36 If we say Ecuador to you, does your mind immediately leap to the biodiverse islands of the Galapagos? We understand why as it is an incredible destination, but what if we were to tell you that there is much more to discover in this unique country that sits on the Equator? Ingrid Vultorious, Head of South America, takes you on a journey that goes far beyond the Galapagos. Buckle up, it’s time to go! The Chocolate Trail WHERE: Papallacta WHAT: Hot springs, indigenous communities, ancient culture and chocolate Love chocolate? Why not go to its source? Venture out of Quito on a one-and-a- half-hour drive and explore the Andean Highlands and the Amazon Rainforest. Discover the Sacred Valley of the Anaconda, which was the home of native cultures for thousands of years. Even today, you can still witness ancient rock carvings! Head onwards to the small town of Papallacta, known for its hot springs, where you can spend time in the thermal pools of the rustic yet comfortable Papallacta Spa & Resort. Spend the day in an indigenous community plantation discovering the origin and cultivation of cocoa beans! The Jungle Trek WHERE: The Ecuadorian Amazon WHAT: Nature, wildlife and culture The Ecuadorian Amazon is as incredible as in Peru or Brazil. The entire jungle breathes life with all its coos, caws, hums and beats of tropical wildlife. Take a boat ride to the Yasuní National Park and explore this lush region. As you glide down the black-water creek of the Añangu Stream, you may witness jaguars, tapirs, peccaries and anacondas! In the rustling branches of the banks, there may be a troop of monkeys or raucous macaws! When you reach Lake Añangu you can discover the freshwater fish species, including piranhas, as well as otters, aquatic birds, and the endangered charapa turtles. 36 If we say Ecuador to you, does your mind immediately leap to the biodiverse islands of the Galapagos? We understand why as it is an incredible destination, but what if we were to tell you that there is much more to discover in this unique country that sits on the Equator? Ingrid Vultorious, Head of Ingrid Vultorious, Head of Ingrid Vultorious South America, takes you on a journey that goes far beyond the Galapagos. Buckle up, it’s time to go! The Chocolate Trail WHERE: Papallacta WHAT: Hot springs, indigenous communities, ancient culture and chocolate Love chocolate? Why not go to its source? Venture out of Quito on a one-and-a- half-hour drive and explore the Andean Highlands and the Amazon Rainforest. Discover the Sacred Valley of the Anaconda, which was the home of native cultures for thousands of years. Even today, you can still witness ancient rock carvings! Head onwards to the small town of Papallacta, known for its hot springs, where you can spend time in the thermal pools of the rustic yet comfortable Papallacta Spa & Resort. Spend the day in an indigenous community plantation discovering the origin and cultivation of cocoa beans! The Jungle Trek WHERE: The Ecuadorian Amazon WHAT: Nature, wildlife and culture The Ecuadorian Amazon is as incredible as in Peru or Brazil. The entire jungle breathes life with all its coos, caws, hums and beats of tropical wildlife. Take a boat ride to the Yasuní National Park and explore this lush region. As you glide down the black-water creek of the Añangu Stream, you may witness jaguars, tapirs, peccaries and anacondas! In the rustling branches of the banks, there may be a troop of monkeys or raucous macaws! When you reach Lake Añangu you can discover the freshwater fish species, including piranhas, as well as otters, aquatic birds, and the endangered charapa turtles. BEYONDTHE GALAPAGOS