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Yugen Earthside connects mindful travelers to responsible package trips around the world. CARBON REMOVALS INCLUDED WITH EACH BOOKING!

Connecting mindful travelers to responsible experiences around the world.

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

We proudly partner with wanderwell, a B-Corp-certified travel insurance agency and 1% for the Planet member.

Request a FREE quote for Trip Protection or Travel Medical coverage.

Our sustainable, family friendly vacations will delight children and adults with enriching experiences in nature, cultural immersions, and more. Carbon removals included!

Sustainable Family Friendly Vacations | Yugen Earthside

Discover self-guided, privately-guided, & small group tours around the world. Our sustainable adventures are customizable, and include carbon removals with each booking!

Trips | Yugen Earthside | Sustainable Adventures

Discover treasures of Morocco, from the iconic Blue City, to fascinating medinas, fine gateways, medieval cities, natural parks, & the vast Saraha desert. Carbon removals included!

[10 days] Morocco Treasures: From the Blue City to the Desert | Yugen Earthside

Discover treasures of Morocco, from the iconic Blue City, to fascinating medinas, fine gateways, medieval cities, natural parks, and the vast Saraha desert.

Explore kasbahs, spice markets, and vibrant cities on this extensive journey. Mount a camel to traverse the fringes of the Sahara Desert, then marvel at the scenery from the Atlas Mountains' lofty peaks. Immerse yourself in the bustle of imperial cities, navigating souks brimming with unique goods. Cap off this incredible adventure in Akchour National Park to explore the natural water springs.

Along the way, admire the impressive architecture in time-tested villages and classic cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fez. Soak in the rich culture that blends Islamic and African traditions, relax in a traditional Riad, and savor authentic meals to get the most out of this sustainable Moroccan adventure!

Set foot in the architectural marvel of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, perched on the edge of the ocean.

Wander through Rabat, Morocco’s historic capital, exploring everything from its old medina alleyways and grand citadels to its regal Mausoleums.

Immerse yourself in the imperial city of Fez, filled with vibrant fragrances and the rhythmic bustle of artisans.

Travel across the northern middle Atlas, passing serene highlands and lush wild cedar forests on your way to Erfoud, a quaint town surrounded by fortified villages and lush palm groves.

Experience the ancient rhythms and rituals of pre-Islamic African traditions in the Gnaoua village of Khamlia.

Embark on a camel ride through the Sahara, watching a breathtaking sunset over the magnificent honey-colored dunes.

Relax in a Riad, savoring local home-cooked meals.

Riding a camel can be considered sustainable, depending on how it's managed. Here are a few factors to consider.

Animal Welfare: Unlike riding elephants, where the gentle giants are 'broken' and abused to accommodate human riders, camels can be trained humanely - much like horses. They can be domesticated, socialized young, and become accustomed to halters, saddles, and commands. Companies offering camel rides should treat the animals well, feel them properly, and not overwork them.

Environmental Impact: Camels have been a transportation method for humans for thousands of years. They were particularly important for trade and transport in desert areas thanks to their ability to traverse long distances with little water. While now also used for tourism, camels are an important way for visitors to see beautiful, remote natural areas without the use of a motorized car.

Cultural & Economic Implications: Camels are engrained in the traditional fabric of desert communities. Riding them responsibly can preserve an ancient practice, provide economic support for their owners, and foster respect and appreciation for their importance to locals.

The best time to visit Morocco is during the autumn (September-November) or early spring (March-April), but Morocco is a year-round destination.

People should avoid August when it can be too hot in the desert and overcrowded in the north by local tourists.

Activities, admission fees, and sightseeing not mentioned in the itinerary 

8 nights of accommodation with breakfast at handpicked, mid-range riads & hotels

1 night of accommodation at a deluxe Sahara Desert Encampment

Breakfast & Dinner in the desert and in Ouarzazate 

Private driver & very comfortable car for the duration of trip

Private guides in Rabat, Akchour, Fez, and Marrakech

Camel trekking to catch the sunset (Optional)

Sahara Safari in 4x4 to discover nomads' life

Traditional music around a campfire in the camp

Tailored pre-departure advice and personalized support

Tree plantation to offset the carbon footprint of your trip

We focus on impactful experiences based on quality, authenticity, and sustainability. Our crew and drivers are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced, and we choose smaller-scale, locally-owned accommodations and boutique hotels.

We buy locally-produced food and drinks and dine in locally-owned restaurants. We strive to minimize plastic waste wherever possible and carefully manage limited energy and water resources.  We operate with a ‘leave no trace’ ethos – take only memories, leave only footprints.

We take you closer to the most remote environmental landscapes of Morocco. We tell you all about the sustainable initiatives done by the local population. For example, we can share how the construction materials keep the houses warm during winter and cold during summer, or about the reusable objects and the agriculture systems.

We make a financial contribution to plant trees in nurseries managed by our partner, High Atlas Foundation, in order to help offset the carbon footprint of our travelers.

This itinerary was designed to offer real-life experiences that promote cross-cultural understanding. We make sure to take you to boutique-owned hotels/riads and restaurants. We support local artisans by witnessing their hard work even in the most remote areas of Morocco.

All our partners are Moroccan and we make sure that we pay them fairly to be sustainable for them. We also make sure to visit remote areas you likely wouldn't find by yourself, and where you could have the most impactful experience. For example, trekking to remote sections of the High Atlas Mountains helps support local communities.

Morocco Treasures: From the Blue City to the Desert

This 12-day tour of North India combines responsible wildlife experiences with a mix of luxury, city, and village tours. Carbon removals included!

[12 days] North India Wildlife Tour | Yugen Earthside

This 12-day tour of North India combines responsible wildlife experiences with a mix of luxury, city, and village tours.

Visit Delhi, Agra (home to the Taj Mahal), Sawai Madhopur, and Ghanerao over the course of your stay. Witness incredible wildlife like Indian elephants, tigers, and bears, and stay in luxury wildlife lodges and charming homestays that directly impact wildlife conservation, rehabilitation, and local community development projects.

For example, the wildlife lodge in Sawai Madhopur and the homestay in Ghanerao are working with tribal women and pastoralists to create alternative incomes by selling camel milk products, and wool products, in addition to supporting a local school.

You'll also see significant cultural sites such as the Taj Mahal, the India Gate, and numerous other temples, forts, and monuments.

Visit a rescue and rehabilitation center for distressed wildlife

Stay in a luxury wildlife lodge for a guided safari in Ranthambore National Park

See Indian bears, elephants, tigers, leopards, camels, antelopes, and more

Spend time with pastoralists witnessing their nomadic life and camel conservation efforts

Hear lesser-known, unique facts about the famous Taj Mahal on our storytelling tours

Explore Delhi, including the President’s Palace and the India Gate

Discover craft, spice, textile, and jewel markets

Enjoy cultural tours at temples, forts, and prominent monuments

Optional: Walking tours for food tasting, visiting families working in artisanal products, and much more!

The combination of wildlife safaris, conservation projects, and cultural experiences makes this tour equally great for families, couples, kids, and solo travelers.

The best time to visit India is between September and mid-April. During this period, the weather is pleasant and comfortable. It is usually sunny and dry, with cooler temperatures in the north and more moderate temperatures in the south. Besides, India's important festivals, such as Diwali, Holi, and Dussehra, also take place during these months. Diwali is in November, and Holi is in March; exact dates vary every year.

Summers (May to August) can be scorching hot in Rajasthan. However, this season is great for the Himalayas and the North East.

This private tour happens on a date of your choice.

Cost of opting for a higher grade of hotels

Entry fees to any monuments wherever applicable. The government-set rates are INR 500 (per person per monument) and INR 1300 (per person for Taj Mahal).

Any changes in the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control or an act of God

All accommodations on twin-sharing basis  at eco-friendly homestays, heritage homes, and farm stays

Breakfasts and special meals mentioned in the itinerary

Entry fee for all wildlife experiences and safaris

Price range is given for 2 to 10 travelers. Contact us with your group size for a quote.

Please contact us for solo traveler pricing.

Prices may vary during peak seasons such as during Diwali, Christmas, and New Year's.

We cap the number of travelers we host per year per destination to 500 to combat the risk of over-tourism. We stay free of touts (persistent salespeople) and do not do shopping for commission. Our trips support 8 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (#1, 5, 8, 10, 12-15). We promote tourism dispersal by spending only limited time at bigger cities and main monuments, with the majority of the tour in less-busy areas.

Environmental Initiatives
Our many environmental actions include strict care of nature, using energy-saving electrical appliances in our homestays, and efforts to manage waste responsibly. We minimize plastic on this tour and provide safe and healthy alternatives to plastic plates, packaged items, and bottles. We leave behind zero waste. We locally source raw materials for meals. 
All accommodations are personally reviewed by our team. Our homestays and accommodations focus on local & organic food (vegetarian options available!), recycling waste properly, and striving to use energy-saving lights and appliances as well as solar thermal panels.

Sociocultural Initiatives
We pride ourselves on propagating and reviving local folk tales through storytelling. We support local artisans by involving them in tourism. This tour focuses on ethical animal and wildlife tourism. We do not indulge in animal slavery, cruelty, or luring through bait during the wildlife experiences. We visit rescue centers and speak with those caring for the animals.

This iconic cultural tour of India’s Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, & Jaipur) is the perfect way to become acquainted with “Incredible India.” Carbon removals included!

[7 days] India: Golden Triangle Cultural Tour | Yugen Earthside

This iconic cultural tour of India’s Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur) is the perfect way to become acquainted with “Incredible India.”

How do you experience a country as massive as India? Especially great for first-time visitors, this immersive tour introduces you to the main attractions and hidden secrets behind the scenes. Our storytelling and cultural immersion enhance your experience and put this tour a class apart from just sightseeing. From walking tours to craft experiences to food tasting and spirituality, this is a holistic introduction to India.

Golden Triangle tour of the highlights: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur

Beautiful homestays with families in Delhi and Agra

A stay in a vibrant heritage hotel in Jaipur

Walking tours focused on food, artisans, spirituality, and heritage

Participate in Indian festivals with the families (see Seasonal Notes)

Optional: If you have more days, ask us for customization. We recommend adding Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and several smaller towns in western India.

This tour is perfect when you have a limited number of days (7-10) to spare. On this private tour of the Golden Triangle, you will experience not only the main monuments but also those hidden secrets about the three cities that tell the entire story behind their history and current society.

For example, it is incomplete to see the Taj Mahal itself unless you do a storytelling tour of old Agra and visit the busy streets just the way locals do. You can choose from a range of activities within the ethos of sustainability and customize your tour of the Golden Triangle.

5 reasons why you should not miss this cultural trip to the Golden Triangle:

Storytelling makes your experience far more enriching than what typical tours and websites say about the Taj Mahal and other monuments on the tour.

In Delhi, delight your taste buds with delectable street food, stunning views of UNESCO World Heritage sites, and vibrant markets.

Your cultural understanding of India will be highly broadened, as you will participate in local festivities, see traditional handicrafts of marble inlay and embroidery, and stay at charming homestays. As India is a culturally diverse destination that attracts people from all over the world, you will also see traditions and practices from many different countries.

The block printing workshop in Jaipur uses the traditional technique of printing patterns on fabric using carved wooden blocks. This workshop connects you with the artist within you. 

Our walking tours give you a pleasant introduction to spirituality in multicultural and religiously diverse India. See daily morning rituals at beautiful temples from a local´s perspective.

The best time to visit India is between September and mid-April. During this period,  the weather is pleasant and comfortable. It is usually sunny and dry, with cooler temperatures in the north and more moderate temperatures in the south.  Besides, India's important festivals, such as Diwali, Holi, and Dussehra, also take place during these months. Diwali is in November, and Holi is in March; exact dates vary every year.

Entry fees to any monuments wherever applicable. The set government rates are INR 500 (per person per monument) and INR 1300 (per person for Taj Mahal)

All accommodations on a twin-sharing basis (eco-friendly homestays, heritage homes)

Fee of all storytellers, activities, and workshops

As an award-winning tour for our sustainable practices, we prioritize responsible tourism by limiting our visitor capacity to 500 per season and embracing the principles of slow travel. We are committed to supporting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, specifically numbers 1, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 15. By doing so, we aim to contribute to a sustainable future for both the environment and local communities

This trip is designed to prioritize environmental sustainability and animal welfare. We are committed to adhering to strict standards that ensure no animal-harming tourism. Our focus is on conserving ecosystems and preserving biodiversity during this holiday. We also prioritize low-carbon impact activities and have avoided in-destination flights to minimize our carbon footprint.

In addition, we emphasize vegetarian and vegan restaurants to reduce the environmental impact of our food choices. We have taken measures to minimize waste, including avoiding single-use plastics and water bottles.

To trim our carbon footprint, all of our cars are in line with the latest emission standards. However, we always recommend taking trains whenever possible. If our guests choose to travel by car, we ensure that it is an eco-friendly option. We provide all our guests with reusable stainless steel bottles to reduce single-use plastics.

Our focus is on sustainable eating, and we encourage vegetarian meals as they have more options in India.  However, non-vegetarian meals are also available. Our artisan visits ensure that guests only buy sustainable and Indian products, supporting local communities and businesses. Additionally, all of our raw materials for meals are sourced locally to promote sustainability and reduce our carbon footprint.

Our approach to tourism involves steering travelers away from popular tourist destinations and instead introducing them to lesser-known areas. By doing so, we promote tourism dispersal, which can help alleviate over-tourism.  Additionally, we educate travelers on responsible behavior in the destination, in order to raise awareness and promote sustainable tourism practices.

We offer a unique and authentic travel experience that connects travelers with the local community and culture. We prioritize meaningful engagement with locals and offer opportunities for travelers to stay overnight with them, providing an immersive experience and a deeper understanding of the local traditions and lifestyle. Besides, in the workshops we do, we engage local craftsmen and marginalized communities. 

We are committed to being mindful of local health and natural resources, ensuring that our trips are conducted sustainably and with minimal impact on the environment. We train and employ local guides only, and take great care to hire staff and contractors without any religious, racial, or gender bias, ensuring an inclusive and non-discriminatory work environment. 

Our experiences encourage interactions between guests and communities, while also educating both parties about each other's cultural aspects and promoting sensitivity. We offer small groups and private tours to ensure that we do not overwhelm the communities we visit and that each trip is conducted with respect and sustainability in mind.

This holiday goes beyond the typical tourist destinations and offers a deeper connection with the local community and culture.

Your days in India will support local businesses and the local community as a whole, not just a few businesses. With this trip, we provide local employment and fair wages as well as good and safe working conditions. 

Our travel company is committed to supporting local communities. One of the ways we achieve this is by training and employing local guides exclusively. This not only helps support the local economy but also ensures that guests have an authentic and insightful travel experience.

In addition, we engage local craftsmen and marginalized communities in workshops that we offer to our guests. This not only provides an opportunity for guests to learn new skills and crafts but also helps support local artisans and makes their traditional crafts visible.

We are proud to have a fair-wage policy that sets higher pay compared to the government guidelines. This ensures that our staff is well-compensated for their hard work and that they can support themselves and their families.

Our employment policy is also gender-neutral and based solely on a person's skill set. This ensures that all individuals, regardless of their gender, have an equal opportunity to be employed and contribute to the local community.

The workshops and conservation centers that we visit on our tours have an agreed payment policy with us, ensuring that everyone involved is fairly compensated for their work.

By purchasing goods directly from local artisans, you can be sure that any income generated goes directly to the grassroots community, helping support local businesses and families. We believe that supporting local communities in this way not only benefits them but also enriches the travel experience for our guests.

All the sustainable practices this trip implements have made it an award-winning one. 

Create memories to last a lifetime on this eco-friendly and family-friendly trip through Spain's major cities and nature areas!

[10 days] Family Trip through Spain's Cities & Nature | Yugen Earthside

Create memories to last a lifetime on this eco-friendly and family-friendly trip through Spain's major cities and nature areas! Combine the hustle and bustle of Madrid and Barcelona and balance out your experience with the serenity of the rural countryside and natural parks in between.

A thrilling journey awaits amongst Spain's cities and nature, offering a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors, experience cosmopolitan flair, immerse yourself in Spanish culture, and observe local wildlife.

Kayak and cycle through the Ebro Delta (all participants must be able to swim to do the kayaking activity)

As soon as you arrive in Madrid, the adventure begins with a guided rooftop tour at dusk to bask in the spectacular views of the metropolis. Experience the natural surroundings by walking along the Tajo River, taking a moment to rest in iconic green spaces, learning about biodiversity, and hiking through the hills in Benicassim.

Spanish food will be prominent as well: your palate will rejoice in an olive-tasting session and multiple picnics! This sustainable family trip will also have kids and adults alike delving into experiences unique to Spain. Learn local traditions through an art workshop where Gaudi-style mosaic or urban art techniques will be taught, visit ancient olive oil trees and do an olive oil tasting, and spend quality time in nature away from the big cities.
On your walking tour through the Las Palmas Desert, you will be struck by the stunning natural beauty of the place. Enjoy an ample stroll amid a landscape of rocky terrain and sandy plains with unique flora and fauna. The beauty of the desert will surely awaken all your senses.
Fun fact: The desert is a famous filming location for many Western Movies!

What ages is this trip suitable for?
If you are a family traveling with younger kids or teenagers, eager to discover a different side of Spain away from all-inclusive resorts, this trip is definitely for you. The itinerary can be adapted for your family based on the age(s) of your kid(s), so we will make sure that everyone can do each activity planned for you.

The best time for a family with young children to visit Barcelona would be in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November), as the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. During these seasons, the city is pleasant and easier to navigate, with many outdoor activities and parks to enjoy. This is also a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, visiting national parks, and enjoying festivals and events. Traveling during these shoulder seasons also helps curb over-tourism.

Summer (July and August) can be quite hot and crowded, making it challenging for families with young children to enjoy their time in the city. Winter (December to February) can also be chilly and damp, with limited outdoor activities available.

Meals and beverages not mentioned in the program

3 lunches: in Benicassim, Maestrazgo, & Barcelona

Guided Tours: rooftops tour, Toledo tour, city cycling tour, walking tour Las Palmas Desert,   tour millennial olive trees in Maestrazgo, city tour in Barcelona, tour “Green Barcelona”

Guided Cycling and kayak tour in the Delta of the river Ebro

We are a travel agency specializing in sustainable tourism and ecotourism in Spain. With almost ten years of experience, we offer authentic travel experiences in all regions of the country and activities of all kinds. Our goal is to design tailor-made travel itineraries that put on the spotlight our varied cultural and natural heritage, connecting travelers with local realities, but also with unknown destinations and with our carefully selected local hosts that work towards creating a better industry. We support and rely on small and local businesses, hire local guides, and support businesses in rural areas outside of big cities.

Environmental Initiatives
We use public transport (trains) except for transfers from and to airports. We ensure that during the visits to natural spaces, such as the one in Ebro Delta, animals are respected. Wild animals will not be fed and they will be observed from afar, respecting their habitats.


Sociocultural Initiatives
The travelers will meet and stay in contact with local residents and local producers. They will experience and understand which resources the local economy is based on.
Our commitment for this trip is to make families discover not only the culture of the cities, but above all experience the nature rural areas offer. We will bring you off the beaten paths, diving and getting in contact with local people, supporting their businesses and economy. We are committed to finding the best accommodations possible in each area, supporting small businesses and hotels that are implementing sustainable practices. Our accommodations are small and locally run and serve organic/local food.

Family Trip through Spain's Cities & Nature

This off-the-beaten-path adventure along Nepal's Khopra Ridge is a serene alternative to more popular treks. Stay at community lodges along the way.

[14 days] Nepal: Khopra Ridge Community Trek | Yugen Earthside

This off-the-beaten-path adventure along Nepal's Khopra Ridge is a serene alternative to more popular treks in the region. Rest and recover at community lodges and homestays along the way as you discover the hidden treasures of the Annapurna region.

Are you dreaming of an adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty with authentic cultural experiences? Wishes come true! Our sustainable trekking trip to Khopra Ridge and Khayar Lake is the perfect choice! This incredible journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to high alpine areas, where you'll witness panoramic mountain views and the vibrant colors of cascading rice fields. The hike to Khayar Lake, a hidden gem nestled in the Annapurna Sanctuary, is a true highlight - a glacial lake so beautiful, it will take your breath away.

The stunning scenery of this trip is combined with a deep immersion in the local culture. By staying at community lodges and homestays along the trail, you'll directly support local communities and gain a unique perspective on traditional life. 

Take a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu and see a UNESCO world heritage site

Visit Monkey Temple, the center of faith of Hinduism and Buddhism, and witness religious practices

Hike through different trails in the Annapurna region surrounded by mountains, rivers, and dense forests

Explore Ghandruk, a settlement of a local ethnic group, to gain an understanding of their traditional lifestyle

Spot endemic species such as mountain goats and the Danphe pheasant, Nepal's national bird

Enjoy free time in Pokhara by either exploring cultural attractions such as caves, museums, and pagodas or engaging in adventurous activities like paragliding or bungee jumping.

With moderate trails that are perfect for solo travelers or families with children, our sustainable trekking holiday is the ideal way to experience the beauty of nature while learning about authentic local culture. From the warm hospitality of the local people to the magnificent mountain views and serene natural surroundings, this adventure will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

So why wait? Book your journey today and join us on a sustainable trekking trip. Visit Khopra Ridge and Khayar Lake, a glacial holy lake that is nestled in a base in the Annapurna Sanctuary. Soak in unforgettable sceneries and cultural experiences while making a positive impact on the local communities you encounter along the way. 

The ideal season for this trek is autumn (September-November), as it offers pleasant weather conditions, moderate temperatures with clear skies, and enticing mountain vistas. In addition, trekkers would get opportunities to explore local people’s festivals and culture because these months are festive seasons when most Hindu festivals in Nepal celebrate grand festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

Spring in Nepal is another great season for trekking and climbing. Extended through the months of March to May, this period offers a diverse range of wildflowers blossoming that create a real paradise. The weather is mildly warm at lower altitudes and there are quite moderate temperatures at higher elevations over 4000 meters. However, trails tend to be much more crowded than in autumn. 

Any meals not mentioned as covered above and in the itinerary

Visa fee: US $30 for 15 days, US $50 for 30 days, and US $125 for a 90-day, multiple-entry visa

Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Excess baggage beyond 20 kilos including day pack

3 nights hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast 

9 nights at Comfort Lodge throughout the trek on full board

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek

Domestic flight from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu

TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems. For safety, all trekkers in Nepal must acquire the TIMS Card before trekking and this is in the inclusions.)

Our company is Travelife certified, and we are committed to minimizing our negative impact on the environment and society. To achieve this, we work with our business partners such as accommodation providers and excursion providers to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices. We also create awareness among our guests and staff about the importance of sustainability. We believe that by promoting sustainable tourism, we can contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural resources for future generations.

We have taken various measures to reduce our carbon footprint. For example, we encourage guests to bring reusable water bottles and water filter tablets to reduce plastic waste. Our guides also collect trash along the trail and dispose of it in designated areas. During the trip, we avoid plastic-related items as much as possible, and we use cloth bags instead. Additionally, the trip is centered around trekking, which is a low-carbon impact activity. Our accommodations, including hotels and mountain lodges, are environmentally friendly, and most electricity and heating are generated by solar power and village electricity schemes. 

Lastly, our office is an example of our economic practices, where we prioritize the use of sustainable products. We use biodegradable hand soap and cleaning powder, which are handmade and hand-packed by women from poor, remote communities. The office is solar-powered, and we use energy-efficient lights and water-efficient toilets. By incorporating sustainable practices in all aspects of our operations, we aim to promote responsible tourism that benefits both the environment and society.

We support the local community in various ways. The mountain lodges we use are made by locals with local materials, and they employ locals as staff. These lodges serve organic meals prepared from local produce and ingredients, catering to guests' dietary requirements such as vegetarian and vegan. The trip also includes hiking through villages, providing guests with an opportunity to interact with locals and witness their traditions and way of life.

Ecuador is a mesmerizing country rich in nature, culture, & diversity. Discover Quito, myriad indigenous markets, snow-capped volcanoes, hot springs, & more!

[7 days] Ecuador Nature & Culture Tour | Yugen Earthside

Ecuador is a mesmerizing country rich in nature, culture, and diversity. Discover Quito, myriad indigenous markets, snow-capped volcanoes, hot springs, and more!

This nature and culture tour of mainland Ecuador immerses you in five different paradises located north and east of the mountainous Andean region. From walking the cobblestone streets of colonial Quito (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and visiting Latitude Zero at the Equator, to hiking in the intriguing cloud forest, to relaxing in hot springs in the paramo highlands, we will just begin to scratch the surface of the gems 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.

Endless adventures await on this 7-day, privately-guided tour!

Learn about colonial Quito on a city tour visiting iconic churches and plazas

Hike in the lush, evergreen cloud forest at 10,500ft above sea level

Visit the most traditional artisan markets in South America in Otavalo and nearby towns

Relax at the hot springs while enjoying an outstanding view of the highlands

Visit Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on Earth!

Savour the delicious cuisine in every destination

During this adventure, you will experience Ecuador's vibrant and colorful culture as well as its diverse natural landscapes.

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 highlands, an ecosystem unique to regions 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!

Ecuador enjoys spring-like weather all year round. Most days we enjoy sunny mornings and cooler afternoons with temperatures around 55°F-64°F (12°C-18°C). 

June to November: The dry season is generally the best time to visit Ecuador's cloud forest, with June to September being the dryest time in this Andean region. Days will be mostly sunny and warm with less chance of rain, making it ideal 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. The cloud forest can experience rain even in the dry season, so still prepare for the possibility of wet weather if you travel during this season.

December to May: The wet season is when you can see the cloud forest in its most lush and green state, and when its stunning waterfalls will be at their fullest. April is typically particularly rainy. Note: The wet season can bring heavy rainfall and mudslides, which may make some trails and roads inaccessible.

6 nights' accommodation: 1 in Quito, 2 in Nono, 1 in Otavalo, 2 in the Tababela area

Entrance fees, except while visiting Colonial Quito

Our Outlook on Culture and Equality
How can the world be united if we do not understand that diversity makes us equal? The dreams of Ecuadorians are pretty much related to your own dreams.

We take you on a trip to discover the soul of our people and their living history; the richness of our culture and our regions, while supporting those who weave a dream for a better future for their families. Join us on this trip and go back home with a richer soul.

Staff
We hire guides and drivers who do an excellent job for our clients and who only rely on tourism as the major source of their income. At Villa Doris we hire a housekeeper who receives a fair salary according to the law of Ecuador.
We visit small enterprises to make sure that, through our visits, we contribute to their development and economic growth.

Cultural Heritage
Travelers will meet the makers of local products at Otavalo, Peguche, and Cotacachi in the north, and the embroiderers of Nono while visiting the cloud forest.
They will learn for instance how they obtain the colors for their textiles and how the whole family depends on the income produced by the workshop.
The women of Sisa Quinde receive our support, guidance, sales force, and logistic aid for them to embroider and sell their creations.

Accommodation
In Ecuador, eco-friendly practices are new to the industry. However, the accommodations chosen for this program are Ecuadorian-owned and we have seen these properties working hard to grow and to be very good referents to the industry. In this specific program, we are using only one-night stays in order for the clients to see as much of Ecuador as possible in a short amount of time.

Most accommodations are implementing eco-friendly practices such as changing our toilets to install water flow reducers and buying organic and local products to support small businesses and families in our neighborhoods. We are using bio-degradable cleaning products and offering bio-degradable toiletries for our guests.

Environmental practices
We carry tote bags and reusable plastic bottles for water. We bring all garbage back to the city to be taken to a recycling program.
We visit the reserves of Yanacocha and Zuro Loma which were created to protect the mammals and birds of the cloud forest.


Please be sure you have traveler's insurance.

We have been certified with the Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel & Trade Council and we follow all regulations instructed by the Ministry of Tourism in our country.

On this unforgettable land-based tour of the Galapagos Islands, experience some of the most enchanting wildlife & amazing natural wonders on Earth!

[7 days] Galapagos Islands Land-Based Tour | Yugen Earthside

On this unforgettable land-based tour of the Galapagos Islands, experience some of the most enchanting wildlife and amazing natural wonders on Earth!

Explore the islands in their entirety through a number of guided tours and activities. This sustainable package tour of the Galapagos Islands will help you enjoy (almost) everything that these enchanted islands have to offer and show you first-hand the importance of protecting our planet’s fragile ecosystems.

Stay in hotels - as opposed to on a cruise ship or a small yacht - and island-hop by boat during the days to explore the wondrous diversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting on Santa Cruz Island, you will have excursions to the famous Charles Darwin Research Station and the tortoise breeding center. On Isabela Island, the wetlands and volcanoes will be waiting for you. You will also visit two of the following islands: Bartholome, North Seymour, Santa Fe, or South Plaza; each one has unique and endemic wildlife.

For children and adults curious about nature, animals, and science, this ecotourism experience in the Galapagos is the perfect option. Enjoy navigating the islands in a stress-free manner thanks to our carefully crafted itinerary and guides, so you can focus on being with your family, snorkeling, taking pictures to last a lifetime, and being present for every moment of this experience!

Discover the islands via speedboat, a ferry boat, and a yacht

Soak in stunning views, unique landscapes, and white-sand beaches

Spend 7 days in the remarkable land of giant tortoises

Admire friendly wildlife from respectful distances

Learn about the complexity of the natural world from expert, English-speaking guides

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