Wildlife Activities In Quito

Embarking on an unforgettable solo adventure in Ecuador, I was joined by a fellow traveler from Ireland, courtesy of Tratoli's meticulously crafted travel package. Under the expert guidance of Patricio Alvarado, affectionately known as Pato, our experience was nothing short of spectacular. With fluency in both English and Spanish, Pato enriched our journey with insightful details and personalized care. Our itinerary was brimming with excitement—horseback riding through picturesque landscapes, hiking to the breath-taking Cotopaxi base camp, and indulging in an authentic Ecuadorian lunch on a serene farm, all while capturing the moments through our lenses. We got up close with llamas, feeding them, and even had the opportunity to observe a fox in the reserve, adding a touch of wild charm to our tour. Pato's thoughtful approach ensured we had all we required, tailoring the day to our preferences and creating a truly bespoke adventure. The culmination of our trek to Cotopaxi base camp was marked with a warm celebration—sipping tea and hot chocolate, reveling in the sense of achievement. This travel experience stands out as a highlight, thanks to the seamless combination of adventure, culture, and Pato's exceptional guidance. For anyone looking for a unique and comprehensive tour of Ecuador, my heartfelt recommendation is to consider this journey. With heartfelt appreciation, I extend my thanks for a memorable expedition.

2024-03-09

Embarking on a tour of Quilotoa through Tratoli proved to be the most memorable experience during our visit to Quito. Ivan, our skilled driver, coupled with Irene, our effervescent tour guide, was prompt and exuded warmth from the outset. The anticipation built during the three-hour journey to Quilotoa, as Irene enriched us with captivating insights into Ecuador's heritage, her vibrant spirit made even more infectious by her passion for her homeland. Navigating the twisty, elevated roads was seamless with Ivan's adept driving. En route, we had the delightful opportunity to immerse ourselves in local culture at a traditional indigenous farm, surrounded by alpacas and guinea pigs. The vistas during our ascent were truly stunning, the magnificence of which only intensified upon reaching the summit of the volcanic lagoon. Descending to the lagoon was manageable, yet caution was advised due to slippage risks; nevertheless, the effort was indisputably rewarding. For those apprehensive about the strenuous hike back, horseback rides were a convenient option available at a nominal cost, which was a perfect solution for our younger children. To cap off the journey, we indulged in a flavorsome meal in a quaint mountain village; the cuisine not only tantalized our taste buds but was also gentle on the wallet and generous in portion. I wholeheartedly recommend this enriching expedition when in Ecuador, especially if guided by the exceptional duo of Irene and Ivan whose expertise and child-friendly approach enhanced our excursion significantly. Ensure to seize the opportunity with Tratoli for an unforgettable adventure!

2024-07-30

Quito's expansive landscape offers an array of breathtaking vistas, and our travel itinerary with Tratoli was specifically curated to capture its splendor. The expertise of our live guide was impressive, as they shared detailed knowledge at each landmark, enhancing our understanding of this vibrant city. With an approximate duration of one hour and forty-five minutes, our tour loop was perfectly timed, allowing us to fully appreciate the wealth of sights at the numerous stops provided.

2024-06-02

Embarking on an adventure booked through Tratoli, I was promptly picked up at 7:30am by my guide, Pedro, accompanied by an apprentice guide. Pedro's command of the English language made our communication seamless, enriching my understanding of Ecuador's rugged landscape as we journeyed towards the southern entrance of Cotopaxi National Park. Our first halt was at the Interpretation Center, which featured bilingual informational signage. A stroll in the adjacent quaint garden was followed by warming ourselves with steaming cups of coca tea inside a cozy yet brisk café. The drive upwards, towards the volcano, brought a tangible chill as the temperature plummeted, turning the roads icy. Our non-4WD vehicle eventually succumbed to the icy conditions, halting before the typical starting point for the hike, leaving us no choice but to park on the roadside. Stepping out into the harsh mix of snow, biting cold, ice, and fierce winds at such a high altitude was truly a shock to the system. Gathering my breath took a moment, but soon, we opted for the gentler switchback path over the steep direct ascent. Despite its deceptively benign label, the "easy" route presented its own set of challenges, exacerbated by the elements. Persistence was key, even as piercing winds occasionally lashed out. Although acclimatized in Quito for three days, the altitude occasionally left me breathless during the ascent. Energy gels and sweet treats were valuable allies, alongside the sugar candy my guide kindly offered. The strenuous journey paid off with panoramic views that were nothing short of awe-inspiring. Reaching the shelter at Refugio Jose Rivas, standing at 15,953 feet, was a milestone worth commemorating with another cup of hot coca tea, sheltered from the relentless wind. A sense of achievement filled the air as I left my mark on the American Flag and stamped my journal for posterity. The descent was equally cautious, navigating through slippery gravel to return to our vehicle in roughly 40 minutes. Our descent rewarded us with a sighting of a beautiful Andean Fox, and I had the chance to independently explore the serene Limpiopungo Lagoon. The journey back included a culinary stop at Restaurante Rondador Cotopaxi, serving regional favorites like Locro de papa. While the beef dish proved challenging due to its toughness, the remainder of the meal was delectable. Overall, this escapade merits a resounding 10/10 for top-notch email communication, customer service, and exceptional guidance from Pedro, courtesy of Real Dreams Tour Operator and Tratoli.

2021-12-12