This is Ecuador September 2010

SEPTEMBER 2010

SEPTEMBER 2010

THIS IS ECUADOR

No 482

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www.thisisecuador.com

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CONTENTS

Welcome to Ecuador Land Distances Road Map General Travel Information Handmade in Ecuador Tourism News Gourmet Ecuador Native Cultures Map National Protected Areas Map

4 6 7 8 10 13 14 16 17 18 19

Galapagos General information Map This Month in Galapagos Premium Services

23 25 29 30

Coast General information 34 Guayaquil 36 Map 42 Culture & Entertainment 44 Premium Hotels 45 Restaurants 48 Ruta del Sol (The Sun Route) 50 Map 51 Whale-watching season 53 Premium Hotels & Services 54 Andes General information Amazing Experience: Spectacled Bears Premium Haciendas Thermals & Spas Northern Andes

56 57 58 61 62

Map Premium Services Quito Pre- Inca Vestiges In The Heart Of Quito Culture & Entertainment Recommended Books Restaurants Map Premium Hotels Shopping Food Premium Services Central Andes Map Premium Services Southern Andes Map Cuenca Restaurants Premium Services Map Premium Hotels Cuenca’s surroundings Loja Map Premium Hotels Amazonia General information Important tips and recomendations Initiative Yasuni- ITT Premium Lodging Luxury in the Amazon

63 65 66 76 78 79 80 82 85 90 91 92 94 95 97 98 99 100 104 105 106 108 110 111 112 115 116 117 118 118 120

A Birder’s Paradise 121 Embassies & Consulates List 122

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SEPTEMBER 2010

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY GUSTAVO VALLEJO P. Director CAROLINA VALLEJO Cover CRISTINA VALLEJO Editor CAMILA VENEGAS Sales Director info@thisisecuador.com (593 9) 9813 7553 BELEN MENA Design SOLUCIONES GRAFICAS D&G Layout

www.thisisecuador.com

This month’s cover Illustration inspired in the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus) or Andean Bear, the only surviving species of bear native to South America. An article on page 57 of this month’s issue tells the story of a close encounter with a family of Spectacled Bears on the highway, only an hour drive away from Quito.

IMPRENTA MARISCAL Printing

This is Ecuador is protected by law as intellectual property.

Registration No. 9, page 3422; February 25, 1969. Total or partial reproduction as well as the use of photographs must be authorized by Gustavo Vallejo Pérez.

Quito: Whymper 777 y 6 de Diciembre Phone: (593 2) 290-8200 / 255-2177 Guayaquil: Padre Aguirre 104 y Malecón Ed. Fortín 4to. Piso Phone: (593 9) 858-4053 info@thisisecuador.com www.exploringecuador.com www.thisisecuador.com 2

Editor’s Note This is Ecuador is a complimentary guide. It should not be sold by any means. All of the tourist sites that appear on this magazine have been visited by our editors. Moreover, our commercial staff has previously evaluated the tourist services that appear on our publication. If any of these services does not meet your expectations, please let us know.

Read our entire guide at www.thisisecuador.com. You can learn about our wonderful country and book premium services through our e-guide.

Comments/suggestions: info@thisisecuador.com Phone number in Quito: (593 2) 290- 8200 We appreciate your opinion.

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Ecuador has the biggest biodiversity per area in the world! In a study by Conservation International, Ecuador ranked among the 17 “mega diverse” countries, alongside the United States, China, Australia, Brazil and Mexico. With 9.2 species per km2, it occupies the first place in the world with regards to species per area.

The richness of Ecuador lies in its DIVERSITY, both natural and cultural.

Ecuador has 4 diverse and unique regions: the Amazon Rain forest, the highland Andes, the Coast, and the Galapagos Archipelago.

These four regions are subdivided into provinces. Besides its exuberant biodiversity, Ecuador is home to an impressive variety of ethnic groups, including communities who still practice ancient cultural traditions (for more information see page 16).

LOCATION: Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in America. It lies on both the Northern and the Southern Hemispheres and is divided by the Equator, thus the name of the country.

It borders Colombia (North), Peru (South and East), and the Pacific Ocean (West).

AREA: about 270.670 km2 or 168.186 square miles.

4

DISTANCE FROM NORTH TO SOUTH: 1.081 km or 672 miles.

POPULATION: approximately 13 million.

LANGUAGE: The first language is Spanish, however, most of the indigenous population speaks Quichua. There are 18 different languages among native communities.

PROVINCES: - Galapagos - Coast: Esmeraldas, Manabi, Los Rios, Guayas, Santa Elena, El Oro. - Andes: Carchi, Imbabura, Pichincha, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Bolivar, Chimborazo, Cañar, Azuay and Loja.

- Amazonia: Sucumbios, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Morona Santiago and Zamora Chinchipe.

RELIGION: 95% Catholics CURRENCY: American Dollar. The Ecuadorian government has also produced a series of local coins that have the same value as the U.S. coins (which are also accepted).

Banks open from 9h00 to 17h00 and on Saturdays only half day. Money exchange is offered every day in main hotels.

GOVERNMENT:

Democratic.

Current President is Economist Rafael Correa Delgado.

CLIMATE: The climate throughout the country ranges from tropical equatorial rain in the Amazon to perpetual snow on the top of the mountains. Cities in the highlands have temperatures that vary from 50ºF to 70ºF, while coastal cities’ temperatures vary from 60ºF to 80ºF during the day. The weather in the jungle is constant: rainy, humid and warm.

The Galapagos Islands are sunny and warm during the months of December-May; the temperature drops from June to November.

WHAT TO WEAR: • In Quito and the highlands the weather is very unpredictable. A common saying is that you can live the four seasons in one day: from intense sun to hail. One needs to look out the window before deciding what to wear each day. During June, July and August the weather is more sunny but windy. During the rest of the year you would need warmer clothing like those you would wear during the fall. A raincoat or jacket would be useful all year long, since at night it gets pretty chilly.

• Guayaquil and other coastal cities: wear summer clothing all

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year round. During the rainy months, December to May, the weather is still very warm. During the months of June to November the weather is cloudy and a bit colder. Bring along a light jacket.

• Galapagos: wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing. Shorts, t-shirts and summer clothing will be just fine. Don’t forget a hat, a camera, sun block, and a bathing suit. During the months of June to November the weather is cloudy and a bit colder. Bring along a light jacket.

• Amazon or Jungle: wear clothing adequate for rain. If you can get yourself a raincoat (poncho), take it with you, as well as several sets of light pants and long sleeve shirts. Shorts are less useful because of the insects and abundant vegetation that you will walk through on your excursions. A hat, rubber boots and insect repellent are also a must. For pictures, you need high-speed film.

AIRPORT TAX: $28,27 for anyone leaving the country from Guayaquil, and $40,80 from Quito.

TOURIST VISA: Visitors can stay up to 90 days without a visa.

TAXI RATES: Approximately $3 to $6 per ride from the airport to the city. These rates vary among the main cities.

TRANSPORTATION: Main cities (Guayaquil, Quito and Cuenca) have local airports serviced by the local airlines: Tame, Aerogal, Icaro and

Lan, besides international airlines.

Bus lines offer Land transportation where you can just jump on the next bus leaving to your destination. Each city has its own terminal, with frequent departure to each one of the different provinces Ecuador. (For more information see page 8).

SUGGESTIONS FOR A PLEASANT STAY While the authorities are clearly making significant efforts, it’s necessary to take some precautions. We suggest some recommendations: • Don’t walk at night in badly lit areas.

• Leave documentation and valuable things in your hotel room or in the safety deposit boxes.

• Carry your backpack at the front.

Especially if you are carrying a photo camera.

• Whenever you sit on a coffee shop, restaurant, Internet, phone box or any open space, keep your things next to you.

• Be aware if someone comes suspiciously too close to you.

• Don’t allow any stranger to enter into your room.

• It’s recommended not to visit any plaza too late at night.

• If you travel on a bus, don’t receive any candy or papers from strangers.

• When you are at the airport, pay special attention to your belongings.

• Be careful any time you go to an ATM; it’s better if you go during the day.

• Don’t let strangers offer you accommodation. Consult a travel agency.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING ASEGUIM is the association of mountain climbing guides of Ecuador. We recommend that if you plan to do mountain climbing at any level, you contact them to access professional and certified guides.

They also offer rescue operations.

Phone: (02) 222-2954, cel 099 822 363, www.aseguim.org

OFFICE OF TOURISM PUBLIC PROSECUTOR: The highest duty of the Ecuadorian Republic is to respect and support human and personal rights; they offer judicial safety to tourists who visit the country. It is cost free.

Monday thru Friday from 8h00 to 12h00pm and from 14h00 to 18h00 Quito: 02 2905-053 Guayaquil: 04 2320-685 Cuenca: 07 2844-282 Galapagos, Santa Cruz Island: 05 2526-048 Loja: 07 2572-668 Puyo : 03 2883-767

5

6

2

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292 416 486 304 414

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6 Bahia

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8 Cuenca

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40 Sto.Domingo

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311 406 686 622 190 604 448 732

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166 583 250 780 178 387 956 928 664

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39 San Miguel

88

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505 597 188 324 490 463 265 418 208 830 406

38 San Lorenzo -

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35 Riobamba 268 280 421 240

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57

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24

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54

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-

27

28 Pedernales

-

283 380 660 592 163 575 386 705

24 Nueva Loja

27 Playas

342 439 675

23 Muisne

44

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541 445 320 544 500 807 399 331

70

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7

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99

25

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56

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23

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47 447 502 642 312 330 861

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47

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63

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-

11 Guayaquil

92

18

625 804 332

Travel through Ecuador with

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92

56

15

271 371 613 382 406 283 413 654 425

-

11

321 338 371 277

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10 271 332 189 568 157

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280 237 225 458

41

40

-

9

www.budget-ec.com

10 Esmeraldas

-

418 212 231

9 Daule

7

231 499 486 280

5 Baeza

-

4 Babahoyo

40

6

280 212 219 416

97

-

3

377 418 122 292 138 418

377 280

97

3 Azogues

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1 Aloag

2 Ambato

1

CITY

ECUADORIAN DISTANCES (KM)

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ROAD MAP

www.budget-ec.com

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GENERAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

299 3370 / 75

251-7622/23/24

284-5657

LOCAL AIRLINES 1-800 2376425 1-800 883-567

281-5250/281-0789

262-8918/262-8899

1-800 883-567

1-800 883-567

1-800 883-567

1800-101075 397-7100

1800-101075 1800-500800

1800-101075 286-6400

1800-101075

INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES

227-3686 1800-101075

230-3211

284-2970

1800-101075

1800-101075

397-0370 / 71

259-8060

LAND TRANSPORTATION Quitumbe:

3988-261

Carcelén:

3961-600

2130-372

3824-793 3824-810 2559-428/382-4751 3824-850/382-4875 222-5315/382-4831

214-0314

2835-717

227-1847 213-0210

283-9315 262-0963

2289-509 213-0265

257-0884

CAR RENTALS 330-0979 286-0174

Avis Rent a Car 225-4258/330-0783

USEFUL NUMBERS 286-7120

/ 258-2482 8

256-1628

283-2132

212-8138

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HANDMADE IN ECUADOR

Spondylus Shell Jewelry: A Symbol of Fertility and Power

By Carolina Matheus, for Olga Fisch Folklore.

Several Pre-Hispanic societies would sail rough waters to the Gulf of Guayaquil in search of the Spondylus shell. Though some species exist in the Californian Coast, because of Ecuador‘s warm waters, two species of this beautiful red spiny shell thrive under the seas 10

of the Gulf of Guayaquil, Esmeraldas and Isla de la Plata and Salango area. Why would people be willing to sail miles throughout the Pacific Ocean in search of these shells? This is because these apparently simple shells, are charged with symbolic powers since Pre-Columbian times.

FEMININE POWERS Spondylus has also been associated with femeninity. This is because of its shape like the female vulva, and therefore they it was considered a powerful fertility symbol which needed to be present in religious ceremonies. In Peru the Pre-Incan Mochica culture made ceramic objects representing the shell. In Ecuador, the sophisticated preIncan Valdivia culture, (3000 BC) which boasts the oldest ceramics in the Americas, made wonderfully

elaborate necklaces, nose rings, and other objects out of Spondylus.

Many archeologists believe the Valdivia Culture was a matriarchic society, so it would make sense that feminine symbols would be considered so powerful. At any rate, only members of the elite and high priest could wear Spondylus objects. The Incas also shared this obsession for the spondylus, and some historians even think this is what led them to conquer what is present day Ecuador.

AN ANCIENT TRADE ROUTE Because of its importance, this shell made its way not only throughout the coast, but also from the jungle, to the Andes, and even to Central America. Some archeologist believe it was used as a form of monetary exchange or ancient “coin.”

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AN OMEN OF RAIN In Peru the Spondylus only appeared when the water became warmer during the time of the El Niño Current in December, right before the rainy season. For this reason, the indigenous people of Peru saw them as bringing forth the rain. In hostile and dry areas such as the Peruvian Coast, it is no wonder these “omens of rain” were considered valuable. When there was drought, and no Spondylus around, it only seemed logical to travel to the Gulf of Guayaquil in order to find these shells which would help bring the rain.

SPONDYLUS TODAY Unfortunately, Spondylus is threatened by Ocean pollution, harsh fishing methods, and overexploitation for it fleshy inside, which is also considered a delicacy by locals. As far as consumption for jewelry, because it difficult to carve its spiky surface, there aren’t a lot of people who shape spondylus. For this reason, local spondylus artisans aren’t really considered a threat for this shell.

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Today, one can admire samples of these beautiful ancient handicrafts in many museums such as the Salango Museum, Banco Central Museums, and in the Olga Fisch Museum.

Artisans from the Coast are still being inspired by the beauty and symbolism of the Spondylus and continue to create necklaces, bracelets and other jewelry. This is because spondylus has a shimmering effect with hues ranging from bright crimson, delicate pink, to a tangerine orange. When one wears this fine jewelry, one can still feel the sense of mystery and sensuality it held in for the ancient dwellers of the Northern Coast of South America.

Bibliography: www.peru.com/entretenimiento/articulos Sep 16, 2007 www.spondylus.ch/concha Sep 16, 2007. by Claude Roulet

Olga Fisch Museum Photographs: Ivรกn Ceballos

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TOURISM NEWS

GALAPAGOS REMOVED FROM UNESCO ENDANGERED LIST On the past month of July, a UNESCO committee meeting in Brazil decided to remove the Galapagos from the list of sites endangered by environmental threats and overuse. In 2007, the United Nations had included the Galapagos in its endangered list because of damage from immigration, invasive species and tourism.

Aguiñaga, “the Brasilia declaration is a recognition to the effort and good job that the Ecuadorian Government has done to keep the Galapagos in the best conservation status possible.” Edwin Naula, Director of the Galapagos National Park, said that “to be excluded from the list of endangered sites sets a stronger commitment for us. We need to implement actions that guarantee a sustainable development of the islands.”

According to the Minister of Environment of Ecuador, Marcela

For more information: www.galapagospark.org

CUENCA IS ONE OF LONELY PLANET’S TOP DESTINATIONS FOR 2010 Cuenca, one of Ecuador’s most charming cities, is amongst Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Cities for 2010, together with Abu Dhabi, Charleston, Cokr, Istanbul, Kyoto, Lecce, Sarajevo, Singapore and Vancouver.

Cuenca’s architecture, weather, traditions, facilities and unique mood have made it worthy of this recognition. The new edition of BEST IN TRAVEL reveals why these cities have been selected as the top 10 to visit next year. “Drawing on the knowledge and passion of Lonely Planet’s staff, authors and community, BEST IN TRAVEL 2010 showcases a year’s worth of inspiration to take travelers out of the ordinary and into some

JW MARRIOTT HOTEL QUITO DEBUTS IN TRAVEL + LEISURE’S WORLD’S BEST AWARDS Quito’s JW Marriott Hotel is amongst the 10 Top City Hotels in Central and South America according to Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. These awards are selected through a questionnaire developed by the editors of Travel + Leisure and made available to readers from December 15, 2009 to March 31, 2010. Respondents were asked to rate hotels on the following characteristics: rooms/ facilities, location, service, restaurants/food, value. Optional: for business, for families.

Located in the heart of the city, JW Marriot Quito features luxurious accommodations, an amazing atrium lobby, stylish large pool, fitness center, flexible space for conferences and meetings, restaurants with national and international cuisine, and a firstclass staff attention.

unforgettable experiences”, cites Lonely Planet’s website. Don’t miss a visit to Cuenca, definitely one of Ecuador’s most charming cities. For more information on Cuenca see pages 100 – 110.

For more information: www.lonelyplanet.com

For more information visit: www.travelandleisure.com JW Marriot Quito - Useful information: Address: Av. Orellana 1172 & Av. Amazonas Phone: 593 2 2972000 Sales: 593 2 2972040 Toll-free: 593 800 010723 www.jwmarriottquito.com 13

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GOURMET ECUADOR ECUADORIAN COFFEE Dark color, strong flavor, involving aroma…

A delicious tradition!

Like a magical dark potion, coffee transports us to an instant where stress stops for a while, and its aroma invites us to think that life is worth to be enjoyed. More people every day are sending-off that myth where coffee contributes to increase anxiety. Well, new studies reveal that natural coffee in moderate quantities every day helps people to keep a lucid memory and physical energy.

At the beginning in Ecuador, coffee was cultivated in Jipijapa areaManabí province, on 1860. Today people from tropical and subtropical regions have organized associations to keep the tradition and offer the best quality of natural coffee.

Although Ecuador is not a very large country, it has an extraordinary biodiversity that allows cultivating high quality products, and coffee is one of them. Ecuador is exporting its coffee to Europe and North America. But an additional aim is to incentive Ecuadorians to consume their own natural coffee.

There are some renowned producers in Ecuador that work every day to harvest the best treated coffee to people’s delight: Cafecom: Is a company that commercializes the green Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. In addition 14

they provide roasted and grinded coffee known as the best in Ecuador.

Café-ChocoAndes: Despite being native of Ethiopia, Arabica coffee thrives in the mountainous Andes, at the shadow of tropical and subtropical forests (shade coffee). For centuries, coffee has been grown in Latin America Choco-Andean corridor (subtropical forest 2800 feet above sea level), by local farmers.

Café Fino de Aroma: Their product was selected to join the Gourmet Flavours of Ecuador in 2009; this coffee is grown by associations of small producers of Esmeraldas and El Oro provinces. They make high quality products packaged in exclusive native motif wrappings.

Café Galápagos: Their plantation is located in San Cristobal IslandGalapagos Archipelago, where the flora is abundant and the coffee plants grow under a forest pavilion.

Such balanced ecosystem, offers the propitious condition to harvest an authentic and delicious type of coffee.

Café-Galletti: Artisan 100% Arabica coffee from Ecuador’s highlands.

Social responsibility and environmental protection are goals as important as the quality of their gourmet product. They also offer the exotic choco-coffee (coffee beans covered with chocolate).

Are you amazed by these delights?

Find them at Galería Ecuador Gourmet, which opened its doors to offer the best high quality Ecuadorian flavors.

This unique Galleria is strategically located in the midst of La Mariscal, the entertainment district of Quito.

Visitors are invited to savor Ecuador’s most exquisite products… A journey trough the finest tastes, smells and textures of this wonderfully diverse country!

Useful information: Address: Reina Victoria N24-263 & Lizardo García Phone: 2239469 / 2258440 E-mail: info@galeriaecuador.com www.galeriaecuador.com

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NATIVE CULTURES ECUADOR’S MOSAIC

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America, erroneously called the "new" world, has a rich and ancient cultural tradition that is known as pre-Columbian. The conquering Spaniards saw the ethnic groups that still inhabit Ecuador today as "primitive". In fact many people have a hard time understanding Native American Culture. The XVI Spanish tried to eradicate indigenous beliefs and customs. Fortunately, many ethnic groups retain their traditional way of life and belief systems. In the colonial era, the Spaniards imposed Catholicism. To this day, many of the indigenous cultures have adopted this faith. However, they maintain their original language, dress and artistic expressions. Especially in the rain forest, many ethnic groups are still isolated and have little contact with Western culture, and to this day, they maintain a way of life similar to

the way their ancestors lived over 500 years ago. In Ecuador, when we speak of mega-diversity we speak not only of our magnificent biological world, but we also refer to the human factor. Our ethnic-diversity is rich, with characteristics depending on the natural environment of the Coast, the Highlands and the Rainforest.

THE CULTURES OF THE COAST The oldest known cultures of America lived on the Ecuadorian coast (8800 to 3500 B.C.). The cultures that subsist practically intact to this day are: the AwĂĄ, the Chachis or Cayapas and the Tsachilas or Colorados. They live in the tropical rainforest of the west Andes and possibly settled there escaping from the invasion of the Incas from Peru (XV C) or from the Spaniards (XVI C).

THE AMAZONIAN CULTURES Many archeologists maintain that some of the oldest cultures (over 10,000 years old) are actually from this tropical humid rainforest, impossible to reach for many centuries. In the "cosmology" of these indigenous groups, the human being is a part of the "Amazanga" (rainforest) and the human spirit wanders in this forest every dawn. The human spirit can enter an eagle or a serpent or a jaguar, each one with a symbolism as to their nature according to their beliefs. The rainforest provides their food, medicinal plants, and spiritual richness. To these people, the tropical rainforest is their home, their drugstore, their supermarket, and their church; thus, their utmost respect for their environment.

They are, according to modern world economical standards, apparently very poor. However, they have a rich

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spiritual life and live in peace surrounded by their families, taking from nature only what they need for survival and taking time to meditate and enlighten themselves. To share a few days with them is an incredibly enriching experience.

THE HIGHLANDS The cultures of the highlands are by no means the oldest, but they are the most visited and well known, probably because of their geographical

location of easy access by roads and highways. Many communities that live in the highlands still maintain their cultural manifestations through dress, language (Quichua), and festivities. Just 62 miles north of Quito you can visit the Otavalo Indian Market, a must see for any tourist that comes to Ecuador. This market offers wonderful weavings, tapestry, rugs, bags, artwork and other products made by the indigenous community. These people are hardwork-

ing, skillful, and artistic. Families work together and then sell their work at the fair. Transactions take place quietly with bargaining on the side of the tourist. These are very proud people who have not lost their cultural identity despite the fact that mestizos and whites inhabit the city of Otavalo. The Otavaleños travel all around the world selling their goods.

NATIVE CULTURES’ DISTRIBUTION MAP

Sto. Domingo de los Tsáchilas

Sta. Elena

Awa Chachis Shuar Tsáchila Huancavilcas Épera Negro-afroecuatoriano Cofán

Secoya Siona Huaorani Ashuar Quichuas del oriente Mantas Záparo Quichuas de la sierra

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NATIONAL PROTECTED AREAS AMAZING + DIVERSE

EL ALTAR VOLCANO - SANGAY NATIONAL PARK

With its relatively small territory (109.483 square miles), 0.17% of the planet’s land surface, Ecuador was ranked among one of the 17 most biodiverse countries in the world.

Ecuador holds more than 11% of all the land vertebrates in the world (mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles), 16.087 vascular plant species and approximately 600 species of marine fish. And there is still a lot to learn about Ecuador’s diversity, especially about invertebrates and microoganims. Among the “mega diverse” countries, Ecuador holds the biggest biodiversity of land vertebrates per area.

WHAT IS THE REASON FOR ALL THIS DIVERSITY? First of all, the Andes mountain range divides the country from North to South; secondly, Ecuador’s geo18

photograph: MIGUEL DAVILA P.

graphical location in the Tropic of Cancer, the warmest region of the planet; and finally, the influence of two oceanographic phenomenons: “El Niño”, the current that comes from the North and is warm and humid, and the “Humboldt” current, which comes from the South and is cold and dry.

Archipelago and the Sangay National Park (Amazonian region).

1. MACHALILLA

On the following pages, you will find a brief description of Ecuador’s National Parks. You can locate these Parks on the map on the next page.

As you may see on the map, besides these National Parks, Ecuador is home to another 21 National Protected Areas. The country also includes other important private protected areas and natural sites.

Located in the province of Manabí, Machalilla takes its name from one of the pre-Columbian cultures that inhabited this area. The Valdivia, Chorrera and Manteña Cultures also lived in this land of mild climate and extraordinary landscape. One can still visit archeological sites within the park. We recommend especially Agua Blanca and Salango. The park occupies 136,000 acres. Its yearly average temperature is 75ºF. The influence of the Humboldt Current in the Pacific conserves the amazing tropical humid and dry tropical forests.

Two of Ecuador’s National Parks were declared “World Heritage Natural Sites” by the UNESCO: the Galapagos

One of the main attractions of the park is "Isla de la Plata" (Silver Island). It was named at the end of

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PROTECTED AREAS COLOMBIA

PERU

1. Machalilla National Park 2. Sumaco Napo Galeras National Park 3. Yasuni National Park 4. Cotopaxi National Park 5. Llanganates National Park 6. Sangay National Park 7. Cajas National Park 8. Podocarpus National Park 9. Galapagos National Park

10. Limoncocha Biological Reserve 11. Galapagos Marine Reserve 12. Antisana Ecological Reserve 13. El Angel Ecological Reserve 14. Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve 15. Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve 16. Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve 17. Los Ilinizas Ecological Reserve 18. Mache Chindul Ecological Reserve

19. Manglares-Churute Ecological Reserve 20. Pululahua Geo-botanic Reserve 21. Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve 22. Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve 23. Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge 24. El Boliche Recreational Park 25. Santa Clara Island Wildlife Refuge 26. El Condor Bi-national Park 27. Cofan-Bermejo Ecological Reserve 28. La Chiquita Wildlife Refuge 29. Rio Muisne Mangroves Wildlife Refuge 30. Corazon Island Wildlife Refuge 31. El Salado Mangroves Wildlife Reserve 32. Arenillas Ecological Reserve 33. Parque Lago Recreational Area

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culture are found close to this National Park. The area surrounding the Sumaco volcano was declared "Biosphere Reserve" by the UNESCO in the year 2000.

3. YASUNI

the XIVth century, when the pirate Francis Drake took treasures from Spanish ships and hid them on this site. "Plata" means silver, but it is also how Ecuadorians commonly refer to money. According to the legend, much of this treasure was never claimed and is still hidden here. The Island is surrounded by Coral Reefs, so the marine life is exciting and plentiful.

You will find some excellent scubadiving services here.

The Island has two guided hiking routes, both with awesome sights.

You will find a rare colony of bluefooted boobies, masked boobies, frigate birds and albatrosses, as well as interesting plant life. Guides are well versed on the subject.

To visit the park, one must purchase a 5-day pass for a fee of 25 dollars.

With this ticket you can visit all the sites of the National Park.

2. SUMACO-NAPO-GALERAS With a surface of 507,181 acres, this National Park houses a wide diversity of ecosystems, ranging from high mountains to cloud and lowland forests. The park’s altitudes range from 1,968 to 12,792 feet. The NapoGaleras mountain range has various rivers and springs running through its deep valleys. The Sumaco volcano (12,792 feet) stands isolated from the rest of the Andes and is surrounded by lowland forest. This National Park is rich in animal species, including spectacle bear, bats, marsupials, armadillos, guams, and many bird, reptile and amphibian species. The most common plants found are cedar, canelo, and rubber trees. Native Indian Quichua communities and the archeological sites of the Cosanga 20

Yasuni is located in the Napo Province. With an extension of 2,426,281 acres and is an important biogeographical area where endemic species of plants and animals have been preserved since the Pleistocene Period (20,000 BC). According to the "UNESCO", more than 700 plant species have been identified, together with 500 bird species and 200 different animals. The Napo River is the main access to the park. Recently, the Huaorani Indians who live here, together with environmentalists, have raised international awareness regarding the controversial petroleum exploration of this area.

4. COTOPAXI The Cotopaxi National Park was named after the highest active snowcapped volcano in the world (19,347 ft). It is located 37 miles from Quito.

The Park includes 83,829 acres, and the altitude ranges from 11,152 ft to 19,347 ft above sea level. The Cotopaxi Volcano is one of the most important features of this park. It is the highest active volcano in the world. Adventurous professional mountain climbers are attracted to this site along with many tourists who take pride in attempting to reach the top. The volcano offers climbing experiences for all skill levels.

The immense plain that surrounds the volcano offers a wonderful landscape with extraordinary geological conditions and numerous flora and fauna.

This park is home to dears, pumas, condors, wild horses and llamas. The Limpiopungo lagoon, located close to the Rumiñahui volcano (15,492 ft), is a good place for camping.

The Pucará Ruins are an Incaic fortress that should be visited too. At the foot of Cotopaxi you will also find an Inca Palace built by Tupac

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Yupanqui in the XVth century, turned into a monastery by the Catholic Augustinian Order in the XVIIth century. At this site you will enjoy an outstanding view of the volcanoes.

Currently it houses a beautiful hacienda that offers excellent hotel facilities. Hotel Cuello de Luna (see page 97) offers exciting expeditions and excellent lodging in the area.

5. LLANGANATES This park is home to one of the most exotic and inaccessible regions in Ecuador. It includes rough moorlands, deep valleys, rivers, lagoons, and abundant waterfalls. Most of the park is covered by dense vegetation, and the weather is mostly cold and rainy. Cerro Hermoso (15,618 ft) is the highest mountain in the area.

The most common animal species found are moorland rabbits, sacha (jungle) rabbit, and weasels. Another common species that are very difficult to spot are the spectacle bear, white-tailed deer, moorland deer, moorland fox, puma, deer, tapir, cock of-the-rock, and the condor.

Throughout history, explorers and adventurers have been attracted to this area in search of the elusive gold of Atahualpa, which according to the legend is hidden in the Llanganates.

Nobody has found the gold; however, all visitors bear witness to the region’s mysteries, and keep the legend alive…

ties to hike, trek, and climb. The Sangay Volcano is off limits because it is in permanent eruption, but you can get close enough to take spectacular photographs. Native indigenous communities live in this park: Quichua- Canelos in the north and Shuar in the south.

grasses, yagual (Polylepis), romerillo, chachacoma, genciana, romerillo and the sarar. The Park also has some archeological Inca sites in the area of Molleturo, which historians believe have been a ‘tambo’ (resting areas for the Inca couriers from Cuzco to Quito).

7. CAJAS

8. PODOCARPUS

This National Park is only 21 miles away from Cuenca. It ranges in altitude from 9,840 ft to 11,480 ft. Its 71,186-acre area includes mountains and 232 glacial lagoons, connected to each other by small rivers and streams. Two of the rivers surrounding Cuenca, the Tomebamba and the Yanuncay, begin in this area.

Podocarpus is located in both the Provinces of Loja and Zamora Chinchipe, with an extension of 351.436 acres. This park has two ecological zones, jungle and highland, both with great diversity of flora and fauna. Here you will find exotic orchids, bears, pumas, humming birds, toucans, woodpeckers and reptiles. It is the ideal place for botanical, ecological and zoological investigations. If you enjoy long walks, listening to the sounds of birds, running rivers, waterfalls and camping, then this is a place you shouldn’t miss.

Cajas is his home to mammals such as the white-tailed deer, spectacle bear, puma, paramo deer, paramo rabbit, and the Andean tapir. Some of the most important bird species found here are the caracara, the condor, the Andean toucan and spectacle duck.

The most common vegetation includes: chuquiragua, paramo

6. SANGAY Sangay is located between three Provinces: Tungurahua, Chimborazo and Morona Santiago and has an extension of 671,654 acres. Take the Pan-American Highway to Riobamba.

When reaching Alao you may ask for tourist information at the park’s administration center: about the correct paths for mountain climbing, horse rental, etc. There are three main mountains in this park: Sangay (17,154 ft.), Altar (17,446 ft.), and Tungurahua (16,452 ft.). These mountains offer excellent opportuni-

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This Archipelago is a living museum of evolutionary changes. Free and fearless animals, different from any others found elsewhere, make visitors wonder about their very existence on our planet. In 1835, Charles Darwin sailed on the British ship H.M.S. Beagle and visited the islands. The living proof that he found in this unique volcanic archipelago inspired his theory of the origin of species, which shook up the scientific world. All those who choose to make this unforgettable trip can confirm his observations and studies. The UNESCO declared Galapagos a World Natural Heritage Site in 1978 and subsequently a World Biosphere Reserve in 1985.

FLORA AND FAUNA: Galapagos is home to an incredibly high rate of endemic species.

Among the animals found are the different species of giant ‘Galapagos’ tortoises that gave the islands their name due to the similarity of their carapaces to a British riding saddle called ‘galapago’ in Spanish.

Galapagos is home to a variety of birds: blue footed, red footed and masked boobies, flamingos, frigate

birds, albatrosses, unique small penguins and non-flying cormorants, and 14 different varieties of finches. These various finches served as proof for Darwin’s theory of evolution from natural selection.

Marine mammals such as sea lions, dolphins and whales are also found; as well as multitudinous colorful fishes. The most distinctive plants are mangroves and endemic cacti.

ORIGIN: The islands appeared from lava eruptions that came from the bottom of the ocean and that rise as much as 2,600 ft. Lava from more than 2,000 craters has continuously altered the terrain of the region.

Currently, the archipelago includes 13 large islands, 6 minor ones and more than 40 islets. Some of the younger islands still have active volcanoes.

WEATHER: December to May the weather is sunny and warm. During the months of June to November, it’s colder and drier.

LOCATION: 600 miles West off the coast.

NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE FEE: $100 for international visitors/ Comunidad Andina or Mercosur $50

AIRFARE: There are two airports served by local airlines: on Baltra Island and on San Cristobal Island. The price of the roundtrip flight for foreigners for either destination is of $410.70 from Quito and $361.05 from Guayaquil.

TRANSIT CONTROL CARD (TCT): In order to have a better control of visitors and migration to the islands, INGALA, the Ecuadorian institution that controls migration to the islands, introduced a visitor control card.

The control card has a cost of $10, which must be canceled at the INGALA counters located in the Quito and Guayaquil airports.

CRUISE SHIPS: A cruise is definitely the best way to visit many of the islands in a short period of time. Tours are a minimum of four days. There is a wide range of cruise offers, from small sailboats for about 18 passengers to big luxurious 23

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cruise ships for more than 100 passengers. Contact your travel agency for more information.

travel from the arid coastal area through different ecological zones as you ascend to the highlands and then come back to sea level.

LAND OPTIONS: Another way to visit the Galapagos is to stay in a hotel at one of the inhabited islands. You can travel from one island to the other by light aircraft or boat. The following towns offer facilities for tourists:

Puerto Ayora Santa Cruz Island HOW TO GET THERE: If you hire a cruise, or stay at the main hotels on the island, they will make all your travel arrangements.

If you are traveling on your own, book your flight from Quito or Guayaquil with Tame or Aerogal.

The airlines provide a bus to the Itabaca canal (10 minute ride).

From there ferries take you across the canal to Santa Cruz Island for 80 cents. To continue to the town of Puerto Ayora you either take a bus ($1,80) or a taxi ($15) for a 45 minute drive. Along the way you will

The name Santa Cruz means Holy Cross. The first Spanish visitors gave this island a Christian name. This is the main port of entrance to the Archipelago and home to the majority of human inhabitants (aprox.

10,000). Puerto Ayora is the capital of the Island, with exciting places to visit, travel agencies that provide visits to the other Islands, visit to the highlands and the beaches, other special tours,etc.

At Puerto Ayora you will also find excellent handicrafts, jewelry shops, art galleries, casual clothing, restaurants, bike rentals, kayaking, diving and snorkeling services (see our services guide) just taking a walk down the Charles Darwin Avenue.

CHARLES DARWIN FOUNDATION HEADQUARTERS: A visit to the Charles Darwin Foundation Headquarters is a must

for any visitor to Puerto Ayora. Here you will be able to discover the conservation efforts of the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Galapagos National Park, and see the giant tortoises (Elephantopus Geochelone) breeding center, as well as a small land iguana breeding center. You will learn about the breeding process of these animals in captivity, as well as other conservation efforts for these endangered species and varieties. During the summer months (January to April) we recommend that you take your visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and sun.

Distances within the headquarters are short, so you can walk.

On the route you will find Opuntia Cacti (Opuntia Echios Gigantean), endemic of the Galapagos. Be sure to look out for the tame finches and observe the variety of beaks that led CharlesDarwin to his theory of evolution by natural selection. These headquarters are open Monday thru Sunday from 6h00 to 18h00.

During your visit, which will take approximately 2 hours, be sure to stop at the following pavilions: 1. Van Straelen Visitors Center: a didactic exhibition on origin, fragility, conservation, geology, climate, and other aspects related to the Galapagos.

2. Casona Exhibition Center: graphic exhibits of all the different varieties of giant tortoises, their different carapaces and the two extinct varieties that inhabited Fernandina, Floreana and Santa Fe Islands.

3. Giant Tortoise Breeding Center: on the right hand side of the Casona Exhibition is the center that houses smaill tortoises from every island until they are mature enought to survive with hardened carapaces. Once they reach a certain maturity, they are reinserted in their island of origin.

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THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

1 2

3

PACIFIC OCEEAN

Finch Bay Eco Hotel Angermeyer Waterfront Inn Solymar Hotel

1 2 3

THE GALAPAGOS WILDLIFE

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4. Tortoises’ corrals: at the corrals you can observe and compare the different shapes of the carapaces according to the varieties.

It is interesting to note that “Diego” (Geochelone- Elephantopus hoodensis) from Española Island has a flat carapace that becomes long at the height of the neck.

This tortoise was brought from the San Diego Zoo (thus the name) and was succesfully reunited with females from Española Island. Thus, this variety was saved from extinction.

Unfortunately, this was not the case for “Lonesome George”, who is the last survivor of the Pinta Island variety, and has not been able to reproduce, regardless of the many efforts.

Lonesome George now lives with two closely genetic related females from the Wolf Volcano (Isabela Island), but has not been able to reproduce succesfully.

5. Land Iguanas Corral: a few protected land iguanas can be found at these corrals. Introduced species such as dogs and cats endanger these iguanas.

Two land iguana species are endemic to the Galapagos Islands, the Conolophus subcristatus (that is found at six of the islands), and the Conolophus Pellidus (found at Sante Fe Is.) Charles Darwin Foundation has a dedicated international staff that works together on research and long-term conservation programs.

Visit their website at:

www.darwinfoundation.org TORTUGA BAY Tortuga Bay is a beautiful beach of fine white sand. From your hotel, for $1, take a taxi to where the path to this unique beach begins. A 2.5 km cobblestone path was built in order 26

to reach the paradisiacal beach of Tortuga Bay by foot. A mysterious forest of the tall Opuntia Cactus and volcanic rock surrounds the path, the view is overwhelming.

Throughout your walk you will observe finches, yellow warblers, mockingbirds, lava lizards. Feel transported to the time when the adventurers and pirates of the XVIII and XIX century visited these enchanted islands.

Once your reach Tortuga Bay, you walk into what seems an infinite and desolate beach of white sand. Every now and then you encounter marine iguanas on their way in or out of the water.

There are other interesting sites to visit such as the lava tunnels, the twin craters, tortoises in their natural environment (all in the highlands), the grottos (crevasses with refreshing swimming water), or the Garrapatero beach. Be sure to ask you hotel about facilities to visit these sites.

NIGHT LIFE: Puerto Ayora is a quiet, safe, tourist friendly town. On Charles Darwin Avenue one can find almost everything; restaurants, bars, ceviches (typical food), fresh fish, drinks,s etc.

Night life offers much to enjoy, and safely. You will find a wholesome and fun ambience shared by people from all around the world who either live at or are visiting Puerto Ayora.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno San Cristobal Island This is the capital of the province, and has the second largest number of inhabitants in the archipelago.

From 1836 to 1904, a large portion of the highlands of the island belonged to Hacienda El Progreso, with extensive sugar and coffee plantations owned by M.J. Cobos. Cobos made an empire of his hacienda (it even had its own currency). You can

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visit vestiges of this hacienda, and also coffee plantations that remain to this day. The main attractions in the island are: the Interpretation Center; Ochoa Beach, Playa Man, Pitt Pint, El Junco lagoon (the only fresh water lagoon in the archipelago) and the Lobos Island. You will be surprised by the presence of sea lions in town. A highlight when visiting this island is a tour to Kicker Rock, a stunning rock formation surrounded by abundant sea life (especially sharks). On the same trip you can visit the beautiful Cerro Brujo beach.

Puerto Velasco Ibarra Floreana Island This enigmatic island is the least inhabited of the archipelago, inspite of the fact that it was the first one to be colonized, basically by national and foreign settlers during the first decades of this century. Many legends have been written about its people.

“Floreana” by Margarett Wittmer is

a most interesting novel that describes the situations of these settlers! The main attractions are: the historical Post Office Bay and Asilo de la Paz, Punta Cormoran, Corona del Diablo, Enderby and Gardner Bay.

Puerto Villamil Isabela Island This enchanted town has a population of about 2,500, mostly fishermen. Close to town are several impressive sites: a path alongside a reef that is home to several white tip sharks- you can easily observe them from land; “Concha y Perla” bay; a giant tortoise breeding center; and the amazing volcanoes Sierra Negra and Volcán Chico. Sierra Negra has the second largest crater in the world, with a diameter of 7.46 miles.

Volcán Chico has an overwhelming “lunatic” landscape with fascinating lava formations. It’s possible to horseback ride or trek around Sierra Negra’s crater to Volcán Chico.

Photos Shutterstock

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Isabela also has a flamingo lake and several beautiful trails along the way to the “Wall of Tears”. This wall is proof of the genuine human history of the islands. Around 1946, this island was a penal colony. Prisoners were kept busy carrying sharp lava rocks to form this wall.

GALAPAGOS MARINE RESERVE: The interior waters of the islands, plus those within 40 nautical miles measured from the baseline of the Archipelago, were declared the Galapagos Marine Reserve on 1994.

This is the only protected coastal marine area in the East Pacific, and the second largest Marine Reserve in the World.

There are many areas with small submarine volcanoes, which are important feeding zones for marine birds and mammals. Don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel with sea lions, penguins, a variety of colorful fish and even inoffensive sharks!

Diving courses and tours are also

offered for those who are willing to be adventurous!

DIVING IN GALAPAGOS For many a Galapagos diving trip is the trip of a lifetime as it is one of the last places in the world where you can go diving with large schools of sharks. But although sharks may be the star of the show, these waters are home to much more: manta and leopard rays, dolphins, sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, yellow fin tuna, almaco jacks, bacalo, leather bass and blue striped chub… just to name a few. An impressive number of large animals such as sea lions, rays, eels and sea turtles are seen on almost every dive.

Found at the confluence of warm and cold surface currents and deep cold upwelling waters, the Galapagos Marine Reserve is home to a fascinating marine life. Its waters are rich with nutrients and the porous lava rocks provide small fish with the protection they would otherwise receive from a coral reef, which are few and far between in these waters.

More than 2.900 marine species have been reported in the Galapagos, ¼ of which are exclusive to this reserve (endemic).

Home to over 500 species of fish, 24 species of marine mammals, and 27 shark species including Hammerheads and the enormous Whale Shark, the Galapagos Marine Reserve is a World Natural Heritage Site. Besides all this diversity, several land animals and marine birds depend exclusively on the Galapagos waters for their survival; thus, the conservation of the Marine Reserve is a priority.

Galapagos isn’t just for advanced divers; these waters offer something for divers of all skill levels.

Intermediate divers will be delighted by daily dive trips to sites like Gordon Rocks, Cousins Rocks, North Seymour and Floreana where hammerheads, Galapagos sharks, giant manta rays, golden rays, morays, fur seal and sea lions are all commonly seen. Contact our sponsors for more information.

THIS MONTH IN GALAPAGOS Max temperature 24° C / 76°F Min temperature 20° C / 67°F Hours of clear skies 2.9 Sea temperature 22° C / 71°F

SEPTEMBER • Peak of the dry season.

• The air temperature reaches its lowest (19° C / 66°F).

• Penguins demonstrate remarkable activity on Bartolomé Island until December.

• Sea lions are very active, especially in the western and central areas of the Archipelago.

• Most species of marine birds remain active at their nesting sites.

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PREMIUM SERVICES - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

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PREMIUM SERVICES - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

Cel Phones: 09 4724-955 09 2164-720 Email: tangermeyer@yahoo.com Punta Estrada - Puerto Ayora Santa Cruz - Galapagos Islands

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The Ecuadorian Coast extends from the western slopes of the Andes to the Pacific Ocean. This region is crossed from North to South by a lower mountain range and is full of alluvial plains. The Ecuadorian Coast was populated by the oldest known cultures of the country, such as Valdivia (3.500-1.800 BC). Ever since then, the region has had the largest agricultural development in the country, thanks to the variety of natural resources such as water, wide plains and fertile soils.

The Ecuadorian Coast holds three main ecosystems: the tropical wet forests of the north, the tropical savannas of the center and south east, and the dry forest of the west and southern peninsula.

Throughout the coastline there are two additional important ecosystems: the mangroves, the beaches and the rock cliffs.

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Two oceanographic phenomenons influence the diversity that is found in the country and especially in the coast. "El Ni帽o" current comes from the North and is warm and humid.

The "Humboldt" current comes from the south and is cold and dry. The weather in the Coast is mostly warm; however, there are two seasons, wet and dry. The first is warm and humid, and goes from December to May. The rest of the

year is dry and cooler. The two seasons are clearly distinct from the province of Manabi to the rest of the South. The northern province of Esmeraldas has warm weather all year long, and high levels of rainfall; thus its lush vegetation.

During the months of the austral winter (June to September), the Ecuadorian coast has an additional attraction: the presence of Humpback whales (Megapter novoaengliae) that migrate from the Antarctic to tropical waters to mate and give birth to their calves. A favorite spot for whale-watching is the Machalilla National Park in the Manabi Province.

The old road from Quito to the coast, the Calacali -La Independencia road, passes through some of the best bird-watching territory in the coun-

try. The other route from Quito is through Santo Domingo de los Colorados, set amid a broad sea of banana and oil-palm plantations, skirting a few tropical wet forests such as the little-explored Reserva Ecol贸gica Mache-Chindul, and home to the "Tsachilas", an indigenous culture also called "Colorados" because the men of this culture have painted their hair red for centuries with a vegetable dye taken from the seed of the "achiote". From Santo Domingo a network of paved roads connects to the major coastal centers of the country.

From Guayaquil, you can begin the "Ruta del Sol" taking the road throughout the coastline. The following pages will guide you through this route of beautiful beaches, culture and adventure.

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GUAYAQUIL

Guayaquil, the capital of Guayas province, is the largest and most populated city in Ecuador. Located on the Pacific coast, it has a tropical climate, and is known as the ‘Pacific Pearl’. It is the main port of Ecuador, thus, it is of great economic importance to the country. The city was named after an Indigenous Chief, "Guayas", and his wife, "Quil". Both of them chose to die before surrendering themselves to the Spaniards.

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Francisco de Orellana founded Guayaquil on the skirts of the Santa Ana Hill on July 25th, 1534. On the top of this hill you can observe cannons that were used to defend the city from pirate attacks. Few houses preserve their original architecture, with defense walls facing the river.

Many of these houses were built at different levels on the hill, very common for the Spaniards and Portuguese. The surroundings of the

city offer archeological sites of the pre-Hispanic cultures of Valdivia, Machalilla, Chorrera, Guangala and Manteña. The gulf of Guayaquil, the river, the monuments, museums, parks, and its exhilarating nightlife are part of the attractions of this city.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS SANTA ANA HILL This unique hill with its charming and colorful houses is located on the northern part of the city. After climbing 444 stairs you will have the opportunity to visit many restaurants, shops and art galleries. There is also a small church to visit as well as a lighthouse that overlooks the entire city.

houses hold treasured memories from writers and poets that inhabited this area. Although it exists since colonial times, "Las Peñas" was completely destroyed due to a fire in 1896 (“El Incendio Grande”). It was rebuilt in a neoclassic style. Enjoy a stroll along the charming cobble stoned street “Numa Pompillo Llona”, full of small art galleries.

Here you can also witness the influence of the Pacific Naval Yards from the Spanish colonial times.

MALECÓN SIMÓN BOLÍVAR

"LAS PEÑAS" NEIGHBORHOOD

On this 1 1/2 mile waterfront walk you’ll find entertainment, culture and nature! Malecón Simón Bolívar includes monuments, museums, gardens, fountains, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, an IMAX theater, as well as docks and viewpoints.

Adjacent to the stairways is "Las Peñas", the first residential neighborhood of Guayaquil. Its wooden

Malecón Simón Bolívar is the largest architectural development in the last

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century of Guayaquil’s history (total surface is 4,942 acres). It runs from Cuenca Street on the south of the city, all the way to "Barrio las Peñas" on the north. Your walk up the Malecón Simón Bolívar will take you through three sections:

NORTHERN This section has space for sports, entertainment, science, history and art. Children’s games, space for aerobics and skating, all these surrounded by the historical Plaza de Orellana, Plaza de la Pileta (water fountain) and Plaza del Vagón, with a wagon of the antique Ecuadorian train. In this section you will also find gardens that hold diverse plant species of the Ecuadorian coast, and the Centro Cultural Simón Bolívar.

CENTRAL With the Civic Plaza (10 de Agosto and Pichincha) containing a gallery dedicated to the most outstanding personalities in Guayaquil’s history, this section is mostly historic. You can also admire other monuments:

HEMICICLO DE LA ROTONDA This historical monument is a spectacular semicircle commemorating the meeting of two Latin American liberators, Simón Bolívar and San Martin, when it was decided that Guayaquil be annexed to the Gran Colombia. The monument was designed and constructed by the Spanish sculptor Jose Antonio Holms and placed in 1937. From this historical site you can see the Rafael Mendoza Avilés bridge (the largest in Ecuador).

MOORISH OR CLOCK TOWER The clock was bought in England thanks to a loan given by Don Manuel Antonio Lizárraga, a rich Spanish merchant, one of the illustrious figures of the Independence. The clock was inaugurated in October of 1842 just after the terrible epidemic yellow fever in Guayaquil, the worst in its history. In 1903, the clock was moved, tower and all, from City Hall that was demolished to Town Hall.

However, from this location, the tolls that announced the hour could not be heard throughout the city, so two stories were built on to the tower.

In 1920, an Italian engineer built a tower of three prismatic parts entirely made of carwood. Finally, due to structural flaws, this tower had to be demolished. At this time, the foreign colony residing in Guayaquil together with the City Council constructed a new tower in a pure Mozarabic Style.

Also in this section you can visit the four sculptures that represent the elements of nature, the Guayaquil Yatch Club and the Naval Yatch Club.

From the pier, the Pirate Morgan Tavern Ship has daily departures for a cruise around the Guayas River.

Services include a covered parking lot, security area, rest rooms and a first aid center.

SOUTHERN The old market is found in this section. It was inaugurated in 1907, and its authorship is attributed to the famous French engineer Eiffel. In this section you will find the "Club de la Unión", the most traditional social center in Guayaquil. As you continue you will come to the Olmedo Plaza, where a monument of José Joaquín de Olmedo, a famous

poet from Guayaquil, President of Ecuador in the XIXth century, is found. To conclude your visit through this section, visit the modern architecture of the new Bahía Malecon Mall, with its terrace of restaurants that offers a spectacular view of the Guayas River.

MALECÓN “EL SALADO” Smaller than Malecon 2000, this waterfront walk also offers entertainment, culture and nature. At El Salado you find a variety of restaurants and bars to chose from; handcraft shops and entertainment for children. It is located at 9 de Octubre & La Ria.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN GUAYAQUIL CENTENARIO PARK The park is located at the heart of the city and is also one of the largest in Guayaquil. There are bronze monuments, which represent heroism, justice, patriotism, and freedom.

One monument representing the man who fought for independence was designed by a Spanish Sculptor, Agustin Querol, and built by José Monserrat in 1818.

SEMINARIO PARK Also known as the Bolívar Park or Iguanas Park, it is located on Chile Street between 10 de Agosto and 37

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vegetation. Address: Quito St, between El Oro y Venezuela.

GENERAL CEMETERY Although few cemeteries can be considered a tourist attraction, this one is worth admiring. It has outstanding sculptures made of white marble. The style has a strong Italian influence. Beautiful stretches of palm trees lead to the grave of the past president, Vicente Rocafuerte.

SPORT CENTERS Guayaquil is famous for its great sport facilities, including one of the 20 biggest soccer stadiums in the world, “Isidro Romero” (seats 85,000 people). This stadium is located at Del Bombero Av. The city also hosts a modern horse track with races every weekend- the Hipódromo Buijo (Samborondón).

There are also tracks for kart, bicycle, motorcycle and car races; as well as basketball, golf and polo courts and great water sport facilities.

Clemente Ballén Avenues. The park was inaugurated on July 24, 1880.

You can admire the statue of the liberator Simon Bolívar. This park is exceptional for its wildlife. You will see fish, a variety of birds, and numerous iguanas. The iguanas of the park have always been one of its main attractions. These animals chose this place to feed themselves from its vegetation, because the town of Guayaquil used to end at this park and all the rest was savanna.

CENTRO CIVICO

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This modern center has an information office for tourists, exposition halls, convention halls, and other large areas for musical events, concerts, theaters, and other cultural events. On the upper floor of the civic center one can admire outstanding sculptures of Oswaldo Guayasamin. This center has an artificial lake surrounded by exuberant

Municipality Palace (Pichincha 605 and 10 de Agosto), the Governor’s Palace (Malecón and Aguirre), Sucre Square (Pichincha and Clemente Ballén), Rocafuerte Square (Rocafuerte and Junin), and the Planetarium (via Puerto Marítimo).

CHURCHES THE CATHEDRAL This Neo-Gothic Cathedral was built in 1948. The main altar is made of marble from Cuenca and its glass stained windows are beautiful works of art. It is located on the corner of Chimborazo and Clemente Ballén Avenues. Visiting hours: 9h0012h00, and14h00-17h00 everyday.

SANTO DOMINGO This church is the oldest in Guayaquil, being built in the 16th Century. It was later restored in 1938. It is decorated with the famous paintings of Salas. It is located on Rocafuerte and Coronel Ave. Visiting hours: 8h00 to 18h00.

WE ALSO RECOMMEND THAT YOU VISIT

LA MERCED

The “Guayas and Quil” Monument (Las Americas Ave.), the

It has a gothic style and a gold covered altar. It is located on Rendón

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and Pedro Carbo Ave. Open Monday thru Friday 7h-12h00 and 18h19h30. Saturdays 7h-10h00 and 18h-20h00. Free admission.

MUSEUMS CENTRO CULTURAL SIMÓN BOLÍVAR The Centro Cultural Simón Bolívar of the Ecuadorian Central Bank guards a collection of 50.000 archeological pieces and a collection of modern art of 3.000 works. It also houses a library of 20.000 publications specialized in art, archeology and anthropology.

Additionally, the museum has six exhibit halls, a multipurpose room for conferences and workshops, a documental center, a bookstore and a handcraft shop, as well as a cinema with a capacity for 380 people.

Free outdoor movie projections are presented periodically.

Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10h00 to 17h00, Sundays and holidays from 11h00 to 15h00.

Address: Malecon Simon Bolivar and Loja (at the Northern part of the Malecon 2000, next to the Imax theater). Admission fee: WednesdaySaturday $1.50, Sundays free

CASA DE LA CULTURA This museum holds the most valuable pre-historic gold work collection in Ecuador, Most pieces were made by the indigenous inhabitants of our coast. You will see ceremonial pots, snake-shaped bracelets, nose rings, gold pieces that were used on the lips and cheeks, elaborate pins used to fasten clothing, chest shields, ceremonial masks and earrings. The abundance of gold provoked the greed of the Spanish conquerors, who hoarded and sent vast quantities of this precious metal back to Spain.

Thus, gold workmanship disappeared due to the Indigenous belief that gold was evil, being the main cause of having Spaniards come to their lands. Archeological objects such as the "Ocarinas" (clay whistles), stone

headrests, molds for gold masks and clay seals, apparently have Egyptian influence. There are many colonial paintings from anonymous authors and from well-known artists of this period (such as Goribar and Rodriguez). Address: 9 de Octubre 1200 & Pedro Moncayo.

Open Tuesday thru Friday from 10h-18h00, Saturdays 9h-15h00.

Admission fee: $1 adults, $0.50 children, senior citizens and students. Phone: 2300586.

GUAYAQUIL IN HISTORY Located at Malecon 2000 under the IMAX Theater, this didactic Museum holds a miniature exhibit of the most remarkable scenes of Guayaquil’s history. It is an auto-guided museum (in Spanish) with entertaining explanations and lively music.

Open Mondays thru Sundays from 9h- 13h30 and 16h-20h00.

Admission fee: $1,50 adults, $1 children. Phone: 2563078.

THE MUNICIPAL MUSEUM This museum has four divisions: Archeology, History, Colonial Art and Modern Art. You will have the chance to see original “tzanzas” (shrunken heads.)

The Shuar culture of the south- east used to shrink their enemies head to keep the bad spirits away from them.

These miniature heads have not lost

their original features when reduced.

The mystery of this process has not yet been discovered. Even though the Shuar culture is still alive, the shrinking heads tradition is not.

Located at the corner of Sucre Street and Pedro Carbo. Visiting hours: Tuesday thru Saturday 9h00 to 17h00.

Free admission. Identification document is required. Phone: 2599100.

NAHIM ISAIAS MUSEUM Located at the Plaza de la Administracion and inserted in the process of urban regeneration, the Nahim Isaias Museum`s vision is to promote the colonial art by means of its cultural funds. The complete collection of the Museum includes 2.179 works of art.

The second floor holds a permanent exhibition of colonial art. The exhibit is called “Cosmognias”, and is a didactical sample that integrates the most representative works of the colonial culture. This exhibit consists of 100 pieces: sculptures, paintings, clothes and accessories of the colonial period. The exhibit is divided in 4 routes: Fire, Earth, Water and Air. Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10h00 to 18h00.

Sundays and holidays from 11h00 to 15h00.

Admission fee: $1.50, Sunday free.

Address: Pichincha y Clemente Ballen Phone: 2324182, 2324283 www.museonahimisaias.com

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PRESLEY NORTON MUSEUM “Villa Herlinda”, a two floor manor dating back to 1942, houses the delightful exhibition of “Life and Customs of the Settlers of Ancient Ecuador”. The charming setting and suitable small size of the exhibit, added to the friendly didactic resources like touch screens and a video, make of a visit to this unique museum a most pleasant experience. The museum holds a sample of 129 selected archeological pieces of a collection of over 8,000 artifacts that belonged to Presley Norton, a passionate of Ecuador’s archeology.

The pieces belong to three historical periods: Formative (4,200 B.C. – 500 B.C), Regional Development (500 B.C. – 500 A.D.) and Integration (500 A.D.- 1530 A.D.).

NAVAL MUSEUM “ALMIRANTE ILLINGWORTH” Malecon & Clemente Ballen (Building of the Provincial Government of Guayas). Open Monday thru Friday from 8h00 to 12h30 and 14h00 to 16h00. Free admission. Phone: 2324274.

THE FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM “FELIX LUQUE PLATA” Located at the old water distributor in Plaza Colon, close to “Las Peñas” neighborhood.

Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10h00 to 17h00. Admission fee: $0.75 adults, $0.25 children.

Phone: 230 8565.

SURROUNDINGS BOTANICAL GARDEN

Open Tuesday thru Saturday from 9h00 to 17h00. Holidays from 10h00 to 15h00. Free admission. Guide service both in English and Spanish.

Address: corner of 9 de Octubre and Carchi. Phone: (04) 229 3423.

This garden holds approximately 700 plant species that have been cultivated resembling their natural habitat. Among these are trees used for wood, fruit trees, ornamental and exotic plants. More than 80 species of orchids, both native and introduced from other tropical countries, can be observed. An exhibit of native medicinal plants of the Coast is also found.

Approximately 75 bird species of the dry tropical forest fly freely in the garden. Jardin Botanico also houses a butterfly-breeding center, with approximately 27 species.

Representations of the Valdivia, Manteña and Jama-Coaque cultures are exhibited along the internal roads.

Located at "Cerro Colorado" in northern Guayaquil, Ciudadela Las Orquideas, Av. Francisco de Orellana. Open every day from 8h00 to 16h00.

Entrance fee: $3.00 adults, $1.50 students, children and senior citizens.

Guide service is $5.00 for groups up to 20 people. Phone: 2899 689.

Workshops and conferences on plant cultivation are offered.

CERRO BLANCO PROTECTED FOREST 40

Protected by governmental decree

and run by the Pro-Forest Foundation, Cerro Blanco protects one of the few remaining areas of dry tropical forest in Ecuador with a rich biodiversity, including jaguar, puma, howler, and capuchin monkeys, white-tailed deer, collared peccary, coatimundi and crab-eating raccoon.

Cerro Blanco is a bird watcher’s paradise, with 211 species including 22 species of birds of prey and a small population of the threatened Great Green Macaw, the symbol of this Protected Forest. Cerro Blanco’s facilities include an outdoor amphitheater museum, 4 nature trails, picnic and camping area, and the Great Green Macaw Captive Breeding Center.

From January to May, the view is totally green and abundant water allows bird’s nesting. From June to December is the dry season: the leaves’ colors change to brownish red, and trees flower. Don’t miss visiting one of the last remains of this unique ecosystem!

Located at km 16 on the way from Guayaquil to Salinas, in front of Roosevelt Academy School, it can be easily reached by buses of Chongon Company or buses that run from the land terminal to the coast, as well as by taxi. Open every day from 8h00 to 16h30. Previous reservation is required for visits during week days.

Phone: 287 4946 / 7 – 09 4135 730 Entrance fee: $4 adults, $3 children.

Guide service is $10 for groups of up to 8 people.

E-mail:bosqueprotector@yahoo.com www.bosquecerroblanco.com Visits Monday thru Sunday from 8h30 to 15h30 without prior reservation.

HISTORIC PARK A natural habitat of mangrove trees, the fresh waters of the Daule River, and the tropical climate of the place are the perfect setting to bring the past back to life in this 20 acre park. In a one day visit one can encounter the fauna and flora of the region in the "wildlife zone", the history, cultural manifestations and rural life in the

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"traditions zone", and the "urbanarchitectonic zone", which holds original pieces from Guayaquil’s antique architecture destroyed by some fires in the XIXth century, to bring back to life what the city once was.

On Sundays Historical Park becomes livelier with cultural and festive activities. Music, typical food, people dressed up with antique clothes, among other activities, add color and flavor to this cultural setting.

Located only 10 minutes from the city crossing over the Daule River, close to the residential neighborhood of Samborondon #3.

The entrance fee is $3 for adults, $1.50 for children and $1 for senior citizens. On Sundays the fee is $4.50 for adults and $3 for children. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 9h00 to 16h30. Guide service is available.

You can arrange group visits by calling 283 2958 previously.

Transportation service is available next to the entrance of the MAAC parking lot in Malecon 2000 (Malecon & Loja St.).

PUERTO HONDO MANGROVES Through the formation of an Ecological Club, the community is making a united effort to conserve the remaining mangroves in the area. Among its projects, the club offers ecotourism opportunities.

Visit this beautiful natural site with exotic flora and fauna!

It is located at km.17 on the way from Guayaquil to Salinas. Open every day from 9h00 to 17h00.

Prior reservation is required for visits from Monday thru Saturday.

Phone: 091400186. The visitor can choose between a 45 minutes trip through the water ($10) or this same trip plus a visit to the Environmental Education Center ($15).

E-mail: bosqueprotector@yahoo.com Photos courtesy of: Municipio de Guayaquil, IMAX MAAC & Parque Histórico.

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NORTHERN GUAYAQUIL

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS 1. Malecon El Salado 2. Las Pe単as neighborhood 3. Santa Ana hill Malecon 2000: 4. IMAX 5. Moorish Clock Tower 6. Crystal Palace PARKS & MONUMENTS 7. Historical Park 8. Centenario Park 9. Seminario Park 10. La Rotonda

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MUSEUMS 11. Casa de la Cultura

12. Municipal 13. Nahim Isaias 14. Naval Museum 15. MAAC 16. The Firefighters Museum CHURCHES 17. Cathedral 18. La Merced 19. Santo Domingo PUBLIC SERVICES 20. Post Office 21. Communications 22. Guayas Province Government 23. Municipal Palace

TELEPHONE CO.

BANKS & EXCHANGE

HOSPITALS 24. Kennedy 25. General Hospital AIRPORT SHOPPING & HANDICRAFTS 26. Aventura Plaza 27. Mall del Sol 28. Garzocentro 29. Plaza Quil 30. San Marino Shopping

31. Policentro 32. Las Vitrinas 33. Handicraft Market Malecon 2000 34. Handicraft Market Loja HOTELS 35. Sheraton 36. Hilton Colon 37. Howard Johnson 38. Gold Center Hotel 39. Oro Verde 40. Grand Hotel Guayaquil 41. Las Pe単as 42. Hampton Inn 43. Palace 44. Unipark 45. Continental 46. Marriot 47. Orilla del Rio

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DOWNTOWN GUAYAQUIL

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CULTURE + ENTERTAINMENT - GUAYAQUIL EXHIBITS

Wednesday thru Saturdays 10h00-17h00 Sundays 10h00- 15h00

Guayaquil’s Beer History Place: Museo Pilsener Free admission

Thursday 16th - 20h00

Ecuador Flamenco

By Amagia Dance Company Flamenco dance with Ecuadorian flamenco music remixed Place: Sala Experimental Teatro Centro de Arte Price: $25 Open until Friday 17th

Exposition of ManteñoHuancavilca Engravings Place: Museum Nahim Isaías Tuesdays-Saturdays 9h00-17h00 Holidays 10h00-15h00

Engravings, workshop directed by the artist Walter Páez Place: Museo Presley Norton

Mondays thru Saturdays 9h00-17h00

Life and costumes of Antique Ecuadorian settlers Place: Museo Presley Norton Free admission

PERMANENT XHIBITS Guayaquil at the beginning of the XXth C Place: Malecón 1900, Parque Histórico Ancestral Medicinal Wisdom Place: Ethnobotanic Garden, Parque Histórico

SPECIAL EVENTS Thursday 16th thru Sunday 19th

Tuesdays thru Saturdays 9h00-17h30

Sacred Art, a Journey through Faith Place: Museo Municipal Free admission Wednesday thru Saturdays 10h00-17h30 Sundays 10h00-15h00

Julio Jaramillo’s Popular Music Place: Museo de la Música Popular Julio Jaramillo Free admission 44

International Tourism Fair of Ecuador (FITE) Exhibits, folklore, music, workshops.

Place: Centro de Convenciones de Guayaquil Simón Bolívar Friday 17th thru Sunday 19th

Sixth Folkloric International Festival Folkloric dance This festival is part of the International Tourism Fair in Ecuador (FITE) Place: Centro de Convenciones de Guayaquil Simón Bolívar

PERMANENT ATTRACTIONS MALECÓN SIMON BOLIVAR Horse Carriages Departure from Malecón & Sucre St. IMAX Movie Theater For information about movie schedules log in www.imaxmalecon2000.com Santay Island A 2.5-hour boat ride from the Simón Bolivar jetty.

Recommendations: Wear light clothes, insect repellent, sunscreen.

Take bottled water. Inexpensive rubber boot rental is available at the Island. The island floods every 15 days, therefore to visit we recommend contacting the tide advisors (at the Malecón) and not to travel in tidal water. For more info contact: Discovery 2304831.

ADDRESSES: • Sala Experimental - Teatro Centro de Arte: Vía a la Costa Km. 4 1/2 • Museo Nahim Isaías: Pichincha & Clemente Ballén. P: 232 4182 www.museonahimisaias.co • Museo Presley Norton: Corner of Av. 9 de Octubre & Carchi.

P: 229 3423 • Museo Municipal: Sucre Street & Pedro Carbo P: 259 9100 ext. 7402 • Museo de la Música Popular Julio Jaramillo/ Museo Pilsener: Puerto Santa Ana Edificio Nº 3, Piso 2º • Parque Histórico: Km 1/2 vía Samborondón, Av. Esmeraldas.

P: 283 2958 www.parquehistoricoguayaquil.com • Centro de Convenciones de Guayaquil: Avenida de Las Américas, former airport.

• Centro Cultural Simón Bolívar / MAAC: Malecón Simón Bolívar & Loja (next to the Imax Theater).

P: 230 9384 ext. 221

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PREMIUM HOTELS - GUAYAQUIL

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PREMIUM HOTELS - GUAYAQUIL

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La Taberna Libanesa Address: C.C. Las Terrazas, Ave. Esmeraldas & Ave. Central, local 6A, V铆a Samborond贸n Phone: 2837 564

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RESTAURANTS - GUAYAQUIL

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RUTA DEL SOL

Guayas, Santa Elena & Manabí Provinces This route guides us through the unique nature and history of the coastal provinces of Guayas, Santa Elena and Manabí. You can fly either to Guayaquil or Manta, and drive through the coastline. The following pages will guide you from Guayaquil, traveling Northward.

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Following this route, nature lovers have the opportunity to explore unique dry forests with their two contrasting seasons, cloud forests and their rare fauna and flora, to dive within coral reefs surrounded by exotic sea life, to admire the numerous bird species of the region, and submerge in isolated and exotic beaches. The "ChongónColonche" Mountain Range at the north

of the Guayas province has unique ecosystems with an amazing diversity of endemic plants and birds: one can climb from very dry forests at the coast to lush cloud forests at the top of the hills, only a few kilometers away.

For those who are sports inclined, there are opportunities to fish, sail, surf, ski and dive.

In addition, these two provinces hold vestiges of an amazingly rich history. The most antique cultures of America settled here on the Coasts of South America. Finally, if you only wish to rest, suntan, and watch the sunset… along this route you will find suiting accommodations and services.

1. "REAL ALTO" IN-SITU MUSEUM: on the way from Guayaquil to Salinas, one finds this museum managed by the community descendant of the "Valdivia"

culture. The place resembles a ceremonial center of the human groups that inhabited this area from 4.200 1.500 B.C. Open Tues- Sunday, 9h00-17h00. Admission fee: $2.00.

2. MUSEUM OF THE "LOVERS OF SUMPA": definitely worth visiting is this small but outstanding in-situ museum, which is located at the antique settlement village of the "Las Vegas" culture (approx. 8.800 to 4.600 BC). The museum got its name because the burial that is uncovered disclosed the skeletons of a man and a woman that were carefully buried together about 5-6.000 years ago.

This museum is the largest cemetery of the time that has been excavated in the new world. Open Thursday thru Saturday, 10h00 to 17h00. Sundays and holidays 10h00 to 15h00. Phone: 294-1020 Admission fee is $ 0.50, includes guide service.

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3. SALINAS: excellent accommodations are found in Salinas, called this way because salt is extracted from the region. This site is a corridor for migratory bird and marine species. It is a favorite vacation spot for people from Guayaquil. The boardwalk of Salinas is a safe place that offers entertainment day and night.

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On the Malecon, you can visit the Naval Archeological Museum (open Wednesday-Sunday). This small museum displays the vast archeological richness of the pre-Hispanic cultures that inhabited this region. The museum also displays a representation of the antique "balsas" made of the wood of the same name, with great cotton sails that impressed the Spaniards because they traveled long distances (Mexico-Peru). The museum also displays coins from the Spanish conquest, and some pieces from the "Lady Captain" galleon that sank in 1664.

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E

7 6 Dos Mangas

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Sinchal

Valdivia

Loma Alta

El Suspiro

Barcelona

Playa Rosada

4. BALLENITA: The "Farallon Dillon" Restaurant- Museum is found at the site. It has a wonderful viewpoint that is the perfect setting for bird and whale watching. The museum displays modern practical artifacts made out of antique marine pieces; most of the artifacts are for sale.

Colonche

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5. VALDIVIA: close to the town are a museum and an aquarium. The museum displays archeological pieces of the Valdivia culture. The aquarium is most interesting not only because of the display of exotic sea life, but also because the guides are homeless children; this job enables them to obtain an education.

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6. MONTAﾃ選TA: it is a favorite spot for national and international surfers and young adventure tourists. This charming town offers a variety of inexpensive hostels, national and international food, and an exhilarating nightlife.

7. OLON: the wide beach of Olon is crowned with an outstanding Sanctuary, with open walls and a breathtaking view of the beach.

LEGEND

Typical food National Protected Area Beaches Airport Surfing Fishing Water Sports Accommodation

Capital of Province Cities / towns Small towns Main Road Secondary Road La Ruta del Sol Scuba diving 51

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8. MACHALILLA NATIONAL PARK: This park has various attractions: Isla de la Plata off the coast of Puerto Lopez, Los Frailes Beach, the Archeological Site of Agua Blanca, Salango, and the Beaches of Puerto Rico and Puerto Cayo (see page 18).

9. MANTA: Until recently, Manta was only known for its important tuna fishing fleet, the production of vegetable oil, and the famous “Panama hats”. Today, the visit of cruise ships, the aerial base rented to the US Air Force for anti-narcotics operations, and the construction of modern hotels, have transformed the city into an important tourist destination. Many foreigners have chosen Manta and the nearby Crucita town as their retirement residence.

Manta is a modern city, however, some antique bamboo and wooden houses still remain as a reminder of the old village. With an average temperature of 77ºF all year long, dry weather and dry tropical forest in its surroundings, Manta is an attractive city to visit. Additionally, Manta offers first class hotel facilities and daily flights on Icaro and Aerogal from the main cities.

The warmth and hospitality of the Manteños contributes to the rapid tourism development of the entire province. Delicious gastronomy is also one of the main attractions of Manta. Don’t miss the seafood “ceviches” or the exquisite “viche de pescado”.

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Manta is decorated with a wide variety of tree species: ceibos, jasmines, almonds, rubber plants, acacias, and beautiful palm trees. The balsa tree (ochroma logopus) is native to this province. Its light wood allowed the early inhabitants of the region to navigate large distances easily and rapidly. From history books we have learned that the golden jewels and decorations worn by the navigators caught the attention of the first Spanish visitors, who believed that

the gold they couldn’t find in the Caribbean was at the South Pacific.

have been built within the mangroves, as well as boat tours around the island.

10. BAHIA DE CARAQUEZ: The city of Bahía de Caráquez is named after the bay and the pre-Columbian residents who came from the sea and settled here. Because of the estuary and the Pacific Ocean around the city, the local nature offers sweet and salt water that allows diverse vegetation. In the area you can find mangrove trees, ceibos forests, sweet water humidity such as that in La Segua Marsh.

La Segua Marsh is a sweet water humidity area of about 172 hectares. In La Segua there are approximately 280 thousand bird species.

A few years ago Bahía became an ecocity as a result of its big Green Movement and because of the community effort to rebuild the city after the earthquakes suffered in 1997. Bahía de Caráquez is one of the few cities in Ecuador that recycles waste serving as an example for other regions.

Traffic is not a problem. Many residents and tourists prefer to use “ecological Taxis” which are bikes adapted to transport two passengers. This keeps the city free of pollution and offers a peaceful place ideal for vacationing.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS: Isla Corazón is a mangrove forest refuge comprised of 130 acres and is home to one of the largest colonies of Magnificent Frigate birds in all the South Pacific. Since 1998 the protection of the sanctuary is the responsibility of an adjacent community called Portovelo, that has a mangrove reforestation project and are glad to show around the island on wooden trails that

Cerro Seco is one of the last tropical dry forests in the world.

The Cabo Pasado: Is a remnant of pre-mountain forest which is a geographical transition between the Tumbesian region of dry tropical forest and the tropical rainforest of the Chocó Region. This amazing combination of climates and microclimates is the result of both the “el Niño¨ (hot) current running from north to south and the Humboldt (cool) current running from south to north, meeting precisely in front of the Cabo Pasado. The result is the only area in South America where you can observe the flora and fauna of both tropical and dry forests coexisting together. It can be toured by horseback or hiking. It is very probable to see and listen to howler monkeys.

Photos shutterstock

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NATURAL MAIN EVENTS WHALE- WATCHING SEASON

Humpback Whales off the Ecuadorian Coast Every year during the austral winter (June-October), humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) migrate from the Antarctic to tropical waters off Ecuador and Colombia for breeding.

The reason why these whales look for Ecuadorian waters to breed is because the calves need to be born in a warm environment, since they are born with a thin isolating layer.

Humpback whales are dark with a great variety of white areas on the ventral part and flippers. They have the largest flippers of all the whales, almost a third part of their body’s length. With 12-15 meters in length and more than 30 tons of weight, humpbacks are the most acrobatic and spectacular of the bigger whales.

They like to breach out the water or hit repetitively the surface with their flipper or flukes. It is believed that the sound produced in this form could be used for communications purposes.

Humpback whales are also well known as the singer whales during the breeding season. Males take a vertical position head down and “sing” a complex sound repertory.

These songs are structured in themes and can last 20 minutes or more.

Singers can repeat the song once and again for hours. All the whales around sing a similar song, although the song is changing as the season progresses.

The meaning of the songs is probably related to the reproduction process.

The whales that can be found off the Ecuadorian coast belong to one of six Southern hemisphere stocks that were severely exploited during the first half of the XX century. However, recent studies at the central coast off Ecuador show that the southeastern

Pacific humpback whale stock, to which Ecuadorian whales belong, is recovering significantly.

During the breeding season it is possible to find these whales almost in every site along the central and northern coast of the country. Since 1994, whale watching has become a popular activity among the tourists that visit the Machalilla National Park and other sites of the Ecuadorian coast. The activity is steadily increasing, as well as the concern about the whales’ welfare.

Contact our sponsors from La Ruta del Sol (pages 54-55) for information about whale-watching tours.

Text by: Fernando Felix.

Photographs: Cristina Castro – Pacific Whale Foundation.

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PREMIUM HOTELS - RUTA DEL SOL

MANTA

ECUADOR

Tel.: 5935 - 2629999 • Fax: 5935 - 2629989 reservas@hojomanta.com • www.ghl.com.co Kilometro 1.5 Via Barbasquillo • Manta - Ecuador

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PREMIUM HOTELS AND SERVICES - RUTA DEL SOL

Km. 51/2 vía Bahía - Tosagua Phone: (593 5) 2399 399 Email: info@casaceibo.com www.casaceibo.com Bahía de Caráquez - Manabí - Ecuador

Tel.: 5935 - 2629999 • Fax: 5935 - 2629989 reservas@hojomanta.com • www.ghl.com.co Kilometro 1.5 Via Barbasquillo • Manta - Ecuador 55

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Many of the provinces in Ecuador’s highlands are named after the most important mountain or volcano on its territory: Imbabura, Pichincha, Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, and Chimborazo. Most of the names of the mountains have their origin in an indigenous tongue, mostly Quichua. The word “Andes” itself comes from ANTI, which means "where the sun rises".

The Ecuadorian Andes include several active volcanoes. Ecuadorians have witnessed and still can experience numerous volcanic eruptions.

"Tungurahua" comes from "Tunguri" (esophagus) and Awa (fire); and indeed this volcano spits fire! It is an exciting experience to observe the volcano in action, and as for now it is safe, from a distance, of course. The town of Baños, a favorite spot for tourists, is located precisely at the skirts of the volcano.

The Ecuadorian Andes are the only site on the planet where the Equatorial Line crosses over highlands; in the rest of the world, the Equator crosses through dense tropical forests or the ocean. The pre-Incan cultures that inhabited Quito and its surroundings developed their astronomical knowledge helped by the clear landmarks surrounding the city.

Alexander von Humboldt journeyed the Ecuadorian Andes and their valleys in 1802. He named them "The Avenue of the Volcanoes". He believed that he had reached the highest point in the world when he attempted to climb the Chimborazo Mt. (20,702 ft), since the Himalayas were still unknown in Europe at the time. If measured from the center of the Earth, the peak of the Chimborazo is indeed the furthest

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point on the planet’s surface (because the Earth is wider at the Tropics).

Ecuador has twelve peaks over 16,000 ft. The country offers opportunities to hike; trek and mountain climb for all skill levels. Ecuador’s Andes hold numerous breathtaking view sites: lagoons, extensive paramos (moorlands), mysterious cloudforests,… Moreover, the indigenous communities of the region are known for their colorful folklore and remarkable weaving abilities. Several activities can be enjoyed: birdwatching, biking, water sports on the lakes, interacting with indigenous communities, visiting rose plantations, savoring delicious typical dishes, and much more. The colonial cities of Quito and Cuenca have both been declared World Cultural Heritage Sites. Within easy reach from these cities you can visit imposing natural sites.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING ASEGUIM is the association of mountain climbing guides of Ecuador. We recommend that if you plan to do mountain climbing at any level, you contact them to access professional and certified guides. They also offer rescue operations. Phone: (02) 2222954, cel 099 822 363, www.aseguim.org

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AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Spectacled Bears on the Road, an Hour Drive Away From Quito!

Ecuador is definitely a country full of surprises! A couple of friends were heading to the Papallacta Thermal Springs this past month of July, when they encountered a Spectacled Bear mom crossing the street with her two cubs. They watched the mother help her two cubs cross the highway and later climb back to the forest, with the same care a human mother would make sure her two babies make it safe across the street.

Spectacled Bears are in danger of extinction and hard to see: but here they were! Crossing the street only an hour drive away from the capital city.

This special experience is one of many that can happen in Ecuador due to the country’s amazing natural diversity. Only 4 hours away from this episode, in the Coast, other families were enjoying the amazing experience of watching Humpback whales jumping and playing around during their breeding period in Equatorial warm waters (for more information see page 53).

Usually the bigger the animals the more they call our attention, but Ecuador’s nature amazes in all its forms and sizes. It is a true Paradise for bird watchers, orchid collectors, marine-life lovers, and all of those who appreciate nature’s wonders. All close, all year round, Ecuador offers a spectacle of nature from high Andean ecosystems to tropical forest

and the Pacific Coast, and the unique Galapagos Islands as well.

THE SPECTACLED BEAR The Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus) or Andean Bear is the only surviving species of bear native to South America. They live mainly in cloud forests (also known as Andean forest) and high Andean moorlands called ‘páramo’. They are found from Venezuela to Northern Argentina, including Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia.

Spectacled bears are classified as “short-faced bears” as their snouts are smaller as compared with other bears. They are the only surviving members of the subfamily Tremarctinae. Their diet is mosty vegetarian, and they have longer front than rear legs, making them excellent climbers.

The WWF website sites: “According to some researchers, the greatest number of bears is to be found on the borders between Colombia, Ecuador and Peru… Recent estimated population sizes for most areas are small, with a total estimate for the Northern Andes (excluding most of Peru, Bolivia and northern Argentina) comprised anywhere between 6,000 and 10,000 individuals.” According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), within country habitat occupancy models and genetic sampling have yielded estimates of approximately 2,000 Andean bears in Ecuador.

Fundación Antisana and other local NGOs are working towards the conservation of Andean spectacled bears in Ecuador, which benefits the conservation of Andean forests since these animals are indicators of the wellbeing of their ecosystem.

The spectacled bear population is under threat for a number of reasons. Mainly, extensive logging and farming have led to a loss of their habitat. Also, the bears used to be hunted by locals due to a belief they ate livestock (although spectacled bears do not eat large quantities of meat).

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LA MERCED BAJA, A WELL KEPT SECRET (IMBABURA)

HACIENDA PINSAQUI (OTAVALO - IMBABURA)

HACIENDA CUSIN (SAN PABLO - IMBABURA)

In the Zuleta Valley, surrounded by mountains and Andean scenery, away from the main roads and known primarily for those who live there, one finds Hacienda La Merced Baja.

Its main productive activity is dairy cattle. In addition, the owners are devoted to livestock bulls and maintenance of an important Andalussian Horse selection, winners of various national awards. Moreover, the cultivation of cereals and other Andean agricultural products complement the farming work jointly with forestation. The visitor can closely observe these activities and even participate in some of them. A cow moos or horse neighs are sure to awaken you.

First constructed in the year of 1790, with three centuries of history, romantic Hacienda Pinsaqui invites you to be a part of its magic and legends…

Hacienda Pinsaqui offers all the facilities for an unforgettable visit: 30 luxurious suites with fireplaces (some with Jacuzzi bath), restaurant, 200 year old gardens with an artificial lake, horseback riding, historical Chapel, and a reading room with fireplaces.

Preserving a historic ambiance, Hacienda Cusin’s new English owner established a country inn of 45 guestrooms, suites and gardencottages. Cusin’s terracotta roof tiles, white walls, towers, cobblestone and fountain courtyards nestle beneath a deep-blue sky in a wide, pastoral, lake valley. Nearby Lago San Pablo reflects 15,000 ft Imbabura mountain. Located 90 minutes North of Quito and 15 minutes South of Otavalo, it offers: valley/mountain trails, horseback riding, mountain climbing, bird watching, volleyball and ssquash courts, games room, children’s playground, library, extensive video library, craft & market village tours, spanish lessons.

Reservations & Information: Phone/fax: (593-6) 266 2138 Cell: (593-9) 139 8969 www.haciendamercedbaja.com chiribogamercedbaja@hotmail.com

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Reservations & Information: Phone: (593-6) 294 6116 / 117 Cel phone: (593-9) 972 7652 Address: Panamericana Norte Km 5 www.haciendapinsaqui.com info@haciendapinsaqui.com

Reservations & Information: Phone: (593-6) 291 8316 / 317 www.haciendacusin.com hacienda@cusin.com.ec

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PREMIUM HACIENDAS - ANDES HACIENDA LA COMPAÑÍA (CAYAMBE- PICHINCHA) One of the outstanding features of Hacienda La Compañía is the house of French Republican style, which dates back to 1919 and has been in the hands of the same family for generations. The charm of the house is complemented with a striking decoration of thousands of roses which are brought from the Flower Farm belonging to the same family. The owners greet visitors personally and serve breakfast or lunch with typical ingredients and a homey feeling, and then visitors are invited to the Rose Farm to admire the wonders behind all those flowers on vases at the house: the people, the methods, the carefulness of each detail, and moreover, the special awareness in social and environmental processes.

Prior reservation is required for a visit.

Phone: (593 2) 224 7825 Cel phone: (593 9) 769 4174 haciendalacompania@yahoo.com

HACIENDA SAN AGUSTIN DE CALLO (COTOPAXI)

HACIENDA HATO VERDE (LASSO - COTOPAXI)

At the foot of the Cotopaxi volcano, close to the llinizas, lies the former Inca Palace built by Emperor Tupac Yupanqui (XVth century) and converted into a monastery by the Augustinian Order (XVth century).

Today, this unique family hacienda provides a warm atmosphere with fireplaces in the bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms and an excellent cuisine to savor in the Inca dining room. Two or more days are recommended to enjoy horseback riding lessons and excursions: trekking, biking, and visits to local markets, typical country villages and rose plantations.

Hacienda Hato Verde is part of an antique large dairy farm. Its elegant 120-year old farm house was reconstructed in 2000 preserving its rustic materials such as pumice-stone, decorations and style. The countryhouse has nine thoughtfully decorated bedrooms, each with fireplace and a beautiful view of the farm. Within its 40 hectares you can do a variety of activities including horseback riding, biking or hiking. There is a dining room with a cozy oven, perfect for baking home-made bread and pizzas.

While the time goes by in the living rooms, fine cuisine is being prepared in the kitchen and delicious tea and coffee are always available.

Reservations & Information: Quito - (593-2) 290 6157 / 8 Hacienda - (593-3) 271 9160 / 271 9577 / 271 8048 Fax: (593-3) 271 9510 www.incahacienda.com info@incahacienda.com

Reservations & Information: Phone/fax: (593-3) 271 9902 / (593-3) 271 9348 Address: Panamericana Sur Km. 55 entrance to Mulaló Lasso, Cotopaxi www.haciendahatoverde.com info@haciendahatoverde.com

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PREMIUM HACIENDAS - ANDES HOTEL HACIENDA ABRASPUNGO (CHIMBORAZO)

POSADA INGAPIRCA (CAĂ‘AR)

HOSTERIA UZHUPUD (AZUAY)

The wonderful Hacienda Abraspungo is located at 2,754 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the magnificence of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Abraspungo is adorned with old photographs and illustrations of Andean landscapes, which today constitutes as a testimony to eras gone by. The antiques on display in the social areas give a colonial flavors as well as a feel for the pre-Colombian cultures of the region. The visitor can truly appreciate the richness of the natural resources offered by the Chimborazo Province and Ecuador in general. The Hacienda offers 40 luxurious rooms, restaurant, beautiful gardens and social areas, and many activities.

In the mysterious and beautiful region where the CaĂąaris and Incas inhabited, and where their most important monument in Ecuador stands, one finds this beautiful resting spot in an enchanting antique hacienda house.

A wonderful place in the highlands of Ecuador. Hosteria Uzhupud is located along the banks of the Paute River, thirty minutes from Cuenca.

There, traditional colonial architecture and nature blend together to remind visitors of the pleasure and privilege of living.

Reservations & Information: Phone: (593-3) 236 4274 / 5 Cell (593) 0976 83450 www.haciendaabraspungo.com info@haciendaabraspungo.com

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La Posada Ingarpica offers comfortable rooms, excellent typical food, and a unique ambience.

Reservations & Information: Phone: (593-7) 282 7401/ 283 1120 Fax: (593-7) 283 2340 Cuenca office: Calle Larga 693 y Borrero www.grupo-santaana.net santaana@etapaonline.net.ec

Reservations & Information: Phone: (593-7) 225 0339 Fax: (593-7) 225 0373 Address: Km 32 Cuenca-Paute road e-mail: uzhupud1@cue.satnet.net

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THERMALS AND SPAS The use of water for therapeutic means dates back to antique tribes that lived in caverns. They observed how animals, when sick or injured, go to hot or mineral water springs to heal. On the XXth century, the social circumstances and the scientific discoveries led to a better understanding of the benefits of hydrotherapy.

Today, the accelerated rhythm of modern civilizations, and the stress this brings about, awakened a special interest for thermal therapies.

The need for relaxation and the boom of aesthetics have brought about the development of a new technique called SPA, which comes from the Latin "Salutem per aqua" (health through water). SPAs are places where aesthetic and relax treatments are carried out through the use of

water, usually enriched with additives. SPAs also offer a diversity of treatments with clay, aromatherapy, medicinal plants and massages.

Ecuador, home to several active volcanoes, has extraordinary thermal waters that naturally sprout from hot springs, with high temperatures and rich in minerals. As an energetic center in the middle of the world, Ecuador has also become a special site for the development of modern and sophisticated SPAs. Luna Runtun- the Adventure Spalocated at the foot of the active Tungurahua volcano, offers an exfoliation treatment with the ashes of the volcano, and has an organic garden where the natural products for the different treatments are cultivated.

They offer special hair treatments with avocado & aloe-vera.

La Mirage Spa has created a unique ambiance for each of the therapies they offer. Every detail is carefully designed to contribute to the client’s comfort, relax and pleasure… in a most exclusive atmosphere. Additionaly, La Mirage offers a therapy that combines the ancestral knowledge of a native witchdoctor (Shaman) with modern SPA techniques.

Both thermal waters and SPAs are a treat… an escape from stress of the busy world of today… an opportunity to indulge oneself and renovate both the body and the spirit.

LA MIRAGE Garden Hotel & SPA

Phone: (593-6) 2915-237/561 Fax:(593-6)2915-065 e-mail: mirage1@mirage.com.ec www.larc1.com US Replarc ( 1800-327-3573) Cotacachi-Ecuador

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THE NORTHERN ANDES

IMBABURA VOLCANO

Mountains,Lakes & Folklore The Northern Sierra offers a magnificent scenery of volcanoes, sparkling lakes and patchwork-covered hills.

Taking the Panamericana highway north of Quito, the first highlight is the Cayambe volcano (18,997 ft), crossed by the Equator. This snowpeak overlooks the city with the

same name, which in the last decade has grown in importance because of the rose plantations. The flower industry is Ecuador’s fourthlargest export. Renowed in Cayambe are the home-made cheese and bizcochos (buttery biscuits).

Further north is the province of Imbabura (see map on next page). A visit to Ecuador is never complete with out at least a few days spent here, at the province of lakes and mountains, of inspiring landscapes and folklore. This province is only 50 miles North of Quito on the PanAmerican Highway.

ATTRACTIONS IN IMBABURA SAN PABLO LAKE This is the largest lake in the province. Indigenous people fish 62

early in the morning in their straw canoes, and also bathe and wash their clothes in this lake during the day. Inns, farms and restaurants where you can spend a weekend or just a day full of entertainment surround the lake. You can also take a boat ride around the lake, or enjoy other water sports such as sailing, water skiing, jet ski, etc.

OTAVALO INDIGENOUS MARKET Otavalo is a small city of about 50,000 inhabitants. It lies at 8,300 ft above sea level in a spring-like valley, situated between the Imbabura volcano (15,118 feet) and the Cotacachi volcano (16,200 feet).

The most famous indigenous market in Ecuador is held here. Although the market is bigger on Saturdays, you can visit it any day and find an impressive variety of all kinds of

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NORTHERN ANDES

Tumbabiro

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LEGENDS

Gas station Sightseeing Airport Archaeology Handicrafts Typical food Thermal Springs Capital of Province Cities / towns Pan- American Highway Secondary road

TOURIST SITES . LODGING

1

Mojanda Lake

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Cotacachi Leather Market

2

Hacienda Cusín

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Peguche Waterfalls

3

Hostería Puerto Lago

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Hostería Hacienda Pinsaquí

4

San Pablo lake

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Hostería La Mirage

5

Hacienda Zuleta

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6

Hacienda La Merced Baja

7

Otavalo Indigenous Market

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Yaguarcocha Lake

8

Cuicocha lake

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Hacienda La Compañía

San Antonio de Ibarra (carved wood handicrafts)

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Ecuadorian handicrafts. At dawn you may see indigenous people arriving the market place from many mountain trails surrounding the city. They come from nearby villages and towns such as Peguche, Agato and Iluman, to sell their products. One may visit the workshops of these local weavers working on back strap and Spanish treadle looms, as well as other artisans at work making felt hats, knitting sweaters or weaving straw mats.

COTACACHI VILLAGE This village is known for its leatherwork. You can find an excellent choice of jackets, skirts, boots, briefcases, bags, riding equipment and wallets.

Cotacachi is home to the only high school in Ecuador that teaches leather work. They specialize in shoes, however, teach the students to make all leather products.

CUICOCHA LAKE The crater lake has an impressive landscape of deep blue waters surrounded by hills. Take a hike around the lake (4 to 5 hours). If you are lucky, you will see a condor.

CONDOR PARK Just 3 miles away from Otavalo, the Condor Park was laid out. This thirtyacre park is managed by a foundation dedicated to the care and rescue of predatory birds such as hawks and eagles, vultures and owls.

This park is unique in many ways. It is located on a hill known as the “Pukara Alto”, an energetic center since pre-Columbian times, where ruins remain of a religious pre-Inca

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temple. The sights are amazing, 360 degrees around of mountains, lake, valleys and towns.

Large cages are distributed along a cobblestone walk through the park to admire a variety of birds such as the Barred Hawk, the King Vulture, the Greater Red-Headed Vulture, the Spectacled Owl, the Arctic Owl, the Mottled Owl, among others. Finally, you will run into the large cage of the impressive Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) at an endangered status however easily bred in captivity.

Open from Tuesday thru Sunday from 9h30 to 17h00. Admission fee: $3,50 for adults, $1,75 children and senior citizens.

Phone: 06-2924429 condor@accessinter.net www.parquecondor.org

SAN ANTONIO Shortly before entering Ibarra, a right-hand turn leads into San Antonio, the home of expert wood carvers. As you visit the various shops, you will marvel at their talent.

Visitors can watch some of the craftsmen at work in their studios.

IBARRA CITY This clean, freshly painted colonial city, capital of the province, is also known as the white city. It lies at 7,000 ft, and has a population of approximately 110,000. Ibarra enjoys one of the best climates of the Sierra.

Typical products include arrope de mora (blackberry syrup) and nogadas (a sweet made with walnuts). Don’t miss the delicious “paila” ice creams (whipped natural fruit).

YAGUARCOCHA LAKE This lake is only a short distance from the center of Ibarra. Its name means “blood lake”. Years ago, a bloody battle among Indigenous peoples took place at this lake, thus the name. Now Yaguarcocha is home to an auto racetrack. Every so often international car racing events take place here.

ATTRACTIONS IN CARCHI Carchi is the northernmost province of the Ecuadorian sierra. The Province borders with Colombia.

EL ANGEL ECOLOGICAL RESERVE The 15,715 hectares of this Ecological Reserve lie at 11,950 to 15,640 ft. The paramo in El Angel is covered by gigantic “Frailejones” (Espeletia pycnophylla), a plant specie that is only found in the high paramo ecosystem.

Another plant species in the reserve are the Polylepis trees, which have many layers covering their trunks for insulation. Given that the layers of these trunks are thin and can be torn like paper, they are locally known as “arboles de papel” (paper trees).

El Angel is considered a water sponge as the area provides water for the entire province. Several rivers have their origin at El Angel and join together to form the basin of the Mira and El Angel Rivers. Beautiful lagoons are also found at this Reserve.

Photos by: Ministerio de Turismo & Gustavo Vallejo.

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PREMIUM SERVICES - NORTHERN ANDES

Gourmet Restaurant

LA MIRAGE - EL COLIBRI Superb National and International Cuisine

Reservations: (593-6) 2915-237 / 2915 -077 Cotacachi-Ecuador

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INDEPENDENCE SQUARE

First World Cultural Heritage Site Photos courtesy of: Quito Tourism www.quito.com.ec

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Besides its amazing landscapes, Quito is known for its treasures of colonial churches, paintings, sculptures and carvings. The Spanish Colonial Period extends from the XVI to the XVIII Century. Ecuadorian colonial art combines the European Renaissance and Baroque styles with the indigenous and mestizo influences. With the arrival of the Spaniards, the Roman Catholic Church became the center of religious instruction and the largest patron of the arts. As part of the acculturation of the indigenous people, the Spanish established painting and sculpture

schools where Spanish artists trained the indigenous population in the arts.

As a result, the Quitenian School (Escuela Quiteña) became famous in Latin America for its talented artists, including Bernardo de Legarda and the indigenous artists Caspicara and Pampite. Miguel de Santiago, Javier de Goribar, Manuel Sama-niego and Padre Bedón were othe outstanding representatives of this art school.

Scholars consider their contributions to colonial art as some of the most valuable in America. Thus, the UNESCO declared Quito a "World Cultural Heritage Site" in 1978.

However, the history of Quito stretches far beyond the arrival of the Spaniards. Before the Spanish Sebastian de Benalcázar conquered the city in 1534, the Incas conquered it in the XV century. At the time when the Incas came, they found an organized civilization: the Shyris.

Furthermore, recent discoveries have uncovered archeological sites

that date back to 1500 BC. These archeological remains are aligned with the summer solstice and the winter equinox, demonstrating that the native people had an impressive knowledge of the course of the sun.

These cultures are believed to have migrated from the Ecuadorian Coast.

Quitsa-to, the original name of the city, means "middle of the Earth" in the ancient ‘tsafiqui’ language. Quito is the only site on the planet where the Equator crosses over highlands.

On the rest of the Earth’s surface, it crosses through jungle or ocean.

Therefore, the pre-Inca cultures could develop their astronomical knowledge aided by the clear landmarks surrounding the city: the Pichincha volcano (15,000 ft) to the West, the Antisana (18,700ft) to the east, and the peak of the snow-caped Cayambe (18,725 ft) to the Northeast, almost precisely on the Equator. The city itself emerges over 9,184 ft above sea level; it is the second highest

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ues by Caspicara are of neoclassical style. A museum that displays the clothes used by the priests on the XVII century ("casullas"), choral books and silver pieces of the church is open Monday thru Saturday from 9h30 to 16h00.

Guided tour is $1.50 for adults and $1 for children. Phone: 257 0371.

capital in the world. Thus, Quito could be considered the best natural astronomical observatory.

Quito extends along the Eastern side of the Pichincha volcano. The city is long and thin, with a length of aprox.

22 miles and a width of 2-3 miles.

The temperature in the city varies along the day… in the early morning and at night it can be at 10ºC, and at noon it can reach up to 25ºC. The geographical conditions of the zone give place to a number of ecosystems, thus, Quito’s surroundings offer a diversity of landscapes, each with unique flora and fauna.

CENTRO CULTURAL METROPOLITANO

LA COMPAÑIA

SIGHTSEEING We suggest that you to begin your sightseeing at "La Plaza de la Independencia", from where you can walk to most of the downtown sites.

This main plaza is surrounded by four buildings that represent the four ruling powers of the colonial period: the Government Palace on the West, the Municipal Palace on the East, the Archbishop’s Palace on the north, and the Cathedral on the south.

THE GOVERNMENT’S PALACE It is not possible to visit the interiors of the palace, however, from the entrance door one is able to appreciate the Andalusian patios that have half-point arches and water fountains

in the center. You can see a scale model of the Independence Square exposed at the entrance to the Palace.

THE CATHEDRAL This church holds an interesting collection of sculptures and paintings from the Escuela Quiteña. Among the most important is the "Descending of Christ" by Caspicara.

It is a masterpiece of expressionism.

As in most Ecuadorian and Latin American churches, many styles are used in the construction of the Cathedral: late Gothic in the arches, Moorish in the ceilings and Baroque in the main altar. The choir, the stone Episcopal chair, the central painting

by Manuel Samaniego and the stat-

The cultural centre is located on the corner of the Main Square, next to the Government’s Palace. The Jesuits originally constructed this building in the XVII Century. In 1767, when Charles III of Spain banished the Jesuit Order from the colonized territories, the buildings became a public University. On the last decade of the XVIII century, the buildings became the army headquarters of the Spanish Royal troops sent from Lima to repress the early independence efforts. Thus, the building was known as the "Royal Barrack of Lima". In this building, the heroic efforts for independence ended up in a massacre of a number of patriots from Quito on August 2, 1810. The Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum displays this massacre with real size wax sculptures, as well as other important scenes of Quito’s history.

The Cultural Center also holds a museum of colonial art as well and the Municipal Library. There is also a Contemporary Art exhibit room, which houses temporary exhibitions.

Open Tuesday thru Sunday from 9h00 to 17h00. Admission fee to the museum is $1.50; students and senior citizens $0.75; children $0.50.

Phone: 295-7062.

EL SAGRARIO

SAN JUAN VIEWPOINT

This church was originally the main chapel of the Cathedral, built for the cult of the Holy Sacrament. It has been kept for this service until these days.

The stone facade with its ornamented Salomon columns is an excellent frame for a high Baroque that leaves practically no space without ornamentation. This style is typical of Bernardo 67

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SAN FRANCISCO

de Legarda’s sculpture. It is located next to the Cathedral. Visiting hours: Mon–Fri: 9h-17h00, Sat: 07h-20h00, Sun 07h-13h00. Admission is free.

For more information, call 228 4398.

SAN FRANCISCO CHURCH AND PLAZA This complex gave the capital of Ecuador its proper name: San Francisco de Quito. It is the oldest in Quito, built in 1536-1580. San Francisco is the biggest religious architectonic complex in America, with over 8,670 acres, including the convent with 6 internal patios.

The atrium running along one side of the plaza is opened in the middle to give way to a beautiful staircase.

The facade has a style similar to that of the Escorial in Spain. The inside is Baroque style. The coffer ceiling in the narthex has rich Moorish style ornamentation with paintings by Miguel de Santiago. It is interesting to note among the ornate details images of the sun god, the Inca divinity. The main altar holds the original masterpiece

by Legarda: "La Virgen de 68

Quito"(Quito’s Virgin). This sculpture is the only winged image of Virgin Mary in colonial art.

The San Francisco Plaza was an antique "Tianguez", which means ‘market’ in the native Nahuatl language. During Pre-Columbian times, Plaza San Francisco was a lively commercial center, hosting approximately ten ethnic dominations from the neighboring valleys. San Francisco is located between Sucre and Bolívar Streets. Church visiting hours: Friday thru Sunday 17h0018h00. Free admission. Phone: 2959911.

CANTUÑA CHAPEL Located at one side of the San Francisco atrium. The Calvary woodcarvings on the main altar are some of Legarda’s most outstanding masterpieces. A legend of the chapel says that Francisco Cantuña (the indigenous man that paved the atrium with arge stone blocks) constructed the chapel with the treasures saved from the Kingdom of Quito. Visiting hours: Tuesday thru

Thursday 8h00 - 17h00. Free admission. Phone: 2281124.

SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM Located next to the church at the San Francisco Square. The zaguan (entrance hall), the main cloister, the renaissance stairway, the chorus and the exposition lounge are now the site of a number of selected works of the Franciscan collection. You can find works of Andrés Sánchez Galque (of indigenous origin), Miguel de Santiago, Mateo Mexía, the European authors Zurbarán and Bernardo de Bitti, or their respective schools, among others of the XVI-XVIII centuries.

Among the sculptures, you can find the glass eyes characteristic of the XVIII century. You will also find pieces of furniture of the XVIII century. The museum is called Fray Pedro Gocial in honor to the first painting instructor. Open Monday thru Saturday 09h00 to 17h00, Sunday 9h00 to 12h00.

Admission fee: $ 2 adults, $1 children. Phone: 228 1124.

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MUSEUM OF COLONIAL ART After half a decade of refurbishment, one of Quito’s oldest and most emblematic museums reopened at the end of April 2010.

The Museum of Colonial Art houses a fantastic collection of works from the 16th to 19th centuries, ranking among the most important in the country. The museum is housed within a beautiful colonial mansion, which dates back to the late 16th century.

Located at the corner of Cuenca and Mejía St. Open Tuesday to Friday 9h-17h00, Sat 10h-14h00.

Phone: 2282-297. Admission fee: $2 foreigners; $1 Ecuadorians; $0.50 students under 18.

CASA DEL ALABADO MUSEUM OF PRE-COLOMBIAN ART This private museum is housed within a colonial mansion in the Old Town. It would be worth visiting just to admire the incredible restoration and regeneration work. It acquired its name from the inscription on the lintel of the front door, which carries an ‘alabado’ or prayer to the house, and states that it was built in 1671 – making it one of the oldest surviving edifications in the capital and in the country.

The museum is divided into several spaces and is not ordered chrono-

logically, but rather by themes that focus on pre-Colombian Man’s concept of the cosmos. It’s a true museum-journey through the ancient spiritual past of the country: stimulating, challenging and surprising.

Located at Cuenca St. 335 between Bolívar and Rocafuerte. Open Tuesday to Saturday 9h30-17h30 Sunday: 10h00 to 16h00. Phone: 228 0940. Admission fee: $4. Free for children 6- 12 www.precolombino.com

LA COMPAÑÍA DE JESÚS CHURCH This is one of the richest churches in America. The extraordinary facade can be described as a lacework on stone. Six Salomonic columns in the lower part support a second body of different widths, reminiscent of the Church of Gesu in Rome. The columns are a copy of those by Bernini in the Vatican. The splendor that meets your eye as you go into the church is unforgettable: the vaulted ceiling and the walls with beautiful Moorish ornamentation, the perfect harmony and the richness of the main altar, the reproduction of the Salomon columns of the facade, the incredible clustered Baroque on the tribunes on both sides of the main altar, in the pulpit, and in the

lateral chapels. Everything is covered with gold leaf. It is a magnificent exhibit of foliage, vines, fruits, birds and caryatids. The Holy Trinity in the main altar and the images of Saint Francis and Saint Ignatius in the side altars are works of the famous Legarda. Paintings of the prophets and works of Goribar are hung in the majestic archery that divides the aisles. It is located at Benalcazar St. Open Monday thru Friday 09h30 to 17h30, Saturdays and holidays 09h30 to 16h30, Sundays 13h30 to 16h30. Phone: 2581895. Admission fee is US$ 2, and includes guide service.

MARÍA AUGUSTA URRUTIA MUSEUM Located at García Moreno 760. Follow along the life and activities of a wealthy and very generous woman of Quito’s early XXth century. Observe the architecture of a typical house in colonial Quito. Enjoy the beautifully decorated interiors (especially the French antiques), and the distinctive clothing and artifacts of the time.

Open Tuesdays to Fridays from 10h00 to 18h00, weekends 9h30 to 17h30. Admission fee: $2 for adults, $1 senior citizens and $0.50 children (includes a guided tour). For more information call: 258-0103.

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LA RONDA STREET

LA RONDA ST.

A stroll through La Ronda is a great way to get a feeling of traditional life in colonial Quito. Within only two blocks, one finds artisans working on traditional handicrafts such as candles and embroidery, many “tiendas” (small stores), bakeries and typical food restaurants. Moreover, a variety of cultural activities are organized both on the street and inside the different bars and cafeterias. During the late XIX and early XX Centuries, La Ronda Street was home to several musicians, poets, historians and other important figures of Quito’s history.

This neighborhood inspired poetry and some of the most romantic “Pasillos” (typical music).

MUSEO DE LA CIUDAD Located at García Moreno 572 and Roca-fuerte, this museum opens Tuesday thru Sunday from 9h30 to 17h30. Follow Quito’s everyday life through the centuries in the beautiful colonial building that once was the San Juan de Dios Hospital (1565).

Entrance fee: $3 adults, $2 students, $1 children and senior citizens.

Nighttime tours with theatrical representations upon request. Price: $15 per person (includes a cocktail).

Phone: 228 3882/3.

BENALCAZAR HOUSE-MUSEUM This museum displays paintings of the XVII century and sculptures of the XVII and XIII century. It is located at Olmedo and Benalcazar St. Open Monday thru to Friday 09h30 to 13h00 and 15h30 to 19h00.

SAN AGUSTIN CHURCH Located at the corner of Chile and Guayaquil Streets. The construction of this church was finished in 1538

and has been remodeled due to earthquake damage. The vault underneath the chorus, the wood carved columns, and the gilded altars are the only remains of the original construction.

SAN AGUSTIN CONVENT The first thing to admire here are the beautiful cloisters in three different levels, the fountain in the colonial patio carved from a single block of stone, the coffer ceiling in the lower cloister, and the huge collection of paintings by the artist Miguel de Santiago. The artist spent most of his life working in the convent to finish the task of painting the scenes of St. Augustine’s life.Open Monday thru Friday 09h00-12h30 and 14h30-17h00/ Saturday 9h00 to 13h00. Admission is $1, children and senior citizens $0.50. Phone: 295 5525.

SALA CAPITULAR In this same convent you will find one of the most important historical sites in Spanish America. The first Act of Independence was signed here on August 10th, 1809. The Calvary masterpiece by a Quitenian artist named Olmos from the XVII century is located to the right of this large room. Entrance fee: US$ 1.

JUNÍN STREET This charming street is in the downtown colonial district of Quito.

Colorful houses and decorated balconies together with a peaceful atmosphere, generate a place worth visiting. Along the street you can visit: Manuela Saenz Museum, the Ecuadorian Architecture Museum, the National Watercolour Museum, the XVIth Century San Marcos Church, Engravers from the Quitenian School of Art, and a famous guitar factory.

LA MERCED CHURCH AND CONVENT LA MERCED 70

One can admire a stone-carved pagan god, Neptune. Also noticeable are

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Bernardo Legarda’s main altar woodcarvings and an image of great beauty of Our Lady of Mercy in stone.

Visiting hours: Monday thru Saturday from 7h00-12h00 and 14h30-17h30.

Free admission. Phone: 2280743.

CAMILO EGAS MUSEUM This museum was created to honor one of the most celebrated Ecuadorian artists of the XXth century. It holds a permanent exhibit of a collection of Camilo Egas’ paintings, in a display that allows one to learn about the different phases in which the artist worked (indigenism, expressionism, surrealism, cubism and abstraction of the shape) in a didactical and hands-on manner.

Address: Venezuela 1302 and Esmeraldas. Open: Thursday - Friday 9h-16h00/weekends and holidays10h-16h00. Price: $0.25 including guide service.Phone: 257-2012

CASA SAN LUCAS This antique manor that dates back to the seventeenth century offers an art gallery with itinerary exhibits, a cafe/ bar, a musical room with a large screen where visitors can enjoy musical videos, among others. Visitors can take a tour through all the house, appreciating antique furniture, silverware and pieces of art.

Open Tuesday – Friday 11h00 18h00, weekends 10h30- 19h00.

Address: Venezuela 1283 and Esmeraldas. Phone:2950923

in Quito. "Panecillo" means "little bread" referring to its peculiar size and shape. The Virgin that stands on the hill, which consists of 7,000 pieces of aluminum, is a modern representation of the famous "Virgen de Quito", the unique winged dancing Virgin conceived by Bernardo Legarda in the XVIIth century. (The original masterpiece can be seen at the main altar of the San Francisco Church). There is a balcony in the upper part that provides a beautiful view of the city. Open Moday thru Thursday 9h-17h00, Friday thru Sunday 9h- 21h00. The entrance fee to the interior of the monument is $1 for adults, $050 for children.

INTERESTING PLACES IN THE NORTH OF QUITO TELEFERIQO Quito’s TeleferiQo (cable cars) is located on Cruz Loma, one of the hills on the slopes of the active Pichincha volcano (15,000 ft). The cable cars take off at 9,680 ft and reach 13,287 ft in 8 – 10 min! On the

way up you can observe how the vegetation changes rapidly with the increasing altitude. If you are lucky enough to get one of those clear summer days, you can see the city at your feet and the cordillera in its splendor! When reaching the top, make sure to take it easy because of the altitude! A great idea is to drink a hot “te de coca” (coca tea) or get some oxygen at the oxygen bar.

Anyway, make sure to rest before hiking, horseback riding, or any other of the exciting options you have on top. If you are adventurous, you can reach the summit of the “Rucu Pichincha”. The cost of the cable car is $8.50 roundtrip. Open Monday thru Sunday from 8h00 to 20h00. At the foot of TeleferiQo you can enjoy VulQano Park, offering carts, roller coasters and other exciting games for children of all ages.

Phone: 2221996 / 2221320

GUÁPULO CHURCH This sanctuary is located in a little village 1.5 miles heading down from the Hotel Quito. The sanctuary can be reached by car in about 10 minutes or you can walk down a colonial

SAN DIEGO CONVENT The Saint Francis congregation built this church to provide the priests and laymen with a place of retreat. Along the corridors are paintings dating back to the XVII C, which had been co-vered with lime for years and are now being restored. A genuine manifestation of syncretism!

Open every day 09h30-13h00 and 14h30-17h30. Phone: 295 2516.

Admission fee: $2.00.

EL PANECILLO Many historical happenings took place on this natural hill that stands

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EL EJIDO PARK It is located at the intersection of Patria and Amazonas Avenues. If you like contemporary art, this is the place to be on weekends. A walk in the park will bring you face to face with beautiful paintings and other handicrafts. You may bargain with the artists to get reasonable prices.

ANHALZER-VALDIVIESO COLLECTION The showrooms of the AnhalzerValdivieso Collection offer visitors an image of the splendor of ancient Ecuador, with a selected presentation of archeology, popular and colonial art. Open Monday thru Friday from 9h00 to 19h00. Saturday from 10h00 to 18h00. Address: Colón Ave. E10-53. Phone: 25-41315.

QUITO BOTANICAL GARDEN GALERIA ECUADOR GOURMET

stone paved path which was the route followed by Francisco de Orellana on his trip to his discovery of the Amazon River. The facade and the dome of the church have a simple neoclassic style. The main altar painted by Miguel de Santiago and the image of our Lady of Guadalupe

by Diego de Robles are original masterpieces. Many consider the pulpit carved by the Indigenous Sculptor Menacho as the most beautiful in America. Open Monday thru Saturday 09h00 to 12h30 and 15h00 to 18h00. Phone: 256 5652.

Entrance fee: US$1.50.

MODERN ART AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS MUSEUM

This museum is located at the “Casa de la Cultura” on 6 de Diciembre and Patria Avenues. Pre-Colonial, Colonial and contemporary Art appear in 1,417 pieces exhibited permanently and in temporary displays. It also presents an opportunity to learn about the origin, evolution and history of Ecuador.

As you enter the museum, you first encounter an important collection of Ecuadorian paintings of the XIX Century with a variety of themes: religious, portraits, landscapes, among others. Continuing the visit, you find important works of art by some of the most renowned Ecuadorian artists: Oswaldo Guayasamín, Eduardo Kingman, and Camilo Egas, among others.

Following is the Musical Instruments Museum. Many of the displayed instruments date to pre-Columbian times. Next to this exhibit you find an important Ethnographic Display of different indigenous communities of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Address: Los Espejos Bldg, located between: 6 de Diciembre, 12 de Octubre and Patria Avenues. There is an entrance at each of the avenues.

Visiting hours: Tuesday thru Friday 09h00 to16h00/ weekends and holidays 10h00 to15h00. Admission

Open Tuesday thru Friday from 9h00 to 13h00 and from 14h00 to 17h00 / Saturdays from 10h00 to 14h00.

CENTRAL BANK MUSEUM

72

fee: $2. Guide service available.

Phone: 222-3258.

Explore the fascinating world of plants! This garden displays more than 1,200 orchid species, along with other unique flora species of Ecuador! It is located at Rumipamba St. inside “La Carolina” Park. Open Monday thru Friday from 8h00 to 17h00. Weekends 9h00 to 17h00.

Admission fee: $3.50 adults, $2 children.

LA MARISCAL “La Mariscal” can be considered the entertainment district of Quito, where you find a variety of restaurants, bars, cafes, internet cafes, Spanish schools, and a large range of hosting options. This area is highlighted in the Quito map in a red square, and pages 88-91 hold a guide of premium services in La Mariscal. Plaza El Quinde (Reina Victoria and Foch) is one of the most popular meeting points for both Ecuadorians and tourists. Every Wednesday night at 20h30 live music presentations take place at this charming Plaza.

GALERIA ECUADOR GOURMET This unique Galeria holds exclusive quality products 100% made in Ecuador. It has two floors divided in 11 showrooms, each with its topic:

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coffee & chocolate, liquor & cigars, delicatessen, seafood, diary products, handicrafts, jewelry, books, music & video, fashion, ceramics.

Visitors are invited to savor Ecuador’s most exquisite products… A journey through the finest tastes, smells and textures of this wonderfully diverse country! It also includes a cafeteria.

Address: Reina Victoria N24-263 & Lizardo Garcia.

Phone: 2239469 / 2258440.

E-mail: info@galeriaecuador.com www.galeriaecuador.com

MERCADO ARTESANAL This typical handicraft market offers a variety of handicrafts from all over the country for excellent prices, displayed in more than 100 colorful stands. If you are not able to visit the Otavalo indigenous market at the Imbabura province, this market in Quito is a must. It is located at Jorge Washington St. between Reina Victoria and Juan Leon Mera St. Open every day from 10h00 to 19h00.

MINDALAE- ETHNO-HISTORIC MUSEUM OF HANDICRAFTS “Mindalae” is the pre Hispanic name of the indigenous tradesman who, with his basket tied to his back, walked long distances carrying merchandise to offer at the popular market called “tianguez”. The second floor of the museum holds and exhibit of utensils from Amazonian cultures. At this same floor there are also handicrafts for sale. The third floor presents a display of the origins of the natural fibers used in textiles, such as seeds and wood from native trees. Finally, at the fourth floor, the museum holds a demonstration of the indigenous skills in textile production.

Open Monday thru Saturday from 9h30 to 17h30. Sundays from 10h30 to 16h30. Located at the corner of Reina Victoria and La Niña St. Admission fee: $3 general, $1.50 students and senior citizens.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES RUMIPAMBA ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND ECOLOGICAL PARK The most antique stone walls found in Quito are those of Rumipamba Park, a 32- hectare complex located in a former private hacienda, now in the heart of the city of Quito. The walls date back to 400 AD. Rumi means stone and pamba, pampas or plains. Rumipamba has some huge stones from the last important eruption of the nearby Guagua Pichincha volcano, which took place in 1660.

The Rumipamba site includes a gully that has become a niche for flora and fauna, especially birds. Several flora species including trees, medicinal plants, fruits and others, are found inside the park. It also includes a “culunco”, which is an antique road connecting the highlands with the coast for the commercialization of products. These roads date back to the Yumbo culture, a pre- Incan civilization that inhabited the cloud forests surrounding Quito.

Address: between Occidental, América and Mariana de Jesús Avenues (North West) Open: Wednesdays thru Sundays from 8h - 16h30. Free admission.

LA FLORIDA BURIAL CHAMBERS La Florida Burial Chambers date back to 220 – 640 AD, belonging to

the Quitus culture. The site- museum is located in the middle of the city, in a small piece of land (800m) that used to be part of a large hacienda, with a wonderful view of the city of Quito; on a clear day it is possible to see the Cayambe volcano.

To this day, the FONSAL has excavated 10 burial chambers which are 15- 17 meters (49– 56 ft) deep and have 2 meters (6.5 ft) of diameter.

Large amounts of amazing ceramics, spondylus and other shells, jewelry, wooden objects and gold were found in the chambers alongside hundreds of bodies. The funeral architecture reflects the cosmovision of the Quitus: the human bodies were given back to Mother Earth’s womb.

In order to present the archaeological findings in a didactic manner, the FONSAL has done a great job reproducing one of the burial chambers with 16 bodies and the respective ritual objects. The replica of the faces was done by experts through a systematic reproduction based on the skulls called “forensic medicine”. Moreover, the FONSAL has placed a “robot” that reproduces images from the original walls of one of the burial chambers on a screen so that visitors can closely admire the traces of the original structure of the chambers.

The complex includes a small museum that exhibits original objects found in the burial chambers. Some

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MONUMENT ON THE EQUATOR

of the most impressive pieces are the spondylus ponchos, which were worn by only a few of the buried bodies of hierarchical importance.

Address: Calle Antonio Costa, between Román and Fernando Corral St., at the San Vicente de La Florida neighborhood in Northern Quito.

Open: Wednesdays thru Sundays from 8h- 16h30. Free admission.

SURROUNDINGS THE MONUMENT ON THE EQUATOR It is located approximately 20 minutes away from Quito, at San Antonio de Pichincha. The “Mitad del Mundo City” surrounding the monument includes several restaurants and folklore shops, museums about the missions that measured the Earth, the "Solar Culture Museum" (with a display of the latest investigations about the real middle of the world), and a Planetarium. Inside the monument is an interesting Ethnic Museum. You can shop and place one foot on the northern Hemisphere and the other on the southern Hemisphere.

Entrance fee to the “Middle of the World City” is $3.00, to the Ethnic Museum $3.00, to the Planetarium $1.50. Visiting hours: Monday thru Thursday 09h00-18h00, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 09h00-19h00.

has expanded to the surrounding valleys: Cumbaya, Tumbaco and Los Chillos. Little more than a decade ago, these valleys consisted mostly of open pastures and country cottages. Now they offer all the commodities of a modern city: supermarkets, malls, schools, universities, hospitals, restaurants, good lodging and even movie theaters, but fortunately they have maintained their rustic charm and decidedly slower pace than Quito.

Only a few kilometers from the bustling city, but several hundred meters below, the valleys provide warmer weather and a relaxed rural feeling, preferred by young families and many foreigners who live and work in Quito.

TULIPE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE-MUSEUM Tulipe was built by the Yumbo people, who inhabited the north and northwestern valleys and mountains

around Quito from around 800 to 1660 AD. It’s thought that the Yumbo people migrated to the Amazon after a great eruption of the Pichincha Volcano in 1660, and this theory is currently being investigated.

Although disregarded by the Spanish chroniclers and subsequent historians, the site at Tulipe, as well as the 2,000 pyramids and mounds now unearthed, point to an important nation. It’s thought that it controlled this crucial trade route between the Pacific coast, the Andes and the Amazon to the east. The remains at Tulipe suggests it was the civilisation’s main ceremonial site. It is made up of eight structures, one of which one is of Incan construction, since the conquering Incas built their temple on top of the existing one. Water played a primordial role at Tulipe, with many pools reflecting its ceremonial importance.

The “Yumbo People Interpretation Centre” houses didactic information on the site and the Yumbos, and is the starting point for future investigations.

Open Wednesdays thru Sundays from 09h00 to 16h00. Located between the towns of Nanegalito and Gualea, on the main road Calacali-La Independencia, which heads northwest from Quito. Take the sign-posted road on the right soon after the small town of Nanegalito.

Phone: 285-0635. Admission fee: $3 adults, $1 children and students.

SURROUNDING VALLEYS The mountains and cliffs surrounding Quito make it difficult for the city to spread out to the sides, thus, it 74

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GUAYASAMÍN MUSEUM AND "LA CAPILLA DEL HOMBRE" A stop at Guayasamin’s house-museum is a must for any visitor to Quito. This museum exhibits an excellent sample of pre-Columbian, colonial and contemporary art from the private collections of the famous Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín (1919-1999).

Shortly before his death, Oswaldo Guayasamín donated these collections and his works to the city of Quito. The museum is open Monday thru Friday from 10h00 to 17h00. Entrance fee: $3.00 adults.

Close to the house-museum, is "La Capilla del Hombre" (Man’s Chapel).

Guayasamín dreamed that his chapel would pay tribute to the American preColumbian man, who has quietly kept 500 years of resistance and still struggles to recover his values.

The artist started the construction of this Chapel in 1995, but unfortunately he died before his masterpiece was finished. With the effort of his heirs, through the Guayasamín Foundation, the artist’s dream has come alive. The Chapel itself occupies about 4.000 meters of construction. It is a rectangular construction of two floors, with a strong similarity to Incan temples. Part of the roof is a dome covered with copper plate. On its inside it is covered with an unfinished mural of the artist, which was left intact. The altar of the Chapel holds an eternal flame in defense of peace and human rights.

Open Tuesday thru Sunday from 10h00 to 17h00.

Entrance fee: $4.00 adults, $2.00 senior citizens.

Address: Museum: José Bosmediano St. NE15.68, Bellavista.

Phone: (593-2) 244-6455 Capilla del Hombre: Mariano Calvache y Lorenzo Chavez Phone: (5932) 2448 492 email: guayasam@uio.satnet.net 75

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In order to present the archaeological findings in a didactic and dynamic manner, FONSAL has reproduced one of the burial chambers with 16 bodies and its respective ritual objects. The replicas of the bodies’ faces were carried out by experts in “forensic medicine” techniques. The results are startlingly life-like. Moreover,a remotecontrolled robot with a video camera reproduces images from the original walls of one of the burial chambers on a screen so that visitors can admire the traces of the original structure.

LA FLORIDA

Pre-Inca Vestiges In The Heart Of Quito Quito’s attractions commonly bring to mind only the city’s extraordinary historical centre and its treasures of colonial art. However, Quito’s history stretches much further…before the Spanish conquest and even many centuries before to the arrival of the Incas.

In the midst of the modern city one can find vestiges of Pre-Hispanic cultures. Explore this fascinating face of Quito!

LA FLORIDA BURIAL CHAMBERS Intricate burial chambers found 1517 meters (49-56 ft) deep reveal important information about Quito’s antique settlers (200–640 AD). They have been excavated and turned into a museum by the city’s FONSAL organization (Heritage Safe-Guarding Fund created by the Municipality 76

of Metropolitan District of Quito www.fonsal.gov.ec) and its team of archaeologists and architects.

La Florida museum is located in northern Quito, on the eastern side of the Pichincha Volcano. To date, FONSAL has excavated 10 burial chambers 15 to 17 metres deep.

The funeral architecture reflects the cosmovision of the Quitus: the bodies of the dead were given back to Mother Earth’s womb. Large amounts of amazing ceramics, fine jewellery, gold ornaments, wood carvings, spondylus and other shells, were found in the chambers, alongside hundreds of bodies.

The chambers date back to 220–640 AD and belong to the Quitus culture. The museum occupies a small piece of land that used to be part of a large hacienda, with a great view of the city of Quito–on a clear day; it is possible to see the Cayambe volcano. The museum was inaugurated in July, 2009. This place makes excellent use of modern techniques of architecture and museology to recover the charm of archaeological finds.

The complex includes a small museum that exhibits original objects found in the burial chambers. Some of the most impressive pieces are the spondylus shell ponchos, these were worn only by people with hierarchical importance.

Useful information: Opening hours: WednesdaysSundays from 8:00 to 16:30 Address: Calle Antonio Costa, between Román and Fernando Corral St., at the San Vicente de La Florida neighborhood in Northern Quito. (The entrance is by Avenida Occidental / Mariscal Sucre, at the West of the city).

Free admission

RUMIPAMBA ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND ECOLOGICAL PARK The most antique stone walls found in Quito are those of Rumipamba Park, a 32-hectare complex located in a former private hacienda, now in the heart of the city of Quito. The walls date back to 400 AD. “Rumi” means stone and “pamba” pampas or plains. Rumipamba has some huge stones from the last important eruption of the nearby Guagua Pichincha volcano, which took place in 1660.

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The pre-Incan stone walls found in Rumipamba are believed to have supported some kind of ritual structure. Rumipamba also includes vestiges of villages that date back to the Integration Period (500-1500 AD); and ceramic pieces of diverse origin. Some of ceramic remains found at the site, date back to the Late Formative Period (1500-500 BC), but most belong to the Integration Period. A lot of these are from cultures in the Coast. It is believed that these ceramics were brought as offerings to the volcano, perhaps during the periods when the location was abandoned due to the volcano eruptions.

The Rumipamba Park includes a gully that has become a niche for flora and fauna, especially birds.

Several flora species including trees, medicinal plants, fruits and others, are found inside the park. It also includes a “culunco”, which is an antique road connecting the highlands with the coast for the commercialization of products.

These roads date back to the “Yumbo” culture, a pre-Incan civiRUMIPAMBA

TULIPE

lization that inhabited the cloud forests surrounding Quito.

Pacific coast, the Andes and the Amazon to the east.

Useful information:

The remains at Tulipe suggest it was the civilization’s main ceremonies site. It is made up of eight structures, one of which is of Incan construction. Water played a primordial role at Tulipe, with many pools reflecting its ceremonial importance.

Opening hours: Wednesdays Sundays from 8:00 to 16:30 Address: between Occidental, América and Mariana de Jesús Avenues, at the North-West of the city.

Free admission

TULIPE SITE-MUSEUM The Sacred Valley of Tulipe is found 70 km (43 miles) Northwest of Quito.

It was an important ceremonial site for the Yumbo people, who inhabited the north and northwestern valleys and mountains around Quito from around 800 to 1660 AD. It’s thought that the Yumbo people migrated to the Amazon after a great eruption of the Pichincha Volcano in 1660, and this theory is currently being investigated.

Although disregarded by the Spanish chroniclers and subsequent historians, the site at Tulipe, as well as the 2,000 pyramids and mounds now unearthed, point to an important nation. It’s thought that it controlled this crucial trade route between the

The “Yumbo People Interpretation Centre” was inaugurated in 2007. It houses didactic information and it is the starting point for the future investigation of the geometric mounds, paths, cemeteries, petro glyphs and swimming pools which abound in the area.

Useful Information: Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 16:00 Address: On the main Calacali-La Independencia road, which heads Northwest from Quito, take the signposted road on the right soon after the small town of Nanegalito.

Prices: $3 adults and foreigners For more information: www.quito.com.ec 77

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CULTURE + ENTERTAINMENT - QUITO EXHIBITS

FOLKLORIC DANCE Open until Saturday 11th

Painting Exhibit: Existenciales

Every Wednesday - 19h30

Jacchigua Place: Teatro Demetrio AguileraCasa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana Price: $30

(Existentialists) by the artist Angel Aguilar from Loja Place: Sala Víctor Mideros y Ramiro Jácome Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana

Every Friday - 20h00

Saturday 4th thru Saturday, October 2nd

MUSIC

Contemporary Art and Quito’s Patios 10 artists (7 international and 3 national) will create art works with patios of Quito’s historic centre.

Place: Patios in the Historic Centre For more information visit: www.artepatiosquito.com Wednesdays thru Sundays until Thursday 30th - 9h00 to 17h00

“Invento para mi ciudad” (I Invent for my City) An exhibit of drawing, paintings and collages of 179 children 513 years old consisting of various proposals for the city in transportation, environment, education and health.

Place: MIC Free admission

Saruymanda Place: CC Pasaje Arzobispal Price: $2

Wednesday 1st - 16h00

Tango recital A Tango’s afternoon Place: Casa de la Música Thursday 2nd - 19h00

Chant recital David Frucci y Carmen Alonso Place: Casa de la Música

The Quito Revolution An informative historical show, relating the important characters and events which surrounded the uprising of Quito’s citizens and the subsequent years of struggle for Independence.

Place: Edificio El Bicentenario Prices: Adults $2; students $1; children and senior citizens $0.50 www.revolucionquito.com 78

Family Sundays Place: Casa de la Música Thursday 30th - 20h00

Concert with the Ecuadorian Philharmonic Orchestra Place: Casa de la Música

THEATER Wednesday 8th, Thursday 9th and Friday 10th - 20h30 Saturday 11th - 11h00

Hunan Acrobatics Troupe (China) 27 dancers and acrobats on stage.

Place: Teatro Sucre Admission fee: $10 Thursday 9th and Friday 10th - 20h00

Comedy: My Life is not so Sensational by Daniel Sarcos Place: Teatro Mexico

Thursday 9th - 20h00

National Symphonic Orchestra Concert Place: Casa de la Música Friday 10th - 19h00

Recital with Carlos Grijalva Place: Casa de la Música Saturday 11th - 20h00

Tuesdays thru Sundays 10h00- 20h00

Sunday 19th - 17h00

“Los Ruiseñores” Concert Place: Teatro Mexico Admission fee: $5 Wednesday 15th - 19h00

Piano Recital Tribute to Carlos Amable Ortiz Juan Manuel Ortiz, piano Place: Casa de la Música Thursday 16th - 19h00

Subtone Jazz Place: Plaza del Teatro (in front of Teatro Sucre) Free admission

ADDRESSES: • Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana: 6 de Diciembre Av. & Patria Street.

• MIC: Barrio Chimbacalle, Calle Tababela Oe1-60 & Antonio De Latorre. P: 261-7141 Ext. 122 • El Bicentenario Building: Luis Dávila y Venezuela (Antiguo Hospital Militar), San Juan neighborhood • CC Pasaje Arzobispal: Main Square, colonial Quito.

• Casa de la Música: Valderrama & Mariana de Jesús.

Phone: 226 1965 / 226 3975 • Teatro México: Tomebamba & Antisana (Ciudadela Mexico).

Phone: 265 0660 • Teatro Sucre: Manabí N8-131 between Guayaquil & Flores.

Phone: (593 2) 257 2823

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RECOMMENDED BOOKS OF THE MONTH

The Story of the Wolf Author: Gustavo Toaquiza Cuenca, Songs of Stone and Water Author: Catalina Sojos Publisher: Trama Ediciones Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands Publisher: Lonely Planet Ecuador Infinito Publisher: Trama Ediciones Guía Viva Ecuador & Galápagos Author: Pilar Ortega Publisher: Anaya Touring Club My Dearest Ecuador Author: Patricio Hidalgo Pérez Publisher: Hojas y Signos Nariz del Diablo y Monstruo Negro Author: Karl Dieter Gartelmann Publisher: Trama Ediciones The Rough Guide to Ecuador including the Galápagos Islands Publisher: Rough Guides The High Andes of Ecuador Author: Jorge Anhalzer Publisher: J. Anhalzer 79

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IN DON PORFIRIO EVERY DETAIL HAS A SCENT OF TRADITION

lunch & dinner * private parking Orellana 1172 & Av. Amazonas Reservations: 297 2000 Ext. 6178

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PREMIUM HOTELS - QUITO

RESTAURANTS - QUITO

Stubel Suites & Cafe is strategically located in Quito, just a few minutes from the historical down town area, as from the shopping and bank areas. We offer a homely, modern and relaxing experience to the guests that visit us either for business or pleasure.

We offer an ambience of relaxation for all your most important senses from the vision, with the best view of the oriental valley, to your palate with our delicious menu of national and international cuisine in the Cafe Stubel.

We invite you to enjoy our facilities and the warm service of our staff.

Pasaje Stubel Nro. 1 y León Larrea Tel.: (593) 2 601 3499 • Fax : (593) 2 601 3514 E-mail: reservas@stubel-suites.com • www.stubel-suites.com

Ecuadorian Cuisine, 40 years of experience

Av. 6 de Diciembre & Germán Alemán C.C. Megamaxi • Local 106 • Phone: 2241-210 / 213 / 214

Monday-Friday: 12h00-16h00 19h00-22h00 – Live music starting at 19h30 Weekends: 12h00-16h00 12 de octubre Ave. N24-551 Phone: 223-0839 / 250-7901 / 09-9820705 email: lachoza1@uio.satnet.net www.lachozaec.com

¡ simplemente las mejores carnes !

Portugal 440 & Francisco Casanova Reservations: 333 1943 / 333 1944 E-mail: santelmorestaurante@gmail.com www.santelmorestaurant.com 85

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PREMIUM HOTELS - QUITO

RESTAURANTS - QUITO

Stubel Suites & Cafe is strategically located in Quito, just a few minutes from the historical down town area, as from the shopping and bank areas. We offer a homely, modern and relaxing experience to the guests that visit us either for business or pleasure.

We offer an ambience of relaxation for all your most important senses from the vision, with the best view of the oriental valley, to your palate with our delicious menu of national and international cuisine in the Cafe Stubel.

We invite you to enjoy our facilities and the warm service of our staff.

Pasaje Stubel Nro. 1 y León Larrea Tel.: (593) 2 601 3499 • Fax : (593) 2 601 3514 E-mail: reservas@stubel-suites.com • www.stubel-suites.com

Ecuadorian Cuisine, 40 years of experience

Av. 6 de Diciembre & Germán Alemán C.C. Megamaxi • Local 106 • Phone: 2241-210 / 213 / 214

Monday-Friday: 12h00-16h00 19h00-22h00 – Live music starting at 19h30 Weekends: 12h00-16h00 12 de octubre Ave. N24-551 Phone: 223-0839 / 250-7901 / 09-9820705 email: lachoza1@uio.satnet.net www.lachozaec.com

¡ simplemente las mejores carnes !

Portugal 440 & Francisco Casanova Reservations: 333 1943 / 333 1944 E-mail: santelmorestaurante@gmail.com www.santelmorestaurant.com 85

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PREMIUM HOTELS - QUITO

RESTAURANTS - QUITO

Stubel Suites & Cafe is strategically located in Quito, just a few minutes from the historical down town area, as from the shopping and bank areas. We offer a homely, modern and relaxing experience to the guests that visit us either for business or pleasure.

We offer an ambience of relaxation for all your most important senses from the vision, with the best view of the oriental valley, to your palate with our delicious menu of national and international cuisine in the Cafe Stubel.

We invite you to enjoy our facilities and the warm service of our staff.

Pasaje Stubel Nro. 1 y León Larrea Tel.: (593) 2 601 3499 • Fax : (593) 2 601 3514 E-mail: reservas@stubel-suites.com • www.stubel-suites.com

Ecuadorian Cuisine, 40 years of experience

Av. 6 de Diciembre & Germán Alemán C.C. Megamaxi • Local 106 • Phone: 2241-210 / 213 / 214

Monday-Friday: 12h00-16h00 19h00-22h00 – Live music starting at 19h30 Weekends: 12h00-16h00 12 de octubre Ave. N24-551 Phone: 223-0839 / 250-7901 / 09-9820705 email: lachoza1@uio.satnet.net www.lachozaec.com

¡ simplemente las mejores carnes !

Portugal 440 & Francisco Casanova Reservations: 333 1943 / 333 1944 E-mail: santelmorestaurante@gmail.com www.santelmorestaurant.com 85

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PREMIUM HOTELS - QUITO

Platinum Award for Quality - New York 2010

A colonial treasure preserved for you...

Venezuela 1041 – Quito, Ecuador Tel: (593-2) 228 9120 / 228 5917 Fax: (593-2) 226 5764 E-mail: info@hotelrelicariodelcarmen.com www.hotelrelicariodelcarmen.com

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JosĂŠ Luis Tamayo 687 & Wilson La Mariscal, Quito, Ecuador Phone: (593-2) 25 01 421 E-mail: ecuahotel@ecuahotel.com www.ecuahotel.com www.anahihotelquito.com

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PREMIUM HOTELS - QUITO

Now offering FREE best-in-class Wireless Internet!

In Quito, your home away from home...

Diego de Almagro 822 & Luis Cordero | Quito - Ecuador | Tel: (593-2) 2222 400 E-mail: reservaciones@hotelsebastian.com | Webpage: www.hotelsebastian.com 89

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Visit the

ART WORKSHOP of the author of THIS IS ECUADOR’s covers and get a first hand view of her work!

Whymper 777 y 6 de Diciembre (593 2) 323 8648 / (593 9) 872 5346 caro_vallejo@hotmail.com

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SHOPPING & FOOD - QUITO

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PREMIUM SERVICES - QUITO Dr. Reza Shapourifar DC, D.A.B.C.O. DIPLOMAT AMERICAN BOARD OF QUIROPRACTIC ORTOPEDICS SPECIALIZED IN USA Av. Gaspar de Villarroel y 6 de Diciembre Edif. Plaza 6 - 5to. Piso, Oficina 51 Telfs.: 2274 195 / 087 293 793 Metro Quito: 2555 000 • Rec.: 37834 • Quito-Ecuador

•

CITY TOUR PASS (Daily- Semi private ) (5 hours) Guapulo + Plaza Grande + San Francisco Panecilo hill + Line Equator + Teleferico

$ 35.00

•

COTOPAXI or OTAVALO or MINDO or PAPALLACTA (8 Hours - Daily- Semi private)

$ 65.00

•

OVER NIGHT TOURS (2 Days-Daily ) RIOBAMBA with train and Highlands BAÑOS with Cotopaxi and waterfalls OTAVALO with Ibarra and Cotacachi MINDO with Cloud Forest and Cannopy

$ 240.00

* Allways will pick you up in your hotel..!

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CENTRAL ANDES

photograph: PETE OXFORD courtesy of HACIENDA YANAHURCO

QUILINDAÑA VOLCANO - YANAHURCO

The Avenue of the Volcanoes South of Quito, the two parallel chains of the Andes that cross Ecuador from north to south rise to their most dramatic peaks. During his visit to South America in 1802, the German explorer Alexander von Humboldt (XIX C) called this section of the Ecuadorian Sierra "The Avenue of the Volcanoes". Eight of Ecuador’s ten highest summits are found in this part of the country.

COTOPAXI PROVINCE On a clear day, from Quito you can see the perfectly symmetrical cone shaped Cotopaxi (19.347 ft), the highest active volcano in the world. This snow-capped volcano and its sur94

roundings make up the Cotopaxi National Park. This park offers numerous activities for adventurers and nature lovers, all immersed in an imposing geological landscape.

Although the Cotopaxi has had at least ten major eruptions since 1742, it’s been fairly quite since its last burst of activity in 1904.

Today, it is Ecuador’s favorite climb.

Some of the highlights in this National Park are: the Rumiñahui volcano (15600 ft), and the Limpiopungo and Santo Domingo lagoons. On both lagoons it is possible to see the reflection of the surrounding volcanoes.

The Cotopaxi National Park is home to white-tailed deer, rabbits, lamas, Andean foxes and pumas, and over ninety species of birds.

Cozy hostels and beautiful traditional haciendas in the region offer comfortable lodging and numerous activities such as horseback riding, biking, trekking, and visits to typical country villages, nearby rose plantations and local markets.

The Saquisili weekly market (close to Latacunga) is the one of the most exhilarating in the region. Every Thursday hundreds of indigenous people fill the streets to sell their colorful handicrafts as well as their fresh crops and livestock.

Further south, taking a right from the city of Latacunga, riding through an extraordinary view of dense patchwork fields, the imposing Quilotoa crater strikes the visitors’ eye with its extraordinary turquoise water. The hike from the border of the crater (11.840ft ) to the lake at the bottom

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CENTRAL ANDES

21

24

LEGENDS

Gas station Sightseeing Airport Archaeology Handicrafts Typical food Thermal Springs Capital of Province Cities / towns Pan- American Highway Secondary road

22 23

TOURIST SITES . LODGING

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Hostería San Mateo Hacienda Hato Verde Hacienda Yanahurco Los Illinizas Cuello de Luna Hotel Cotopaxi National Park Cotopaxi Volcano Hacienda San Agustín de Callo Saquisilí Indigenous Market Quilotoa lake Pujilí Indigenous Market Llanganates National Park

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

Baños de Agua Santa Tungurahua Volcano Samari Spa Resort Luna Runtún Spa Resort Chimborazo Volcano “Estrella de Chimborazo” Mountain Lodge Hostería Abraspungo Sangay National Park Sangay Volcano Alausí Train Station Hostería La Quinta Devil’s Nose

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(7.446ft) is of approximately 30 minutes; we recommend that you hire a mule on the way back. The nearby Zumbahua town has an very interesting Saturday –morning market.

Close to the town of Pujilí is the village of Tigua, where many artisans are devoted to the naive art painted on sheep hide depicting daily life scenes, legends and village fiestas against a bright background of coloured mountains and fields.

These naïve paintings can be found for sale mostly all around the country, and are locally known as Tigua paintings.

TUNGURAHUA PROVINCE The town of Baños is probably the most charming tourist destination in this province. It is located at the skirts of the Tungurahua active volcano (16.500 ft). The town of Baños is a favorite spot for national and international tourists. Its pleasant sub tropical climate and its extraordinary landscape and vegetation are very welcoming. Baños is considered the gate to the Ecuadorian Amazonia, as it is nestled between the volcano and the rain forest. The city has plenty tourist information, and several agencies offer adventure sports. For years, Baños has been the place to which Ecuadorians make pilgrimages to honor "Our Lady of the Holy Water".

The walls of the Basilica are covered with paintings depicting miracles that are credited to this Virgin.

The town has several hostels for young adventure tourists, but the best accommodations are offered by LUNA RUNTUN, The Adventure SPA, (see page 61).

CHIMBORAZO PROVINCE

96

The Chimborazo is the highest Ecuadorian peak (20.702 feet), and the third highest in America.

Moreover, the summit of the

Chimborazo is the furthest point from the center of the Earth, as it is crossed by the Equatorial line, where the Earth is wider. The Chimborazo is the "Colossus" of the mountains of the region, but on a clear day, other impressive snowcapped mountains can be admired: the Altar, the Carihuairazo, and the Sangay volcano.

Chimborazo province has the largest concentration of indigenous population in Ecuador. These communities worshiped the Chimborazo as a god. Many of them still preserve their way of life, dress, food, and traditions.

Riobamba is the capital city of the province. From here, it is possible to arrange trips to the surrounding mountains. In the city one encounters indigenous people sharing with mestizos and a minority of white

population. The Religious Art Museum "Madres Conceptas" and the Science Museum of the Maldonado School are definitely worth visiting.

The history of Riobamba is marked by the fact that it is the link between the Coast and the Highlands.

Riobamba's importance in the last few centuries was highly due to the presence of the train station, the main means of communication in Ecuador at the time.

Today, the train is no longer an important means of transportation, but is a unique tourist attraction.

From the Riobamba station, the train parts to the most impressive track of the railway through the "Avenue of the Volcanoes", which ends up at the "Nariz del Diablo" (Devil’s Nose).

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SOUTHERN ANDES

PHOTOGRAPH: FRANCISCO CAIZAPANTA - FPTE COURTESY OF MINISTRY OF TOURISM

ALAUSI

The southern sierra is made up of Cañar, Loja and Azuay Provinces.

Some of the reasons for visiting these three provinces are the Inca ruins of Ingapirca, the valley of Vilcabamba and the historic district of the city of Cuenca.

The Southern Sierra of Ecuador is a favorite spot for birdwatchers, especially the Cajas and Podocarpus National Parks.

CAÑAR PROVINCE Cañar is rich in history. This region was inhabited by the Cañari culture from which it took its name. Cañar boasts the most important prehispanic monument of the country, the Ingapirca Inca Vestiges. Located about an hour and 45 minutes from Cuenca, these ruins are the most 98

important architectural legacy of the Incas in Ecuador. Ingapirca means "Incas stone wall". The vast archeological complex includes a roofless fortification, courtyards, terraces, temples, houses and a “castle” possibly the “Temple to the Sun.” The entrance fee is 5 dollars.A museum is now open at the site, with both archeological and ethnographic displays as well as a scale model of the ruins. Entrance fee is US$6. An excellent option is to stay overnight at the charming Posada Ingapirca (see page 60).

founded the city in 1548 at the “Cuxibamba” valley. “Cuxibamba” is the indigenous name of the valley.

Loja’s indigenous population maintains ancestral traditions and customs. The city of Loja has an important cultural community.

This city nestles musicians, poets and other writers. Loja had a large affluence of scientists during the XVII – XIX century, and so it appears in old European maps as “Nambixa”.

LOJA PROVINCE

Surrounded by rivers that flow to the Amazonia or the Pacific Ocean, one finds several green valleys with warm, fresh and dry weather (64 Fahrenheit and higher).

Both the province and its capital city (Loja city) owe their name to the Spaniard Alonso de Mercadillo, who

Such is the case of the Vilcabamba.

Malacatos, Quinara and Catacocha Valleys.

Phone: (07) 2827-401/ (07) 2831-120.

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SOUTHERN ANDES

6

7

LEGENDS

Gas station Sightseeing Airport Archaeology Handicrafts Typical food

TOURIST SITES . LODGING

Thermal Springs Capital of Province Cities / towns Pan- American Highway Secondary road

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Sangay National Park Ingapirca Ruins Posada Ingapirca El Cajas National Park HosterĂ­a Uzhupud El Cisne Sanctuary Podocarpus National Park 99

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CUENCA

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VICTOR LARCO ALDAZ

A Cultural Treasure in the Andes Ecuadorians consider Cuenca the most charming city, located in a peaceful and relaxing setting. As you enter the city you can notice the outstanding skyline marked by shining church domes. Cuenca’s cobblestone streets, winding rivers, graceful ironwork balconies, and beautiful gardens are part of the pleasant atmosphere of this historical city.

The UNESCO declared Cuenca a World Cultural Heritage Site on December 1999.

The city was first called "Guapondelig", which in the Cañari language means "a plain as big as the 100

perched along the banks of the four different rivers that run through and around the city (Tarqui, Yanucay, Tomebamba and Machángara).

sky". The Cañaris were the indigenous group that lived in the region before the arrival of the Incas. In the last decades of the XV century, the Incas built the city of "Tumipamba" ("Tumi" meaning ridge and "pamba" meaning plain), over this Cañari settlement. This city was located along the Inca highway that joined Cusco with Quito. When the Spanish arrived, they called the city "Tomebamba". Finally, it was baptized as the city of "Santa Ana de los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca" (Santa Ana of the Four Rivers of Cuenca). Cuenca stands 8.315 feet above sea level, it is the capital of the Azuay province and the third largest city in Ecuador.

One of the highlights are the beautiful handicrafts that can be found throughout the city, including embroidered blouses, wool sweaters, gold and silver filigree jewelry and weavings with tie-dyed patterns called ikat. Cuenca is also known for its elegant ceramic dishes and pottery. Crafts and fresh products can be found on sale at the weekly Thursday fair, or the smaller Saturday market, located at the squares titled 9 de Octubre and 10 de Agosto.

The colonial past from the days of the Spanish Empire are ever present in the artistry of the churches, convents and religious treasures. Many of the beautiful houses are found

A leading industry in Cuenca and its surrounding areas is the manufacture of straw hats. A misconception among many people is the Panama hat. Originally made in Montecristi,

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tains art, crafts and beautiful folklore pieces on temporary exhibitions.

Address: 3 de Noviembre and Hermano Miguel streets. Visiting hours: Monday - Friday: 9h0013h00 and 14h30 – 18h00.

Saturday 10h00-12h00.

LAS CONCEPTAS MUSEUM

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF VICTOR LARCO ALDAZ

on the coast of Ecuador, the hats were sent north to the workers of the Panama Channel and hence the name Panama hat.

INTERESTING SITES EL BARRANCO The riverfront of the Tomebamba River is the most symbolic site of Cuenca, and serves as limit between the historical and the modern city.

The Classical Republican style of the facades of the constructions that surround the river give a special personality to the city. El Barranco is a residential area, as well as a cultural district. The Pumapungo Ruins, the Central Bank and Remigio Crespo Toral Museums, the "Todos los Santos" vestiges, and other sites along this riverside offer cultural and artistic exhibits.

PUMAPUNGO VESTIGES Located at the left margin of the Barranco of the Tomebamba River.

The Pumapungo ("Puma’s Door") neighborhood was the first development zone of the Inca city of Tumipamba. The architectural elements of the vestiges of this neighborhood show that it was mainly a religious, military, political and administrative center. The vestiges of Pumapungo include walls, chan-

nels, cobble stoned corridors, isolated enclosed areas, an enormous channel of 1.050 feet of length with some internal bathrooms, a mausoleum inside a tunnel, etc. All this surrounded by terraces that were used for agriculture. This archeological complex is complemented with gardens of native plants and a small display of birds of the region.

It is part of the Central Bank Museum, located on Huayna Capac Ave. across from Calle Larga.

It also includes an archeological museum, a numismatic museum (coins), and a very didactical and up-to-date ethnographic display.

Visiting hours Monday thru Friday 9h00 -17h00. Saturdays 9h00 13h00. Entrance fee is $3 for adults and $1.50 for children / students / special groups.

THE RUINS OF TODOS LOS SANTOS Follow the Todos Los Santos Street down the hill. This site has ruins of Cañari, Incas and colonial Spanish constructions. Here you will find the four Incas stonework niches.

CIDAP ARTES POPULARES DE AMERICA MUSEUM This museum is devoted to the handicrafts of South America. It con-

Here you will find a great collection of religious art. It exhibits 64 paintings, more than 200 sculptures, toys, furniture and craftsmanship.

Address: 633 Hermano Miguel St. Visiting hours: Monday to Friday: 9h00 -13h00 and 14h30- 18h30 Saturday 10h00-13h00. Admission fee: US$ 2.

MODERN ART MUSEUM It holds a permanent collection of contemporary art. There are many artistic activities available for children and the Biannual International Painting Competition is held here.

It is located on 1527 Calle Sucre and Coronel Talbot. Visiting hours: Mondays 14h30 - 18h30, Tuesdays thru Fridays, 9h00- 13h00 and 14h30 – 18h30. Saturdays 10h00 13h00. Free admission.

Phone: 283 1027 / 282 0838.

ESQUELETOLOGÍA MUSEUM Bolívar 6-57 & Borrero streets.

Visiting hours: Monday-Friday: 10h00 -13h00 / 16h00-19h00.

Saturday 10h00 - 14h30. Entrance fee is $1,50. Phone: 2821150.

NATIVE CULTURES MUSEUM This museum was built as homage to the Ecuadorian indigenous cultures and their 15,000 years of existence. It holds archeological pieces from the first indigenous civilizations in Ecuador up to those that lived in the XVI century, in more than 5,000 impressive pieces!

Address: Calle Larga 5-24 / Phone: 283 9181. Open Monday- Friday 9h00-18h30 & Saturday 9h00-13h00.

Entrance fee: $2.

EDUARDO VEGA’S WORKSHOP AND GALLERY On the hill of Turi, overviewing the 101

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city, 10 minutes by car from downtown Cuenca, we find a beautiful place where the re-known Ecuadorian artist Eduardo Vega has his house, his workshop and gallery. The visitor can admire his latest creations in artistic ceramics, ranging from mugs, plaques, jewelry, and plates up to wonderful murals that show the lushness of Ecuadorian landscape & costumes. You can also find good books, and complimentary coffee and biscuits. Open: Mon-Fri 9h00 -17h30, Sat 9h30- 13h30.

“TOQUILLA STRAW HAT" MUSEUM-WORKSHOP: Belonging to the company “Homero Ortega & Hijos”, this complex includes a factory, a gallery, and a store of the famous “Panama hats”. Take a view from its sightseeing terrace. Call 280 9000 to arrange a guided tour.

Address: Gil Ramírez Dávalos 3-86.

LA ESQUINA DE LAS ARTES is a commercial and cultural center for the promotion of the arts.

Distinguished designers, artists and artisans have gathered to reveal the different processes involved in the creation of their products, which include ceramics, wood crafts, textiles, glass, embroidery, jewelry straw hats and fashion accessories.

Open Monday thru Saturday from 10h00 thru 19h30, Sunday from 10h00 to 14h00. Address: El Barranco / Av. 12 de Abril y Agustin Cueva. Phone: 099978966. On Saturdays from 17h00 to 18h00 enjoy live music and folkloric dance. www.laesquinadelasartes.com

CHURCHES OF SPECIAL INTEREST THE SAGRARIO CHURCH (OLD CATHEDRAL) It is one of the oldest churches in Latin America (1557). Inca blocks from the Pomango Palace were used in the construction. It has marble floors and a gold-leaf altar. The Geodesic Mission used this place as a reference point to calculate the Earth’s circumference. Address: corner of Mariscal Sucre & Luis Cordero. Phone: 2834636.

CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION (NEW CATHEDRAL) This Cathedral’s construction began in 1880, and is one of the largest of America. The Cathedral is made of alabaster and marble. Its floor is made of pink marble imported from Carrara, Italy. Both Romance and Baroque are prominent in this architecture. Address: corner of Mariscal Sucre & Benigno Malo.

CHURCH AND MONASTERY OF "EL CARMEN DE ASUNCIÓN" Both have been preserved in the original condition since the XVII 102

century. A remarkable treasury of religious art pieces can be found here. Located near the main square, to the right of the daily flower market.

TODOS LOS SANTOS CHURCH This is one of the oldest churches in Cuenca. It is also where the first Catholic mass was celebrated after the Spaniards arrived. The statue of Santa Ana, patron saint of the city, is found here.

During the end of the XIX century the church that is currently found there replaced it. Address: corner of Calle Larga and Bajada de Todos Los Santos.

CHURCH AND MONASTERY OF THE CONCEPTAS The entrance of the church contains 17th century tombstones. The monastery was constructed in the 16th century and later became a museum of religious art. They are located on the corner of Presidente Cordova and Presidente Borrero Streets.

Museum open Monday thru Friday from 9h - 18h30 and Saturdays from 10h- 13h00. Admission fee: $2.50 adults, $1.50 children.

Phone: 2830625.

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Calle Larga 693 y Borrero Phone: 2831120/2827401 Fax: 2832340 e-mail: santaana@etapaonline.net.ec / www.grupo-santaana.com Cuenca Ecuador

Padre Aguirre 10-44 next to the Cuenca Park Phone: 07 2850521 // Cel: 099496281

The real Spanish cuisine in Cuenca

General Torres 8-40 st. between Sucre & BolĂ­var Phone (593-7) 2823 636 / 2825 571 Fax: 2840 699 E-mail: indigosag@mixmail.com

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PREMIUM SERVICES - CUENCA

Direcciòn: Di iò Estèvez de Toral 8-91 y Simon Bolivar Telèfono: 2826233 E-mail: mangiarebenne@hotmail.com

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MUSEUMS 1. Modern Art 2. Casa de la Cultura 3. CIDAP Artes Populares 4. Remigio Crespo Toral 5. Medicine History 6. Toquilla Straw Museum- Workshop 7. Esqueletologia 8. Las Conceptas 9. Central Bank 10. Native Cultures 11. Agustin Landivar Museum 12. Folklore Institute 13. Cañari Identity Museum

OTHERS 53. Post Office 54. Land Terminal 55. Airport 56. Milenium Plaza Shopping Center 57. Mall del Rio 58. 9 de Octubre Movie Theater 59. Parroquia Baños 60. Cajas National Park 82. Esquina de las Artes Shopping

61. And E. Vega Gallery 62. Cuenca Municipality 63. Azuay Province Government 64. Tourism Ministry 65. Planetarium 66. Amaru Zoo

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CHURCHES 14. New Cathedral 15. Old Cathedral 16. San Alfonso 17. La Merced 18. Las Conceptas 19. Todos los Santos 20. El Vergel 21. San Blas 22. Santo Domingo 23. San Francisco 24. Santo Cenáculo 25. San Sebastián 26. Corazón de Jesús 27. María Auxiliadora 28. Turi

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VESTIGES 29. The Ruins of Todos los Santos 30. Pumapungo Vestiges

HANDICRAFTS 31. Casa de la Mujer 32. Plaza Rotary 33. Mama Kinua Cultural Center 34. San Francisco 35. Plaza del Otorongo 36. Ceramics 37. Concuero (Leather Goods) 38. Homero Ortega (Toquilla Straw Hats) 39. Typical Clothing 40. Smithery 82. Esquina de las Artes Shopping

PARKS 41. Abdón Calderón 42. Plazoleta Victor J. Cuesta 43. Carlos Cueva Park 44. Luis Cordero Park 45. Mary Corile Park 46. San Blas Park 47. Plazoleta de las Monjas 48. María Auxiliadora Park 49. San Sebastián Park 50. Plazoleta de Cruz del Vado 51. El Paraíso Park 52. Parque de la Madre

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HOTELS

FOOD & DRINKS

71. Carvallo 72. Posada del Angel 73. Inca Real 74. Mansión Alcázar 75. Patrimonio

67. Oro Verde 68. Crespo 69. Santa Lucía 70. Victoria

76. El Pedregal Azteca Restaurant 77. Villa Rosa Restaurant 78. Eucalyptus Cafe 80. El Jardín Restaurant 81. Casa Alonso Restaurant - Le Bar 83. Restaurante Cuatro Ríos

TOURISM INFORMATION 79. The Travel Center

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Phone: (593 -7) 409 0000 Fax: (593-7) 409 0001 www.oroverdehotels.com / www.oroverdecuenca.com

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COJITAMBO

CUENCA’S SURROUNDINGS CAJAS NATIONAL PARK Cajas is located 19 miles northwest of Cuenca, at an altitude of 9.000 to 13.000 feet above the sea level. This is a place for those who love the great outdoors. Some of the many things to do and see are camping, fishing or hiking miles of trails to choose from through a scenic preserve, and more than 230 lagoons of glacial origin. A guided tour of the area allows one to admire a breathtaking landscape and unique fauna and flora. Warm clothing is recommended due to the low temperatures (32°F - 47°F ).

COJITAMBO Approximately 30 miles from the city of Cuenca, surrounded by an extraordinary landscape, are the ruins of Cojitambo. These constructions belonged to the Cañari indigenous group, which lived in the area before the arrival of the Incas. They lay at approximately 10,000 ft of height.

BAÑOS

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Only 5 miles East from Cuenca, you can find soothing hot spring waters. These thermal waters of volcanic origin reach the surface with a temperature of 158°F and cool down to 95°F -104°F.

GUALACEO This is a subtropical valley, approximately 22 miles away from Cuenca in direction to the Azogues town. At "El Descanso" take your right to reach Gualaceo. This town is known for its handicrafts, folklore and a beautiful river where you can go for a swim.

CHORDELEG Located 10 minutes from Gualaceo, it is a pre-Incan town where important archeological objects can be found.

This brilliant culture inhabited the area between the years 500 and 1500 BC. The artisans offer Ikat ponchos, pottery straw hats and jewelry. This is the place to buy the finest gold and silver filigree at a very reasonable price. There is also an excellent ethnographic museum on the square in an old courtyard house, where you can see weavers at work and find good shawls, scarves, belts and embroidery to buy.

HANDICRAFTS ROUTE POTTERY A place where potters still get together to work is the “Convención del 45”, located at the west side of the city, on the outskirts of the colonial cask area.

JEWELRY is a very important handicraft in this

area because Cuenca is located close to gold and silver mines.

Jewelry shops are located along the “Gran Colombia” street.

WEAVINGS Several artisans in Cuenca are dedicated to manufacture traditional clothing such as ponchos, skirts, flannels, dresses, embroidered blouses, wool sweaters and weavings with tie-dyed patterns called “ikat”.

BASKET SEWING Baskets and other utilitarian products are elaborated mainly in the San Joaquin Parish.

SMITHY The workers keep alive the tradition of working the iron directly with fire.

The smithy neighborhood is a recommended place to visit.

TINSMITH’S On the way up to the “Vado” area some tinsmith’s workshops are found. The products have designs that tell of the blend of cultures that characterizes Cuenca.

TOQUILLA STRAW HATS Most of the “cholas cuencanas” that live in Cuenca and its surroundings still wear these hats with a black hatband.

Toquilla Straw hats workshops can be found on the way up the “Vado” area.

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LOJA

LAGUNAS DEL COMPADRE

History and Botanic Center There are two daily flights from Quito to Loja, overlooking the avenue of the volcanoes. One can also take a bus from the city of Cuenca for a 4hour drive with a breathtaking view, but through a winded road. The airport is located at “La Toma” in the Catamayo valley, 15.5 miles away from the city; an approximately 40 minute drive. You share a taxi to the city that will charge $12. The buses arrive into the center of the city.

The city of Loja stands 6724 feet above sea level, with an average temperature of 60 to 69 Fahrenheit.

Colorful and lively. With a small population of approximately 150 thousand, the city has an active cultural life, and has several universities.

C), which is kept at the Cathedral for a long period of the year, but has a gothic church dedicated to her, 43 miles from the city.

Loja is crossed by two rivers: Malacatos and Zamora, which give a unique personality to the city. It is one of the cleanest and safest cities in Ecuador. The city has streets, plazas, churches and monasteries of the colonial times, such as the Cathedral and the Santo Domingo, San Francisco and San Sebastian churches.

ATTRACTIONS IN LOJA

Most Lojanos are extremely religious. It is common to find religious processions at the Main Plaza, or sometimes even popular bands and fireworks. Lojanos are especially devoted to the “Virgen del Cisne” (Virgin of the Swan), a sculpture of the Ecuadorian Diego de Robles (XVI

LOURDES STREET A stroll through this street sets you in an old colonial city, especially between Bolivar and Sucre streets.

Observe the well preserved wooden balconies, interior patios, cobble stoned streets… and stop by at the small shops where you find a little of everything, as well as handicrafts.

Visit the “Cera” neighborhood to observe the elaboration of ceramic handicrafts.

MAIN SQUARE The buildings of the main civil and ecclesiastic authorities: the 111

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Province and City Governments, the Episcopal House and the Cathedral surround the plaza.

Although the original architecture of most of these buildings has been modified, they still portray a taste of the Spanish legacy. The building that holds the Central Bank Museum still preserves its original architecture.

CENTRAL BANK MUSEUM The Museum is most interesting. It holds an archeological display (mainly of the Macara and Catamayo cultures), religious art of the XVIII Century, an ethnographic exhibit on the Saraguros, and a small display

on the history and uses of the “quinina” plant. The museum also houses temporary exhibits on the first floor, and each month there is a concert.

Open Monday thru Friday from 9h00 thru 17h00. Free admission.

Phone: 2573 004 / 2566 651.

MUSEO DE LA MÚSICA Located at Bernardo Valdivieso 09-42 y Rocafuerte. This museum displays musical instruments, notes, pictures and awards of nationally famous musicians from Loja. Open Monday thru Sunday from 8h30 to 12h30 and from 15h00 to 19h00. Free admission.

Phone: 2561342.

BOTANICAL GARDEN At the South of the city you find a Botanical Garden that is the only botanical garden at 6560 feet above sea level on the inter-Andean region.

It is over 50 years old and holds more than 1.000 plant species.

Open Monday thru Friday 8h- 18h00 and Saturdays 9h- 18h00.

MALACATOS VALLEY Right off the city to the South, the charming Malacatos town holds colorful wooden houses that surround a main square where live music is played every Sunday. At this site you can visit a sugar cane “molienda”.

The “moliendas” are open Monday

HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL ROUTE OF LOJA CITY

Artesanías Handicraft

Monumento Monument

Iglesia Church

Museo Museum

Información Information

Teléfono Telephone

Información turística Tourist information

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Puerta de la Ciudad.

Parque Simón Bolívar - The Simón Bolivar Park.

Iglesia de San Francisco - San Francisco's Church.

Museo Matilde Hidalgo de Procel - Matilde Hidalgo de Procel museum.

Plaza Central o Plaza Mayor de Loja - The Central Square or The largest square of Loja.

Iglesia Catedral - Cathedral Church.

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thru Friday and you can observe the workers throughout the whole process of elaboration of raspadura (sugar scraping), using the same machinery that has been used for generations.

On the way to Vilcabamba, observe a hill in the shape of a “sleeping Inca”. This hill is called Mandango, and is believed to have been sacred for the Incas.

their way to or from Peru. The name Vilka Bamba or Huilcopamba means “Sacred Valley” in the indigenous tongue Quechua. This site was reserved by the Incas for the main noble authorities, as it is a peaceful and quiet place. Perhaps this tranquility is the reason for the old age of the valley’s inhabitants. It is common to find healthy people of over100 years of age that live here and still work in agriculture.

VILCABAMBA VALLEY This charming valley (at 4.921 ft.) located approximately 1 hour South from Loja city (25 miles) has become a favorite spot for tourists, especially young adventurers on

Many investigations have been made to determine the reason for the longevity of Vilcabamba’s inhabitants, and some factors have been identified: template weather, a water

7 Museo Arqueológico, Histórico y Colonial del Banco Central - The Archaeological, Historical and Colonial Museum of the Central Bank.

8 Museo de Arte Religioso de las Madres Concepcionistas - The Religious art museum of the “Madres Conceptas”.

9 Museo de la Música - Museum of Music.

10 Plaza e Iglesia de Santo Domingo - Santo Domingo Church and Square 11 Plaza de la Independencia o San Sebastián - The Independence Square or San Sebastián Square 12 Iglesia de San Sebastián - San Sebastian Church.

13 Calle Lourdes - Lourdes Street.

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up of 105 lagoons, 3 of which are of easy access.

From the Podocarpus NP heading towards the Zamora province, you will encounter impressive formations of hills through a process of wind and water erosion.

Open every day. The entrance fee to the park is of $10 and $5 for children under 12. It is better to hire a guide at Loja City, since no information is found at the park’s entrances. Phone: 3024837.

TAPICHALACA RESERVE

rich in minerals, a diet low in fat and high in fiber and magnesium, the peacefulness of the valley and the physical activity.

People that suffer of heart disease move to Vilcabamba to imitate the lifestyle of its inhabitants.

From Vilcabamba you can arrange horse and bicycle excursions throughout the valley or in the nearby access to the Podocarpus National Park. The Municipality has opened an information office at the corner of the main park.

PODOCARPUS NATIONAL PARK This National Park is located 11 miles South of Loja city. The park was named after a tree specie commonly known as “Romerillo” (Podocarpus montanus). This is a gigantic Coniferous that has adapted to the tropical Andean forests. These trees can reach a height of 131 ft. and live up to 1.000 years. The Podocarpus or Romerillos are in danger of extinction because of the over exploitation of their valuable wood. Now they can be found at the Sabanilla region nearby Loja City 114

and at the Podocarpus National Park.

Podocarpus NP holds 3.000 – 4.000 plant species and more than 600 bird species (including Macaws, Cock of the Rock, hummingbirds, toucans, tangaras, etc). It holds endemic bird species such as the Jocotoco Antpitta (Grallaria ridgelyi).The park has an extension of 361.452 acres, and has several different ecosystems that range from the Paramo or moorlands at 12.073 ft, down to the low mountain forest at 2.952 ft, passing through the evergreen high-mountain and mountain forests. Among the plant species are: bromeliads, orchids and ferns, as well as the Mascarilla Chinchona, the Cecropias or Guarumos (Cecropia sp.), and the bamboo (Chusquea sp.)

From “El Refugio” it is possible to follow any of the 4 following trekking routes: 1) “Spectacled Bear” 437 yards, 2) “Cloud Forest” 765 yards, 3) “View Point” 1 mile or 3 miles, up to Sabanilla at 11.482 ft.

4) “Compadres Lagoon” 9 miles where you find a fluvial system made

A special site for birdwatchers has been built in the Tapichalaca Reserve that belongs to the Jocotoco Foundation. Tapichalaca has an extension of 9386 acres. It borders the Podocarpus National Park and is located right off the border of the Loja Province with the Zamora Province. It is named after the Tapichalaca hill. Jocotoco is the common name of a bird specie (Grallaria ridgelyi) that was recently discovered (1997) at this site. This bird spends more time “walking” on the bushes than flying, and makes a sound similar to a dog bark. There are bird feeders surrounding the house at the entrance to the reserve, where an amazing diversity of hummingbirds of all colors and sizes welcome visitors.

JOCOTOCO

Photos courtesy of: Rodrigo Tapia, Fernando Sornoza

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At first glance, the rain forest is a vast green wilderness. However, as one observes carefully, this ecosystem is full of surprises for its visitors. Not only is each tree very different from the next, but also for every tree there are hundreds of other plant and animal species in constant interaction.

Tropical rain forests occupy 7% of the Earth’s surface, but they hold 50% of the world’s biodiversity (Myers 1988; Wilson 1988). These forests are found in Central America, Africa and Asia, but the biggest area extends in the South American Amazon.

To truly take advantage of the rain forest, one must awaken all five senses to discover how exotic life forms have evolved to live together in a minimal extent of land. The embracing sounds tell of the various birds and insects that keep this living forest in constant change. One must carefully observe the many other animal and plant species as they have amazing color and texture adaptations which can be confused with the scenery. The various smells tell of the chemicals that the plants have developed as a defense for herbivores, and many are of medicinal use for humans.

In contrast to what one may think, the soil of the rain forest is not fertile.

The nutrients that supply this exu116

berant ecosystem are the product of a constant interaction between the living and dying organisms on the surface. Decomposition is vital to the dynamics of the forest. Thus, it is important to preserve this ecosystem in its entirety.

The temperature in tropical rain forests is quite stable, with a variation between day and night. However, this ecosystem is far from being stable.

Rainfall is seasonal and results in major changes for the living organisms. Disturbances also add to the high dynamics of this ecosystem.

Many hypotheses have been made to explain the impressive high diversity in tropical rain forests, and each provides an insight for better understanding this complex ecosystem. The competition for resources has lead organisms to adapt to unique niches,

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thus resulting in a number of specialized and interdependent organisms.

it is home to less than five percent of the country’s population.

The overwhelming complexity of the forest makes one wonder about the ancestral knowledge of the millenarian indigenous inhabitants. These cultures have passed their knowledge from generation to generation as a way to keep the secrets hidden in this magical site.

The Ecuadorian Amazon region is basically divided into Northern Oriente (Sucumbios, Napo and Orellana provinces) and Southern Oriente (Pastaza, Morona Santiago and Zamora Chinchipe provinces).

In Ecuador, the East of the Andes falls into this exuberant ecosystem.

Locally the Amazonia is called Oriente, as it lies on the Eastern side of the country, It occupies almost half of Ecuador’s territory, however,

The Ecuadorian rainforest is home to nine natural reserves, including the two largest mainland protected areas, Parque Nacional Yasuni and the Reserva Faunistica Cuyabeno.

Opportunities to visit primary forests and to interact with local communi-

ties are offered by our sponsors.

Contact them to immerse in a splendor of life and discover a different way to look at the world!

CLIMATE: The climate is precisely the one you would expect form the rainforest – hot and humid, with plenty of rain.

April to July are the wettest months, but you can expect cloudbursts most days throughout the year, especially during the early afternoon.

Typical daytime temperatures fluctuate around 25ºC (77 ºF), even though daily highs can reach over 32ºC (90ºF).

IMPORTANT TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS WHAT TO BRING: • CASUAL AND LIGHT LONG SLEEVE SHIRTS AND LONG PANTS (BECAUSE OF THE INSECTS AND THE BOUNTIFUL VEGETATION) • HIKING OR COMFORTABLE SHOES • BATHING SUIT • RUBBER BOOTS & RAIN PONCHO (ALTHOUGH MOST FACILITIES HAVE RUBBER BOOTS IN SEVERAL SIZES AND RAIN PONCHOS AVAILABLE FOR THEIR GUESTS) • SUNSCREEN LOTION • INSECT REPELLENT • A HAT • A BACKPACK • A FLASHLIGHT WITH EXTRA BATTERIES • BINOCULARS • CAMERA • WATERPROOF BAGS FOR YOUR BELONGINGS • CASH (BANKING FACILITIES ARE POOR IN THE ECUADORIAN ORIENTE) • EMERGENCY SUPPLIES: MOST LODGES OFFER FIRST-AID KITS, BUT YOU MIGHT WANT TO CARRY YOUR PERSONAL KIT. IF YOU ARE ALLERGIC TO INSECTS, DO NOT FORGET THE NECESSARY MEDICATIONS IN CASE YOU MIGHT FACE A CRISIS • ORIGINAL PASSPORT (REQUIRED AT SOME SPOTS AT THE ECUADORIAN AMAZONIA)

• VACCINATIONS AND MEDICINES: IT IS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN TO GET THE MOST UPDATED INFORMATION AND ADVICE. FOR SOME SITES DEEP WITHIN THE RAINFOREST, YOU MIGHT BE REQUESTED A YELLOW-FEVER VACCINATION. YOU MAY ALSO WANT TO TAKE MALARIA PILLS; CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR. HOW TO GET THERE: FLIGHTS ARE OFFERED TO THE FOLLOWING CITIES: • COCA – CAPITAL OF THE ORELLANA PROVINCE – ROUNTRIP FLIGHT APROX. $120, SERVED BY THE LOCAL AIRLINE TAME. • LAGO AGRIO – CAPITAL OF SUCUMBIOS, THE NORTHERN-MOST PROVINCE OF THE ECUADORIAN AMAZONIA. THE CITY OF LAGO AGRIO IS NOW OFFICIALLY CALLED NUEVA LOJA. TAME OFFERS DAILY FLIGHTS FOR APROX. $120 ROUNDTRIP • MACAS- CAPITAL OF THE MORONA SANTIAGO PROVINCE. TWO LOCAL AIRLINES OFFER THIS SERVICE: TAME AND SAEREO- ROUNDTRIP APROX $140 * THE CITIES OF TENA AND PUYO CAN BE EASILY REACHED BY LAND (A 3 –6 HOURS DRIVE FROM QUITO).

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INITIATIVE YASUNI- ITT “A Big Idea From a Small Country” The Initiative Yasuni ITT is the insignia project of the Ecuadorian Government in regards to the environment. It aims to prevent the exploitation of an important oilfield in order to protect one of the richest areas in regards to biodiversity in the world, located in the Ecuadorian Amazonia: the Yasuni National Park, declared a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO. A sole hectare in this Park holds more species than the whole of North America!

The Ishpingo-Tambococha- Tiputini oilfield holds a reserve of approximately 850 million crude barrels.

The exploitation of this material would mean the emission of 407 million tons of carbon dioxide. The Ecuadorian Government seeks for a compensation of the international community of at least half the income that this oil exploitation would produce.

The other half would be the Ecuadorians’ contribution. If this dream is accomplished, the Government of Ecuador commits to indefinitely refraining from exploiting the oil reserves in this area.

For more information visit: www.yasuni-itt.gov.ec info@advantagecuador.com www.manateeamazonexplorer.com

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LUXURY IN THE AMAZON

HAMADRYADE LODGE Deity of the Woods In the Greek mythology, Hamadryade refers to the Deity of the Woods.

Hamadryade Lodge in Misahuallí has taken its name as its French owners, Sébastien and Mélanie, want to contribute to protect and restore the rain forest and the ethnic groups that inhabit it, and share this experience with their guests.

Coincidentally, the name of the Amazonas River and the Amazonia region also comes from the Greek mythology. It is said that the name arises from a battle which Francisco de Orellana (discoverer of the Amazonas River) had with a tribe of Tapuyas (Brazil) where the women of the tribe fought alongside the men. Orellana derived the name from the ancient Amazons described

by Herodotus and Diodorus in the Greek mythology, a tribe of warlike women who lived in Asia Minor.

A GOLD MINE TURNED INTO A LUXURIOUS HOTEL Hamadradye was built on an old gold mine site. The owners found 120

this particularity as an opportunity to turn a piece of land that had been destroyed in the past into something beautiful and work towards the recovery of its flora and fauna. “We bought this little piece of Amazonian Forest to protect and respect it. We love it even more because of its imperfections; stigmata of a past exploitation... a gold rush took its toll on some small areas, leaving deep scars on the ground. We knowingly chose to build the lodge on this very same place, somehow to embellish this invisible wound and help it heal,” cites their website.

ECO AND ETHNO FRIENDLY Hamadryade lodge makes a careful and responsible use of resources.

The lodge uses rain water, and the used waters from the kitchen and showers are filtered before reaching the soils. As for the toilets wastewater, they go through a bio-tank system. The swimming pool uses Ozone to treat the water (chlorinefree), and all the amenities are biodegradable and produced by a local family business. As for the design of the Bungalows, each ceiling displays the main animal and vegetal symbols of important local ethnic groups: Quichua, Shuar, Huoarani, and Cofane.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND SERVICES Hamadryade is an elegant lodge of contemporary architecture, which at the same time fits well within its exuberant rain forest surroundings. It features only 5 exclusive and luxurious suites- Bungalows (60 m2) with large, comfortable bathrooms. Homemade food is offered in the dining room overlooking the rainforest and the river. The lodge also has a pool and hammocks for visitors to enjoy. Personalized service is offered by the owners.

ACTIVITIES Butterfly garden, hikes through the rainforest, visits to Quechua or Huaorani communities, trips through the Napo River, Kayaking trips, whitewater rafting, nocturnal hikes, and massages.

Hamadryade offers 3- 7 day packages that combine a series of activities.

Useful information: Location: 64 hectares on the bank of the Napo river, up to the border of the Valle Hermoso and Ponceloma’s communities, and the Biosphere Reserve of “Galeras / Sumaco”.

Address: Venecia – via Misahuallí Km 11 (a 3 and a half hour drive from the city of Quito).

Ph: (593 8) 590 9992 / 9 287 3878 e-mail: lodge@hamadryade-lodge.com www.hamadryade-lodge.com

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A BIRDER’S PARADISE No other country in the world has as many bird species in such a small land area. With a list of over 1630 species, Ecuador ranks fourth in the world in bird diversity. You don’t need to be an expert to experience the exhilaration of encountering such a variety of birds…

Their amazing assortment of colors and intriguing habits are irresistible!

Fourteen species are found only within the boundaries of Ecuador. Such is the case of the Black-breasted Puffleg, the official bird of Quito, which is only found on Pichincha Volcano. Another 260 species are found only in Ecuador and its neighboring countries.

Hummingbirds have an overpowering attraction to observers due to their iridescence and acrobatics. In the Andes, these birds are commonly known as “quindes” (from the indigenous Quichua word). More than 130 species live in Ecuador, including the stunning Sword-billed Hummingbird and the Fiery Topaz. An outstanding example of diversity is seen at hummingbird feeders on the west slope near Mindo where up to 28 species have been seen in one day, a world record!

More than 100 sites of special importance of bird diversity have been identified in Ecuador. These sites are known as IBAs (Important Bird Areas), and are part of an international program designed to protect sites of exceptional importance for bird conservation. In Ecuador, this program is coordinated by Aves & Conservación, a partner of BirdLife International. The main criteria for the identification of these sites are the presence of endangered and / or endemic species and the presence of migratory and gregarious bird species.

distinct bird species in such close proximity. The Choco is best accessed from Quito and in a one-week trip you can see over 300 species. The main birding areas in the Choco are the Tandayapa Valley, Mindo Valley, Milpe Bird Reserve, Rio Silanche Bird Reserve and the Canande region of far Northwest Ecuador.

The Amazon region also offers superb birding opportunities and excellent local guides. Contact our sponsors to experience the exhilaration of bird watching combined with excellent accommodations and service!

Recommended reading: The Birds of Ecuador by Bob Ridgely and Paul Greenfield.

For more information contact Aves & Conservación Corporation: 02 2249968 / 02 2271800 Info courtesy of: Aves & Conservación.

Photos courtesy of: Mitch Lysinger.

Ecuador’s IBAs are found not only in national protected areas, but also in urban sites. More than 50% of Ecuador’s IBAs already have tourist facilities, and are growing in infrastructure.

Moreover, Ecuador holds the world’s top two Endemic Bird Areas (EBAs), the Choco and Tumbesian, within a short distance from each other.

Nowhere else in the world are such 121

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EMBASSIES + CONSULATES Argentina

Guayaquil - 593 4

Amazonas Ave. 477 & Roca Phone 2562292

Ave. Las Monjas N.10 & Carlos Arosemena Edif. Hamburgo P.B. Phone: 2208777 - 769

Cuenca - 593 7

Gaspar de Villarroel E9-53 & Av. de Los Shyris Phone: 2469700 República Del Salvador 1082 & Naciones Unidas / Phone: 2276145 / 2273910

Jorge Pérez Concha 718 & Guayacanes. / Phone: 2384886

Amazonas N25-23 & Colón Phone: 2563141 Av. Amazonas 4153 & UNP Edificio Eurocenter 3rd floor Ph: 2455499 / Fax: 2277672

C.C. Dicentro Locales 33-34 Ph: 2277065 / Fax: 2293046

Chile

Juan Pablo Sanz 3617 & Amazonas Edif. Xerox / Phone: 2249403

Ave. 9 de Octubre & Malecón Edif. La Previsora 23th floor Of. 2303 / Phone: 2562-995

Colombia

Av. Colón 1133 & Amazonas Edificio Arista 7th floor Phone: 2222486

Francisco de Orellana, Edificio WTC Torre B / Phone: 2630674

Costa Rica

Isla San Cristóbal N44-385 & Guepi Phone: 2256016 / 09700080

Egypt

Tarqui E4-56 & 6 de Diciembre Phone: 2225240

France

General Leonidas Plaza N 19 09 & Patria / Phone 2943800

José Mascote 909 & Hurtado Phone: 2328442

Gran Colombia 661 Mezanine Phone: 2837693

Germany

Naciones Unidas Edif. City Plaza, 14th floor / Phone: 2970820

Ave. Las Monjas #10 & Carlos Julio Arosemena Edif. Berlin / Ph: 2206867 - 8

Bolivar 918 & Benigno Malo Phone: 2822783

Great Britain

Naciones Unidas Edif. City Plaza 14th floor / Phone: 2970800

Gral. Cordova 623 & Padre Solano Phone:2560400

Holland

12 de Octubre Ave. 1942 WTC Phone: 2229229

Israel

Av. Coruña E25-58 & San IgnacioEdif.

Altana 5th floor / Phone: 3971500-1

9 de Octubre Ave. 729 & Boyacá Phone:2534503 / Fax: 2328196

Italy

La Isla 111 & Humberto Albornoz Phone: 2561077-4

P. Ycaza 423 entre Córdoba & B. Moreno Phone: 2566658

Japan

Amazonas Ave. N39-123 & Arízaga / Phone: 2278700

Km. 11.5 Vía Daule Phone: 2100600 ext 212

Korea

Ave. 12 de Octubre & Cordero Edif.

WTC Tower B 3th floor / Ph. 2909227

Francisco de Orellana WTC Bdg. Tower B. Of. 1005 / Ph. 2630774

Mexico

6 de Diciembre Ave. N36-165 Phone: 2254467

Peru

República Del Salvador N34-361 & Irlanda / Phone: 2468410

Francisco de Orellana 501 Edif. Centrum 14th floor / Phone: 2280135 / 2280114

Russia

Reina Victoria 462 & Roca Phone: 2526375

Clemente Ballén 2703 Phone: 2451361

Spain

La Pinta 455 & Amazonas Phone: 2555733 / 2945111

Velez & Tungurahua Esquina Phone: 6017460

Switzerland

Amazonas 3617 & Juan Pablo Sanz Edif. Xerox 2nd floor / Phone: 2434949

Juan Tanca Marengo Ave. Km 1.8 Phone: 2681997

U.S.A.

Avigiras E12-170 & Eloy Alfaro Phone: 3985000

9 de Octubre Ave. & García Moreno Phone: 2323570 / Fax: 232-1152

Uruguay

6 de Diciembre Ave. 2816 Phone: 2563762

Junín 114 & Malecón Phone:2311058 / Fax: 2563763

Venezuela

Ave. Amazonas 30-240 & E. Alfaro Phone: 2557209 / 2554032

Chile 329 & Aguirre Phone: 2326600

Austria Belgium Brazil Canada

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Quito - 593 2

Juan Antonio Campos 101 & García Avilés / Phone: 2310505 Gill Ramirez Dávalos 1434 Phone: 4089054

Ave. Juan Tanca Marengo & Ave. J. Orrantea / Ph: 2296837 Ave. José Peralta 1019 Edif. Acrópolis Phone: 2881989

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SEPTEMBER 2010

SEPTEMBER 2010

THIS IS ECUADOR

No 482

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www.thisisecuador.com