MINDO CLOUD FOREST & MIDDLE OF THE WORLD COMPLEX

Day 1: Quito – Otavalo – Peguche – Magdalena Community

AM:

Departing Quito, you will travel through the picturesque valleys of Guayllabamba and Cayambe, making scenic photo stops along the Andean landscape. You will then arrive at the renowned Otavalo craft market, where you can immerse yourself in Ecuador’s vibrant culture and shop for handcrafted goods like woven textiles, bags, and hats.

PM:

Head to Peguche, a small village known for its traditional looms and handcrafted wind instruments, where you can observe the local artisans at work.

Continue through the beautiful Andean setting to reach the Karanki Magdalena Community, surrounded by patchwork fields at the foothills of Imbabura Volcano.

Learn about the community’s agricultural traditions, including potato, quinoa, and corn farming. Enjoy a traditional Andean dinner prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Day 2: Magdalena Community – Ibarra – Quito

AM:

Start the day with a hearty breakfast in the Karanki-Magdalena Community, where you’ll continue to experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Before departing, discover more about their daily activities, such as farming and embroidery.

PM:

For a panoramic view of the region, head to Ibarra, “La Ciudad Blanca” (The White City).

Treat yourself to a refreshing, local sherbet – helado de paila – a typical dessert made using a traditional method. Journey back to Quito with stunning views of the Andean highlands.

Day 3: Pululahua – Mindo – Middle of the World Complex – Quito

AM:

Begin the day at Pululahua Crater Viewpoint, where you can admire the beauty of one of only a few inhabited volcanic craters worldwide. Explore El Pahuma Reserve in the cloud forest, filled with unique birds, butterflies, and orchids.

Continue to Mindo Cloud Forest, where you’ll hike through lush forests and witness a variety of hummingbirds and waterfalls.

PM:

Visit the Middle of the World Complex and the Equator Monument, located at 0º0’0” latitude. Learn about the 18th-century French Geodesic Expedition and explore the replica of Spanish colonial architecture.

After a day full of adventures, return to Quito in the late afternoon or evening.