Mindo Cloud Forest, Quito & Cotopaxi

Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to Mashpi Lodge. The drive takes you along the western flank of the Andes, passing the “Middle of the World” monument which marks the equatorial line. Then continue westwards, downhill, following the course of the Rio Blanco, watching as the vegetation changes with every significant drop in altitude. Before arriving at the lodge, we navigate winding country roads past the archaeological site of Tulipe and various farming communities.

After settling into our rooms, we will meet our naturalist guides who will provide a briefing on the unique characteristics of the cloud forest and the history of the Mashpi project.

In the afternoon, we begin our discovery of the forest along the Napa Path. This trail traverses a variety of habitats, including regenerating secondary growth and large patches of pristine primary forest. It is a path of great scenic beauty and offers an excellent opportunity to spot the Pambil (Iriartea deltoidea), a towering palm with wood comparable in strength to steel.

Meals (D)

Today offers a full immersion into the biodiversity of the Choco ecosystem. We begin at dawn, when bird activity is at its peak. With the forest coming alive around us, our naturalist guides will help us spot some of the 400 species recorded in the reserve, including the vibrant and majestic Andean Cock-of-the-rock.

In the afternoon, we shift our perspective by embarking on the “Dragonfly” canopy gondola. This open-air cable system glides silently through the treetops, offering a unique opportunity to observe the complex canopy life and the sheer density of the forest from above.

For our final night at Mashpi, we will gather for a special farewell dinner at the lodge to celebrate the discoveries of our journey.

Meals (B, L, D)

As the sun rises over the lush canopy of the Mindo cloud forest, your third day at Mashpi Lodge begins with the melodious calls of exotic birds. This final day in the embrace of nature offers a chance for more discoveries; you will set off on early morning guided walks to spot rare flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of the ecosystem. Following a hearty breakfast, prepare to say goodbye to the wilderness as you check out from the lodge.

Following our final exploration of the forest, we begin the return transfer to Quito. A complimentary box lunch is provided to enjoy during the scenic drive back to the city.

Meals (B, BL)

The perfect place to start exploring Ecuador is Colonial Quito, a city of narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed walls and the rising steeples of spectacularly decorated historic churches. Boasting one of the best-preserved colonial centers in South America, the city’s architectural integrity was recognized in 1978 when UNESCO declared Quito its first World Cultural Heritage site.

The morning is dedicated to exploring this historic center. You will walk through the Main Plaza to view the Government Palace and the intricate interiors of La Compañía, along with other significant religious sites such as the neo-Gothic Basílica del Voto Nacional.

To engage the senses, embark on an exclusive journey through 5,000 years of cacao culture, culminating in a tasting of the world’s finest chocolate.

Continuing with the journey, travel north to the “Middle of the World.” Here, we visit the Monument to the Equator to learn about the historic geodesic mission, followed by a stop at the Intiñan Museum for interactive experiments and demonstrations right on the equatorial line.

Meals (B, L)

The journey takes you to Cotopaxi National Park. Weather permitting, the drive offers breathtaking views of the snowcapped summits of both the Cotopaxi and Antisana volcanoes.

You begin at the Interpretation Center to learn about the history of the volcano’s major eruptions, as well as the unique flora and fauna of the high Andes. Afterwards, head to Lake Limpiopungo to explore the surrounding trails on foot.

To complete the experience, enjoy a luxury picnic lunch served right in the heart of the National Park.

Meals (B, L)

At the appropriate time based on your flight schedule, your private, English-speaking driver will meet you to provide a transfer to Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport.

Meals (B)