Private tour in Quito Sebastián V

Equator Line, Indigenous Markets, Cuicocha Lake and Leather Town

4.8

(5) reviews

-
Hours icon 2 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
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-
Hours icon 2 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Sebastián V.

5.0

Guide rating

111

Reviews

Tours delivered

1 hrs

Avg. response time

Hello, my dear future friend, my name is Sebastián and I'm a naturalist national guide of this, little but diverse country of Ecuador. Due to my father's job, I grew up in different little towns in the countryside and in my grandparent's farm, full of animals, crops, forest and rivers. Perhaps, this close and early contact with Nature, plus my curiosity to understand how things work, were the main reasons to have fallen in love with the natural world, and eventually needing to share this admiration for Nature and try to spark some awareness on our global environmental problems as a guide. After finishing my University degree in Ecotourism I've worked for some of the most prestigious lodges of Ecuador as: Kapawi Lodge, Sacha Lodge, Mashpi or La Selva Lodge. I have also been involved with different biology research projects on mammals, toads and birds, around the country. Last year, I just finished my second degree, at distance, in Environmental Management while working as a driver guide and tour leader. Sometimes I am a traveler, sometimes a photographer, not often enough a diver, but always a nature lover, . . . come with me, so I can show you the wonders of Ecuador. National Guide License Open Water Diver License Wilderness Advance First Aid (WAFA), CPR and Airway Management Certified. Field Assistant and Field Researcher in various biology studies on mammals, toads and birds. Participant in different courses like: Herpetofauna of Ecuador, biology of Mammals, Mammals of Ecuador, Geology of Ecuador or Formation of Environmental Educators. In my car I can take 3 passengers seated comfortably, but bigger vehicles can be arranged if needed. Due to local driving restrictions I cannot drive (on the rush hours) within the city on Mondays

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Sebastián V.

Overview of your Quito tour

Just 2 hours away from Quito we can find some of the most interesting Andean indigenous towns to visit and shop in their high quality markets. Let us breathe the tranquility and beauty of the northern highlands, learn about Pre-Inca cultures, their beliefs and cosmovision while experiencing first hand the current lifestyles of peoples as we visit the indigenous markets, eat typical food or try traditional cleansing rituals while experiencing a homestay with a Kichwa family (not included). Get ready for a walk around one of the most beautiful lakes in the country, a "parasite" crater lake that has been filled by waters coming down the Cotacachi volcano for thousands of years. Visits to 2 different archeological remains (Quitu and Caranqui cultures) to understand a bit more about the long gone inhabitants of current northern Ecuador.

Recent Reviews

Michael M.Australia
April 2024

We travelled for two days with Sebastian to Cotacahi. He arranged our overnight accommodation at a homestay with an indigenous family which was a highlight of our tour. Sebastian has great local knowledge and imparts a real feel for his country. We did along walk around Cuicocha Lake and he was able to point out and name many varieties of flora. We also visited the ancient archaeological site to see Pyramids of Cochasqui. Sebastian is an impressive guide and we thoroughly enjoyed our time spent with him

Andrew R.United States
July 2023

This was a great trip. We enjoyed Cuicocha Lake and the hike we did very much. Otavalo wasn't as nice as we remember it being when we visited 25 years ago. Sebastian was terrific and did a wonderful job of making the nature and history of Ecuador come alive!

Ruth N.United States
July 2023

I cannot imagine a better guide than Sebastian. He provided so much history, perspective, & insight into our visit to the Equator Line, Otavalo, & Cotacachi. His recommendations for places to eat or shop were excellent. His ability to translate for our family of non-Spanish speakers was so valuable. For our hike around Cuicocha, he provided the keen eye & naturalist knowledge to help us discover so many plants & flowers we would have missed otherwise. If you have a chance to tour with Sebastian, grab it!

Stuart D.United States
July 2023

My brother and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip with Sebastian. It was terrific. Our hike at the crater lake was phenomenal and made much more interesting by Sebastian's knowledge and insight into flora and fauna. He pointed out and identified things at a nice casual pace. Our indigenous homestay was fascinating and an opportunity we won't forget. Sebastian was easy going and pleasant to be with. His remarks were just right, always thorough but never too much. Sebastian is really good at what he does

Pamela W.
May 2021

This was our second tour with Sebastian. We were forced to make some revisions to the original itinerary, due to the pandemic, but felt we had a very complete tour. Very easy going and accommodating.

Your Quito tour itinerary

Day 1 Pick up and drive north, first stop Rumicucho Inca pucará (military outpost), then 1 hour drive to Quitsato sundial to visit the Equator line to get an insight of the indigenous cosmovision. On the way to Otavalo, a quick stop for local biscuits, coffee and stunning views. Then the indigenous "Ponchos" market full of souvenirs or we could witness the weaving process of carefully crafted fabrics the old fashioned way in Peguche. I'll suggest a place for lunch. Finally, we drive to our homestay (or I could help you book a hotel in Cotacachi if you´re not interested in the homestay) with a Kichwa family. Day 2 After an early breakfast and a short drive to Cuicocha Lake for a (short or long) walk to explore the flora and enjoy the incredible views. After lunch, we'll explore the indigenous town Cotacachi famous for its quality leather good, if you need more shopping. Finally, in the way back to Quito, a quick visit to Cochasqui archeological site to learn about the Caranqui people.

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Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Suv

Air-conditioned Kia Carens 2024 for 4 passengers comfortably seated Light packing is required for groups of 5, due to space in the trunk

What's included
Other: Water (for refilling container)
Private Guide
Private Transportation
Equipment: hiking poles
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets: national park fee ($10 per person), activities
Accommodation: homestay
Meeting location

Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador

Airport, hotel or Airbnb

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Off The Beaten Path
City Highlights
Day Trip
Boat
Tour reference number
509639
Languages
English
Spanish
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

4.8

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Quito best suited for?

This private tour in Quito is perfect for travellers who are interested in exploring indigenous cultures, markets, and stunning natural landscapes. It's ideal for those who want to learn about Pre-Inca cultures and enjoy a mix of cultural and outdoor activities. Families with kids will find it suitable as it's kid-friendly, and the moderate activity level makes it accessible for most travellers.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Quito be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 2 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 days
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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