This day trip from Quito to the Chakana Reserve starts with a morning pick-up and a scenic drive through the Andean highlands. Explore the reserve’s unique flora and fauna while enjoying views of the Antisana Volcano. Participate in a Sunfo herb harvesting experience before heading to the Antisanilla reserve, where you can spot Andean Condors. After a traditional Ecuadorian lunch, visit a local artist’s studio before returning to Quito.
Key Attractions:
- Explore the stunning Antisana Volcano, one of Ecuador’s most impressive and lesser-visited peaks.
- Visit the Chakana Reserve, a unique ecological reserve that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean landscape.
- Experience Antisanilla, a private reserve renowned for its dramatic canyons and the opportunity to spot Andean Condors in the wild.
Unique Experiences:
- Harvest and learn about Sunfo, a native herb, and make tea as a natural remedy for high-altitude sickness.
- Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a specialty local restaurant, with the option to try Cuy (guinea pig), a delicacy in Andean culture.
- Private transportation and personalized attention from a knowledgeable local guide.
- Professional bilingual guide
- Private round-trip transportation from Quito in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Entrance fees to Chakana Reserve and Antisanilla
- Traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant (including the option to try Cuy)
- Sunfo harvesting experience and tea preparation
- Bottled water and snacks during the trip
- Gratuities (optional)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Itinerary
Day 1 : Chakana Reserve - Antisanilla
Morning
Start your day with a hotel pick-up in Quito at 7:00 AM. From there, enjoy a scenic drive through the Andean highlands to the stunning Chakana Reserve. Upon arrival, explore the reserve with your guide, discovering the unique flora and fauna of the area while taking in panoramic views of the majestic Antisana Volcano.
Mid-morning
Immerse yourself in a hands-on experience harvesting Sunfo, a native Andean herb. Your guide will demonstrate how to prepare Sunfo tea, traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of high-altitude sickness. Afterward, continue to the private reserve of Antisanilla, known for its rugged canyons.
In the afternoon, arrive at Antisanilla, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot Andean Condors in the wild. The canyons here offer one of the best locations to observe these magnificent birds. Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a local specialty restaurant, with the option to try Cuy (guinea pig), prepared in a traditional style.
Late Afternoon
After a fulfilling day, visit Daniel Reinoso’s studio to learn about his artistic process and techniques. Then begin the return journey to Quito, making a few stops for scenic photography along the way. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel by approximately 4:00 PM.
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