Ecuador Adventure

Arrive in Quito and overnight.

Descend the slopes of Pichincha Volcano by mountain bike, riding from the stark Andean páramo into the dense greenery of the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve. Navigate rugged ridgelines and steep gorges on a 3–4-hour ride through changing landscapes. In the afternoon, arrive at Bellavista's cloud forest lodge and set out on your first exploration of this thriving, high-altitude ecosystem.

Start your Ecuador adventure with an exciting descent down Pichincha Volcano, heading towards the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve. As you ride, the Andean paramo grassland transforms into a vibrant cloud forest, with steep gorges and jungle-covered ridges offering stunning views during the 3–4-hour ride. In the afternoon, arrive at Bellavista's cloud forest lodge and begin exploring this unique ecosystem.

Discover the charm of Mindo, a charming town nestled in the heart of the lush Cloud Forest. Start your day with an exhilarating zipline adventure, soaring across 3,500 meters of cables that reveal breathtaking views of the vibrant greenery below. Hike between platforms surrounded by nature, combining adrenaline with the serenity of the forest. Enhance your visit with a hands-on cacao experience, following the journey from bean to bar, or wander through a butterfly sanctuary in this peaceful paradise. Mindo perfectly blends adventure, cultural encounters, and natural beauty for an unforgettable day.

In the afternoon, head to the upper rim of an inhabited volcanic crater, where you’ll settle into your accommodation for the night.

Begin your journey with a visit to the iconic Equator line, where you can stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time. From here, travel south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, surrounded by towering peaks, until you arrive at the breathtaking 270-foot Condor Machay Waterfall.

Set out on a trail through a distinctive Andean forest, home to the unique "paper bark" trees, offering a glimpse into the region's rich natural heritage. Continue to the village of El Pedregal, where you'll immerse yourself in local culture and traditions. End the day at El Porvenir after a rewarding 8-kilometer (5-mile) hike through this captivating landscape.

After breakfast, join a brief orientation to get acquainted with the horses before riding out in true Chagra (Ecuadorian highland cowboy) style to explore the foothills of Rumiñahui Volcano. Ride alongside wild horses and bulls as you cross the paramo, observing local wildlife and birds. Along the way, local guides will share their knowledge of medicinal plants. Return to the farmhouse for a delicious lunch of local dishes.

In the afternoon, take part in the Cooking in the Clouds lesson. Start by preparing the famous cheese empanadas, then move on to making aji, a key element of Ecuadorian cuisine. At Hacienda El Porvenir, learn the traditional method of preparing aji using a stone mortar and a blend of herbs and spices. Next, discover how to make canelazo, a warm drink enjoyed during celebrations in the Highlands of Ecuador. After the class, enjoy your creations by a crackling fireplace before sitting down for dinner and an overnight stay.

Start your day with breakfast before gearing up for an exciting high rope course adventure. This activity offers a thrilling challenge with minimal environmental impact, perfect for those with little or no climbing experience. Navigate ladders, nets, tightropes, swinging logs, wobbly bridges, and other surprises, all while suspended 20 feet (6 meters) above the ground. In the afternoon, enjoy a delicious lunch before testing out your bike. After a quick briefing on bike handling, take off on the 7 km single-track trail that winds through native woods, planted to restore and conserve the habitat. As you ride, tackle a series of uphill sections with a gradient between 5 and 8 degrees. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart from the Hacienda and drive toward Cotopaxi National Park, passing through ancient lava flows formed by past eruptions of Cotopaxi. This drive offers a glimpse into the region’s Andean geology. Arrive at the parking area below Cotopaxi’s Refuge and begin a short hike to Refugio José Rivas, located at 4,864 meters (15,958 feet). As you climb, take in the awe-inspiring views of the towering volcano. After the hike, hop back in the vehicle and head toward Limpiopungo Lake, where you'll enjoy a hearty box lunch. This peaceful spot is perfect for learning about the local flora, fauna, and the park’s environmental conservation efforts. Next, visit Pucará del Salitre, an important historical site. Return to Quito for a farewell dinner to recap with your guide your lifetime memories in Ecuador.

Return home, or with more time, extend your trip to Ecuador's mainland or travel to the Galapagos or Peru!