Our adventure began on Monday, January 5th, as we traded the skyline of New York for the breathtaking heights of Quito, Ecuador. From the moment we landed, we were in good hands. The National Geographic team greeted us warmly, whisking us away to our home for the next couple of nights: the Casa Gangotena.
Located in the heart of Quito, Casa Gangotena is nothing short of spectacular. It was originally a private residence, and you can still feel that sense of intimate history in its walls. The rooms were spacious and elegant, and the food was simply excellent.
However, there is one thing you can’t quite prepare for until you arrive: the altitude. Quito sits at a staggering 11,000 feet! The air is thin, and catching your breath can be a challenge, so if you ever plan a visit, hydration is absolutely key before you even touch down.
That first evening, we settled in with a lovely dinner alongside three other couples who had traveled from all corners of the U.S.—Alaska, Wisconsin, and California. It was the perfect way to break the ice before our adventure truly kicked off.
A City in the Clouds
On Tuesday morning, after a delicious buffet breakfast, we set out for a city tour of Quito. It was fabulous to see the city come alive. We visited the iconic Virgin of Panecillo (the “Mary statue”), watching over the city, and explored several stunning churches that showcase the rich cultural history of this Andean capital.
Into the Cloud Forest: Mashpi Lodge
On Wednesday, Day 3, the eight of us boarded a bus for a four-hour journey over rocky terrain. We were headed deep into the Chocó-Andean Cloud Forest to the Mashpi Lodge. The change in scenery was dramatic: we dropped to an elevation of 3,000 feet, nestled in the middle of a lush tropical forest.
We wasted no time getting our boots on the ground. A short introductory hike gave us a taste of what was to come. The terrain was tricky—lots of walking up and down on what looked like coke crates used for steps. With a sensitive knee, I had to be careful, but the surroundings were worth the effort.
Day 4 was a highlight reel of nature. We went on the “Dragonfly,” an incredible open-air cable car ride that glides you through the canopy for about 90 minutes. It offers a perspective of the forest you just can’t get from the ground. While half the group went for a strenuous hike, we opted for a shorter trek after the ride with another couple, exploring the jungle at a gentler pace. It was incredible to be so immersed in the greenery.
That night, the jungle transformed. We went on a fascinating night hike where the forest floor came alive with a variety of species, including translucent frogs! Seeing these creatures in their natural habitat was certainly worth staying up for.
I have to mention the food at Mashpi Lodge—it was Michelin-rated quality and absolutely excellent. Before breakfast, we would step outside our room to watch for birds, accompanied by a naturalist from the lodge who helped us identify the colorful species flitting about.
Back to Civilization
After a memorable stay in the cloud forest, we headed back to Quito on Friday for one last night at the Casa Gangotena. After another bumpy ride, most of the group decided to stay in, but we ventured out to dinner with another couple, Bruce and Karen. It was a lovely evening and the perfect way to toast the end of this segment of our trip before heading toward the coast.
Next stop: The Galápagos Islands! Stay tuned for part two of our adventure.