The cocoa road

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Arrival in Quito

  

  After being welcomed at Guayaquil airport, your guide will take you to your hotel, located in the very center of the country's economic capital.

• day 2

  Mangroves and cocoa production

  

  This day will combine a visit to the mangroves, a specific ecosystem of this region, and a visit to a cocoa plantation. The country's development is closely linked to cocoa, as it was the country's main resource at the end of the 19th century. The variety found in Ecuador is certainly the finest in the world and is, of course, highly sought after by chocolatiers worldwide.

• day 3

  Guayaquil, the city of chocolate

  

  A tour of Guayaquil to continue with chocolate. You will go to the Historical Park, where the chocolate museum is located. It is also an opportunity to take a walk in this park/zoo, where there are some specimens of the local fauna. You will then head towards the heart of the cocoa production area to complete your training on chocolate.

• day 4

  Become a cocoa specialist

  

  Day dedicated to the history of cocoa and its production. You will learn about the whole process and will not miss the tastings.

• day 5

  On the way to the Andes

  

  Let's forget about chocolate for a moment and head to the Andes, with a giant on the way: the Chimborazo volcano. You will then reach the city of Riobamba.

• day 6

  Fair trade

  

  You will discover fair trade initiatives... in the city of Guaranda. This is a unique opportunity to meet the producers of this city, who have developed numerous production initiatives, such as cheese or charcuterie. A fine example of success that combines economy and solidarity.

• day 7

  The majestic Cotopaxi

  

  It's hard to pass by the country's most majestic volcano without paying it a little visit. You can climb up to the refuge after leaving your car at nearly 4000 meters of altitude. From there, you will head to the Mitad del Mundo at Quitsato, where the equatorial line passes. A lunch awaits you there to discover local specialties with "organic" products. You will continue your journey to Otavalo and sleep in a hacienda, those old colonial houses that shaped the history of this country when the Spanish conquerors arrived.

• day 8

  The Otavalo market and a return to chocolate

  

  After visiting the typical Otavalo market, where all the region's crafts come together (and where you can buy your souvenirs), you will head to Quito, passing by the other Middle of the World, with its small educational Inti Ñan museum. From there, we will take you to one of the city's chocolatiers, in the heart of the Historic Center.

• day 9

  A final touch... of chocolate.

  

  Quito is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason: it is certainly the most beautiful and extensive colonial city in South America. Churches, a cathedral, and convents are on the agenda, with some chocolate tastings sprinkled throughout the day. The whole experience is completed by a visit to the Mindalae Museum, which will give you an overview of the quality of the country's craftsmanship.

• day 10

  Your last day

  

  You have been guided enough, it is time to enjoy a little free time for your last purchases... of chocolate before taking your flight back home. We will offer visits according to your tastes.