When we drove into Cotopaxi National Park and the volcano appeared in front of us, it was one of the most beautiful things we have ever seen.
As a family with three children in their early twenties, we booked an 18-day tour in July with Explore Ecuador, run by Tom Schelstraete: 14 days exploring the mainland and 4 days on the Galápagos Islands.
Ecuador offers a very diverse mix of landscapes and climates, all within a reasonable distance of each other: the Andes, the Amazon and Galápagos. Tom takes the customer's wishes into account very well when putting together a tailor-made programme. In our case, we love hiking in the mountains, and we also really enjoy spotting animals.
This trip took us to beautiful volcanoes such as Cotacachi, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo. Every volcano is different, every climb a separate adventure. When we drove into Cotopaxi National Park and the volcano appeared in front of us, it was one of the most beautiful things we have ever seen: a tundra-like landscape with wild horses around the red volcano with its white, cream-puff summit.
Our stay at the Selva Lodge in the Amazon was also a unique experience. The service at the lodge and the knowledge of the guides were of the highest level. This place has never known an ice age, and thanks to its location right on the equator, with an almost constant temperature 365 days a year and 80% humidity, it is the most biodiverse place on earth.
The places we stayed in during the trip were very diverse. The social project of Inti Sisa, which Tom supports, also made a big impression.
Finally, the trip was perfectly organised: every evening Tom updated us on WhatsApp about practical things such as what time the guide would come and what clothes to wear for the weather. Every day the driver and guide were ready on time. We never felt unsafe for a moment either. Highly recommended for anyone who loves discovery, nature and adventure!