Bienvenidos a Ecuador.

Explore Ecuador, from the ancient city of Quito, snuggled in the foothills of the Andes, to the tropical interior of the Amazon jungle. Swim in the warm Pacific waters; explore the amazing Galápagos Islands, home of the giant tortoise; visit the colorful Indian market at Otavalo; and take a look at some of the most magnificent active volcanos in the world.

Orientation

You and your group spend three days on the outskirts of Quito, where it feels like spring year-round. The air is thinner at 9,350 feet above sea level, so take it easy while you hike through the Pasochoa National Park. Practice your Spanish as you buy traditional foods from local vendors, check out street markets, or stroll around the small town of Sangolquí.

Homestay in Quito or Riobamba

Our host families in Ecuador have a reputation for being warm and fun-loving, making it easy for you to feel right at home. Learn about life on the equator as your group and host families spend three weeks exploring the fascinating areas around Quito or Riobamba. Your Spanish improves with each passing day.

Sample activities: Travel to the equator at Mitad del Mundo; explore a pre-Inca archaeological site; trek through a local forest reserve to see rare birds, plants, and pumas; take it easy on warm Pacific beaches; visit the animal market in Guamote; take a train to "Devil's Noose"; ride horses up Mt. Chimborazo; stroll around Riobamba and the snow-capped peaks of three volcanos.

Exploring the Galapagos and the Amazon

Investigate rare plant and animal species on the Galápagos Islands, and take a trip through the Amazon jungle. Learn from naturalists about the fragile ecology and one-of-a-kind biodiversity.

Sample activities: Cruise by night from island to island; snorkel in lava grottoes, home to sea lions and seals; explore mangrove forests and flamingo lagoons; observe the courtship display of rare tropical birds; paddle into the heart of the jungle on a guided canoe expedition; visit a native village and learn about indigenous Ecuadorian traditions.

Code: ECA - Five weeks
Features: Ecological/outdoor adventure
Prerequisites: At least one year of Spanish language training
Depart/Return: Miami
Dates: June 28-August 3
Fee: $4,900

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