Northern Ecuador Add-On

Discover the Best of Northern Ecuador

From ecological wonders to incredible and colourful markets, this 5-day tour is jam-packed with the remarkable gems and sites of Northern Ecuador. Explore the very best of the Ecuadoran Andes region, going into the heart of the highlands and meeting and interacting with several indigenous communities on the way. 

Beginning in Quito, you will hike through ancient forests and visit one of the most famous South American markets before reaching the mesmerising El Angel Ecological Reserve right on Ecuador’s northern border. 

Highlights

• Spend the night in Quito, Ecuador’s capital and the first city to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Visit one of the largest indigenous markets in Latin America – Otavalo
• Explore the remote wilderness of El Angel Ecological Reserve
• Share life experiences of a rural and indigenous community 

Quick Itinerary

Day 1 - Quito
Day 2 - Otavalo
Day 3 - El Angel Ecological Reserve
Day 4 - Otavalo
Day 5 - Transfer to the airport for your onward flight

Truly Individual Holiday

Any element of this holiday can be made truly individual to your requirements, including the places you want to see and the things that are important to you. Just contact one of our Travel Specialists today.

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Day 1 - Quito

On arrival in Ecuador, you’ll be transferred to your hotel La Palma Polo located outside of the city, which is ideal for heading off to the north of the country. Your time here is free for you to relax and explore the hotel grounds. 

Day 2 - Otavalo

Today explore the charming town of Otavalo staying at the Hotel Otavalo. The market here is wonderful and well worth spending the morning strolling through the maze of colourful stalls and interacting with the locals.

You will also visit the ‘middle of the world’, visiting the monument, which was incorrectly built 250m from the equator, and the sundial. You will also visit Cuicocha Lake, a stunning three km wide crater lake at the foot of the Cotachi Volcano. 

Days 3 - El Angel Ecological Reserve

Continue your adventure of Northern Ecuador by heading to the centre of the Ecuador highlands - El Angel Ecological Reserve, on the border of Colombia. 

After checking into Polylepis Lodge, spend the day exploring the millenary forest, and hiking into the woods and surrounding highlands whilst learning about the flora and fauna. Weather permitting, you will also be able to take in views of Chiles Volcano and the Andes descending down into the coastal region. You will also enjoy a night walk into the forest where you will hear about the local ancient legends. 

Alternatively, you could visit Mashpi Rainforest Reserve in your Northern Ecuador explorations. Speak to your Travel Specialist about rerouting the itinerary to include Mashpi instead of El Angel Ecological Reserve. 

Days 4 - Otavalo

On your way back to Otavalo, you will spend the day with a rural indigenous community. You will have the opportunity to help them feed and care for their alpacas as well as get to know them better over lunch, which will be hosted by one of the families. 

In the afternoon you will take part in a workshop of the Pacha Calera women association, where they make jewellery which they then sell to help fund their projects and goals.  

Day 5 - Transfer to Quito for your onward flight

Transfer back to Quito and connect with your onward flight.

Price from £1,299 per person

(2024 departures, based on 2 people sharing a room)

Includes:

• International flights

• 4 nights’ accommodation 

• Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner

• Full-day tour of Otavalo and surrounding towns

• Activities in the El Angel Ecological Reserve

• A day with a local indigenous community

• Transfers as per itinerary

Excludes:

• Meals not indicated in your itinerary

• Local departure taxes payable locally

• Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc

• Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary)

• Camera or video fees at any sites