Responsible Traveler Tour 8D

Welcome to Ecuador! Pick up at Quito Airport and transfer to your hotel followed by free time to settle-in and acclimatize to your new surroundings.

Early morning transfer south down the Andes to the peaceful village of Guamote. Upon arrival there is time for an introduction to the community project, visit to the local school and lunch. In the afternoon your volunteer guide will accompany you to the slopes of the nearby Chimborazo Volcano for a short trek and views of sunset over the Andes. Dinner and overnight at Inti Sisa Hostal.

On Thursdays you can spend the morning visiting the local Guamote market - renowned as one of the most colourful and traditional in Ecuador today. On other weekdays it is possible to spend more time learning about the various projects within the local community. Afternoon transfer to the small village of Chugchilan - some stunning mountain views and a hearty organic meal await for you arrival. 

Today we get you fully immersed in local village life. Pre-arranged transport will take you to the 98% indigenous village of Malingua Pamba where you will visit the local school to spend some time with the kids, they love to learn some words in English! Afterwards you will visit a local family in their home and learn about their customs, traditions and life high up in the Andes. All proceeds from this daytrip go to the local school, the family and your driver; it is also possible for you to directly donate a food package, used clothes or school utensils if you wish. In the evening the hostal sauna will be heated up and available for your use. NOTE - THESE VISITS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE MON-FRI, NOT WEEKENDS. THE VOLUNTEER IS NOT A FORMAL GUIDE BUT CAN HELP YOU WITH THE VISITS.

Quilotoa is a real highlight of your tour that will literally take your breath away! An emerald green Laguna inside the crater of an extinct volcano with steep jagged cliffs and views straight down the entire valley of volcanoes (on a clear day), as well as amazing landscapes along the drive through what is sometimes referred as the Grand Canyon of Ecuador. The trek into the crater to the lake shore is very popular. There is a possibility for an optional mule ride out (approx. 10$) for those with tired limbs. At the shore you can also rent a kayak to explore the lake and fumaroles. The village of Quilotoa is also an interesting crafts center.

Transfer north out of Quito to the Santa Lucia Reserve where you will be met by a native guide to start your trek up to the lodge (approx 1 and 1/2 hours, backpacks can optionally be carried up by mule) through the luscious natural environment of the cloudforest. Upon arrival to the lodge you will receive a warm welcome and an introduction to the activities you will be able to enjoy the following day. Optional night-time walk to listen to the nocturnal sounds of the forest.
 

An early breakfast to start the day followed by gentle trekking opportunities and a chance to learn about sustainable agroforestry in the area and visit the tree nursery and reforestation project. In the afternoon there is time to visit a handicraft workshop run by women of the local community at Marianita. Return to Quito, overnight at Patio Andaluz.
 

Transfer Out

You will be picked up at your hotel for a transfer to the airport in time for your international flight out.