Top Quito Lunch

Boasting a huge diversity of birdlife, the Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve draws ornithologists worldwide. It’s also a popular destination for anyone wishing to escape the busy streets of Quito. With a small group and a guide to help you set the itinerary, you can visit a chocolate factory to learn how the finest cocoa is processed and discover the secrets of coffee cultivation at a plantation. Transport is made easy with hotel pickup in a 4WD vehicle.

Indulge in the timeless tradition of afternoon coffee in Quito's historic center with this private experience. Join a foodie guide to explore hidden local shops and taste authentic Ecuadorian treats. Highlights include a visit to a coffee roastery, chocolate tasting, and making traditional Ecuadorian coffee. You also participate in a cooking class to learn how to make empanadas, humitas, and quimbolitos.

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is through its cuisine, and this cooking workshop takes it one step further. Alongside a private host, get your hands dirty and learn how to make traditional Ecuadorian dishes, that have been passed down through generations, from scratch. Then, enjoy the fruits of your labor complemented by good conversation with your host.

Hacienda La Danesa, a century-old working dairy, cacao, and teak farm, sits an hour outside of Guayaquil. With this tour, escape the busy city for a day on this family-owned hacienda with a selection of activities tailored to visitors. Tour a cocoa plantation, sample hacienda-made artisan goods, and tuck into a farm-to-table lunch. The afternoon leaves time for river tubing, a guided bike ride, or an optional Guayaquil city tour.

Take a delicious and enriching class in traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. After a welcome drink, head to the market in the historic center with a local chef and select ingredients for three typical regional dishes: Locro Quiteño, Encocado and chocolate soup. Learn the history of each dish as you peel, cut, season and mix. Afterward, enjoy the fruit of your labor on the host’s lovely patio.