor while observing various species of hummingbirds. Subsequently, you will have the opportunity to explore the Micacocha Lagoon and the impressive Antisana Volcano, which offers a unique chance to appreciate its imposing height and snow-capped peaks. The trails have been adapted to suit a range of physical conditions, offering visitors the opportunity to explore different ecosystems and observe local fauna, including deer and Andean birds. At midday, guests are invited to enjoy the house specialty, fresh trout, and if desired, an additional hike along the Bear trail. Finally, after a day of invaluable learning and discovery, you will return to Quito with a wealth of unforgettable memories.
Baños de Agua Santa, situated in the province of Tungurahua in the Ecuadorian Andes, is a tourist destination that offers a unique combination of adventure, relaxation and culture. The area is renowned for its mineral-rich hot springs, making it an ideal destination for relaxation after a day of activities such as rafting, canopy tours and the famous 'Tree House Walk'. Furthermore, the area boasts impressive waterfalls, such as the Pailon del Diablo, which are a natural spectacle not to be missed. The local culture is reflected in the gastronomy and handicraft market, which offer a variety of delicious products. In summary, Baños offers a unique experience for every visitor, making it an ideal destination for your next vacation.
The highest point in Ecuador offers the perfect setting for those seeking adventure and immersion in nature. The trek to Chimborazo offers a distinctive experience that combines exercise, exploration and spectacular views. The journey begins in the fresh Andean air, with an ascent through a variety of landscapes, from verdant valleys to arid terrain. Along the way, participants will have the opportunity to gain insight into the local culture and the significance of Chimborazo to indigenous communities. Upon reaching Chimborazo, we will be presented with an unparalleled opportunity to admire the volcano and its surrounding vistas, creating an ideal setting for contemplation and photography. This trek offers more than just a physical challenge; it is also an opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
Ingapirca and Cuenca are two of Ecuador's most valuable tourist attractions, offering visitors a distinctive experience. Ingapirca, with its impressive archaeological complex, is the most important site of the Cañari and Inca cultures. Visitors have the opportunity to admire the architectural splendour and gain insight into the rich history of these civilisations. A short drive away is Cuenca, a charming colonial city renowned for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets and vibrant cultural life. Tourists have the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine, explore artisan markets and immerse themselves in the warmth of the local population. Together, Ingapirca and Cuenca provide the ideal combination of historical, cultural and natural attractions, making them an essential destination for any tourism enthusiast.
Cuenca, a jewel of Ecuador, offers a unique destination experience that combines history, culture and nature. Cuenca's impressive colonial architecture, status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant art scene make it an attractive destination for travellers seeking authenticity. The city's cobblestone streets, colourful markets and welcoming residents combine to create an unforgettable experience. Furthermore, the city's proximity to the Cajas National Park provides excellent opportunities for ecotourism and adventure. There is no doubt that Cuenca is a destination where every location has a story to tell and where each visit leaves a lasting impression.
The morning's itinerary will take you from your accommodation in Cuenca to the airport for your onward flight to Quito. You will then have the opportunity to relax and prepare for your next adventure, transfer to Otavalo.
We will collect you from the airport and transport you to Otavalo, where you will experience the unique charm of this destination, which combines cultural, natural and traditional elements. From the renowned indigenous market, where one can find distinctive handicrafts and vibrant textiles, to the awe-inspiring beauty of Lake San Pablo, this excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich heritage of the indigenous community. Furthermore, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine, which includes dishes such as roasted guinea pig and traditional hornados, as well as handicrafts made from totora reeds, which are created by the enterprising women of Otavalo. Otavalo is undoubtedly a destination that not only captivates the senses but also leaves a lasting impression on the heart.
This tour offers an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Our tour will commence in the Jerusalem Forest, where guests can enjoy a unique environment teeming with native flora and fauna. We will then proceed to Perucho and Atahualpa, two charming villages that provide an authentic insight into rural Ecuadorian life. During the course of the excursion, participants will have the opportunity to engage in the harvesting of mandarins, blackberries and grapes. This activity offers a unique opportunity to connect with the land and its fruits, while also providing an enjoyable experience. The itinerary includes visits to locations offering spectacular scenery, insight into local traditions and the chance to taste fresh produce.
On the final day of your stay, you will have the morning at your disposal. In accordance with your flight schedule, we will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport.
Simply tell us which tour you would like to book, for which dates, and for how many passengers, and subject to availability we will be happy to book it for you.
Please also send us the following information for each passenger:
- Passport copies (picture page only)
- Dietary requirements (vegan, vegetarian, allergies etc)
- Are you celebrating something special? – Let us know!
- Medical conditions we should be aware of
- For the amazon, we need your shoe size for the boots.
- For Galapagos we need your size as well as your shoe size for the wetsuit and fins. Please ask your travel advisor to give you a table of sizes.
- Emergency contact.
- Hotel you will be staying the night before the tour to know where to reach you in case of any emergency (optional)
- Preferred payment option.
Your booking is completely confirmed with Fusion Travel Ecuador once you send a payment for your reservation. We act as a third-party agency and enter into a contract with the service provider (e.g. Galapagos cruise operator) on your behalf, with obligations to pay for those services.
Service providers charge penalty fees for cancellation of service – these fees apply to both Fusion Travel Ecuador and our clients. For this reason, tour cancellations are subject to the cancellation charges listed in our In cancellation cases, we represent our clients and try to recuperate funds paid to service providers, but this is not always possible. The final decision always lies with the service provider, and we are bound by that. For this reason, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance that covers you fully in the event of trip cancellation.
We’ll send out all tickets, vouchers, and instructions electronically via email. When you travel you can either print out a physical copy to take with you or store the documents on a cellphone or tablet. Nothing could be easier!
Usually, we aim to send tickets out between 1 and 2 weeks prior to your tour departure, but this depends greatly on when we receive the vouchers from the yacht operating companies (Amazon lodges & tour companies or providers in general). If for any reason you need your tickets further in advance, please let us know so we can try to make the necessary preparations for you.
With last minute bookings, these times could change as well depending on when we receive your travel documents from the local operator.
Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm Ecuadorian time, which is GMT -5. However, we understand that travel emergencies can occur at any time. Therefore, we provide a 24/7 emergency contact number that is listed on the Contact Us page of our website, as well as in your tour package, vouchers and your travel agent’s signature. You can call this emergency number if you experience any problems during your trip.
For non-emergency enquiries, such as travel or sales queries, please email us or submit an enquiry and we will respond as soon as possible during our normal office hours.
We strongly recommend that you discuss vaccination advice with your doctor in your country BEFORE travelling.
Decisions about vaccines and anti-malarial drugs are a personal choice, so it is best to consult a doctor directly to see which options are recommended for your trip. It will also depend on where you are going in Ecuador, Peru or Colombia. If you are travelling to the Amazon rainforest or coastal areas, these decisions are particularly important.
Fusion Travel Ecuador accepts the following payment methods:
- INTERNATIONAL BANK WIRE: Opt for the utmost convenience by utilizing your bank account for this transaction. Our bank is situated in Ecuador, but you have the flexibility to initiate the transfer from any corner of the world. A nominal $25 handling fee is applied per transfer to offset the costs associated with transferring funds to Ecuador for settling payments to local suppliers on your behalf. Typically, transfers take 2-5 working days to reflect in our account. We recommend consulting your personal bank for guidance on completing the necessary fields for a seamless transfer process.
- CREDIT CARD ONLINE PAYMENT – quick and easy online payments for Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Credit card processing fees do apply – Fees are divided into fees charged by the platform, and also Ecuadorian Government fees. Fusion Travel Ecuador no profit on these additional fees.
- ECUADOR BANK DEPOSIT OR TRANSFER – deposit cash or transfer locally into any branch of Banco Pichincha, or Produbanco. This may the best option if you are already in Ecuador.
Most importantly, all of our accounts are 100% SAFE & SECURE. All payments are made in the name our company (Tour Operadora Fusion Travel Cia. Ltda.). We will never ask you to risk paying into any account registered under a personal name.
Generally speaking, we require a 40% deposit at the time of booking to confirm your reservation. Full payment is then due 3 months before your date of travel. Of course, should you prefer to pay in full at the time of booking then that is also no problem.
Only in the case of bookings made less than 3 months before the date of travel do we immediately require full payment, unless otherwise stipulated.
Yes, it is generally safe to visit the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador, but it’s essential to take certain precautions and be well-prepared for the environment. Here are some important safety considerations:
- Wildlife encounters: While the Amazon Rainforest is teeming with diverse wildlife, including exotic animals like monkeys, birds, and snakes, it’s crucial to respect their habitats and observe from a safe distance. Avoid touching or feeding wild animals and follow the guidance of experienced guides during wildlife encounters.
- Health risks: The Amazon region may pose health risks such as mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever, as well as tropical illnesses like yellow fever. It’s essential to take appropriate precautions, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and consulting with a healthcare professional about necessary vaccinations and medications before your trip.
- Navigation and guides: Navigating the Amazon Rainforest can be challenging due to its dense vegetation and complex terrain. It’s highly recommended to explore the rainforest with an experienced guide who is knowledgeable about the area and can ensure your safety during excursions.
- Environmental hazards: Be mindful of environmental hazards such as sudden changes in weather, river currents, and slippery terrain, especially during rainy seasons. Stay informed about local weather conditions and heed any warnings or advisories from your tour operators or guides.
- Cultural sensitivity: When visiting indigenous communities in the Amazon, respect their customs, traditions, and way of life. Seek permission before taking photographs, avoid disrupting local activities, and be open to learning about their culture and beliefs.
By taking these safety precautions and being prepared for the challenges of the rainforest environment, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding experience exploring the wonders of the Amazon Rainforest.
The Ecuadorian Highlands encompass a range of altitudes, with elevations varying depending on specific locations. Major cities and tourist destinations in the Ecuadorian Highlands include Quito, Cuenca, Otavalo, and Baños, each with its own altitude:
- Quito: The capital city of Ecuador, Quito, is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. It is one of the highest capital cities in the world.
- Otavalo: Famous for its indigenous market, Otavalo is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,530 meters (8,300 feet) above sea level. It is located in the Imbabura province, north of Quito.
- Cotopaxi: Cotopaxi is the world’s highest active volcanoes and a prominent landmark in the Ecuadorian Andes. At an altitude of approximately 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level, Cotopaxi’s snow-capped summit is a sight to behold. Visitors can explore Cotopaxi National Park, hike to the refuge at the base of the volcano, or attempt to summit the peak with the guidance of experienced guides.
- Quilotoa: The Quilotoa crater lake, located in the Cotopaxi province, is a breathtaking natural wonder situated at an altitude of approximately 3,914 meters (12,841 feet) above sea level. Visitors can hike along the crater rim, kayak or take a mule ride down to the emerald-green lake below, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Andean landscape.
- Baños: Known for its hot springs and adventure activities, Baños is located at an altitude of about 1,820 meters (5,970 feet) above sea level. It is nestled in the Andean foothills, between the Amazon and Andes region.
- Chimborazo: Chimborazo is Ecuador’s highest peak and the tallest mountain in the world when measured from the center of the Earth due to its location along the equatorial bulge. Standing at an impressive altitude of 6,268 meters (20,564 feet) above sea level, Chimborazo is a popular destination for mountaineers and adventurers seeking a challenging ascent.
- Cuenca: Located in the southern part of Ecuador, Cuenca sits at an altitude of around 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and cultural heritage.
When traveling to the Ecuadorian Highlands, especially if you are coming from sea level or low-altitude areas, it’s important to acclimatize gradually to the higher elevations to avoid altitude sickness. Here are some recommendations:
- Take it Slow: Allow your body time to adjust to the altitude by taking it easy during your first few days in the highlands. Avoid strenuous physical activity until you feel acclimatized. As Quito is the entry point for most of the international flights, we recommend staying here a couple of days, and try to avoid strenuous activities at least the first day such as the Quito Cable Car or the Cotopaxi Volcano.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as the air at higher altitudes is drier and can lead to dehydration more quickly. Limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
- Eat Light: Stick to light, easily digestible meals during your first few days at high altitude. Avoid heavy or spicy foods that may exacerbate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Consider Medication: If you’re prone to altitude sickness or are concerned about experiencing symptoms, consider taking medication such as acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent or alleviate altitude sickness. Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- Coca Leaf Tea or Hot Beverages: Sipping on coca leaf tea, a traditional remedy in the Andes, can be effective in alleviating mild altitude sickness symptoms. Alternatively, consuming hot beverages is also considered beneficial, though it’s advisable to avoid those with milk as the fat content may have counterproductive effects.
By following these recommendations and allowing your body time to adjust to the altitude gradually, you can enjoy your trip to the Ecuadorian Highlands while minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Don´t forget that each person adapts to it in a different way and some may need a bit longer of time to adjust, while others don´t.
While traveling in Ecuador, you’ll find various options for accessing WiFi or the internet to stay connected during your trip.
Many hotels, hostels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities and tourist areas offer complimentary WiFi for guests. Additionally, mobile data services are widely available throughout the country, with several local providers offering prepaid SIM cards and data plans for purchase. You can easily find SIM cards at convenience stores, kiosks, or official stores of mobile network operators like Claro, Movistar, and CNT. These SIM cards can be used in unlocked smartphones or portable WiFi devices (MiFi) to access the internet while on the go. However, it’s essential to check coverage maps and network availability, especially if you plan to explore more remote or rural areas where signal strength may vary. Overall, with the availability of WiFi hotspots and prepaid data options, staying connected and accessing the internet in Ecuador is convenient and straightforward for travelers.
Of course. In the majority of cases, we organise domestic flights for our clients; including travel to and from destinations such as the Galapagos Islands, the Amazon, mainland Ecuador, Peru and/or Colombia (in Peru and Colombia I would only mention the capitals where flights are common…). This practice is recommended as it allows us to optimise flight arrangements based on operational efficiency. It is important to note that for certain scenarios, such as Amazon Lodges and Galapagos Cruises, the airline ticket is often booked through the cruise operator to accommodate operational requirements.
Whilst we recognise the option for clients to book their flights independently, it is advisable to note that some operators may charge penalty fees for not using their booking services. We recommend that you consult with your travel agent before making any flight reservations to ensure compatibility with your itinerary. Your travel advisor will assist you in selecting the most suitable flight times for your trip.
