From our hacienda we will make the trek to the most renowned indigenous market in all of South America. Here, you can take your time to wander around and see the indigenous peoples of Ecuador selling their wares including ponchos, blankets, hammocks, sweaters, tapestries, jewellery, ceramics, wood carvings, Panama hats and much, much more. Bargaining here is essential and the satisfaction comes from knowing you have purchased from the actual artisans themselves.

After lunch we will continue onto Cuicocha Lake, a beautiful lake of deep blue waters surrounded by rolling hills. We will hike around the lake and take a small boat ride into the middle of the lake to enjoy the views of the surrounding volcanoes. If we’re lucky, we might even catch a glimpse of the mighty condors that call this region of Ecuador their home. Once back on dry land, we head back to our hacienda in time for dinner.

Nestled at the foot of Imbabura volcano, San Pablo Lake is a well-known destination for Ecuadorians. Off the main highway, far from the bustle of the larger towns, the resort has a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere. Once we arrive we will have the choice to wakeboard, kayak, or go tubing on the lake while soaking up the strong, Ecuadorian sun. The restaurant at the resort offers gourmet food with local specialties and sits directly on the water so we can soak our feet as we fill our bellies.

For those who don’t want to get wet, the lake is the perfect place to relax with a book for the afternoon. We will depart our hacienda after class and return in time for dinner.

Tubing on Lago San Pablo - $65.00

Wakeboarding on Lago San Pablo - $65.00

Kayaking on Lago San Pablo - $45.00

Trip to Lago San Pablo (no water sports) - $15.00

After so much sun and surf in the Galapagos we will take a break and spend the afternoon on the island of Santa Cruz horseback riding around the Hacienda Las Primicias. A bus will take us out to the ranch where we will meet our horses and get a chance to explore the ranch. Home to many sea turtles and native island birds, our tour of the ranch will be a great opportunity to see the wildlife and geological formations of this volcanically produced island.

Welcome to the famous Black Lava Tunnels of Isabella. Formed by lava being thrown from nearby volcanoes, these archways and tunnels have formed a natural aquarium. We will travel 45 minutes by boat to reach our destination. Here we will snorkel through and around these formations in the company of schools of fish, sea lions, turtles, penguins and rays. We will also have the chance to observe a variety of birds and take showers in the natural crystalline water. Enjoy this magical environment that can only be found on the island of Isabella.

TThe Galapagos is a unique, world-class diving location, yet it remains relatively unknown among diving aficionados. It remains private and virtually undiscovered, making it a must-dive location.

Unlike many other extraordinary dive sites, however, it is not the coral reefs that are the main attraction, but rather the unique mixture of marine animals (one in four species are endemic to the islands), and their fearlessness of intruders into their watery world.

TASTE OF SCUBA: (NON-CERTIFIED DIVERS): ONE HALF-DAY SESSION
This is a perfect adventure for those who just want to take a look at the underwater world in calm waters. First you will have an orientation with the instructor and then you will learn what will happen in the water, and what you must or must not do for a safe dive. Your instructor will help you prepare for the dive and accompany you at every moment in the water. You may see reef fish, sea turtles, sea lions, different types of rays, and even sharks. The program includes one dive in the open water.

OPEN WATER DIVES: (FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE PADI CERTIFIED)
Students who will have PADI certification will have the opportunity to explore the underwater world of the Galapagos Islands.

TWO-TANK DIVE:
We will dive in 2 of the 4 dive sites here, which generally have excellent visibility and mild currents. The animals and topography (including a spectacular arch) make them incredible sites! We can see stingrays, eagle rays, garden eels, turtles, sea lion colonies, pelagic fish, and maybe white tip reef sharks and/or hammerhead sharks.

by Thomas Quine

Students will climb down to the Morochos community in the canton of Cotacachi to join the llama breeding project in the valley. During the descent, they will learn about the indigenous plants, customs and the local myths passed down through the oral tradition.

Once arrived, we will learn the ins and outs of the breeding project and how it is having a positive impact on the community. We will then get to participate in the care of the llamas while they pasture, including shearing their coats to keep them cool and comfortable.

Approximately 7-8 hours of work can be completed; these hours are fully accredited and can be used towards your community service requirements in Ontario.

Earn one to two volunteer hours before your trip!

Donations (mostly new) will benefit a school renovation project in the nearby Pijal community. Items needed include school supplies (such as paper, pens, backpacks, binders and pencils) and toys. Collect these from your friends and family and bring them to donate during your trip. Be sure to tell your AC so that they can record the extra hours. You may earn up to a maximum of two hours.

You are responsible for carrying your donation items in your own suitcase.

Note: Enrolment on this program has now reached its maximum; students may speak with their program staff about opportunities to complete community service hours outside of this planned excursion.