DAY 1

Following breakfast at your hotel in Quito, you meet your guides and travel companions for the week. Located in a high Andean valley at 9,350 feet, Quito is surrounded by 16,000-foot volcanoes. Quito was the northern capital of the Incan empire, and now, a fascinating blend of ancient and modern—it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its Spanish colonial architecture.

After a brief orientation meeting, you board your private coach to drive north to the small village of Pesillo, your lunch spot, and the starting point of the Hacienda Trail, the route linking eight historic haciendas. Today’s section is a moderate four- to five-hour walk through high Andean grasslands at an elevation of about 9,800 feet. The final destination is the Hacienda Zuleta, your home for two nights. Situated in a wide fertile valley in the Andes, the hacienda is a 4,000-acre diversified working farm with organic vegetable and grain cultivation, a dairy and cheese-making operation, horse stables, tree nursery, and trout hatchery. The adobe hacienda is steeped in history, originally built in 1691, and furnished in Spanish colonial style; it is now owned and operated by the family of a former president of Ecuador. Upon settling into your comfortable room warmed by an individual fireplace and decorated with antiques, you may wish to explore the extensive grounds, gardens, and stables.

In addition to producing agricultural products, the hacienda’s owners are also committed to preserving the natural and human culture of this corner of Ecuador, with a condor rehabilitation project and embroidery workshop. The condor project is dedicated to increasing the population of the endangered Andean condor, while the embroidery project preserves the local art and tradition of hand embroidery.

You are soon ready to make your way to the hacienda’s dining room where you feast on farm-fresh bounty presented in flavorful Ecuadorian style. The menu may include a traditional Ecuadorian potato soup with avocados and queso fresco (a soft cheese), followed by trout grilled with flavorful herbs.
Hacienda Zuleta, Zuleta

DAY 2

You awake overlooking the hacienda’s garden to a breakfast table laden with home-baked goods from the kitchen and milk fresh from the dairy. Enjoy farm-fresh eggs to order or French toast with seasonal fruit. On the agenda is a full day of walking departing from the hacienda to the summit of Cubilche, a young volcano at an elevation of 12,585 feet. The walking time to the top is about three to four hours, where you are rewarded with stunning views of the nearby Cayambe Volcano and surrounding valleys. The highest elevation of the walk is 10,700 feet. The Cubilche Volcano has three craters, one of which forms a small lake. A picnic lunch is unpacked overlooking the lush green mixed forest and fields of the high Andean valleys. Refueled and rested, you return to the hacienda with time to relax before gathering this evening.

An alternative walk today leads you along the valley floor to the Hacienda’s Condor Project. Along your walk you will pass some of the 130 Caranqui Mounds which can be found on the property. The Caranqui people were an agrarian-based culture and the original inhabitants of Zuleta from 800 AD until the arrival of the Incas in the late 1400s. Structures including temples and food storage sheds were constructed on top of the earth mounds to protect the buildings from the humidity of the ground. You may also choose to spend your day on horseback. Famous for their horses and riding program, the Hacienda Zuleta offers the unique opportunity to experience a Zuleteño horse. This blend of Spanish-Andalusian, Thoroughbred, and Quarter Horse combines to create a gentle and noble horse–ideal for riders of all abilities.

Dinner this evening may feature artichoke soup and a chicken-and-rice casserole created from a special family recipe. To finish off the evening you may enjoy a coffee with passionfruit pie.
Hacienda Zuleta, Zuleta

DAY 3

Soon after breakfast, you depart Zuleta for the next hacienda on the itinerary, the Hacienda Cusin. The route traverses the undulating pastoral Zuleta Valley to arrive at San Pablo Lake, following country lanes lined with eucalyptus trees and bordered by fields of potato, corn, alfalfa, and wheat, where local farmers might be working with a traditional oxen-pulled plow. A picnic lunch is spread out in a picturesque spot overlooking the Imbabura Volcano. Following lunch, the trail leads you to the small village of Angla and a stop en route at the primary school. Country Walkers has joined our local partners in Ecuador to support this school. With the belief that education is inherent to improving life in communities like Angla, a commitment has been made to this school of 100 children to improve the infrastructure and academics. Your visit will be interactive and will provide a glimpse into the rural life of school children in Ecuador. This stop marks the halfway point to your final destination for the day and a ride is offered if you are interested, allowing a more leisurely afternoon at your next hacienda.

If you choose to continue on, by late afternoon you arrive at the Hacienda Cusin, another gracious historic property located at 8,500 feet and surrounded by seven acres of manicured gardens adorned with fountains. This restored 17th-century estate lies in a broad valley in the shadow of 15,000-foot Imbabura Mountain and the Cotacachi Volcano. Your spacious room, with its antiques, traditional fabrics, and individual fireplace is a comfortable haven after the long walk. Before dinner there is time to stroll the hacienda’s magnificent gardens; where, thanks to its volcanic soils and avid gardeners, you will find a riot of flowers blooming at different times depending on the season—bougainvillea, foxglove, calla lilies, and jasmine among others are a fragrant backdrop to dozens of bird species. For dinner, the hacienda’s chefs create dishes using fresh vegetables from its gardens, meat from nearby farms, or fresh fish brought in from the Pacific; a homemade blueberry pie completes the meal.
Hacienda Cusin, San Pablo del Lago

DAY 4

Awakening to a breakfast including freshly squeezed juice, baked goods, and preserves, you depart Cusin and set out on the hacienda trail for your next destination. Today’s route goes through the foothills of Imbabura Mountain, which is actually an active volcano known as Imbabura Urcu, and you are accompanied throughout by views of San Pablo Lake and valley as well as Fuya Fuya Mountain and extinct Cotacachi. A gradual ascent through cultivated fields of corn, wheat, and potatoes, also traverses acres of lupines (in bloom depending on the season). After several miles of steady walking and a break for a picnic lunch, a sustained descent from the plateau goes through the small villages of Agato and Peguche, eventually reaching your destination, the Hacienda Pinsaquí. Alternatively, you may opt to embark on the coach following lunch for the transfer down to the hotel to allow yourself more time to relax and enjoy the accommodations.

Originally constructed in 1790, this lovingly-restored colonial home once hosted General Simón Bolívar, who spent nights here on his way back and forth to Bogotá. In fact, an important treaty between Colombia and Ecuador was signed under its roof. In addition, the Hacienda Pinsaquí was the site of a textile workshop, employing nearly one thousand local weavers and spinners, producing the region’s famous textiles and weavings, destined for the Otavalo market and beyond. Located north of Otavalo, the hacienda boasts spectacular views of the Imbabura Volcano, 200-year old gardens, stables, a historic chapel, a grand fireplace in the library, and beautifully restored rooms. After exploring the grounds and sinking into your room, you proceed to dinner in the elegant dining room.
Hacienda Pinsaquí, Otavalo

DAY 5

A full day of walking lies ahead. You immerse yourself in Ecuador’s natural habitats and culture. After breakfast, you drive to nearby Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve for a four-hour walk at Laguna de Cuicocha, a collapsed volcanic crater, now a deep, steep-sided lake, situated at 10,200 feet on the lower southern flanks of Cotacachi Volcano. The reserve is part of a system of protected lands from the spine of the Sierra mountain range to the western edge of the coastal rainforest, encompassing many of the Ecuadorian ecosystems including high Andean and tropical forest. You follow a narrow path along the rim of the crater, which offers marvelous views of the striking blue lake, with the snowy peaks of Cayambe, Imbabura, and Cotopaxi in the distance. Among the many flowers growing by the path are several species of orchids, passionflowers, and Puya, a native plant with bright green flowers. Giant hummingbirds visit the wild lupines, and condors can often be seen flying above. At the walk’s conclusion, a stop is made at the picturesque colonial town of Cotacachi—the leather capital of Ecuador—where there is time to browse its streets and shops.

En route to the hacienda, the next stop is Otavalo and its traditional Andean market, where indigenous people come from the surrounding communities to barter or sell their handicrafts and products. Colorful collections of weavings, pottery, paintings, woolen goods, fruit, vegetables, and beans are laid out in hundreds of stalls. In addition to being skilled textile weavers, Otavaleños are also renowned for their musical talents and instruments, each uniquely crafted in a way that is characteristic of the region.

A festive dinner this evening is accompanied by tales of the hacienda trail and toasts to the journey thus far.
Hacienda Pinsaquí, Otavalo

DAY 6

The day’s final destination is Quito; however, the walk en route takes place on the flanks of Cushnirumi Volcano, located on the slope of the larger Mojanda Volcano, where you spend the day in the cloudforest ecosystem. Low-level clouds rise from the coast, where, when encountering the high-altitude forest, they bring mist to enrich a rare evergreen mountain forest, unique to tropical areas nourished by the constant moisture. Incredibly rich in biodiversity, the forest is particularly known for its hummingbird population, among which is the highly endangered black-breasted puffleg flitting among ferns, orchids, and seemingly sky-high trees. The walk transitions from cultivated fields of corn and beans into the cloudforest. After reaching the highest point at 10,400 feet, you are welcomed to an authentic picnic lunch prepared with care. Following lunch you board the coach and follow a road that winds down to the Pataqui Valley, where the locals have been growing tree tomatoes, avocado, and corn for generations, and concludes at the “wild-west” town of San Jose de Minas.

The drive continues three hours south to Quito, where you check into a beautifully restored boutique hotel in the heart of Quito’s historic central district. Well situated for walking, there might be time to visit its churches, monasteries, and shops, or simply relax before dinner.
Hotel Patio Andaluz, Quito

DAY 7

After breakfast in your Quito hotel, you drive approximately 6 miles west to Pichincha Volcano—overlooking the city and the “Avenue of the Volcanoes.” Pichincha is made up of two cones, Guagua and Rucu Pichincha, at 15,670 feet and 15,180 feet, respectively. Guagua, meaning “baby” in the Quechua language, is higher than its neighbor and currently active; it covered the Ecuadorian capital with ash in 1999. Rucu, meaning “old,” is slightly lower and closer to Quito and is inactive. This morning you climb aboard the teleferico (aerial tramway) for the eight-minute ride up the flanks of Rucu Pichincha. From the tramway terminus, a two-hour walk leads from Cruz Loma through Andean Paramo and offers panoramic views of the city and fertile valleys below. Descending by tramway, you proceed to colonial Quito for lunch.

The afternoon is devoted to exploring the city of Quito on foot—visiting its historic center packed with colonial cathedrals and monasteries, and delving into its rich history with your local guide. The first stop is the main square, Plaza de la Independencia, ringed by the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral. Next, you move on to the “Street of the Seven Crosses,” appropriately named for the seven colonial churches, including the church of La Compañía de Jesús built by the Jesuits as a replica of a church in Rome. Continuing on foot to the Plaza San Francisco, which in pre-Inca days was the main tianguez (market) in the Americas, you find a church and monastery dedicated to San Francisco, the latter being the largest colonial building on the American continents. Concluding the group exploration of the center, you have time this afternoon to linger in museums or browse in boutiques and galleries before returning to your hotel.

Tonight’s farewell dinner is in one of Quito’s finest restaurants in an historic 19th-century setting. Over creative cuisine, you toast a week of walking in some of South America’s most diverse and magnificent scenery.
Hotel Patio Andaluz, Quito

DAY 8

Following breakfast at your hotel in Quito, you meet your Galápagos guide and transfer to the airport for the 2-hour flight to the island of Baltra. Upon arrival on Baltra, you transfer to the Itabaca Canal, just 5 minutes away, where Favian, a former fisherman, takes you on a short exploration on his boat. Select fishermen have signed an agreement with local authorities to have exclusive touring rights over a specific Galápagos zone. He takes you on a unique visit through an extraordinary site that few people have the opportunity to see, and from where you are able to appreciate the beautiful landscapes and the incredible marine life of the Galápagos. Bienvenido!

The boat trip provides your first encounter with the famous Galápagos sea lions, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. After the short trip, you transfer to the Galápagos Safari Camp, a 135-acre farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island bordering the national park, just 30 minutes from the ocean. The farm is home to a variety of birds including finches, warblers, mockingbirds, Galápagos doves, egrets, and owls. Tortoises also make frequent visits. The farm also has many local species of trees, such as the Scalesia, the Guayabillo, and the Palo Santo, which are rapidly regaining a foothold after years of cattle farming. Upon arrival there is time to take a walk and stretch your legs.

The camp has nine luxury safari tents perched on a hill, providing comfort and privacy in the wilderness. All tents have a balcony with views of the park and the ocean—they are spacious, attractively decorated, and each with a fully equipped private bathroom. In addition to an infinity pool, there is a beautiful fireplace in the main room where you can gather to have a drink while watching the sunset. The camp’s well-known chef prepares creative dishes in the panoramic dining room for dinner.
Galápagos Safari Camp, Santa Cruz

DAY 9

After 40 minutes and 8 nautical miles of navigation northwest from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, you land at a sandy beach. After a short walk you observe Galápagos sea lions lounging and unique marine iguanas basking in the sun, sometimes resting on lava rocks and the succulent Sesubium plant, which is commonly known as carpet weed. The endemic Darwin’s finches and yellow warbler subspecies fly among candelabra and prickly pear opuntia cacti searching for food and nesting sites. Frigate birds perch on mangrove trees or circle the sky for fish. The blue-footed boobies hunt by diving into the water. Here, different species of mangroves such as red, black, and white mangrove grow among the lava fields, supplying nutrients to the water, thereby attracting the colorful tropical fish you see while snorkeling. Looking out from the inlet, you see a series of channels where clusters of lava rocks form small reefs. Snorkeling among the rocks, you swim among multicolored king angel fish, barberfish, schools of striped salema fish, damselfish with their unique mixture of yellow lips and blue eyes, surgeonfish, and gnarled sea cucumbers. The ocean is approximately 30 feet deep here and in many places there is a sandy bottom, where long-tailed stingrays of different sizes hover, and Pacific green sea turtles rest or gracefully forage. Leatherback sea turtles occasionally appear during their migration.

Heading away from Bahia Ballena, you can make out the small island of Santa Fe in the distance. This afternoon takes you to Tortuga Bay—a beautiful, very fine white-sand beach, with spectacular sunsets.
Galápagos Safari Camp, Santa Cruz

DAY 10

Following breakfast you transfer by speedboat to the Island of Isabela. The largest island of the archipelago, seahorse-shaped Isabela is 80 miles long and remarkably beautiful; a well-kept secret, it is one of the least visited of the Galápagos Islands and a perfect base for your adventures.

Upon arrival you check into your home for the next two nights, Iguana Crossing, a comfortable inn with minimalist design and superior service, situated along a stretch of white sand beach in Puerto Villamil. The timeless fishing village of Villamil still boasts sandy streets where locals and visitors alike walk barefoot. With a population of only 2,000 people life here is quiet, and within moments of arrival you cannot help but take a deep breath and slip into the relaxed way of life. For today’s first activity, you board a panga (small boat) and ply the Pacific waters to visit the small island of Tintoreras, a unique volcanic formation. On its western face a primitive species of lichen flourishes in the moisture brought by the prevailing wind. Here you see young marine iguanas, the world’s only sea-going lizard, view a small colony of sea lions, and you may even spot white-tipped reef sharks resting in the waters among the volcanic formations that compose this island. In the quiet lagoon you are entertained by boobies and with luck you may spot the Galápagos penguin.

After Tintoreras you visit the marshlands or humedales, where elevated walkways lead you over tidal lagoons that include four mangrove species and provide habitat for flamingos and numerous migratory birds. The wooden walkways lead to the tortoise breeding center and its interesting interpretive displays. The center has been responsible for the breeding and release to the wild of over 2,000 giant tortoises in the past few years alone. From the center, a walk along the beach takes you through town and back to your hotel where you can take a swim, or perhaps pause in town to get a feel for local life.

A welcome dinner takes advantage of the island’s abundance of fresh fish and seafood.
Iguana Crossing, Isabela Island

DAY 11

After breakfast and a one-hour drive to the Isabela Highlands, you gain an entirely new perspective on the Galápagos experience. At the starting point of today’s walk you immediately notice the difference in vegetation and weather—fostered by the southeast trade winds that bring significant humidity to the southern side of the island. The lowland landscape of prickly pear and the endemic candelabra cactus that dominate the coastal areas give way to more lush and diverse flora including bromeliads and epiphytes. Your path leads to the rim of the Sierra Negra Volcano. The volcano stands at 4,888 feet and last erupted in 2005, subsequently depositing a new and dramatic layer of lava. This volcano’s caldera is the second largest in the world, with a diameter measuring approximately 6½ miles. As you circle the caldera, you spot a variety of birds including finches and flycatchers as well as the Galápagos hawk. Lava lizards scuttle underfoot. From the caldera’s rim you continue to Chico Volcano to see fumaroles (gas and steam vents in the earth’s crust) and unusual lava formations, a striking visual record of the islands’ geological history. From the highest vantage points, you enjoy spectacular views of Isabela’s other volcanoes and nearby islands. Along the walk you are introduced to aa and pahoehoe lava, feel the steam beneath you, and witness new life being created within the most inhospitable of environments.

This evening, stories of underwater sightings are swapped at a restaurant that takes full advantage of the warm ocean breeze—a perfect farewell to Isla Isabela, a little slice of paradise.
Iguana Crossing, Isabela Island

DAY 12

Following breakfast this morning, you board a short flight to the island of San Cristóbal. Upon arrival on San Cristóbal, you proceed to the highlands where you will appreciate the old farms and learn about the history of this island. Passing through the sleepy town of El Progreso, you marvel that it is the oldest surviving settlement in the Galápagos Islands, established in 1869. The ultimate destination is Cerro Verde where you set out on a 2-mile trail through lava fields and mangrove, leading to Puerto Chino. Puerto Chino is a small beach surrounded by dry lava, rocks, and mangroves. When the tide is high, the sea covers the entirety of this little beach. Once at the beach, take a break and take in the sounds of a variety of sea birds, including blue-footed boobies and brown pelicans that use this place as a resting spot after diving for fish. Lava lizards and Sally Lightfoot crabs scamper about on the lava that surrounds you.

This afternoon, upon return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, you check into your home for the next two nights, perfectly situated across from the town dock, which sea lions have taken over as an ideal place to rest and play! A beautiful white-washed building with private garden and swimming pool, the hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms. Please note: The day’s activities may vary slightly based on flight times.
Casa Opuntia, San Cristobal

DAY 13

Prepare for another exciting day on the water! You board a large, comfortable, fully equipped boat for the one-hour ride to Leon Dormido (sleeping lion), so named because of its shape, but more commonly known as Kicker Rock. The remains of a lava cone eroded by the sea have formed two vertical rocks rising 500 feet from the ocean, which in turn form a small channel that is perfect for snorkeling. This Galápagos Islands’ natural monument is a favorite because of the many tropical birds, frigates, and boobies that nest here and fill the surrounding air. The colorful display of tropical fish contrasts against a backdrop of black volcanic rock. Razor surgeonfish, Cortez rainbow wrasse, and orange-bellied triggerfish are just a few you may see, as well as a gentle sea turtle floating by.

Back on the boat, a fresh lunch is served on deck while watching pelicans and boobies diving for their food. This afternoon you may choose to participate in the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming with playful sea lions! Upon arriving at Isla Lobos (Sea Lion Island), you are immediately greeted by these curious animals. With crystal clear waters and a white-sand bottom, it is hard to resist jumping in. The moment you enter the water, the young and inquisitive sea lions swim near to inspect you. Do a somersault and so will they! Soon you are swimming and playing hilariously in an effort to entertain them—and laughing through a snorkel. Back on board, you absorb the sea views and learn that this is also a nesting place for blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigate birds.

You return to town with time to stroll the quiet streets. This evening you celebrate your adventures on the beautiful Galápagos Islands—one of the world’s greatest treasures.
Casa Opuntia, San Cristobal

DAY 14

Following an early breakfast this morning you may have time to embark on the Tijeretas walk, which ultimately leads to the place where Darwin is believed to have taken his first steps on the Galápagos. Along the path, Darwin’s findings and theories (from his short five-week stay on the islands) are shared as well as the history and significance of the Galápagos. You ascend to the top of Cerro de las Tijeretas (Frigatebird Hill) where breathtaking sea views unfold, also a perfect vantage point to marvel at the antics of frigate birds, known as the “pirates of the sea,” owing to their habit of stealing food from unassuming boobies. You then transfer to the airport for your flight back to Quito, bidding adios to these beautiful isles.

Itinerary Changes

Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual activities, sites, and accommodations may vary due to season, special events, weather, or transportation schedules. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary since tour arrangements are made up to a year in advance, and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour and your experience.

Nights 1 & 2

Hacienda Zuleta
Imbabura, Ecuador

Steeped in rich history, guest rooms at this hacienda are individually decorated with fireplaces, antiques and hand-embroidered linens.

Night 3

Hacienda Cusin
Imbabura, Ecuador

A restored 17th-century Andean estate, Hacienda Cusin has snow-capped mountain views reflected in a serene lake. Guest rooms and cottages are tastefully decorated and are connected by cobblestone paths and perennial gardens.

Nights 4 & 5

Hacienda Pinsaquí
Otavalo, Ecuador

Located in the heart of Ecuador's lake district, Hacienda Pinsaquí is rich with centuries of history. The suites have fireplaces, sheepskin rugs, traditional art, and views overlooking the lovely gardens behind the hacienda.

Nights 6 & 7

Hotel Patio Andaluz
Quito, Ecuador

Situated in the heart of the old historic center of Quito and surrounded by churches, museums, and national monuments; Hotel Patio Andaluz is an elegant boutique hotel.

Nights 8 & 9

Galapagos Safari Camp
Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador

Situated on a 55-hectare farm, this African-style lodging boasts nine luxury tents in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Evenings are spent at the main gathering room around the fireplace or on the deck to watch the sunset. The perfect home base for island exploration.

Nights 10 & 11

Iguana Crossing
Isabela, Galápagos, Ecuador

Located steps from the ocean, this beautiful new hotel has 12 rooms and boasts superior service and a swimming pool. A short walk brings you to the laid-back town of Puerto Villamil or a rich lagoon, a bird-lovers haven for early morning walks.

Nights 12 & 13

Casa Opuntia
San Cristobal, Galápagos, Ecuador

The finest accommodation on the island of San Cristobal, the Casa Opuntia offers comfort in simple style. Ideally located in front of the boardwalk where sea lions love to laze, it is just a block from the shops and cafes of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. If not exploring town, enjoy the gardens and hotel pool.

Please note that this is a sample hotel itinerary for this tour. While these exact hotels are featured on most departures, we occasionally reserve other hotels of similar style and quality. If you are currently booked on a Country Walkers adventure, a hotel itinerary has been sent to you for your exact departure date. Please call Country Walkers at 800.464.9255 if you have any questions about the exact hotels selected for any of our tours.

Sebastian Jurado

Sebastian has been guiding for many years. With a degree in Tourism, he has traveled throughout the U.S and Canada to become fluent in English. Sebastian’s passion for guiding and teaching has led him outside of Ecuador to Costa Rica where he worked as a naturalist guide and as an environmental educator for a children’s program. This interest has also led him to Peru where he provided talks to teachers and students alike on environmental education and he completed an Environmental Management Mastery. Sebastian enthusiastically shares his knowledge with guests both on and off the trail.

Tomas Palma

With over 14 years in travel and a degree in Tourism from the UCT University, Tomas Palma brings his vast knowledge of Ecuador’s biodiversity and great ability for sharing his country to our tours. His interests include anything active including biking, trekking, and horses. An excellent guide and travel companion, Tomas’ energy is contagious!