Best of Ecuadors Mainland in 14 Days

Exploring Ecuador’s mainland in 14 days promises an unforgettable journey through the country’s vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the ornate Iglesia de la Compañía in Quito to the bustling Otavalo Artisan Market, travelers will enjoy the heart of Ecuadorian culture. The adventure continues with hiking in Cotopaxi National Park, relaxing in Baños’ thermal baths, and discovering the Amazon rainforest’s biodiversity. This comprehensive itinerary offers a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and culture, leaving visitors with memories that will last long after their return. What awaits those who embark on this captivating expedition?

Key Points

• Explore Quito’s historic landmarks, including the ornate Iglesia de la Compañía and Basilica del Voto Nacional, along with a tour of the Museo Intiñan.
• Experience the vibrant Otavalo Artisan Market, one of South America’s largest indigenous markets, featuring handwoven alpaca sweaters and embroidered fabrics.
• Venture to Cotopaxi Volcano, an active volcano over 19,000 feet tall, and discover the stunning landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park.
• Immerse in the Ecuadorian Amazon’s biodiversity with a guided tour showcasing vibrant flora, diverse wildlife, and insights into indigenous communities.
• Visit Mindo, a town famous for its cloud forests and avifauna, offering thrilling zipline experiences and birdwatching opportunities.

Itinerary Overview

Over the 14-day tour, travelers will explore the best of Ecuador’s mainland, from the vibrant capital city of Quito to the lush Amazon rainforest and the iconic Cotopaxi volcano.

The itinerary includes visits to historical landmarks, indigenous communities, and natural wonders. Highlights include the Iglesia de la Compañía, the Ruta de Las Cascadas, the Basilica del Voto Nacional, and the Fantasias de Volar’s Puente de Cristal.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to enjoy the local culture through a chocolate tour in Mindo and an Indian Community fee in the jungle.

The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.

Quito Highlights

Exploring the vibrant capital city of Quito, the tour commences with visits to the Iglesia de la Compañía, a remarkable Jesuit church renowned for its ornate interior.

Next, the group explores the Basilica del Voto Nacional, an impressive neo-Gothic cathedral, and the Cathedral Metropolitana, the city’s main religious center.

The tour then takes visitors to the Museo Intiñan, an intriguing interactive museum showcasing Ecuadorian culture and the equatorial line.

Travelers can also enjoy a chocolate tour in Mindo, delving into the art of chocolate-making.

Throughout the day, the guide provides insights into Quito’s rich history and architecture, ensuring an immersive and educational experience.

Otavalo Artisan Market

After exploring the vibrant capital city of Quito, the tour now heads north to the renowned Otavalo Artisan Market. One of the largest and most famous indigenous markets in South America, Otavalo offers a vibrant display of traditional crafts, textiles, and local produce. Visitors can browse stalls selling handwoven alpaca sweaters, intricate embroidered fabrics, carved wooden figurines, and an array of jewelry and accessories. The market is organized into distinct sections, making it easy to navigate. To help plan your visit, consider the following table:

Area	Notable Products	Opening Hours
Main Plaza	Textiles, Clothing, Accessories	5 AM – 6 PM
Artisan Workshop Area	Weaving, Leatherwork, Woodcarving	8 AM – 5 PM
Produce Section	Fresh Fruits, Vegetables, Grains	6 AM – 3 PM

Cotopaxi Volcano Adventure

From the vibrant markets of Otavalo, the tour now ventures towards the Cotopaxi Volcano, one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural wonders.

Towering at over 19,000 feet, Cotopaxi is an active volcano that offers awe-inspiring views and challenging hiking opportunities. Guests will explore the Cotopaxi National Park, taking in the stunning landscapes and learning about the volcano’s rich history and ecology.

The tour includes the entrance fee and a certified guide, ensuring a safe and informative experience. Adventurous travelers can hike to the refuge or even attempt to summit the volcano, though this requires specialized equipment and training.

Whether admiring the volcano from afar or trekking to its heights, the Cotopaxi Volcano adventure is a highlight of this comprehensive Ecuador tour.

Baños Thermal Baths

Leaving the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano behind, the tour now ventures to the town of Baños, renowned for its rejuvenating thermal baths.

These naturally heated pools, fed by the nearby volcanic activity, offer a soothing respite after a day of exploration. Visitors can indulge in various spa treatments, from relaxing soaks to revitalizing mud baths.

The town’s laidback atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it a popular destination for both locals and travelers alike.

After a day of pampering, travelers can explore the charming streets, sample local cuisine, and take in the vibrant culture of this picturesque Ecuadorian town.

Jungle Exploration

Venturing deep into the lush Ecuadorian Amazon, the tour immerses travelers in the captivating world of the jungle.

Led by a bilingual certified guide, the experience showcases the jungle’s diverse wonders:

• Discover an array of vibrant flora, from towering trees to intricate orchids, and observe the mesmerizing array of bird and animal life, including colorful toucans, howler monkeys, and even the elusive jaguar.

• Explore the network of meandering rivers and streams, gliding silently in a canoe to spot wildlife and immerse in the serene tranquility of this verdant realm.

• Learn about the indigenous communities‘ traditional ways of life, gaining insights into their customs, medicinal practices, and connection to the land.

Mindo Canopy and Nature

As travelers depart the lush Amazon region, they’re treated to another natural wonder in Mindo. This small town nestled in the Andes is renowned for its diverse avifauna and enchanting cloud forests.

Visitors can soar above the canopy on thrilling ziplines, offering breathtaking views of the verdant landscape. The Mindo Canopy Tour allows adventurers to experience the forest from a unique perspective, traversing suspension bridges and gliding between platforms.

Birdwatchers will delight in spotting the vibrant hummingbirds and other species that inhabit this biodiversity hotspot. Plus, the town’s butterfly farm provides an up-close encounter with these delicate creatures.

With its natural splendor and ample activities, Mindo proves to be an alluring stopover on Ecuador’s mainland adventure.

Quilotoa Crater Lake

After bidding farewell to the lush cloud forests of Mindo, travelers make their way towards one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural wonders – the Quilotoa Crater Lake.

Perched at an impressive altitude of 3,914 meters (12,841 feet), the vibrant emerald-hued lake fills a volcanic caldera, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic vista.

Visitors can:

• Hike around the crater rim, taking in sweeping views of the lake and the surrounding Andes mountains.
• Descend into the caldera and explore the lake’s shores, dipping their toes in the chilly waters.
• Set out on a thrilling ride aboard a traditional canoe, gliding across the serene surface of the lake.

The Quilotoa Crater Lake is a must-see destination that encapsulates the raw, untamed beauty of Ecuador’s mainland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Travel Solo on This Tour?

Yes, travelers can generally join this tour solo. The provider offers private tours, so solo travelers are welcome. However, they should confirm availability and any supplemental fees for solo travelers with the local provider prior to booking.

Are There Any Group Size Restrictions?

The tour has no strict group size restrictions, but the price per person varies based on the total number of travelers. Smaller groups may pay slightly more than larger groups to maintain the private tour experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation policy is non-refundable, with no refund for cancellations. This private tour is non-transferable and the price varies based on group size, with a lowest price guarantee.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts or promotions, according to the information provided. The price is a fixed rate starting from €4,044.30 per person, with the lowest price guarantee, but no refund for cancellations.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour provider typically allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary to the traveler’s preferences, though certain activities and logistics may be difficult to change. It’s best to discuss specific requests with the provider directly.

Recap

Exploring Ecuador’s mainland in 14 days offers a captivating blend of vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the ornate churches of Quito to the serene thermal baths of Baños, this journey caters to adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether hiking in Cotopaxi National Park or immersing oneself in the Amazon’s biodiversity, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Ecuador’s mainland.