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Ecuador is among the most rewarding destinations in South America. Though small in size, it boasts an astonishing array of vibrant indigenous cultures, well-preserved colonial architecture, volcanic landscapes, and dense rainforest. Named for the equator, which runs through the northern part of the country, Ecuador is a country of short distances and big contrasts. In a single day you can go from the lush Amazon jungle over the majestic mountain ranges of the Andes to the tropical beaches of the coast. On this program you will explore both the natural and the ethnic diversity of this remarkable country.
This program features homestays with two different indigenous communities, the Otavalo people of the highlands and the Huaorani of the Ecuadorian Amazon. The Otavalo people are known for their handicrafts, music, and the most famous market in Ecuador. We will stay with families and participate in their daily lives as we learn about weaving, visit the markets, and explore the surrounding countryside. During our stay with the Huaorani people of the rainforest, we will assist with day-to-day activities such as planting, harvesting, making handicrafts, and preparing meals. Our hosts will teach us about the different uses of jungle plants and how to use spears and blowguns, as the Huaorani do to get their food. We will also learn about the struggles of the Huaorani against the oil companies who threaten their land and survival. Together with our Huaorani guides, we will explore the tropical rainforest by foot and the rivers by dugout canoe. The Huaorani will introduce you to a whole new world. You will be amazed at how deep and alive the rainforest is.
Our Ecuadorian adventure also includes sightseeing in the capital city of Quito, whose colonial core has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We also visit Cotopaxi Volcano, a perfect cone visible from Quito on clear days, and spend four days in the Maquipucuna Cloud Forest Reserve, located on the western slopes of the Andes within the Choco-Andean Bioregion, one of the world’s most top-ten biodiversity hotspots. At the reserve we will learn about the conservation and ecotourism efforts of the Maquipucuna Foundation and local communities.
Crooked Trails can also assist you with adding on a 5-day extension to the magical Galápagos Islands. |
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Andes & Amazon
Program length: 15 days
Dates:
07 Nov to 21 Nov, 2009
Grade: Moderate
Price: $3,670 plus airfare
Sample itinerary (PDF)
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for Ecuador! |
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Highlights!
Andes & Amazon homestay
The colonial city of Quito
Maquipucuna Cloud Forest
The famous Otavalo market
Explore the rainforest |
