9-Day Coast & Andes Luxury Cultural Experience

Tour Summary

Embark on a luxurious cultural tour through the heart of Ecuador, where the enchanting coastline meets the historical splendor of Quito and the vibrant tapestry of Otavalo city. This specially selected tour invites you to indulge in the rich traditions and natural wonders of the country, beginning with the coastal marvels of Manta, Isla de la Plata, and the Pacoche Marine Wildlife Refuge on board of a luxury cruise.

Traverse the cobbled streets of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where colonial greatness seamlessly intersects with modern sophistication. Finally, immerse yourself in the kaleidoscopic colors of Otavalo city, renowned for its indigenous market and centuries-old artisanal traditions. This tour promises a classical fusion of cultural immersion and unrivaled luxury, providing a comprehensive journey through of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and heritage.

Gallery

Highlights

Kontiki Expedition CruiseExplore unique places, pristine beaches, and ecological reserves while engaging in local cultural experiences that prioritize sustainability.
OtavaloExperience an intimate experience focused on colorful hand-made textiles, family artisan workshops, and total cultural immersion.
Cultural ExperiencesExperience the depth of Ecuadorian culture while indulging in the sophistication of luxury hotel surroundings.
Isla de la PlataExplore the trails to witness nesting areas of blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, and frigatebirds.

Itinerary

DAY 1 Illa Cultural Night
Get ready to start your 9-day cultural tour!

Arrive at Quito’s Airport and transfer to the Illa Experience Hotel in the Historical Center. The hotel offers experiences with locals like making espumilla (an Ecuadorian version of meringue), learning watercolor painting, brewing coffee, and more.
- Activity:Arrival.
- Transport:Bus or car.
- Accommodation:Illa Experience Hotel or similar.
Day 2 Kontiki Expedition Cruise - Manta - Ayangue
Embark on day two of your trip as you soar to Manta in a thrilling 40-minute flight. Your destination: the Manta Yacht Club, where luxury awaits aboard the Kontiki Wayra for an unforgettable coastal adventure.

As you check in for your cruise, savor a delightful welcome cocktail. The captain personally introduces the skilled crew and guides you through a tour of your home for the next 5 days, the elegant yacht. Get ready for an enchanting overnight sail to Ayangue.
- Activity:Exploring.
- Meal:Breakfast. Dinner.
- Accommodation:Kontiki Expedition Cruise.
DAY 3 Ayangue
Step into Ayangue, dubbed the “Pool of the Pacific“, where tranquil waters beckon exploration. After a delightful onboard breakfast, venture to El Pelado Islet for an unparalleled snorkeling escapade with playful sea lions. Keep an eye out for majestic humpback whales gracing the waters from June to October. Rejoin the yacht at noon for ocean club activities and relish a delectable onboard lunch.

In the afternoon, disembark at Ayangue’s beach for a cultural immersion. Dive into the rich Valdivia culture, renowned for its ancient pottery tradition dating back to 4500 B.C. Engage in a hands-on experience as you craft your own clay masterpiece. Discover the coastal wonders and cultural treasures that Ayangue has to offer. Prepare for a captivating overnight voyage to Machalilla National Park.
- Activity:Diving. Exploring. Crafting.
- Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
- Accommodation:Kontiki Expedition Cruise.
DAY 4 Machalilla National Park - Isla de la Plata
After breakfast, transfer to Agua Blanca in Machalilla National Park, dedicated to preserving Manteño culture, dating back to 1500 A.C. Explore archaeological treasures, including ancient temples and squares that have endured the test of time. An enchanting forest walk exposes you to the wonders of nature, where butterflies, hummingbirds, and Algarrobo trees abound.

Engage in an ancestral ritual of purification and gratitude led by community shamans, fostering a deeper connection with nature and oneself. Return to the yacht for lunch and enjoy a private beach experience in the islets of Machalilla National Park. Dive into thrilling marine activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, or swimming in the beach club with an oceanic pool, water slide, and SeaBobs. Conclude the day with a sumptuous dinner surrounded by the sea’s beauty.
- Activity:Exploring. Snorkeling.
- Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
- Accommodation:Kontiki Expedition Cruise
DAY 5 Isla de la Plata - San Lorenzo
Set out on an enchanting post-breakfast adventure with a wet landing on Isla de la Plata. Explore the island’s natural wonders, discovering nesting sites of blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, and frigatebirds along scenic trails. After a delightful lunch back on the yacht, dive into the afternoon’s excitement.

Join a guided snorkeling expedition to witness the thriving marine ecosystem, encountering magnificent giant stingrays, graceful whale sharks, and gentle sea turtles. For deeper exploration, scuba diving is available upon request at the time of booking. As the afternoon unfolds, savor a magical sunset party with the freshest seafood and signature cocktails.

This day guarantees natural wonders, thrilling marine encounters, and unforgettable moments along Ecuador’s stunning coastline. Join us in crafting cherished memories.
- Activity:Birdwatching. Snorkeling.
- Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
- Accommodation:Kontiki Expedition Cruise.
Day 6 Pacoche - Manta - Otavalo
Embark on a captivating journey to the Pacoche Marine Wildlife Refuge after breakfast. Hike through a tropical forest, encountering lively howling monkeys. Continue to San Lorenzo, a nesting haven for sea turtles. Witness the mesmerizing sight of baby turtles during hatching season. Indulge in a manabita ancestral oven experience in San Lorenzo. In Pile, delve into the tradition of toquilla straw hats, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Here, local weavers craft the finest Panama hats globally. Check out and transfer to Manta’s airport. Arrive in Quito and board your transfer to Otavalo. Explore the small village of Cayambe, known for its bizcochos (Ecuadorian biscuits), enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate paired with local cheese. Finally, reach your hotel in Otavalo, Hacienda Zuleta, for a restful night in a beautiful authentic farm.
- Activity:Hiking. Wildlife Watching. Relaxing.
- Transport:Airplane. Car.
- Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner
- Accommodation:Hacienda Zuleta or similar.
Day 7 Free Cultural Day
Today, indulge in personalized leisure at Hacienda Zuleta. Immerse yourself in a variety of cultural activities, offering unforgettable experiences that will linger in your memories. Explore a rich tapestry of traditions and customs, providing a fascinating glimpse into a world that may be unfamiliar yet incredibly rewarding.
- Activity:Walking, Sightseeing.
- Meal:Breakfast.
- Accommodation:Hacienda Zuleta or similar.
Day 8 Otavalo and surroundings
Get ready to explore the capital of handicrafts and artisans in Ecuador, a city rich in cultural heritage. Otavalo boasts numerous wonders, including the enchanting Peguche Waterfall, the majestic Cotacachi Volcano, and the impressive Mojanda Volcano. Consult with your destination expert to plan your visit to Otavalo and explore its highlights.

As the day concludes, a seamless transfer will take you to the elegant La Palma Polo Club hotel in Quito. Here, luxurious suites await to provide you with a final, comfortable night in Ecuador. Take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking landscape of the mighty Andes and the star-filled sky, creating a magical atmosphere for your last night in this remarkable country.
- Activity:Exploring. Transfer.
- Transport:Car.
- Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
- Accommodation:La Palma Polo Club or similar.
Day 9 Quito - Airport
Enjoy a hassle-free departure with a pre-arranged transfer from your Quito hotel to Quito International Airport. The pick-up time will be confirmed in advance for your convenience.
- Activity:Departure.
- Transport:Car or bus.
- Meal:Breakfast.

Map

9 Day Coast Andes Cultural Tour Map

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Price Based on Number of Guests:

1 guest	$ 3,555 p.p.
2 guests	$ 2,950 p.p.
6 guests or more	$ 2,865 p.p.

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Inclusions

All activities as described in the itinerary.
Meals as described in the itinerary.
Accommodation as described in the itinerary.
Airport pickup and drop off according to your arrival and departure times.
Transportation on and between locations as described in the itinerary.
Local bilingual (English & Spanish) naturalist guide.
24/7 assistance in English, Dutch, and Spanish.
Exclusions

+ International flights.
+ Alcoholic beverages.
+ Personal expenses.
+ Optional tips for the guide.
+ Personal travel insurance.

Additional information

Prices for 2025 are subject to change.
Pack a few plastic bags to shield your camera, passports, and ID from unexpected rain.
Some activities in the Amazon, such as caiman searching, depend on weather conditions.
If you love observing wildlife, consider bringing binoculars. Opt for 10×40 for an enhanced experience.
It is suggested to have valid travel and medical insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage. Please inform the team of any known medical conditions you have.
Rebecca Adventure Travel and the respective cruise operator reserve the right to change the itinerary without prior notice due to weather conditions, availability, National Park regulations or notifications, and unforeseeable circumstances.
All cruises are subject to availability. Since cruises have fixed departures, please check dates and itineraries with the team before booking the cruise and flight tickets. Due to high demand, availability in the Amazon changes daily. Rebecca Adventure Travel will try to fix your dates with the options available at the time of booking.
Keep in mind that some cruises require you to arrange the flight tickets directly with them, otherwise, they will charge an extra fee. Please check with the team and they will share the complete information before proceeding with your flight ticket arrangement.

ADVANTAGES OF BOOKING WITH REBECCA ADVENTURE TRAVEL

Authenticity: Rebecca Adventure Travel offers unique and authentic experiences. All tours are personally selected by Rebecca, which guarantees authentic hotels (preferably family-owned), high-quality tours, great service, and, last but not least, value for money.
Tailor-made design: Whether travelers prefer a Galapagos island-hopping tour, a cruise, or a tailor-made tour of Ecuador, our local and international destination experts use their own travel experiences to create the right travel plan for every traveler.
Safety & 24/7 assistance: Rebecca Adventure Travel possesses all official tour operating insurance up to EUR 3 million. The team can be reached 24/7 for emergencies, by phone, e-mail, Skype, and WhatsApp. This service is available in English, Spanish, and Dutch!
Face-to-face assistance throughout your travels: Although online communication is essential, in-person service is very important, too. This is why travelers can get face-to-face travel advice at the Travel Concept Store in Zutphen, Netherlands. During your trip, there will be local personal hostesses at each destination, e.g., the Galapagos Islands.
Zero credit card fee: For guests who book a cruise with Rebecca Adventure Travel, there is no extra charge for credit card payment.
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