The amazing Yanacocha Reserve is located 1-hour drive northwest of Quito. It covers an area of 964,000 hectares of forests that protect a great biodiversity of Andean flora and fauna, with an altitude ranging from 3,200 to 4,400 meters above sea level.
It is an ecosystem that contains one of the greatest biodiversity of birds and plants at high altitudes. The reserve was created to protect the endangered Black-breasted Puffleg hummingbird.
Last week we visited this place with two great birders. Nelson (very good birder guide) and Steven Klingler (birder photography). I was hired as a private driver. We left Quito very early in the morning. It is important to arrive early to be able to observe good bird species. There are several paths to hike. We took the longest trail of about 2 km. to the hummingbird feeders. During the walk, we were able to see some tanagers, antpittas, Tyrannulet, flower pierces, and more.
What did we see at the Reserve?
The most outstanding birds we saw were two owls, White-throated-Screech Owl and Andean-pygmi Owl. These two species of birds are very difficult to observe and are a challenge for a birdwatcher to find. After a few hours of recording species, we arrived at the exclusive site of the hummingbirds. We were able to observe seven species of hummingbirds. The most beautiful and most striking is the Sword-billed Hummingbird. Above all, it has the longest bill in relation to its body size of any bird in the world. In short, we observed a total of 30 species of birds.
This place is highly recommended for nature-loving travelers and expert birders. Admission to the Reserve is $5.
I want to make sure your trip is comfortable and safe. Therefore, I suggest you hire privatetransportation or a private driver that will make your trip an unforgettable experience
You can do this trip to Yanacocha Reserve in one day or you can also choose one of myitineraries for a more complete adventure. Do not miss it!
For more detailed information about hiring a private driver to accompany you throughout your trip, do not hesitate tocontact me
I will give you some 10 Bets Travel Tips To Ecuador. These will be helpful and will make your trip a wonderful experience.
I’m a local resident, and I’m up-to-date on everything travelers should know about Ecuador. Why do you need to know the 10 best travel tips for Ecuador? Because as a private driver, I’ve traveled everywhere in Ecuador, I know the customs, the traditions, and I make my living from tourism.
10 Best Travel Tips to Ecuador
1. Travel Tips for getting Money.
Usually, the local bank’s max per withdrawal is $300-500 US. Depending on your bank back home. Maybe it is not enough, so you should repeat your retreat every day. Most restaurants, hotels, and tourist agencies accept credit cards. Therefore you should only carry a small amount of cash for daily expenses. It is not advisable to carry a lot of money.
The $50 and $100 bills are rarely accepted at most shops and restaurants, and small change is often in short supply, so bring plenty of low-denomination bills from your home country if possible.
2. Weather
In Ecuador, the climate varies depending on the region you want to visit. In the Sierra the best time of the year are the months of May, June, July, July, August until mid-September. This is the dry season. There is no rain, there is a lot of wind and it is advisable to visit the mountains. If you are going to visit the coast, the best time of the year is December, January, and February. If you want to go to the Amazon Rain Fores, the best months are from May to December. However, nowadays the climate changes have also influenced a lot in Ecuador, therefore, the weather will sometimes be unpredictable.
3. Tips for Language Speaking
One of the drawbacks in Ecuador is the language.Most local people do not speak English, so it is important to speak basic Spanish or hire private transportation with a bilingual driver. Ecuadorians are very friendly and feel more comfortable with foreigners who speak their language.
4. Travel tips for Public Transportation
Some travel tips for Public transportation in Ecuador are useful. Transportation in Ecuador is cheap. It is not recommended to travel by bus. If you have to travel long distances, it is better to do it during the day. It is very important to take your luggage with you. Taxis are very affordable. A short taxi ride shouldn’t cost much more than $5 USD. Otherwise, you’ll have to negotiate the fee with the driver. Don’t be afraid to haggle! In rural areas, a taxi might actually just be a pick-up truck.
The best way to know Ecuador is hiring a private driver or private transportation with a local bilingual driver.
5. Suggestions for Accommodation
You can find low-cost lodging if you go to hostels, $8 / person with a shared room. The price of private rooms starts at $15 to 25 /person in a standard hotel.
Avises For Food and Eating Out
6. Watertips
First of all, as you have already read that everyone recommends not to drink tap water. It is important to carry your own water. The best thing to do is to buy a gallon of water for $1.50 and fill your bottle whenever you need it.
7. Tips for Restaurants and food
Meals typically cost between $3-5 for local food. You can find food stalls on the street for around $1-2 but they are not recommended. Good restaurants cost around $10-12. For a meal at a mid-range restaurant, expect to spend around $25 per person. If you’re planning on shopping, go to the local market. Indeed, buying 1k. of bananas and a kilo of apples cost $2. Ecuadorian beers can cost as little as $1 USD each. Expect to pay a premium in bars and restaurants for alcohol, especially in the cities.
Ideas About What to Bring
8. Sun-screen.
Because we are located on the equator, the sun’s rays are more direct and can burn and hurt you. Therefore, sunscreen should be applied regularly, even when it is cloudy or cold. In addition, you should bring a hat and wear a long-sleeved shirt.
9. Mosquito repellent advise
I suggest bringing your own mosquito repellent, especially if you are visiting the coast and the Amazon Rain Forest. Even in the cold weather, if you visit a waterfall or a river, there will be mosquitoes.
10. Bathing Suit.
In many of the places you will visit in Ecuador you will find hot springs, waterfalls, or small rivers in the cloud forest that will challenge you to get in there. So, don’t forget to bring your bathing suit!
Do you need a private driver to visit Quitsato Sundial?
The Quitsato sundialis located north of Quito at a 1-hour drive. That is to say, It is the first monument to the Middle of the World that is exactly on the equator. It has a metal cylinder where you can observe the shadow of the sun at each solstice and equinox. The monument is close to the city of Cyambe and also has a spectacular view of the Cayambe Volcano. If you are on a tour to Otavalo, ask your private driver to stop for a moment to visit Quitsato.
If you want a few minutes to stand over the equator line and take a photo without too many other tourists, this is a very good place to do it, Certainly, less touristy than the other sites. This is easy in, easy out place. There are guides to give you a brief explanation in English about the equator and some history on how it was named.
What is the best season to visit Quitsato?
The best months to visit this site are March and September. In Ecuador, we do not have the four seasons as in other northern countries. Therefore, we have two Equinoxes and two Solstices. The Equinoxes occur twice a year, between March 19th and 21st, and September 20th to 23rd. The Solstices occur between June 20 or 21 and December 21 or 22. In the months of March or September, when the sun is exactly in the center at 12 noon, it is not possible to observe any shadow. Most importantly, this is a unique spectacle in the world and we can observe it here in Ecuador, the Middle of the World.
Traveling through this area would not be complete without a stop here and at nearby Hacienda Guachala, for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate! Further, the panoramic view, the explanations and discussions about our planet, which way it rotates, which way is north, etc – makes for a refreshing stop. Many people don’t ponder how we fit in this amazing solar system, but after visiting Quitsito, one feels a bit more connected to our planet.
Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know About the Andean Cosmovisionand the Quitsato Sundial
In the Andean cosmovision, the first Equinox is celebrated on March 21st. Above all, it was considered by the Andean Indians as the beginning of a new year. It was the time of flowering, of the appearance of the first grains of corn. Therefore they used to make many rites, ceremonies, and festivals in honor of the Sun and Mother Earth. Our Indians already knew thousands of years ago the calendars for planting and harvesting which were based on the Equinoxes and Solstices.
On the equinox, it was also very important to renew the sacred fire. Three days before the celebration, all the fires were extinguished. After that, on March 21, in the early hours, at sunrise, the ceremony began. At noon, when the sun was at its midpoint, they placed a golden bowl with firewood in the middle of the cylinder. Then, with the rays of the sun, the firewood was lit. The oldest of the community passed the fire to the youngest and these distributed it to all the houses. This fire was kept until the next year.
I want to make sure your trip is comfortable and safe. Therefore, I suggest you hire privatetransportation or a private driver that will make your trip an unforgettable experience
Hire a private driver to reach Lago Agrio. This city is also known as Nueva Loja It s situated in the northern part of the Amazon Rain Forest. It extends along a plain adjacent to the Aguarico River. Additionally, this area is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. Furthermore, the town serves as a gateway to the pristine natural wonders that characterize the Amazon Region.
La perla Ecological Park
What to do in Lago Agrio?
Lago Agrio is mainly visited as the entry point to the spectacular Cuyabeno Reserve, and the Biological Reserve Limoncocha, which offers some of Ecuador’s best wildlife-spotting opportunities.
La Perla Ecological Park.
Your private driver will head to La Perla Ecological Park, situated in Lago Agrio. in the basin of the Amazon Rainforest. Primarily functioning as a center for environmental interpretation and research of flora and fauna, it actively encourages scientists to study endemic species at risk of extinction. With an average temperature of 29 degrees Fahrenheit and an altitude of 1,115 feet, La Perla is conveniently located just 10 minutes from the city. Encompassing an area of 110 hectares of Amazon rainforest, its main allure lies in the expansive lagoon, spanning 1,200 meters in length and 400 meters in width.
Hoatzin Path at La Perla Ecological Park
This place is one of the most important wetlands in the area. It has two very interesting trails, the most important one called Hoatzin, which has a distance of 800 meters. This trail is very attractive for birds, mammals, and reptiles watching. In addition, travelers can enjoy other activities such as boat rides, kayaking, bird watching, and zip line.
How can I get there?
If you need my assistance as a private driver, I can help you reach Lago Agrio with a personalized trip. So, during the tour, we will make some stops to observe the exuberant vegetation of the Cloud Forest and Tropical Rainforest. We will be able to enjoy of fantastic views, waterfalls and rivers. Most importantly, If the weather is clear, we can observe the Reventador Volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the area.
For travelers visiting the Amazon Rainforest for the first time is a fantastic and unique experience. Undoubtedly, this is the best way to be in contact with the lush vegetation and biodiversity of this splendid green paradise.
Lago Agrio Central Park
Before arriving at Lago Agrio we will pass through some towns where we can taste typical dishes such as maito de pescado (fish stew) and tortillas de tiesto. Furthermore, this city has a variety of very comfortable hotels, with very competitive prices and quality service. If you do not have a hotel on your list, I can recommend Gran Hotel del Lago, a good hotel located in the center of town.
I want to make sure your trip is comfortable and safe. Therefore, I suggest you hire privatetransportation or a private driver that will make your trip an unforgettable experience.
This fantastic trip to La Perla Ecological Park is highly recommended to do in 5 days. However, you can also choose one of my itinerariesfor a more complete experience. Don’t miss this incredible adventure!
For more detailed information about hiring a private driver to accompany you throughout your trip, do not hesitate to contact me
Why is the “EL Angel” Ecological Reserve important?
The Ecological Reserve of El Angel is located north of Quito, in the province of Carchi, 15 km. from the city of El Angel. It has an extension of 15,700 hectares. This ecosystem is formed by forests of polylepis and Frailejones (Espeletia pycnophylla), considered a native plant of the Andes. Also, within its protected area are the Voladero Lagoons.
How to get there?
The area is a unique natural spectacle in the north of Ecuador. To reach this reserve it is required to hire a private transport or a driver-guide since there is no public transportation to get this place.
During the driving, we’ll cross the charming and fertile Chota valley. Then we’ll continue to the city of Mira to admire the whole valley of Chota, the Mira River, the Cayambe, Cotacachi and Imbabura volcanoes. We’ll head to the city of Angel and continue driving 15 km. to reach the Voladero lagoons.
What to do in the Voladero Lagoons?
Voladero is located at an altitude of 3,700 m. and has a trail of 3 km. There are several lagoons but it is possible to observe only 2 at the main entrance of the reserve. If hikers want to explore more, they need to hike farther North to find the Potrerillos lagoon. Next to the Cerro Negro (Black Mountain) is located the Laguna Negra (Black Lake).
During the hike, travelers can enjoy the splendid landscape surrounded by native and very rare plants such as Frailejon. The most attractive and easy to find is Voladero lagoons. It has a very attractive trail of 3 km. At the highest point of the path, there is a viewpoint from where you can enjoy the peaceful panorama.
This is a spectacle that travelers should not miss.
I strongly recommend doing this splendid trip to the El Angel Ecological Reserve in one day, if you are staying in Otavalo. Two days are recommended starting from Quito. However, you can also choose one of my itineraries for a more complete adventure. Don’t miss this incredible experience!
For more detailed information about hiring a private driver to accompany you throughout your trip, do not hesitate to contact me
Hiring a private driver to Mantañita through the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador is the best choice. Without a doubt, one of the greatest attractions of the Ecuadorian coast is La Ruta del Sol, which covers approximately 115 km. This route starts from the South at the cool Salinas beach, continuing to Esmeraldas in the North, but the best and most beautiful beaches are in Manta. Your private driver will head to experience the special attraction of each place, the exquisite typical dishes, and the picturesque villages. In addition to important archaeological sites, mangroves, and National Parks.
What can I do there with my private driver?
Many activities can be done such as surfing, jet ski, paragliding, bird watching, diving, kayaking, and above all whale watching. The Ruta del Sol begins to the south in the city of Salinas, crosses the beaches of Ballenita, Ayangue, Montañita, Olon, Puerto Lopez, Puerto Cayo, Canoa, and to the north Mompiche, Sua, and Atacames.
SALINAS, THE BLUE PARADISE
Salinas is a modern city called the “Blue Paradise of the South Pacific” due to its privileged geographic location. Consequently, the city is considered the most important resort in the country within the continent. It has charming beaches such as Chipipe and San Lorenzo and Punta Carnero, Overall, it is an exquisite beach for surfing.
5 places you should visit in Salinas beach
La Chocolatera ia one of the most prominent attractions around Salinas, which is located on the most prominent point of the Ecuadorian coast. Likewise, It is called Chocolatera because when the waves collide with each other they form whirlpools. Moreover, In this magnificent place live around 50 marine and dry forest species, migratory and non-migratory, among them whales, birds, and colonies of sea lions.
El Soplador, is so-called because when the waves hit the rocks they emit a sound similar to that made by a whale.
The Gaviotin, the name is given because, at the hottest time of the year, some species of seagulls come to this place. In Spanish “seagull” is translated as “gaviotin”.
El Faro, a place where the most prominent lighthouse on the coast is located. Usually people can get inside and have a pleasant view of the sea.
Puntilla, which is the viewpoint where you can see the sea lions.
After your joyful visit to Salinas, your private driver will head to Montañita, which is a bit far. However, the views of the picturesque fishing villages are delightful.
5 inspiring beaches you will find on the Route of the Sun.
MONTAÑITA
Montañita
This is a popular destination for surfers from around the world and considered one of the best beaches on the southern coast of Ecuador. Montañitabeach is a town located on the Santa Elena peninsula. The best season for surfing is between December and May, while the carnival is celebrated with an international competition that is part of the Latin American Surf Tour. Also, this town beach is well known for its nightlife, a destination for those who want to party, but not recommended for travelers who want to relax.
PUERTO LOPEZ BEACH
Puero López located close to Salinas
It is a fishing town located in an arched bay. Puerto López is considered an ecological and tourist town. Above all, it is very famous for the annual sighting of humpback whales, which is a show that is repeated every year between June to September. In other words, that is the months when the whales migrate from the waters of Antarctica to these warm equatorial waters to mate and raise their young. In addition to whale watching, there are other spectacular attractions such as the Machalilla National Park and its museum, Isla de la Plata, and La Playa de Los Frailes, where you can go diving.
MACHALILLA NATIONAL PARK
Machalilla National Park
The Park is located 15 minutes north of Puerto López. It runs along the coast from Puerto Cayo to Puerto López and includes several beaches. Consequently, It is one of the largest protected areas on the Ecuadorian coast. The National Park includes an extensive museum. Most importantly it is the archaeological heart of the Park that stands out for the vestiges of an ancient city from 1,500 years ago.
ISLA DE LA PLATA
Isla de la Plata
Another amazing place is La Isla de la Plata (Silver Island), also called Little Galápagos because the island is a refuge for important birds and the only place in Ecuador, apart from the Galápagos Islands. Consequently, you can see Patas Boobies. Blues, Red-footed Boobies, and Masked Boobies. In the same way, you can also see many Frigates and Albatross.
CANOA BEACH
You can have fun with your private driver after visitng Montañita, heading to Manta and then to Canoa. This peaceful and charming little town where the visitor can take a break and enjoy the sun and the beach in total tranquility and quiet. Canoa is located 20 minutes from Bahia de Caraquez.
And why visit Canoa and not other beaches on the route?
Firstly because of the rustic shape that the town has and also because of the tranquility that its beach offers. In other words, Canoa is a place for travelers who want to enjoy the beach peacefully.
I want to make sure your trip is comfortable and safe. Therefore, I suggest you hire privatetransportation or a private driver to Montañita that will make your trip an unforgettable experience
This trip to Salinas and La Ruta del Sol is strongly recommended to do at least four days. However, you can also choose one of my itineraries for a more complete adventure. Don’t miss this incredible adventure!
For more detailed information about hiring a private driver to accompany you throughout your trip, do not hesitate tocontact me
