Ecuador - Beyond the Galapagos Islands

Our journey began with the excitement of exploring the famed Galapagos Islands, a dream I never thought would come true until I secured a spot aboard one of Ecoventura's luxury yachts. But little did I know that Ecuador had much more to offer beyond the allure of the famous Galapagos Islands. 

The locals have a saying that Ecuador is so small and diverse that you can enjoy breakfast by the beach, lunch in the Andean mountains and dinner in the Amazon—all in a single day! 

As tempting as it was to rush through Ecuador's incredible destinations, we chose to take a slower approach, focusing on fewer destinations to truly immerse ourselves in the beauty and charm of the countryside, volcanoes and bustling city life, leaving the jungle for next time! After bidding farewell to the finches and sea lions of the Galápagos, we found ourselves drawn to the towering majesty of Cotopaxi National Park, home to one seriously impressive volcano surrounded by the Andes Mountains. Cotopaxi, standing tall at 5,897 meters is a sight not to be missed! Its perpetually snow-capped peak, rising majestically above 5000 meters and presents a postcard-like perfect image of what a volcano should be!

As we explored the park, we encountered unique fauna, such as llamas and Andean foxes, amidst the diverse flora that blankets the landscape. While climbing Cotopaxi's summit requires careful planning and acclimatisation, there are alternative adventures that include hiking to the first base and exhilarating downhill biking experiences. Unfortunately, our altitude sickness prevented us from doing either, but luckily, we could enjoy the beauty of the National Park in other ways. Horseback riding, led by local Chagras, provided us with an intimate connection to the land and its inhabitants, offering glimpses of wild horses and roaming llamas against the backdrop of the Cotopaxi volcano.

(Note - “You can get altitude sickness if you're in a place that is at a high altitude (usually more than 2,500 metres above sea level. Symptoms of altitude sickness usually start 6 to 10 hours after being at a high altitude. The main symptoms include; a headache, loss of appetite, feeling or being sick, feeling tired or exhausted dizziness and difficulty sleeping”. If you're at a high altitude and have symptoms of altitude sickness, please notify your guide. Symptoms of altitude sickness usually get better in 1 to 3 days. Information provided by NHS.)

Our base for exploring Cotopaxi was the enchanting Hacienda El Porvenir, a working ranch nestled amidst four volcanoes, including the iconic Cotopaxi herself. Here, Maria, the gracious owner, welcomed us with open arms and introduced us to the rich culture of Andean life. Our accommodation was a charming honeymoon suite adorned in traditional Andean style, provided a cosy sanctuary complete with a crackling fireplace and sweeping views of the ranch. The Hacienda's main house provided warmth and authenticity and Nico the host, greeted us with local delicacies and warm hospitality.

Throughout our stay, Hacienda El Porvenir offered us more than just a place to rest our heads—it provided a gateway to authentic Andean experiences. From hands-on cooking classes to lassoing lessons with Andean cowboys, each activity offered insight into the region's rich heritage and agricultural practices. Our days were filled with leisurely walks, indulgent Spa treatments and unforgettable horseback rides against the backdrop of Cotopaxi's magnificence. As we bid farewell to the Hacienda, we carried with us memories of warmth, hospitality and the timeless beauty of the Andes.

As our time in Ecuador was coming to a close, we couldn't miss the opportunity to explore Otavalo, a town known for its rich indigenous culture and vibrant markets. After a scenic drive, we arrived and immediately sought out a local waterfall for a refreshing break, surrounded by lush vegetation and the soothing sound of cascading water.

With our spirits rejuvenated, we ventured into the heart of Otavalo, where the colourful traditional attire of the locals greeted us at every turn. The energy was infectious as we made our way to the Otavalo Craft Market, one of the largest in Latin America. Stretched across bustling streets and alleyways, the market was a feast for the senses, with stalls overflowing with handmade treasures. We wandered through the maze of vendors, admiring the textiles, carved woodwork and a dazzling array of jewellery. Each item told a story of Ecuador's rich cultural heritage. After indulging in some souvenir shopping, we journeyed back to Quito.

Our final day in Quito was full of exploration as we made the most of every moment in this beautiful city. We began by strolling through the historic Old Town, taking in the sights along the cobblestone streets. From the busy Independence Square, we set off to see some famous landmarks. Our highlight of the tour was the stunning Basilica of the National Vow, a testament to Ecuador's rich cultural heritage. We couldn't leave without trying Ecuadorian Ceviche one more time—a tasty way to end our trip!

In essence, Ecuador is more than just the Galapagos Islands—it's a country rich in culture, landscapes and experiences waiting to be explored. Each region offers unique charm and adventure, from the coast to the mountains and the Amazon. So, if you find yourself dreaming of Ecuador, don't limit your journey to the Galapagos. Embrace the diversity this remarkable country has to offer and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!

(This blog has been written by Monika, Travel Matters’ Senior Travel Advisor. She visited Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands in September 2023.