Day 1: Arrival in Otavalo & Into the Intag

You land in Otavalo, Ecuador’s market town, where we’ll pick you up and drive into the Intag Valley—about two hours of winding roads with views that’ll make your jaw drop. Check into a community-run eco-lodge, think wooden cabins with hammocks and shared baths, surrounded by misty forest. Your guide, a local farmer, gives you the rundown on Intag’s biodiversity over dinner—think locro de papa (potato soup) and fresh juice. Your digital map drops tonight, packed with obscure trails, waterfalls, and organic farms. Sleep to the sound of frogs and crickets.

Day 2: Coffee Museum & Village Vibes

Morning’s for a tiny coffee museum in a village called Apuela. It’s small, just a room really, but stuffed with old coffee grinders and photos of Intag’s coffee boom. You’ll try roasting beans the old way—expect some smoky hands. Lunch is at a local’s home, maybe quinoa soup and roasted cuy (guinea pig, don’t knock it till you try it). Afternoon’s a short hike from the map to a nearby organic coffee farm, where you’ll see beans growing and chat with farmers. Back to the lodge for a chill night, maybe swapping stories with other travelers.

Day 3: Weaving Fair Fiesta

Today’s the heart of the trip—a traditional weaving fair in a small Intag village (we keep the name quiet to keep it authentic). Locals show off colorful tapestries and ponchos, with Andean flutes and dancing to liven things up. You’ll try your hand at a loom with a Quechua weaver—don’t expect a masterpiece, it’s tough. The feast is epic: roasted corn, empanadas, and canelazo (a hot, boozy drink). The map points to a hidden viewpoint nearby for a post-fair hike with misty valley views. Sleep in another community lodge, basic but cozy with wool blankets.

Day 4: Hidden Waterfall Trek

Time to stretch your legs. We follow a map-marked trail to a hidden waterfall tucked deep in the cloud forest. It’s a moderate hike—muddy boots, watch for roots—but the cascade’s worth it, with mist rising where it hits the rocks. Swim if you’re brave; it’s chilly! Picnic lunch by the falls, with fresh fruit and tamales. Afternoon’s for visiting a local family who’ll show you how to make panela (cane sugar)—it’s sticky and sweet. Back to the lodge for dinner and a night walk to spot glowing bugs and owls, if you’re up for it.

Day 5: Hot Springs & Organic Farms

Morning’s a trek to a secret hot spring, another gem from the map. It’s a steamy pool hidden in the forest, perfect for soaking sore muscles. Your guide shares Quechua stories about the valley’s spirits. Lunch is at an organic farm—think veggies straight from the dirt and homemade cheese. You’ll tour the farm, learning how Intag’s fighting big mining with sustainable crops. The map suggests a nearby trail to a lookout for afternoon views of the Andes. Dinner’s at the lodge, maybe with live Andean music if the locals are jamming.

Day 6: Free Day in the Cloud Forest

Your call today. Use the map to hike a lesser-known trail—maybe to another waterfall or a quiet meadow. Or revisit the coffee farm for more beans to take home. Optional activities include a birdwatching tour (toucans and hummingbirds galore) or helping at a community garden. The group reunites for a farewell dinner, sharing tales over grilled trout and chicha (fermented corn drink). Sleep in the lodge, with the forest’s hum as your lullaby.

Day 7: Farewell & Back to Otavalo

Last day’s laid-back. After breakfast, we hit one final map spot—a hidden orchid garden run by a local co-op, blooming with colors you didn’t know existed. Snap photos, take it in, then drive back to Otavalo by noon. Grab souvenirs (a woven scarf or Intag coffee?) or chill in a café before your flight. We’ll drop you at a hotel or bus station if you’re continuing your Ecuador adventure.