Discover the best of Ecuador with our 7-day ‘Essential Ecuador’ tour. Traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes and cloud forests, where a plethora of wildlife, including stunning butterflies and birds, awaits. Discover Mindo’s tropical haven, featuring majestic waterfalls and an insightful chocolate production tour. Journey to the highlands to witness the serene beauty of Cuicocha crater-lake and the bustling Otavalo indigenous market. Enjoy an authentic, hands-on culinary experience with local Andean families. Prior to your visit to Cotopaxi National Park, where the towering active volcano stands, unwind at a premium hot springs retreat. This exploration showcases the remarkable natural diversity and cultural richness of Ecuador, leaving you captivated
Arrive in Quito, the captivating heart of Ecuador, where Invictus Ecuador awaits to begin your journey. This city, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, stands proudly on the equator, framed by the majestic Pichincha volcano. As South America’s Cultural Capital, Quito offers a rich tapestry of colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Depending on your arrival, delve into the city’s historical quarter or venture into the scenic environs. Invictus Ecuador can facilitate pre-booked day excursions to enhance your experience. At 18:00 hours, our trip leader will convene a welcome briefing in the hotel lobby, providing a thorough overview of your adventure and answering any questions. This first day serves as an important introduction and acclimatization period.
Accommodation: Sheraton Quito Hotel or similar
Meals included: none.
Our Ecuadorian exploration commences with a journey north from Quito, leading us to the iconic equator monument. This ‘Middle of the World’ experience allows you to straddle both hemispheres, feeling the unique equilibrium of the equatorial line. En route, we’ll pause to admire the Pululahua crater, a vast, inhabited volcanic caldera supporting a vibrant community. Subsequently, we’ll arrive in Mindo, a charming town cradled within the lush cloud forest. This biodiverse region offers an exceptional introduction to Ecuador’s natural wealth, particularly for bird enthusiasts who will marvel at the abundant hummingbird population. The afternoon features an immersive chocolate experience, where you’ll trace the cocoa’s journey from bean to delectable treat, witnessing the artistry of Ecuadorian chocolate production.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Explore Mindo’s lush cloud rainforest, riding cable cars and hiking near waterfalls, amidst toucans and vibrant birds. The afternoon is yours for optional thrills: whitewater rafting or ‘tubing’ down rapids with expert guides, or zip-lining through the forest canopy. A highlight is the butterfly farm, where giant butterflies emerge from cocoons. You can even feed them, feeling these large, delicate creatures land on your hands.
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Mindo or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Journey back into the highlands, taking the Pan-American Highway north towards Otavalo, renowned for its indigenous culture. Immerse yourself in the vibrant handicrafts of local artisans. Stroll the charming cobblestone streets, where Otavalo people in traditional blue ponchos display their wares. Explore the bustling handicraft market, a treasure trove of textiles, art, ceramics, jewelry, and tapestries, all available at excellent prices. Invictus Ecuador allows ample time for shopping and cultural exchange in Otavalo.
The afternoon takes us to Cotacachi, where Invictus Ecuador showcases the town’s exceptional leather crafts and the serene beauty of the village. Enjoy free time to browse the shops or savor Ecuadorian coffee in the picturesque main plaza.
Accommodation: Las Palmeras Inn or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Our day begins with a visit to the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve, where the stunning panorama of Cuicocha Crater Lake unfolds, showcasing the clear waters of this active volcano. A scenic hour-long hike along the crater’s rim culminates in a boat excursion to the caldera’s center, observing the volcanic activity with rising bubbles.
Our journey continues to the historic Hacienda Pinsaqui for an overnight stay, where you’ll be greeted with a traditional Andean cocktail and learn about the hacienda’s rich history.
The late afternoon brings us to the luxurious Papallacta volcanic hot springs resort. Here, amidst the majestic Andean peaks, you’ll have the chance to unwind and rejuvenate in the spa’s thermal waters.
Accommodation: Papallacta Spa Resort.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Following a final soak in the rejuvenating open-air hot springs after breakfast, we’ll embark on a southward journey along the Pan-American Highway towards Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano. This snow-clad giant resides within a national park teeming with diverse flora, rich wildlife, and remnants of Inca civilization. Our exploration begins at the park’s interpretation center, providing context for the natural wonders ahead. We then traverse the unique páramo landscape towards Limpiopungo Lake. A leisurely stroll around the lake offers opportunities to spot various bird species and admire the breathtaking, near-perfect cone of Cotopaxi. We conclude our day with a return drive to Quito, where a farewell dinner awaits
Accommodation: Sheraton Quito Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast.
Today marks the conclusion of your Ecuadorian adventure, as you prepare for your international departures. Carry with you the cherished memories and captured moments, and leave a piece of your heart behind, knowing that Ecuador’s magic will beckon you back. We bid you a safe and joyful journey, ‘buen viaje’!
Meals included: Breakfast.
Pick-up details Our private transportation and tour guide will pick you up from your location at the set time of 9am. We will contact you one day before your Tour to share information about what you need to bring. Please note this in case you are booking as a "solo traveler" and there are other people who have booked as a "solo traveler" on the same date. You will be together. However, the group will not be larger than 3 individual travelers Hotel pick-up is offered During the checkout process, you can select an option from the list of included hotels. This activity ends at the starting point.
Not wheelchair accessible Stroller accessible Service animals allowed Public transportation nearby Infants must sit on the lap Infant seats or chairs available
From El precio original era: $2.090,00.$1.690,00El precio actual es: $1.690,00.
From El precio original era: $2.090,00.$1.690,00El precio actual es: $1.690,00.
(0 reviews)
$1.490,00From$1.239,00
(0 reviews)
From$690,00
(4 reviews)
From$690,00
(4 reviews)
$252,00From$199,00
Experience Ecuador like never before!
Top Destination
Information
Highly Recommended!
nativadigitalmedia@gmail.com –
he ‘Essential Ecuador’ tour was well-organized and enjoyable. The guides were professional, and the hot springs were a great way to relax after a day of exploring
From Cloud Forests to Volcanoes: A Captivating Journey
nativadigitalmedia@gmail.com –
Our 7-day adventure with Invictus Ecuador was a journey of discovery. We explored the enchanting cloud forests of Mindo, where we marveled at the colorful butterflies and birds. The highlands offered breathtaking views of Cuicocha crater-lake and the majestic Cotopaxi volcano. The hot springs were a welcome respite after a day of exploration. Invictus Ecuador’s attention to detail and commitment to providing an authentic experience made this trip truly unforgettable.
A Tapestry of Wonders: Essential Ecuador with Invictus
nativadigitalmedia@gmail.com –
Our 7-day journey through Ecuador with Invictus Ecuador was nothing short of magical. From the moment we stepped off the plane, we were immersed in a world of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. The cloud forests of Mindo were a true highlight, with their cascading waterfalls and the enchanting butterfly farm. The Otavalo market was a feast for the senses, and the culinary experience with the Andean families was both heartwarming and delicious. Invictus Ecuador’s attention to detail and commitment to providing an authentic experience made this trip truly unforgettable
Amazing Ecuador!
nativadigitalmedia@gmail.com –
This 7-day tour was incredible! Invictus Ecuador showed us the best of the Andes and cloud forests. Mindo was a highlight, and the market in Otavalo was unforgettable. Highly recommend!