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Ecuador is a land rich in nature, culture, and diversity. This mesmerizing country is host to myriad indigenous markets and snow-capped volcanoes, has much to teach visitors about its colonial history, and offers endless adventures. This 7-day trip is your opportunity to see the gems of mainland Ecuador!

This nature and culture tour of Ecuador immerses you in five different destinations located north and east of the mountainous Andean region. From walking the cobblestone streets of colonial Quito, to visiting Latitude Zero, to a hike in the intriguing cloud forest, we will just begin to scratch the surface of what Ecuador has to offer. Then, we will bring you to Nono, a little jewel built in colonial times by the Jesuits, where the charm and hospitality of Villa Doris wait for you.

Highlights:

• Enjoy the Colonial Quito city tour: visit iconic golden altar churches and plazas
• Hike at 10,500ft above sea level through the lush, evergreen cloud forest
• Visit the most traditional artisan market in South America
• Relax at the hot springs while enjoying an outstanding view of the highlands
• Visit the highest active volcano on Earth!
• Savour the delicious cuisine in every destination

During this adventure, we will take you toward the north of Quito to one of the most colorful and well-known indigenous markets of Latin America where artisans display the best of their work. You can also look forward to an overnight stay at a 400-year-old hacienda, which is sure to be an unforgettable experience. In the paramo lands, lying above the tree line and below the snow line, we’ll make a relaxing stop to bathe in the hot springs. Here, we’ll also have the chance to do a small hike in this unique ecosystem. Finish the tour by visiting Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano, where hiking and taking photographs are a must. Come, enjoy it all!

Related Trips:
[8 days] Immersive Amazon Adventure in Ecuador
[14 days] Self-Driving Experience in the Equator Land
[4 days] The Soul of Ecuador’s Cloud Forest

Seasonal Notes:
Ecuador enjoys spring-like weather all year round. Most days we enjoy sunny mornings and cooler afternoons with temperatures around 12°C-18°C ( 55°F-64°F). The best time to visit Ecuador’s cloud forest is, in general, during the dry season, which runs from June to August or September.

During the dry season, you can expect sunny and warm days with less chance of rain, which makes it easier to explore the forest and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. The dry season is also the best time to see many of the cloud forest’s endemic bird species, including the colorful Andean cock-of-the-rock and the elusive plate-billed mountain toucan.

However, if you’re interested in seeing the cloud forest’s stunning waterfalls at their fullest, you may want to visit during the wet season, which runs from December to May. April usually has quite a bit of rain. During this time, the forest is lush and green, and the waterfalls are at their most spectacular. However, keep in mind that the wet season can bring heavy rainfall and mudslides, which may make some trails and roads inaccessible.

Some regions of Ecuador, such as the Amazon rainforest and the cloud forest, can experience rain throughout the year, so it’s important to be prepared for wet weather if you’re planning to visit these areas.