Ecuador’s highlands feature some of the most beautiful countryside vistas in South America. In this majestic region, we encounter old farms or “haciendas”, dating back centuries. Their proprietors still work the fertile rolling hills, and have opened their doors to visitors interested in traditional Andean culture. In this setting, we are swept away to a land where time stands still. The tranquility, here at the center of the world, is arrayed with patchwork fields, awe-inspiring glaciated volcanos, lush cloud forests and centuries-old colonial villages. Handicrafts flourish, including wood carving, leather working, ornament making and intricate weaving. In addition to exceptional cross-cultural opportunities, we find unique species of flora and fauna in well-protected ecological reserves.

Our first night is spent in a hacienda near Quito, then we head south, along the Avenue of the Volcanos, to hike the bamboo forested paths of Pasochoa Nature Preserve, on the slopes of an extinct volcano. Returning to the capital, we have a short tour of Quito before continuing north to the fertile valleys and rolling hills of the Lake District. We have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the colorful, well-known Otavalo Indian Market, to watch the trading and meet some of the local residents. Staying in comfortable haciendas along the way, our days are filled with hiking, horseback riding, birding and mountain biking, always learning more about the fascinating history of the area from our native guide. We are enriched by the friendliness and warm hospitality of our hosts and are reluctant to end this relaxing sojourn. We return to Quito before going on to our next adventure, or returning home.