CROSSING BOARDERS FROM COLOMBIA INTO ECUADOR: We took a bus from San Agustin back to Popayan (As the roads are too dangerous in the rain through the mountains the other way). From Popayan we took a bus to Ipales. Arrived 4-5am so paid for Hotel for the morning to sleep until Immigration was open. Got a taxi for $4 from the hotel in Ipales to the Boarder of Immigration. Was the easiest leaving Colombia, very quick, no fee, just stamped out.
ENTERING THE COUNTRY: After receiving your stamp out of Colombia, you simply walk down the stairs across the bridge over a running river into Ecuador's Immigration office. You fill a very small docket out and get stamped 90 days in Ecuador free of Charge. Keep the map they give you on arrival it will be useful to get your bearings
CROSSING BOARDERS FROM ECUADOR INTO PERU: We took the boarder crossing at Huaquillas. Bus left from Guayaquil at 7:20pm for $20USD and took 10hours, included the boarder crossing at 1:30am which took 2hours.
LEAVING THE COUNTRY:
ENTERING THE COUNTRY: After receiving your stamp out of Colombia, you simply walk down the stairs across the bridge over a running river into Ecuador's Immigration office. You fill a very small docket out and get stamped 90 days in Ecuador free of Charge. Keep the map they give you on arrival it will be useful to get your bearings
CROSSING BOARDERS FROM ECUADOR INTO PERU: We took the boarder crossing at Huaquillas. Bus left from Guayaquil at 7:20pm for $20USD and took 10hours, included the boarder crossing at 1:30am which took 2hours.
LEAVING THE COUNTRY:
BUDGET : In 34 days we spent $3,900 AUD between x2 people (Couple). So on Average we spent $57 AUD per person a day, including all Accommodation, Meals, Drinks, Transport, Shopping, & Activities/Tours.
Bank Withdrawals: 10x transaction of 2,000Q & 6x transactions of 500Q = 23,000Q in 34 days.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE: $1 AUD = 8Q (Guatemalan) $1US = 12Q.
Bank Withdrawals: 10x transaction of 2,000Q & 6x transactions of 500Q = 23,000Q in 34 days.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE: $1 AUD = 8Q (Guatemalan) $1US = 12Q.
Is so surprisingly developed. The roads, highways, footpaths, round a bouts, medium strips, shop windows, fences and buildings are Australian standard.
We noticed a lot of statues in Ecuador, throughout beach towns, country towns and cities there are random statues of people, animals, religion related, we seen a aeroplane somewhere.
The transport system is a little expensive, esp compared to Central America. No matter if you are traveling only 30in or 3hrs or 10hrs there is little difference in the buses. The Public buses to get 30min or coupe hours are all coaches , large buses. To travel 3-4hrs it costs $8.
Our buses got searched a lot all throughout Ecuador all the way up until the boarder into Peru.
Bus from Boarder town to Ibarra - Quito - Atacames - Beach - Mompiche.
We paid from Ibarra to Atacames $12.50 pp for a bus ticket took abut 8 hours.
Dinner was $6 at the bus terminal $3 pp for Menu del Dia.
$1 internet
$3 for burger and chips on the bus stop at Quito
$2 for bus to the beach town
$2 from beach town to Entrance of Mompiche
$4 for the total collectivo ride to Mudhouse
We noticed a lot of statues in Ecuador, throughout beach towns, country towns and cities there are random statues of people, animals, religion related, we seen a aeroplane somewhere.
The transport system is a little expensive, esp compared to Central America. No matter if you are traveling only 30in or 3hrs or 10hrs there is little difference in the buses. The Public buses to get 30min or coupe hours are all coaches , large buses. To travel 3-4hrs it costs $8.
Our buses got searched a lot all throughout Ecuador all the way up until the boarder into Peru.
Bus from Boarder town to Ibarra - Quito - Atacames - Beach - Mompiche.
We paid from Ibarra to Atacames $12.50 pp for a bus ticket took abut 8 hours.
Dinner was $6 at the bus terminal $3 pp for Menu del Dia.
$1 internet
$3 for burger and chips on the bus stop at Quito
$2 for bus to the beach town
$2 from beach town to Entrance of Mompiche
$4 for the total collectivo ride to Mudhouse
OTAVALO & NORTH
1night
Markets & LOADS OF CULTURE
http://www.ecuador.us/otavalo.htm
Saturday MARKETS
Andes VILLAGE PEOPLE
Workshops WEAVING
Amerindians from the surrounding villages gather to sell produce, livestock, woolen goods and other handicrafts
The men of the area dress in traditional white pants, blue or gray ponchos and felt hats and have their hair braided in long pigtails; the women wear white blouses with black sashes and skirts and lots of gold-colored necklaces
It all begins at dawn, when the animal market gets under way out on the edge of town. We found this the most interesting part of the market activities: As the sun comes up, the large, vacant lot is transformed into a place of squealing pigs and lowing cattle and hundreds of Indians milling about as they size up the merchandise or try to make a sale
Almost any craft item produced in Ecuador can be found in Otavalo, but the specialties are the colorful textiles (blankets, ponchos, sweaters, tapestries, hand bags) produced in the area. Other good bets are musical instruments (charangos and zamponas—pan pipes), ceramics and hats (panama and felt). Be aware that pickpockets and petty thieves are active in the market: Keep a close accounting of your valuables.
Some of the tours visit the workshops of local weavers and other artisans. Among the nearby towns are Cotacachi(known for its fine leather goods), Peguche (musical instruments),Iluman (home of the Inti Chumbi handicraft coop) and Agato (weavings produced on traditional back strap looms by master weaver Miguel Andrango).
http://www.ecuador.us/otavalo.htm
Saturday MARKETS
Andes VILLAGE PEOPLE
Workshops WEAVING
Amerindians from the surrounding villages gather to sell produce, livestock, woolen goods and other handicrafts
The men of the area dress in traditional white pants, blue or gray ponchos and felt hats and have their hair braided in long pigtails; the women wear white blouses with black sashes and skirts and lots of gold-colored necklaces
It all begins at dawn, when the animal market gets under way out on the edge of town. We found this the most interesting part of the market activities: As the sun comes up, the large, vacant lot is transformed into a place of squealing pigs and lowing cattle and hundreds of Indians milling about as they size up the merchandise or try to make a sale
Almost any craft item produced in Ecuador can be found in Otavalo, but the specialties are the colorful textiles (blankets, ponchos, sweaters, tapestries, hand bags) produced in the area. Other good bets are musical instruments (charangos and zamponas—pan pipes), ceramics and hats (panama and felt). Be aware that pickpockets and petty thieves are active in the market: Keep a close accounting of your valuables.
Some of the tours visit the workshops of local weavers and other artisans. Among the nearby towns are Cotacachi(known for its fine leather goods), Peguche (musical instruments),Iluman (home of the Inti Chumbi handicraft coop) and Agato (weavings produced on traditional back strap looms by master weaver Miguel Andrango).
Spend some time at one of the beautiful mountain lakes in the area. Lago San Pablo is right outside Otavalo (you can hike there), and is large enough for boating—inquire at the Puertolago hosteria. Laguna de Cuicocha and the Lagunas de Mojanda are a little farther afield, but easily seen on day trips. Las Casacadas de Peguche (the Peguche Waterfalls) are another popular destination for hikers from Otavalo.
Bicycling can also be a great way to spend part of a day: We particularly enjoyed a three-hour excursion in which we paid a taxi to drop us off at a high mountain pass on the Selva Alegre Road. From there, it was an easy downhill ride to Otavalo with plenty of scenic vistas along the way (volcanoes, farms and lots of curious Indians).
Bicycling can also be a great way to spend part of a day: We particularly enjoyed a three-hour excursion in which we paid a taxi to drop us off at a high mountain pass on the Selva Alegre Road. From there, it was an easy downhill ride to Otavalo with plenty of scenic vistas along the way (volcanoes, farms and lots of curious Indians).
MINDO
Maybe 2 nights
Cloud FOREST
Zip LINING
Little HUTS ALONG THE LAGO
Waterfalls
Hanging BRIDGES
Stairs AND TUBING
White WATER RAFTING
Some AMAZING ACCOMMODATION
Ranches AND TREE HOUSES
Cable CAR
Zip LINING
Little HUTS ALONG THE LAGO
Waterfalls
Hanging BRIDGES
Stairs AND TUBING
White WATER RAFTING
Some AMAZING ACCOMMODATION
Ranches AND TREE HOUSES
Cable CAR
ATTRACTIONS
Rainforest
Sanctuary waterfalls
Rainforest
Sanctuary waterfalls
SLEEP
Rubys Hostel $16 jungle Views
Mindo Lago Accommodation $75
Rubys Hostel $16 jungle Views
Mindo Lago Accommodation $75
QUITO
1 night
Big CITY
Visit OLD TOWN
Surrounded BY VOLCANOES
Lots OF MOUNTAINS
Centre OF THE WORLD
cobblestone STREETS
From Quito, a Reina del Camino bus leaves for Canoa around 10:45 p.m. (6-7 hr, $9)
Visit OLD TOWN
Surrounded BY VOLCANOES
Lots OF MOUNTAINS
Centre OF THE WORLD
cobblestone STREETS
From Quito, a Reina del Camino bus leaves for Canoa around 10:45 p.m. (6-7 hr, $9)
EAT & DRINK
Cuyabeno jungle - Ecuador ..
Quito day tour from here to below
Laguna quilotoa
Volcano Cotopaxi (cold!!)
Cuyabeno jungle - Ecuador ..
Quito day tour from here to below
Laguna quilotoa
Volcano Cotopaxi (cold!!)
ATTRACTIONS
Spanish & portiguese architecture
Sangolqui - town traditional market .
Afternoon light over Volcano Cayambe and Quito
the quilota LOOP TREL 3-4 DAYS THROUGH INDIGENOUS VILLAGES
Iglesia de La Compania de Jesus
View from the outskirts of Quito...
Typical Ecuadorian hand made dolls...
OTAVALO MArket indigiuoes.
Day trips to amazondeparting from Quito start around just $100. One of cheapest places in SA to see the Amazon.
Visiting the Equator, known in Ecuador as the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World),
The best way to orient yourself, on day one, is a thrilling climb to the top of the double-spired Basílica del Voto Nacional, a 15-minute, walk up from the old town.
TelefériQo - $2 entrance spectacular views over Quito’s mountainous landscape, hop aboard this sky tram that takes passengers on a 2.5km ride (10 minutes) up the flanks of Volcán Pichincha to the top of Cruz Loma. Once you’re at the top (a mere 4100m), you can hike to the summit of Rucu Pichincha (4680m), about a three-hour hike for fit walkers, ALSO hire Horses for $10 per hour.
Spanish & portiguese architecture
Sangolqui - town traditional market .
Afternoon light over Volcano Cayambe and Quito
the quilota LOOP TREL 3-4 DAYS THROUGH INDIGENOUS VILLAGES
Iglesia de La Compania de Jesus
View from the outskirts of Quito...
Typical Ecuadorian hand made dolls...
OTAVALO MArket indigiuoes.
Day trips to amazondeparting from Quito start around just $100. One of cheapest places in SA to see the Amazon.
Visiting the Equator, known in Ecuador as the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World),
The best way to orient yourself, on day one, is a thrilling climb to the top of the double-spired Basílica del Voto Nacional, a 15-minute, walk up from the old town.
TelefériQo - $2 entrance spectacular views over Quito’s mountainous landscape, hop aboard this sky tram that takes passengers on a 2.5km ride (10 minutes) up the flanks of Volcán Pichincha to the top of Cruz Loma. Once you’re at the top (a mere 4100m), you can hike to the summit of Rucu Pichincha (4680m), about a three-hour hike for fit walkers, ALSO hire Horses for $10 per hour.
MOMPICHE
How to get here from
sandy ROADS
fisherman TOWN
fresh PRAWNS FISH AND LOBSTERS VERY CHEAP
up coming TOWN WITH LOADS OF HOSTELS BEING BUILT
thatched roof AND BAMBU BUILT HOMES AND HOSTELS
be aware of the SAND FLIES IN VEGETATED AREAS & MOSQUITOS
surf can be good BUT IT WAS FLAT WHILST WE WERE THERE
hardly no one had CHANGE IN THIS TOWN. THEY DONT LIKE $20 NOTES NOT MANY PEOPLE WILL CHANGE. SO CAMBIO IS GOOD
ecuador is so green from crossing the boarder of Colombia to the coast line all the way to Mompiche was a beautiful drive through wet rainforest bush.
Driving to mompiche
It's like driving through a national park or rainforest, full of lush green mountains of trees & plants. So many different types of trees & banana trees. Workers hoping on the bus ready for work mostly with knives and gum boots.
The houses are so authentic and natural. Bamboo & wood houses on stilts , thatched roofing, small hits everywhere , chickens running around some cattle dogs and cats, like Bali 39 years ago:
The bus from Ipales - actually from Ibarra to Quito to Atacames arrived early morning around 6am. Then got public buses around the coast 1 bus somewhere, then another one to Mompiche Main road. then a collectivo to Mud House.
fisherman TOWN
fresh PRAWNS FISH AND LOBSTERS VERY CHEAP
up coming TOWN WITH LOADS OF HOSTELS BEING BUILT
thatched roof AND BAMBU BUILT HOMES AND HOSTELS
be aware of the SAND FLIES IN VEGETATED AREAS & MOSQUITOS
surf can be good BUT IT WAS FLAT WHILST WE WERE THERE
hardly no one had CHANGE IN THIS TOWN. THEY DONT LIKE $20 NOTES NOT MANY PEOPLE WILL CHANGE. SO CAMBIO IS GOOD
ecuador is so green from crossing the boarder of Colombia to the coast line all the way to Mompiche was a beautiful drive through wet rainforest bush.
Driving to mompiche
It's like driving through a national park or rainforest, full of lush green mountains of trees & plants. So many different types of trees & banana trees. Workers hoping on the bus ready for work mostly with knives and gum boots.
The houses are so authentic and natural. Bamboo & wood houses on stilts , thatched roofing, small hits everywhere , chickens running around some cattle dogs and cats, like Bali 39 years ago:
The bus from Ipales - actually from Ibarra to Quito to Atacames arrived early morning around 6am. Then got public buses around the coast 1 bus somewhere, then another one to Mompiche Main road. then a collectivo to Mud House.
SLEEP
MudHouse is the first Hostel coming into Mompiche from the Entrance. It is beautifully built with dorm beds at $8 and privates from $12.50 pp. They have outdoor showers which are beautiful, mosquito nets over the beds which you WILL need, a kitchen for guests and strong wifi. They also have a restaurant that sells veggie burgers Friday & Saturday nights for $5. DMCA Hostel has dorm beds for $8 and privates from $16. They have shared and private bathrooms, kitchen, wifi and hang out area, with a bit of a vibe with other travellers and plays music through out the day and night. Situated 1 street back from the beach. La Facha Surf Hostel had beds for $10 B&B Oasis Colibri dorms/beds for $10 Above Restaurante Tu Regreso they have rooms on the top balcony for $5pp with shared bathroom, fan and kitchen, no wifi. There are cheaper options of Camping at either ends of the main street for very cheap, on the sand at the front of hostels, also have hammocks available. If your not on a budget the The Hotel Mompiche is beautiful and quite modern. Each room has their own ensuite, balcony and hammocks. They have a pool here and wifi. Not sure about a kitchen. But price is $25us pp. This is located on the main road coming into Mompiche about a 2min walk to the ocean. |
EAT & DRINK
Street Food Mompiche had the next best thing to fried jacks from Belize on the Caribbean coast. Its like bready doe stuffed with either cheese or chicken (or both) then deep fried. Similar to an empanada but i say better! They are only .50c. Also chicken & beef on a stick. Fresh Seafood through small carts along the beach. They prepare fresh prawns and oysters and other sorts of shell seafood soaked in fresh lime and chili's. Comedor Dahlia has delicious Menu Del Dia's for $3 which contains a heart soup of the day either fish, prawns, chicken or beef. Then a plate of meat or fish of choice accompanied with rice, beans, salad and plantains, and includes a drink. Chicken schnitzel and fish grille fillets are delicious Restaurante Tu Regreso has GOOD SEAFOOD. They also do the Menu Del Dia of fresh hearty fish soup, with a plate of meat of choice, rice, beans, salads and plantains with a drink for $3. They do all day lunch's. Next door from here does a breaky with rice beans salad & delicious fried prawns for $3 called Restaurante Economico. La Chocolata is the place to go for when you have a SWEET TOOTH. They do DELICIOUS apple crumbles and orange morang cakes with biscuits and cookies from $1 and $1.25c. SOO YUMMY. With a menu also of crepes, sandwiches and other meals with a chill out area to eat with wifi. |
ATTRACTIONS
Just a 30min walk or less is Playa Negro. It is a small cove with a beach that is beautiful to swim at. Fishing Boats and Snorkelling for $20us for half day of fishing, have ceviche and snorkel. Surfing when the waves are good, there are waves at the point and right out the front and to the right of Mompiche beach. Spanish Lessons, make jewellery, laying by the beach and eating fresh seafood. Just relaxing reading books. |
CANOA
Getting here from Mompiche
Mompiche to entrance, Bus to Chamanga (Entrance) then bus going to PEDERNALES then from there bus to Canoa
Drive out of Mompiche from Bahia to Canoa was a change to dusty dry and dirt mountains.
Mompiche to entrance, Bus to Chamanga (Entrance) then bus going to PEDERNALES then from there bus to Canoa
Drive out of Mompiche from Bahia to Canoa was a change to dusty dry and dirt mountains.
Canoa - relaxed and party good seafoof. colourful. Surf Shak - Find something cheap.
Note, that Reina del Camino is the only bus company the goes to Canoa, San Vicente and Bahía de Caráquez from Quito.
From Bahía, buses operate regularly toQuito (8 hr, $8), Guayaquil (6 hr, $5),
Note, that Reina del Camino is the only bus company the goes to Canoa, San Vicente and Bahía de Caráquez from Quito.
From Bahía, buses operate regularly toQuito (8 hr, $8), Guayaquil (6 hr, $5),
SLEEP
Hostel COCO LOCO is a popular western hostel that speaks english and has tourist information and is located right on the beach, with a bar at the front. Hostel Bambu nice newish hostel for $12 pp for priate room, bathrooms, chill out area, wifi and kitchen with a travelers vibe. Hostel Shelmar is in a perfect location on the main road just a couple of blocks back from the beach. They have rooms for $5 pp, wooden floors, mosquito nets and hot showers, shared toilets. Not sure if there is wifi or a kitchen. Not much of a travelers vibe but good for budgeting. They have a small restaurante that sells sandwiches ect. Hostal Vista Hermosa is also another budget hostel with private rooms only $7 pp with toilet, wifi and kitchen. Just a couple of streets back from the beach, close to all restarants on the main road |
EAT & DRINK
Suki Bar cant be missed. You can smell the food from across the road. It is situation right on the beach on the sand, out front of Hostel Catala. Menu is middle priced here up to $12 for meals. They also do Happy Hour. Restaurante Cevicheria Saborame #2 is on the beach front, walking from Hostel Catala towards Hostel Coco Loco. This smell also you will smell from down the road! delicious seafood, italian, pastas, salads. Middle ranged price. Restaurante Pizzeria which is opposite Hostel Vista hermosa has Delicious personal size pizzas that will fill you up for $5. Also large menu with italian dishes and seafood dishes on the menu for decent prices. Shawarma & Burger Yellow Food Truck is on the main strip 1 street back from the beach. This is only open at night time & you wont miss it. There are constantly people surrounded the food truck. They sell chicken shawarma's for $3, Hambugers for $1.50 and Hot dogs for $1. The shawarmas are everybodys favourite. Other various street food along the beach selling hamburgers, fries, hot dogs, wraps ect . Fresh juice bars, toasted sandwich's, meat on a stick or plate with rice, cheese soups are popular here in Canoa all for very cheap. Comedor El Agachadito is a local typical place with a LARGE menu wth foods foods such as typicals, pastas, meats, seafood and rice dishes ranging from $3+ and up. Is it located behind the strip of Markets about 2-3 blocks back from the beach. El Paraiso De Nohelia is another popualar restaurante selling everything from seafood, chicken, beef, rices, pastas and typicals pricing from $3 up to $12 and more. Soboreame restaurant has a wide variety of foods such as typicals, pastas, meats, seafood and rice dishes ranging from $3+ and up. |
ATTRACTIONS
http://ecuadorbeaches.org/2012/07/sling-mud-at-banos-de-san-vicente/ BUSES The main bus terminal in Canoa is about 5 blocks from from the beach, on the main strip, at the PARQUE. Once walking away from the beach up the street your guaranteed to see at least one large bus there . With all buses they give you a ticket for your luggae to collect once your trip is over, hold onto it they always want it when you collect your bag. Rio Muchacho Organic Farm - here you can do 1-3 day tours. Visit the community environmental school. Tour the farm and see the tropical fruits like yuca, passionfruit, pineapple ect. Make rings with palm seeds. Make chocolate. Swim in the waterfall. Horse trek to the forest and see Howler monkeys. Milk cows and make cheese. Fish for river shrimp & loads more. [email protected] They have an office in Canoa on the man road about 100-200meters from the beach. |
PUERTO CAYO
&
PUERTO LOPEZ
MONTANITA
7nights
BANOS
Take a CLP Bus Company from Montañita to Guayaquil and from, Guayaquil look for buses that travel straight to Baños or Puyo, these buses are "Transportes Baños, San Francisco, Flota Pelileo, Riobamba" - See more at: http://www.hostalerupcion.com/en/buses-to-banos-from-montanita.html#sthash.HMROOJUp.dpuf
http://gobackpacking.com/travel-guides/ecuador/banos/
www.virtualtourist.com
http://gobackpacking.com/travel-guides/ecuador/banos/
www.virtualtourist.com
|
ATTRACTIONS
Cascada de la Virgen The hot springs at the base of are only a 5-minute walk from the center of town. Entrance is $2, towel rental $1. These are open day and night, and can get very crowded. Avoid them on the weekends. El Salado is newer hot springs, located a few kilometers from central Banos. It’s worth a bicycle or taxi ride to get there. These are only open through the day and are situated along the creek. Casa de arbol is a Hostel a little out of town with beautiful views of the mountains. This is where you swing off to the end of the world. There are other opportunities to climb nearby Tungurahua Volcano, & other adventures such as canyoning, whitewater rafting, paragliding, mountain biking, bridge swings, hot springs, waterfall tours. |
Pailon de Diablo (Devil's Cauldron) (17km towards Puyo from Banos town) Within a 20-minute drive of Banos are dozens of waterfalls, you can visit them from bicycling at your own pace from town, to renting an ATV, to taking a double-decker chiva for just $6 or ride across the canyon on a metal cable car ($1). Pailon del diablo hike ($1) right up to the falls, and actually climb underneath them (if you’re willing to get wet) by passing through El Otro Lado restaurant and walk on their private pathIF DRIVING (Park at the Restaurante Las Hortensias just after a small bridge and head downhill on a small footpath, which weaves through beautiful cloud forest until you reach a suspended bridge)
|
ALAUSI
We got a bus from Alausi to Riobomba then to Guayquil (Santa Elena) straight away at 5:30. From there took the night bus over the boarder into Peru for $20USD with CICA Bus Company.
Guayguil Bus terminal in Santa Elena is like a donestic airport. AND is SO BUSY on friday's as all the locals are departing for weekend getaways.
CHIMBORAZO VOLCAN & the surroundings.
Guayguil Bus terminal in Santa Elena is like a donestic airport. AND is SO BUSY on friday's as all the locals are departing for weekend getaways.
CHIMBORAZO VOLCAN & the surroundings.
SLEEP
Hotel Europa was $8 US per person for a private room, no bathroom, was down the hall, wifi but no kitchen. One of the cheapest. Hotels across the road was $15 per person for a private room with bathroom. Walk around a little more you could find something cheaper maybe from $5-$8 per person off the main road. |
EAT & DRINK
|
ATTRACTIONS
We did the Nariz del Diablo. The devils nose train ride from Alausi to Simbame. Leaves at 8am and back at 10:30am 2 and half hours. or leave 11am an dback at 1:30pm. It costs $30USD and there are no snacks or drinks included. Also you cant ride on top of the train anymore, and the train has been refurbished to a newer train where the windows are higher then your head you need to stand to see outside the windows. |
URBINA
2nights
Old COUNTRY TOWN maybe get THE RAILWAY THROUGH HERE Surrounded BY FLAT ROLLING HILLS Farming TOWN
Cattle AND LAMAS AND SHEEPS Farm BARNS Old RAILWAY & RAILROADS Some WILDLIFE
URBINA - country authentic original non tourist ecuador.
Cattle AND LAMAS AND SHEEPS Farm BARNS Old RAILWAY & RAILROADS Some WILDLIFE
URBINA - country authentic original non tourist ecuador.
SLEEP
|
DO
Tagua nut workshop volcano chimbarzoa highest ecuador |
TENA
2nights
Cascada SAN RAFAEL Boarders THE AMAZON White WATER RAFTING Waterfalls 500m ABOVE SEA LEVEL Laguna AZUL Lodges BY THE LAGOON Lodges AND RESORTS Lots OF CREEPY CRAWLIES Surrounded by GREEN HILLS Tends toRAIN
SLEEP
|
DO
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COCA & RIO NAPO
3nights
Amazing PLACE IN THE JUNGLE The RIVER RUNS THROUGH ECUADOR, PERU & BRAZIL Pink DOLPHINS
Closest PLACE YOU WILL GET TO THE AMAZON IN ECUADOR Anaconda AMAZON CRUISE
Closest PLACE YOU WILL GET TO THE AMAZON IN ECUADOR Anaconda AMAZON CRUISE
napo river
cocay river
Local Kichwa community
napo wildlife centre
puerto francisco de orellana
cocay river
Local Kichwa community
napo wildlife centre
puerto francisco de orellana
QUILOTOA VOLCANO & LAKE
3nights
Beautiful GREEN CRATER LAKE
Could BE LUCKY TO SEE A LAMA HERE
Quilotoa PLATFORM DECK
There IS A 4 DAY HIKE
Latacunga TOWN NOT FAR AWAY
COTOPAXI
Snow CAPED VOLCANO
Beautiful LAKE
Lots OF HIKING
The highest Active Volcano in the world, Pastaza River town Banos the Gateway to Amzzonia”, Devils Cauldron waterfalls, Devils Nose,
Could BE LUCKY TO SEE A LAMA HERE
Quilotoa PLATFORM DECK
There IS A 4 DAY HIKE
Latacunga TOWN NOT FAR AWAY
COTOPAXI
Snow CAPED VOLCANO
Beautiful LAKE
Lots OF HIKING
The highest Active Volcano in the world, Pastaza River town Banos the Gateway to Amzzonia”, Devils Cauldron waterfalls, Devils Nose,
SLEEP
|
DO
Surround areas. nature . dodgy town, non toursity.. amazon boarder - 3 day near amazon $60 per day foof accom tour guides, waterfalls, chocolate tour. |
OLON
On a wild cliff Pacific near the fishing village of Olon, Swiss Staheli priest Othmar he built a shrine in the form of a
TERMAS DE PAPALLACTA
Amazing THERMAL RESORT
Surrounded BY GREEN HILLS
http://www.thebestofecuador.com/papall.htm
Only $5 ENTRY ON WEEKENDS & MAYBE AFFORD A ROOM FOR ONE NIGHT $20 , BUS FROM QUITO
Surrounded BY GREEN HILLS
http://www.thebestofecuador.com/papall.htm
Only $5 ENTRY ON WEEKENDS & MAYBE AFFORD A ROOM FOR ONE NIGHT $20 , BUS FROM QUITO
GUAYAQUIL & ALAUSI & CUENCA
Tipical COSTUMES
a LITTLE BIT COLOURFUL
Maybe A GREE LAGOON IN THE CRATER
Cuenca IS ANOTHER BIG TOWN, CHURCHES, MOSQUE.
Deep in the Ecuadorian Andes, some 200km south of Quito, is the atmospheric little railway town of Alausí (2350m). The railway in question is the crazily steep El Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose) line, which ferries tourists up and down a suitably demonic wall of rock just outside Alausí. Three mornings a week, crowds gather around the rail tracks to watch the train arrive, while vendors clamber onto the roof selling everything from sugary buns to crunchy plantains.
Read more: http://www.roughguides.com/gallery/destination/country/ecuador/#ixzz3jbcLD4uW
DO
ALAUSI: Devils nose train ride. Devil's nose railway\
A train line was built to go from the Andes to Guayaquil.
Ferrocarril El Nariz del Diablo is a very touristy but still nice train ride. You should sit on the roof while admiring the beutiful landscape going down the steep serpentine track.
Inca Fortress of Ingapirca
Mirador de Turi
For a lovely view of Cuenca, take a taxi ($5) 4km south of town along Avenida Solano to the stark, white Church of Turi. The views of Cuenca’s famous, romantic skyline are especially pretty at sunset
Cuenca: Nuns or monks march down the streets. Potery, weaving and cooking.Panama hat factory, on Tarqui st, and Turi Lookout at Sunset. 11th bienial festiavl february. Ride a loca bus for 45min to EL Cajas National Park with jewel lakes and forests. Have a traditional meal in a village and learn medicine plants, agriculture and weaving. Indians communities, Ingapirca Ruins and Scenic Cajas NP.
Indian Markets of Otavaloamazon jungle canoe - ECO LODGES
Colonial City
HISTORY before the great Inca empire began its conquest of this land called Ecuador in 1463, it was populated by a number of indigenous Indian tribes that were often at war with one another. In the early 16th century the Spanish discovered and subsequently conquered Ecuador. Over the next two centuries Spanish Colonial rule in this New World spread. Sadly, the Spanish unintentionally brought with them smallpox and measles, diseases that, over time, all but wiped out much of the indigenous Indian population.
Suffering a severe depression throughout most of the eighteenth century, and with Ecuador's cities gradually falling into ruins. That struggle for freedom was bloody, difficult and very long, but independence was finally achieved in 1830, and over the next 140 years a series of military and political groups ruled the land. Between 1904 and 1942, Ecuador lost territories in a series of conflicts with its neighbors. A border war with Peru that flared in 1995 was resolved in 1999. Although Ecuador marked 25 years of civilian governance in 2004, the period has been marred by political instability, as seven presidents have governed Ecuador since 1996. Quito, the capital, is the political center, while Guayaquil is the commercial hub. The world-famous Galapagos Islands (a territory of Ecuador) are positioned about 600 miles to its west. The indigenous populations mixed with those of European descent give Ecuador a unique cultural texture. It's a very friendly country, known for warm, welcoming hospitality.
GEOGRAPHY Ecuador is divided into four regions: the coastal lowlands and mountains areas; the central Andes Mountains and its two major chains (Cordillera Occidental in the west) and the (Cordillera Oriental in the east); the lower mountains that fade into rolling hills and lowlands of the east, and the territory of the Galapagos Islands - officially called the Archipiélago de Colón - located about 1,000 km to the west. The Andes includes over 20 peaks at least 4,200 m in height with most located in the Cordillera Occidental. In addition, there are over 30 peaks that are volcanic in nature, including many active ones. Most rivers in Ecuador rise in the upper elevations of the Andes, flowing east toward the Amazon River, or west into the Pacific Ocean. The most significant include the Babahoyo, Chira, Coca, Curaray, Daule, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Napo, Paztaza, and the Putumayo, on its northeastern border with Colombia.
Capital City: Quito (1,397,698 pop.)
(1,842,201 metro)
Language: Spanish (official), Amerindian languages (especially Quechua)
Religion: Roman Catholic 95%, other 5%
Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
Largest Cities: (by population) Guayaquil, Quito, Cuenca, Santa Domingo de los Colorados, Machala, Manta, Portoviejo, Duran, Ambato, Riobamba
Highest Point: Mt. Chimborazo 6,267 m
Lowest Point: Pacific Ocean
TRAVEL
Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in South America, but it has some of the continent's most spectacular points-of-interest. Leading the list is Quito, described by many travelers as the most beautiful city in South America. With its elevation and location near the Equator, its climate is considered a "permanent spring." Additional attractions include several archaeological sites; a stunning selection of national parks, including Cotopaxi's (Avenue of the Volcanoes,) Podocarpus, Sangay and Yasuni; rainforest expeditions, the cities of Ambato and Otavalo; the natural springs at Banos, and of course, the Galapagos Islands.
No visa and weather good from MAY
IN A FEW WORDS: Andean Cultures, scenery, wildlife, history, andes volcanoes. plaza n cathedrals
Suffering a severe depression throughout most of the eighteenth century, and with Ecuador's cities gradually falling into ruins. That struggle for freedom was bloody, difficult and very long, but independence was finally achieved in 1830, and over the next 140 years a series of military and political groups ruled the land. Between 1904 and 1942, Ecuador lost territories in a series of conflicts with its neighbors. A border war with Peru that flared in 1995 was resolved in 1999. Although Ecuador marked 25 years of civilian governance in 2004, the period has been marred by political instability, as seven presidents have governed Ecuador since 1996. Quito, the capital, is the political center, while Guayaquil is the commercial hub. The world-famous Galapagos Islands (a territory of Ecuador) are positioned about 600 miles to its west. The indigenous populations mixed with those of European descent give Ecuador a unique cultural texture. It's a very friendly country, known for warm, welcoming hospitality.
GEOGRAPHY Ecuador is divided into four regions: the coastal lowlands and mountains areas; the central Andes Mountains and its two major chains (Cordillera Occidental in the west) and the (Cordillera Oriental in the east); the lower mountains that fade into rolling hills and lowlands of the east, and the territory of the Galapagos Islands - officially called the Archipiélago de Colón - located about 1,000 km to the west. The Andes includes over 20 peaks at least 4,200 m in height with most located in the Cordillera Occidental. In addition, there are over 30 peaks that are volcanic in nature, including many active ones. Most rivers in Ecuador rise in the upper elevations of the Andes, flowing east toward the Amazon River, or west into the Pacific Ocean. The most significant include the Babahoyo, Chira, Coca, Curaray, Daule, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Napo, Paztaza, and the Putumayo, on its northeastern border with Colombia.
Capital City: Quito (1,397,698 pop.)
(1,842,201 metro)
Language: Spanish (official), Amerindian languages (especially Quechua)
Religion: Roman Catholic 95%, other 5%
Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
Largest Cities: (by population) Guayaquil, Quito, Cuenca, Santa Domingo de los Colorados, Machala, Manta, Portoviejo, Duran, Ambato, Riobamba
Highest Point: Mt. Chimborazo 6,267 m
Lowest Point: Pacific Ocean
TRAVEL
Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in South America, but it has some of the continent's most spectacular points-of-interest. Leading the list is Quito, described by many travelers as the most beautiful city in South America. With its elevation and location near the Equator, its climate is considered a "permanent spring." Additional attractions include several archaeological sites; a stunning selection of national parks, including Cotopaxi's (Avenue of the Volcanoes,) Podocarpus, Sangay and Yasuni; rainforest expeditions, the cities of Ambato and Otavalo; the natural springs at Banos, and of course, the Galapagos Islands.
No visa and weather good from MAY
IN A FEW WORDS: Andean Cultures, scenery, wildlife, history, andes volcanoes. plaza n cathedrals