Ecuador: Your Next Great South American Adventure
Ecuador, a country known primarily for The Galapagos, has so much more to show off: the Andes, the Amazon, indigenous cultures, cuisine and traditions, rapids and waterfalls, and an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Quito, in particular, is notable for being the most well-preserved Spanish city in the world.
Arrival in Quito
Traveling with the expertise of a local expert like María Augusta Ávila Maldonado changed the way Senior Video Producer Matt Paco thought about travel in Ecuador. Located in Quito’s Old Town, Casa Gangotena offers an ideal combination of affordability, elegance, and accessibility to famous sites. This beautiful property showcases neoclassical architecture and art-deco furnishings, along with a rooftop terrace that provides 270-degree views of the city and its surrounding volcanoes.
Day 1: Churches, squares and salsa
El Panecillo, the hill to the south of the Old Town, features a 135 ft-tall aluminum mosaic statue of La Virgen de Quito, offering breathtaking views of the city and its volcanic surroundings. For a taste of Ecuadorian cuisine, head to Somos, a restaurant founded by Quito native Alejandra Espinoza, where you can indulge in innovative Ecuadorian dishes amidst vibrant murals.
Experience the lively nightlife of Quito at Salsoteca Lavoe, where music and dancing create an energetic atmosphere. During the evening, watch the enchanting performance of Ballet Folklórico Nacional Jacchigua in San Francisco Square, framed by the stunning backdrop of Volcán Pichincha and the historic architecture of Ecuador’s oldest church.
Day 2: Middle of the world (and spirits)
The ornate Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús is a baroque gem where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Quito from the rooftop. A visit to Mitad del Mundo allows travelers to take selfies with one foot in each hemisphere, although the true equator is found slightly north of the designated line.
For a taste of local spirits, visit Casa Agave, where Miske—an Ecuadorian spirit reminiscent of tequila or mezcal—is produced from Agave nectar.
Day 3: The Andes adventure
This day is dedicated to engaging with nature and indigenous cultures. Just a 90-minute drive outside Quito, Hacienda El Porvenir serves as a home base for exploring Cotopaxi National Park. This stunning destination is steeped in sustainability and surrounded by picturesque volcanoes, providing an excellent launchpad for outdoor activities.
While filming in Cotopaxi, the crew encountered the Chagras, Ecuadorian cowboys known for their horsemanship, and explored the breathtaking Condor Machay waterfall.
Day 4: Ranching, roping and birding
The day started with interviews discussing sustainability and responsible tourism at Tierra del Volcán. The crew spent time learning roping techniques from the ranch staff, milking cows, and interacting with horses and llamas.
Afterwards, they journeyed to Cabañas San Isidro, a nature reserve renowned for bird-watching. Co-owner Mitch Lysinger, a recognized birder, provides an unparalleled experience amidst this first-class habitat.
Day 5: Tena and beyond
Morning activities included birdwatching and filming interviews at Tena. Following this, the crew headed south to experience thrilling rafting on the upper Río Napo. This adventure offers an exhilarating 25km stretch of Class III+ rapids, appealing to adventurers of all skill levels.
A visit to Comunidad Shiripuno showcases traditional Kichwa cultural practices, offering insights into local arts, including dance and chocolate-making. The experience is heartfelt, as visitors connect with the local community in meaningful ways.
Conclusion
As Matt reflects on the journey, he notes, “Ecuador is all about the unexpected. I can’t wait to go back.” From its breathtaking landscapes to its vibrant culture, Ecuador provides a truly enriching travel experience.
Sponsored by Ecuador
This story was crafted collaboratively with input from Ecuador to share the diverse experiences the country offers.
