Trip info
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3 – 4 – 5 estrellas
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Ground Transportation
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2.980 m.s.n.m
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June to August (dry weather and festivities)
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Available
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Español – ingles – francés – italiano – portugués – alemán
Overview
Northern Ecuador, located in South America on the equatorial line, spans both hemispheres and offers a hidden treasure of rich cultural, historical, natural, and gastronomic experiences that will leave any visitor breathless.
Begin the journey at the Rumichaca International Bridge, an ancient indigenous trail known as the “navel of the universe,” situated over the Guáitara River Canyon. Along this route, marvel at the colorful mosaics typical of Andean landscapes. Discover the renowned Tulcán Cemetery “José María Azael Franco,” a Cultural Heritage site of Ecuador, where 309 cypress tree sculptures represent the region’s flora, fauna, and cultural motifs, all crafted with spectacular detail.
Travel through diverse ecosystems, encountering majestic mountains, rivers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and unique glacial-origin lakes such as Yahuarcocha. Visit San Pablo, Ecuador’s largest lake, fed by the Peguche waterfall below the Imbabura Volcano, and Cuicocha Lagoon, a volcanic caldera at the base of Cotacachi Volcano.
Explore vibrant Andean colonial cities like Ibarra and Otavalo. Otavalo is renowned for hosting South America’s largest indigenous market, showcasing artistic, handcrafted, and traditional Ecuadorian products. Witness the exquisite leatherwork of Cotacachi, blending refined design with rugged craftsmanship.
This journey through Northern Ecuador offers landscapes guarded by majestic volcanoes, vibrant cultural and spiritual identity, multicultural heritage, historic architecture, and stunning natural wonders. It is an invitation to immerse yourself in its unique beauty and diversity.
Highlights
- Cross the Rumichaca International Bridge and feel as if you are standing in two hemispheres at once.
- Admire the 309 living sculptures of the Tulcán Cemetery, a unique garden of vegetal art.
- Sail across the glacial Yahuarcocha Lagoon, surrounded by mountains steeped in legend.
- Gaze at the ceremonial Peguche Waterfall, which gives life to the vast Lake San Pablo.
- Glide by boat through the turquoise crater of Cuicocha and feel the power of the Cotacachi Volcano.
- Bargain among ponchos and Andean melodies at the Indigenous market of Otavalo.
- Choose handcrafted leather goods in Cotacachi, Ecuador’s capital of fine leather.
- Stroll through whitewashed Ibarra and savor helados de paila under its eternal springtime climate.
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