"The tour guide and driver were excellent. They catered to your every need...Our lodgings were first rate. The hotel Patio Andaluz, in Quito was very nice and its location in the old city was nice because we could do some walking back in time...Hacienda San Augustin de Callo was unique. Built on the site of an Incan temple, the rooms had fireplaces in both the bedroom and bathroom. We were able to go horseback riding and feed the Llamas. The food was again very good and the staff very accommodating. The cooking lesson and lunch at a local restaurant was fun and delicious. Hacienda Manteles in Banos was beautiful. The large room was very comfortable and the staff was very friendly. The hacienda was situated on a mountain side with a great view of the valley below. We also had a good view of the active volcano Tungurahua. Kapawi Eco Lodge in the rainforest was a very interesting and nice resort. Individual grass roof huts with decks were fun and comfortable. The food was again excellent, and the staff was extremely helpful. The Galapagos Odyssey was a fantastic boat. Large cabins, excellent food, and a wonderful crew made for a delightful cruise.

Some of the highlights of the trip include the visit to the Equator north of Quito. They had a number of experiments that can only be done on the Equator. Also, we enjoyed the hike into the Quilotoa Crater and the mule ride back to the top...The Tungurahua volcano was spectacular. When the clouds allow, you can see plumes of ash spewing from it and at night you can see the hot rocks and lava erupting from it. All and all, Ecuador is a beautiful country with very friendly people. The use of the US Dollar makes it very easy with no exchange problems. It was a fun trip, well put together."

Chuck and JoAnn - January 2010