If you really want to get away from it all and venture into the heart of Ecuador, this trip to the Andes is for you. Hacienda Manteles in Baños (Banos) is nestled at the top of a charming valley, in an incredible mountainous setting, offering spectacular views of the Tungurahua Volcano. It is a place where you can truly disconnect from the outside world. This Ecuador tour includes hiking, markets, adventure sports and even offers a small taste of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Day 1 Antisana Ecological Reserve
Your English speaking guide will pick you up in Quito. In the morning visit the Antisana Ecological Reserve that offers a number of lakes, impressive views of the snow-capped Antisana Volcano and the possibility of seeing the endangered Andean Condor in the wild. Box lunch included. In the afternoon continue onto Hacienda Manteles in Patate, near Baños where the hacienda owner’s await you with a welcome cocktail prepared using the local fruit wines of the region. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Manteles. (L,D)
Day 2 Payacucho Waterfall – Salasaca
After breakfast hike to the local Payacucho Waterfall which is located within the hacienda’s privately protected 200 hectare cloud forest reserve. This hike is suitable for all levels of fitness and takes around 1 and a half hours. The hacienda provides welly boots since the trail crosses small streams before arriving at the waterfall. Lunch at Hacienda Manteles. In the afternoon visit the nearby village of Salasaca which is well known for the weaving of tapestries. The people here have a unique style of dress with black woven ponchos and wide-brimmed, white felt hats. After strolling around the market, visit the home of Mr Alonso Pilla, a master weaver, and learn all about the ancestral technique of backstrap weaving. On returning to the Hacienda enjoy a 30 minute massage in the privacy of your own room. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Manteles. (B,L,D)
Day 3 Puyo - Baños
After breakfast head off towards Baños and from there follow the course of the Pastaza River towards Puyo, a stunning road trip which passes a number of beautiful waterfalls including the Manto de la Novia and the Pailon del Diablo. On arrival in Puyo, the gateway to the Amazon, visit the wonderful botanical gardens, which offer a number of different ecological trails passing through a great variety of plants typical of this Amazonian region in Ecuador. Lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon return to the mountain spa town of Baños, enjoy a stroll around the main square and nearby streets, sample the local ‘melcocha’, a handmade toffee which is prepared on every street corner. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Manteles. (B,L,D)
Day 4 Hacienda Manteles – Quito
After breakfast, enjoy one of the great outdoor activities on offer at the hacienda. Choose between a mountain bike riding, hiking, horse back riding or canopy tours (weather permitting). Lunch at the hacienda. After lunch begin the return journey to Quito. (B,L)
Duration: 4 Days
Included: Private transportation with English speaking guide, accommodation in Hacienda Manteles, meals as specified (B - breakfast, L - lunch, D - dinner), activities specified and entrance fees to visitor sites specified.
Not included: soft & alcoholic drinks, any extra activities, tips and personal expenses.
Please contact us for more information or to book on-line.
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