Categoría: Travel stories

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

This is a popular destination for surfers from around the world and considered one of the best beaches on the southern coast of Ecuador. Montañita beach 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

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

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

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 private transportation 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 to contact me