An outstanding trip to highland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands
Ecuador
|
Jan 17 - Feb 1, 2026
We had a superb trip to Ecuador, organized by local specialist Paul. We began in Quito and traveled to Cuenca, seeing the Andes and rural areas in between. The hotel accomodation and food was varied and excellent, particularly the colonial style hotels in the larger towns. We were particularly interested in seeing traditional weaving, and our guide/driver David Galarza went "above and beyond" to track down weaving communities for us. We were able to try our hand at weaving and dyeing in a couple of places (Otavalo and Gualaceo) and we would absolutely recommend this to anyone interested in traditional crafts. The national park at Cotopaxi is also a wonder. We finished our trip with a few days in the Galapagos islands, which live up to expectations with wildlife and much else to see. Thank you David and Paul!
Hotel Reviews
A wonderful Spanish colonial hotel in the heart of Quito, with excellent food, rooms and service. Recommended.
Quirky, over-the-top colonial style decor. Fascinating place and well worth an overnight stay. Good food and friendly staff
A great hostel in Guamote, a place that is well worth a visit for its market. Basic rooms, good food and friendly service, interesting decor, activities for travelers. Recommended, especially for independent travelers.
A wonderful Spanish colonial hotel in the central part of Cuenca, a charming city. Food, decor, location and service are all excellent.
A fine little hotel in an excellent location near to the main street, within easy reach of shops and restaurants. Friendly, informal service and spacious, clean rooms
Activity Reviews
The old town is beautiful and full of historic churches. A must-see for visitors to Ecuador
A spectacular, high-altitude park, underneath the snow-capped peak of Cotopaxi. If the weather is on your side, take the walk around the lake (1-1.5 hours)
We visited the shawl weaving workshop at Gualaceo (about 40 mins drive from Cuenca), where they make traditional shawls (macanas), with ikat designs and macrame fringes. You can see the whole process, and the visit is fascinating. Recommended. We also visited a weaver (Mama Rosa) in Saraguro district. She is about 3 hours drive from Cuenca, and absolutely charming and welcoming. If you are interested in weaving you should also definitely visit her for demonstrations of natural dyeing and weaving on a backstrap loom. Your guide should contact her and her family in advance to arrange.
Cuenca is a wonderful city with a Spanish colonial heart, great bars and restaurants as well. Lots to enjoy, but the Negroni rooftop bar with spectacular views of the old cathedral is a highlight.