Transfer in Quito

Accommodation at first class o deluxe hotel

Colonial city tour: San Francisco de Quito, recognized as the largest and better preserved colonial city in the Americas. Quito, due to its artistic vocation offers art and creativity ranging from the modern to the lavish baroque. While touring opportunity to recognize the gothic style of the Basilica of the Heart of Jesus; dwellings with architectonical influence derived from Spanish Conquistadores visible in observation of tile roofs, forged iron rode balconies and beautifully carved doors. The heart of Quito, Independence Square, flanked by the Presidential and the Archbishop´s palaces, the Metropolitan Cathedral give to the visitor the feeling of going back in time to the of Spanish-American era. The Jesuit church of La Compañía de Jesús, magnificent example of the baroque style in Latin America. Panoramic view San Francisco de Quito, UNESCO´S World Heritage Site.

We will then take “Teleférico” cable car, and enjoy unsurpassable views of the city, its valleys,mountains and snow-capped peaks: ideal for photo opportunities.

Accommodation at first class o deluxe hotel

Leaving Quito north along the Panamerican Highway we drive across colorful valleys. Guayllabamba valley, an important area producing avocado and the local chirimoya fruit (custard apple). Cayambe valley on the other hand, traditionally dedicated to dairy cattle and manufacturing of dairy products, in the last three decades, has seen an important boom in rose farming. The region offers great photo opportunities. Arrival in the province of Imbabura, known as the “Ecuadorian lake province”.

This tour will take us to one of the rose plantations of the region. Delight your senses in observation of the process of rose producing activity, from the hoop houses to the post-harvest rooms. Beauty in colors, perfume and the sizes of the roses will prove to be a tour for the senses!

Visit the Otavalo market, the better known market in South America, in as far as, to the gentle and soft spoken Otavalo Indians; attired with beautiful and unique costumes. Interaction with the local people is given to the visitor through the process of bargaining, which is the fun element in the negotiations, while purchasing woven goods both in sheep´s wool and cotton, as well as, hats, belts, bags, jewelry and more. Tourist´s photography paradise. Drive back to Quito.

Accommodation at First Class or Deluxe Hotel

Approximately 11 miles (18 Km.) north of downtown Quito, we visit “Mitad del Mundo” (Middle of the World) and the Equator Monument situated at 0º0’0” latitude where the eighteenth century French Geodesic Expedition built one of the three pyramids as landmarks for their planet calculations to deduct the shape of the earth in a complex which replicates colonial Spanish- American village. We also visit the Intiñan Solar Museum, where you’ll find scientific and experimental aspects of being right at the Equator

Only 52 miles northwest of Quito we have a chance to observe exotic species of birds, butterflies, flowers such as orchids and bromeliad, located in the heart of the Ecuadorian cloud forest; a destination of unique beauty and serenity, visitors can observe many species of birds with over three hundred recorded and specially hummingbirds seen on feeders or in the wild by taking moderately easy guided hikes, enjoy the sights of endemic orchids, ferns and a wide variety of plants. At the end an optional visit to the property organic gardens can be done.

Accommodation at First Class or Deluxe Hotel

Departing early from Quito, we start our ascent up to the Eastern Andean Range passing the community of El Carmen de Ubillus, homeland of one endemic hummingbird. Antisana is the fourth highest Ecuadorian volcano at 18,875 feet (5,753 m.). The road to this area is private, where only visitors with a permit are allowed. This pristine area is considered the most important Andean condor sanctuary in Ecuador. As you approach the area, you will encounter an enormous relatively new lava flow which formed the small lakes of Secas and from there enter the extensive plains bordered by a series of cliffs where condors and other birds of prey roost. Among the birds to be easily seen are Andean gulls & seedeaters, carunculated caracaras, sierra finches, eye striped cinclodes and if you’re lucky the unique black faced ibis and the Andean condor. Occasionally, white tailed deer or Andean fox can be seen as well as some small wild rabbit. Discover the unspoiled nature surrounding Lake Mica with many interesting plants such as wild gentians and various species of daisies adapted to this harsh mountain environment. Return to Quito.

Accommodation at First Class or Deluxe Hotel

Transfer Out

Quito-Galapagos
Transfer out Quito
flight to Galapagos

Day 07-10
4d/3n Galapagos cruise experience
Come see the islands that Charles Darwin made famous. Galapagos travel beckons every birder, nature lover and curious traveler. Each day on a Galapagos cruise you leave your yacht to explore these uninhabited island treasures. Each island is filled with Galapagos travel highlights: snorkeling with playful sea lions, admiring the amusing blue-footed Boobie, whale-watching, or hiking to lava tunnels on Santa Cruz Island. Travel with us to the Galapagos Islands and visit one of the most undisturbed ecosystems in the world!

Day 10
Galapagos-Quito or Guayaquil (B)
Transfer in Quito or Guayaquil Accommodation at First Class or Deluxe Hotel