Middle of the World
full day tour
Difficulty:
Duration: 1 day
Date: All year
Join us on an exciting journey to the Middle of the World, a unique destination that holds immense cultural and geographical significance. Our tour will take you to the equatorial line, where you can straddle both the northern and southern hemispheres simultaneously. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as we delve into the rich history and fascinating attractions of this iconic site.
Highlights of the Tour:
Intiñan Museum:
Our first stop is the Intiñan Museum, located near the actual equator line. Here, you’ll embark on an interactive adventure, learning about the equator’s scientific and cultural importance. Discover intriguing experiments that showcase the unique gravitational effects at the equator, such as the Coriolis effect and the balancing egg experiment. You’ll also gain insights into the indigenous cultures of Ecuador and their connection to the equator.
Monument to the Equator:
Next, we’ll visit the Monument to the Equator, a towering structure that marks the exact location of the equatorial line. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes, capturing stunning photographs to commemorate your visit. Explore the adjacent Ethnographic Museum, which exhibits an impressive collection of indigenous artifacts, providing a deeper understanding of Ecuador’s diverse cultural heritage.
Mitad del Mundo City:
After immersing yourself in the scientific wonders of the equator, we’ll proceed to Mitad del Mundo City, a vibrant complex built to celebrate this unique geographic location. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the various attractions, including artisan markets, traditional restaurants serving delectable local cuisine, and shops offering Ecuadorian handicrafts and souvenirs. Engage with the friendly locals and indulge in the flavors and colors of Ecuadorian culture.
Intiñan Solar Museum:
Conclude your journey with a visit to the Intiñan Solar Museum, located within Mitad del Mundo City. This museum provides a different perspective on the equator, delving into ancient astronomical practices of the indigenous cultures of Ecuador. Witness impressive sundials and learn about the intricate relationship between celestial bodies and the equator.
Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable guides will share captivating stories, historical facts, and cultural insights, enhancing your understanding of the Middle of the World’s significance. Prepare to be enchanted by the mystical allure of this remarkable site, where science and culture intertwine at the heart of Ecuador.
DAY 1: Middle of the world – Ecuador
Visit the Middle of the World Monument: Explore the Middle of the World Monument, a structure built to mark the equatorial line. Stand on the equator and capture memorable photos straddling both the northern and southern hemispheres.Discover the Intiñan Museum: Explore the Intiñan Museum, located near the Middle of the World Monument. Engage in interactive exhibits that demonstrate unique equatorial phenomena and learn about the indigenous cultures of Ecuador. Participate in Equatorial Experiments: Take part in fascinating experiments that can only be performed precisely on the equator. Witness the Coriolis effect, balancing an egg on a nail, and other demonstrations showcasing the equatorial region’s peculiar characteristics. Explore the Ethnographic Museum: Visit the Ethnographic Museum within the complex to gain insights into Ecuador’s diverse indigenous cultures. Discover traditional artifacts, clothing, and artworks that reflect the rich heritage of the country.
Enjoy the Surrounding Area: Take some time to appreciate the natural surroundings of Mitad del Mundo. Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the park, relax on the benches, and admire the picturesque landscape.Souvenir Shopping: Browse through the various souvenir shops in the area, offering an array of handicrafts, textiles, and trinkets. Take home a unique memento of your visit to the middle of the world.Indulge in Local Cuisine: Treat yourself to delicious Ecuadorian cuisine at one of the nearby restaurants. Savor traditional dishes such as ceviche, locro de papa (potato soup), or empanadas, and delight in the flavors of the region. Remember to check the opening hours of the attractions in advance and plan your visit accordingly. Enjoy your time exploring Mitad del Mundo!
CLOTHING REQUIRED (NOT INCLUDED):
Three layers of clothing for the legs and torso:
• Base layer: Thermal clothing for body and pants (usually made of synthetic material).
• Second layer: Warm jacket and pants, preferably water repellent (goose down, fleece or polar type).
• Third layer: Waterproof jacket and pants (in case of rain).
• An extra thermal or jacket (in case of extreme cold).
• Backpack between 25L and 35L.
• Gloves.
• Factor 4 sunglasses (with UV protection).
• Buff.
• Thick socks.
• Sunscreen.
In case you do not have something from the list of personal clothing, Mauna Expeditions can provide you with the rental or sale of said accessories.
The services included in the cost of the trek are:
✓ Registration and preparation for the best experience of your life.
✓ Guidance for the trek with certified guides (ASEGUIM/UIAGM), one guide for every 4 people.
✓ Private door to door transportation for the entire day of the tour.
✓ Entry Permits.
✓ Adventure video about the experience in the trek.
✓ First aid service.
✓ Lunch.
✓ Thermo of Mauna Expeditions.
✓ Buff of Mauna Expeditions.
✓ Lunch Box and hydration for the day.
The following services are NOT included in the cost of the trek:
X Clothing and personal equipment.
X Airplane tickets.
X Hotel or hostel in Quito or place of preference.
X Life insurance or against some type of accident.
X Other expenses NOT specified in our program.
X Tips.
X Assurance
1 person: CONTACT US.
2 people: CONTACT US.
3-5 people: CONTACT US.
6-10 people: CONTACT US.
11-24 people: CONTACT US.
PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION OF THE PROGRAM
To book the tour, Mauna Expeditions requires a payment of 25% of the cost of the program. Full payment must be made up to a maximum of two weeks before the start date of the tour. We do not send vouchers or confirmation messages until full payment for the program is made. Our team reserves the right to cancel the tour if the full payment is not made until the start date of the program.
The Mauna Expeditions team has put a lot of effort into organizing your program. Therefore, any cancellation must be made at least 21 days in advance. After 21 days, Mauna Expeditions may make a 50% refund depending on the cause of cancellation. Any cancellation notified less than 21 days from the start date of the program will be charged a penalty of 100% of the value of the program.
COSTS
Costs vary depending on the size of the group. A minimum of 1 person and a maximum of 24 people are required to make the trek. For costs information please CONTACT US.
RECOMENDATIONS
Mountaineering is a high-risk sport, where we are exposed to conditions on extreme occasions. We do not recommend doing this activity for people with asthma or some kind of heart condition. The level of difficulty of this program is demanding and there is nothing that interests us more than your safety and that you enjoy our program without any external problem.
Duration: 1 day
Date: All year
The Cotopaxi Volcano, which is located within the Cotopaxi National Park, has a perfect snow cap similar to a cone, being unique on the planet, a symbol of Ecuador’s natural wealth. This volcano offers a spectacular view whose landscape is surrounded by vegetation on its slopes and on its slopes the refuge ¨José Rivas¨. Within Cotopaxi we can see mineral features thanks to ancient volcanic eruptions. Here we have the opportunity to visit the Limpiopungo Lagoon, being a morphological result of the Cotopaxi lahars, within its panorama it offers a great variety of flora and fauna. This is a great option to spend with the family and get to know one of the most emblematic places in Ecuador.
DAY 1: Cotopaxi – Family Tour
We will pick you up from the hotel of your choice at 9:00 a.m. and we will start our trip to the Cotopaxi National Park, once here we will register and enter. Inside the Cotopaxi National Park we will establish a certain stop for photography, if the weather allows us we will have a spectacular view; Then we will go to the José Rivas refuge. The walk to the José Rivas Refuge lasts approximately 1 hour at a slow pace; Once inside the refuge, we will proceed to enjoy our lunch box and hydration, here we will enjoy the cozy refuge, and we will prepare to go to the Limpiopungo Lagoon. On the walk to the Lagoon you will take around 2h00 at a moderate pace and having the respective stops for photography; once in the Limpiopungo Lagoon we will be able to see the variety of flora and fauna that this lagoon has, and it is a perfect space to share with the family. After spending a moment and touring this Lagoon, we will return to the refuge where we can have a pleasant lunch and finally return to our place of stay after an incredible day of adventure.
What to wear?
The necessary equipment that we recommend that you carry so that you have a totally pleasant experience is:
Two layers of clothing for the legs and torso:
• Comfortable and warm jacket and pants.
• Backpack.
• Thin gloves. (avoid wool)
• Buff.
• Warm socks.
• An extra sweater (to be carried in the backpack in case of extreme cold).
• Sunscreen.
• Thermal hat.
• Sports shoes or comfortable shoes.
In case you do not have some of the clothing and extra equipment, we as Mauna Expeditions will guide you where you can rent or buy these accessories.
The services included in the cost of the program are:
✓ Registration and preparation for the best experience of your life.
✓ Guidance for the ascent with certified guides (ASEGUIM/UIAGM), one guide for every 4 people.
✓ Private door-to-door transportation for the entire day of the tour.
✓ Entry permits.
✓ Adventure video about the experience in the program.
✓ Necessary mountain equipment (specified above)
✓ Lunch on the way down on the day of the ascent.
✓ Take all of Mauna Expeditions.
✓ Buff Mauna Expeditions.
✓ Lunch Box and hydration for the ascent.
The following services are NOT included in the cost of the program:
X Clothing and personal equipment.
X Air tickets.
X Hotel or hostel in Quito or place of preference.
X Life insurance or against some type of accident.
X Other expenses NOT specified in our program.
X Tips.
The price varies depending on the number of members. For more information CONTACT US
PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION OF THE PROGRAM
To book the tour, Mauna Expeditions requires a payment of 25% of the cost of the program. Full payment must be made up to a maximum of two weeks before the start date of the tour. We do not send vouchers or confirmation messages until full payment for the program is made. Our team reserves the right to cancel the tour if the full payment is not made until the start date of the program.
The Mauna Expeditions team has put a lot of effort into organizing your program. Therefore, any cancellation must be made at least 21 days in advance. After 21 days, Mauna Expeditions may make a 50% refund depending on the cause of cancellation. Any cancellation notified less than 21 days from the start date of the program will be charged a penalty of 100% of the value of the program.
COSTS
Costs vary depending on the size of the group. A minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 24 are required to make the ascent. For cost information please CONTACT US.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Mountaineering is a high-risk sport, where we are exposed to conditions on extreme occasions. We do not recommend doing this activity for people with asthma or some kind of heart problem. The level of difficulty of the program is demanding and there is nothing that interests us more than your safety and that you enjoy our program without any external problem.
BOOK YOUR TRIP
Choose and reserve the date, then our team will contact you to confirm all the details.
