We had a wonderful trip in Ecuador’s mainland, exploring Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Banos, Alausi, Cuenca and Guayaquil. We experienced rich culture, stunning architecture, and awe-inspiring natural beauty (including a thrilling cable car ride over a canyon, and beautiful hikes to a waterfall and to see views of majestic volcanoes). Our guide Alejandro was phenomenal, sharing Ecuador’s history and special views with us and local highlights, including eating soursop and chiremoya (delicious fruits), sampling homemade fresh taffy, enjoying roast pork at a market, and drinking canelazo and corn beer. He explained the fascinating backgrounds and customs of some indigenous groups. Alejandro took care of everything for us, providing all transportation and making sure we got where we needed to go. The accommodations were superb, the food was delicious, and the people were very friendly. We had no safety issues or concerns at all. We came away with appreciation for Ecuador’s indigenous and Incan roots and Spanish influences, resulting in a vibrant cultural mix; and for Ecuador’s respect for its natural resources. We have taken many tours, and we can say that Guidecuador’s service could not have been better - and the destination was spectacular.