This 7-day tour offers an immersive culinary journey through Ecuador’s Andean region. Experience the richness of Ecuadorian gastronomy while exploring traditional markets, highland haciendas, and scenic volcanic landscapes. Alongside culinary activities, enjoy visits to iconic landmarks such as Quito’s historic center, Cotopaxi Volcano, and the famous Otavalo Market.
All transfers from arrival to return in private vehicles, sightseeing and overland tours as per program, accommodation in hotels mentioned or hotels of the same category (double room with private bathroom), meals as per program, all entrance and national park fees, English-speaking tour guide.
Meals and services not mentioned, alcoholic drinks and soft drinks, single room supplement, personal expenses, tips, travel insurance package.
Upon arrival at Quito’s Mariscal Sucre Airport, a guide will assist with your private transfer to your hotel. The evening is free for you to relax and prepare for the culinary adventure ahead. Quito’s cool Andean climate offers a pleasant start to your trip.
Delve into Quito’s vibrant food scene through the “Six Senses” tour, an immersive culinary and cultural experience. You’ll explore Quito’s markets, taste local delicacies, and visit ancient sites. This multisensory day engages all your senses with aromas, flavors, and even sounds, providing a unique introduction to Ecuador’s cuisine.
Today’s excursion takes you on the Panamericana Norte near Ibarra. Today you will visit the crater lagoon Cuicocha (guinea pig lake on kichwa), where you will have a great view (panoramic tour only, no hike). For lunch you will visit the community of San Clemente, where you will eat with the members and also get to know their everyday life and activities better. This is a very special encounter! In the late afternoon, you will continue to the historic Hacienda Zuleta (residence of former President Galo Plaza Lasso). Dinner included.
Today you can do optional activities at the hacienda (some activities are payable locally). We suggest you visit the hacienda’s own cheese factory, take a trip to the condor conservation project or go on a hike near the hacienda. Lunch at the hacienda included. Return to Quito in the afternoon.
Choice of various activities at Hacienda Zuleta:
– Hikes near the hacienda
– Visit to the condor conservation project
– Horse ride or bike tour (both at an extra charge)
– Typical embroidery of tablecloths
– Tasting the cheese from their own cheese factory
– Get to know the vegetable garden
Visit Cotopaxi National Park, home to the highest active volcano in the world. Hike around Limpiopungo Lake while taking in breathtaking views of the Andean landscape. Afterwards visit an Ecuadorian rose plantation to learn about the cultivation of one of the country’s most famous exports.
Today you can also take part in numerous activities at the hacienda for an extra charge. These include horse riding (we recommend the 3.5-hour tour), a bike tour, cooking class, ropes course and the spa area. Taste the andean flavors at the hacienda – we recommend the delicious potato soup. You return to Quito in the afternoon.
Travel to the “Mitad del Mundo” monument, which marks the equator. Here, you can visit either the Ethnographic or Inti Ñan museums and learn about Ecuador’s diverse cultures. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight home, concluding your culinary adventure in the Andes.
The Andes have cool, fluctuating temperatures, typically between 50°F and 65°F. Bring warm clothing for Cotopaxi and lighter layers for sunny afternoons.
Moderate fitness is required for walking tours and hikes around volcanic lakes and high-altitude regions like Cotopaxi.
You’ll taste a range of Ecuadorian dishes, including Andean specialties like locro de papas (potato soup), fresh cheese, roasted meats, and tropical fruits.
Yes, activities such as market visits and hiking tours can be tailored to your preferences, including additional visits to cultural or historical sites.
Cotopaxi’s high altitude (19,347 feet) can be challenging. Spend a few days in Quito to acclimatize before tackling higher elevations.
