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Greetings from Cuzco,
The Otto's Tours Team
LIGHT! Series – Great Value, English-speaking, from 2 pax
Two countries. Endless discoveries.
Exotic cultures & breathtaking landscapes.
Experience exotic cultures & breathtaking landscapes
On this compact journey through the unique diversity of Colombia and Ecuador,
you’ll discover two fascinating countries in all their contrasts.
Snow-capped Andean peaks give way to red-glowing desert landscapes, while wild
páramo highlands, turquoise waters and the Caribbean coast create a spectacular
variety of scenery. We explore charming colonial towns and mysterious cultural sites,
soak up the rhythm of lively salsa bars and enjoy exotic cocktails. And, of course,
no journey through Colombia would be complete without tasting some of the finest coffee in the continent!
Our second chapter takes us to Ecuador, the second-smallest and one of the most
pristine countries in South America, straddling the Equator. Here, spectacular
landscapes meet an extraordinary variety of wildlife and plant life. Combined with a
rich indigenous heritage and warm-hearted people, Ecuador offers an incredible diversity in a remarkably compact space.
Nowhere else in the world can you experience so many different ecosystems and
vegetation zones within such short distances. Charles Darwin and Alexander von Humboldt
were fascinated by this small country and its extraordinary natural diversity – and it’s easy to understand why.
We explore colorful Andean markets, discover the flavors of Ecuador while cooking with a
local family and enjoy the country's culinary specialties. A visit to the UNESCO World
Heritage Site of Quito and its beautifully preserved colonial old town is just as much
a part of the experience as a hike around Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano.
Along the way, we meet the warm and welcoming people of South America and gain insights
into different cultures and traditions – from Gumbiano and Kogi to Mestizo and Creole communities.
South America in a nutshell – rich in contrasts, encounters and unforgettable moments.
As Colombians rightly say: “El único riesgo es que te quieras quedar.”
“The only risk is that you might not want to leave.”
Welcome to Colombia! In the afternoon, we arrive in Bogotá, the country’s vibrant capital,
where our German-speaking transfer guide is already waiting to take us to our hotel.
After settling in, we set out to explore the narrow, atmospheric streets of La Candelaria,
just a short walk from the hotel. In the evening, we gather at a small, cozy restaurant
to enjoy our first taste of Colombian cuisine and toast to the adventures ahead.
Our overnight stay will be in Bogotá at ***Hotel Casa Deco or equivalent. (no meals included)
Colombia’s capital lies at 2,640 metres above sea level on a high plateau in the Andes.
Thanks to its proximity to the Equator, Bogotá enjoys a mild, spring-like climate throughout the year.
Our day begins with an immersive visit to the lively Paloquemao Market, where colorful fruit,
exotic aromas and local flavors offer a first taste of everyday life in the capital.
In relaxed conversations with market vendors, we gain personal insights into their
daily lives – their challenges, joys and hopes.
We then return to the historic center for a walking tour through La Candelaria,
Bogotá’s atmospheric colonial quarter. We explore Plaza de BolĂvar and its surrounding government
buildings, admire the churches of San Francisco and La Tercera, and discover the colorful streets and historic architecture of the old town.
The highlight of the day is a cable-car ride up Monserrate. From the summit,
Bogotá unfolds beneath us in spectacular fashion, with sweeping views across the
sprawling city and the surrounding Andean savanna.
Our overnight stay will be in Bogotá at ***Hotel Casa Deco or equivalent. (Breakfast included)
After breakfast, we visit the world-famous Gold Museum, home to more than 30,000 fascinating
pieces from Colombia’s pre-Columbian cultures. We then head to the airport for a short
flight across the Central Andes into the heart of Colombia’s coffee region.
Here, our guide is already waiting to take us to a charming coffee farm, where we’ll
spend the next two nights surrounded by lush green hills and coffee plantations.
In the afternoon, we dive into the world of Colombian coffee. At a special coffee hacienda,
we discover how coffee is grown, harvested and processed – from the plant to the finished bean.
And of course, the experience ends exactly as it should: with a delicious cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee.
Our overnight stay will be in Armenia at the ***Hacienda Combia or equivalent. (Breakfast included)
After breakfast, we head to the spectacular Cocora Valley, where a gentle hike takes us
through one of Colombia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Towering wax palms rise
dramatically from the lush green hills and disappear into the misty cloud forest.
The Cocora Valley is considered one of the most picturesque landscapes in Colombia – and it’s
easy to see why. Located in the heart of the coffee region, it is home to Colombia’s national
tree and offers spectacular scenery for hiking and horseback riding. Some of the QuindĂo wax
palms reach up to 60 metres, making them the tallest palm trees in the world – a truly unforgettable sight.
On our way back to the coffee hacienda, we cross rolling green hills and stop in Salento, one
of the most charming villages in the coffee region. Colorful traditional buildings line the
streets, housing cafés, small boutiques and local handicraft shops. Over a freshly brewed coffee,
we have the chance to meet locals and enjoy a relaxed conversation – another glimpse into everyday life in Colombia.
Our overnight stay will be in Armenia at the ***Hacienda Combia or equivalent. (Breakfast included)
After breakfast, we say goodbye to our wonderful hosts at the coffee hacienda and set off
towards MedellĂn. Our route follows the so-called “Coffee Highway”, winding through lush
green hills and partly alongside the RĂo Cauca before reaching the department of Antioquia.
Just over two decades ago, MedellĂn was known as one of the most dangerous cities in the world.
During the early 1990s, the hunt for drug lord Pablo Escobar, head of the MedellĂn Cartel,
reached its climax. His death marked the beginning of a long and difficult transformation for the city.
From 2002 onwards, MedellĂn steadily improved its security and international reputation.
Committed local leaders invested heavily in infrastructure, public transportation and education,
helping transform the once troubled city into one of Latin America’s most innovative urban centers.
Our hotel is located in the modern El Poblado district, surrounded by excellent restaurants,
cafĂ©s and bars. Over the next two nights, we discover how MedellĂn transformed itself – and,
most importantly, what this remarkable change means for the people who call the city home.
Our overnight stay will be in Medellin at the ***Hotel Campana Boutique or equivalent.
(Breakfast included)
Today, we explore MedellĂn’s remarkable transformation – from a city once synonymous with
violence to a vibrant and innovative metropolis. Few places tell this story as vividly as
Comuna 13, which has become a powerful symbol of change, resilience and community spirit.
Once one of the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods, it is now known for its colorful street art,
outdoor escalators and numerous social projects that have brought international recognition.
During our visit, we meet local residents and discover how this transformation came about
and what it means for the community today.
Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate, MedellĂn also offers
fascinating cultural highlights. We explore the city center, including San Antonio Park,
Plaza San Ignacio, the traditional Avenida La Playa and the iconic Coltejer Building. At
the Fernando Botero Sculpture Park, more than 20 sculptures by Colombia’s internationally
renowned artist invite us to discover his distinctive, generously proportioned figures.
We continue to Pueblito Paisa, a charming recreation of a traditional Antioquian village
perched on a hill above the city. From here, we enjoy sweeping views across MedellĂn and its surrounding mountains.
Throughout the day, conversations with local residents offer personal perspectives on the
city’s transformation. In the afternoon, there is also the option to visit a foundation
supporting children who live or have lived on the streets – an opportunity to gain a deeper
understanding of the social challenges and community initiatives shaping MedellĂn today.
Our overnight stay will be in Medellin at the ***Hotel Campana Boutique or equivalent.
(Breakfast included)
After breakfast, we head to MedellĂn’s airport, located just outside the city, for a flight
of less than an hour to a completely different world: Colombia’s Caribbean coast and Cartagena de Indias.
Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel in the historic old town, where we spend our
final night in Colombia. Here, Caribbean spirit meets magnificent colonial architecture,
creating one of South America’s most atmospheric cities.
In the afternoon, once the temperatures have cooled, we set out to discover Cartagena’s highlights.
Our first stop is the Convent of La Popa, perched at around 140 metres above sea level and
offering spectacular views over the city. We then visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas,
the largest military fortress ever built by the Spanish in their American colonies.
Built from coral stone, this impressive masterpiece of military architecture offers fascinating
insights into how Cartagena defended itself against pirate attacks in the 17th and 18th centuries.
We continue on foot through the historic old town, exploring its beautiful squares,
churches and colorful streets. The unique blend of colonial architecture, Caribbean culture
and vibrant gastronomy has earned Cartagena UNESCO World Heritage status – and makes it an unforgettable destination.
As we wander through the cobblestone lanes and along the ancient city walls, we soak up
the unmistakable Caribbean atmosphere and discover the stories and secrets hidden behind
the names of Cartagena’s historic streets and plazas.
Our overnight stay will be in Cartagena at the ***Hotel Tres Banderas or equivalent.
(Breakfast included)
“The only risk is that you might want to stay.” With this famous Colombian saying,
we bid farewell to a country full of unforgettable encounters, vibrant cities and spectacular landscapes.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Quito, Ecuador’s high-altitude capital, where our
English-speaking transfer guide is already waiting to take us to our hotel.
A new chapter begins – welcome to Ecuador and the Equator!
Our overnight stay will be in Quito at the ***Hotel Casona 1914 or equivalent. (no meals included)
The charm of Quito’s colonial old town, with its magnificent churches, monasteries and historic squares,
makes the Ecuadorian capital a true jewel. Our walking tour begins at Plaza Grande, passing the
Cathedral and Presidential Palace before continuing to the richly decorated La CompañĂa de JesĂşs
and the historic El Sagrario church.
We climb the towers of the BasĂlica del Voto Nacional, where spectacular views over Quito
and the surrounding mountains await. Back on the streets, we watch everyday life
unfold around Plaza Grande and Plaza San Francisco.
In the evening, we step into a more personal side of Ecuadorian culture: together with a local
chef, we prepare our own dinner. As we cook, we learn about traditional ingredients,
recipes and culinary customs – and, of course, enjoy the dishes we have created together.
Our overnight stay will be in Quito at the ***Hotel Casona 1914 or equivalent.(Breakfast included)
After breakfast, we head into the Andean highlands towards Otavalo, home to one of the largest
and most vibrant indigenous markets in South America. Colorful textiles, embroidered belts,
handmade jewelry, spices, fresh produce and woven baskets fill the bustling stalls.
Indigenous women proudly wear their traditional clothing, while the market blends
seamlessly into the lively food and clothing markets nearby.
The aromas of coffee, soups, grilled meats and freshly squeezed juices drift through the
market – a feast for the senses and a wonderful opportunity to experience everyday life in the Ecuadorian Andes.
In the afternoon, we continue to La Mitad del Mundo, the famous Equator Monument.
During the French Geodesic Mission of 1736, explorer Charles Marie de La Condamine
helped determine the location of the Equator. We also visit the Inti Ă‘an Ethnographic Museum,
where hands-on experiments demonstrate some of the fascinating effects associated with being on the Equator.
One foot in the Northern Hemisphere, the other in the Southern Hemisphere – welcome to the middle of the world!
Our overnight stay will be in Quito at the ***Hotel Casona 1914 or equivalent.(Breakfast included)
Today we travel along the famous Avenue of Volcanoes, following the Pan-American Highway
through one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Ecuadorian Andes. The name was
coined by Alexander von Humboldt, who was fascinated by the extraordinary concentration
of towering volcanoes along this stretch of the Andes.
Our destination is Cotopaxi National Park, home to the perfectly conical Cotopaxi Volcano,
one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. We begin with a gentle hike along the
shores of Laguna de Limpiopungo, surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks. With a little luck,
we may spot Andean condors and eagles, wild ducks, coots, alpacas and even the
giant hummingbird, known as the Chimborazo star.
From the parking area, we continue uphill to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,800 metres,
where spectacular views await. A steaming bowl of soup and hot cocoa make the perfect reward at this altitude.
For those who want to go higher, there is the optional opportunity to continue towards
the edge of the glacier – weather and conditions permitting.
Our overnight stay will be in Quito at the ***Hotel Casona 1914 or equivalent.(Breakfast included)
Depending on your onward travel plans, you will be transferred to Quito Airport
during the day for your Galapagos extension, onward journey to Peru, or return flight to Europe.
After twelve unforgettable days, our journey through Colombia and Ecuador comes
to an end – filled with vibrant cities, Andean landscapes, coffee aromas,
indigenous traditions and encounters that will stay with us long after we leave.
(Breakfast included)