www.ecuadors.org

Maxwell · Joined: 02 Sep 2006 Posts: 1

I am thinking of doing the overnight trip to Bellavista. My question is: how hard is it to get there by myself? Does anyone has any advice?

According to their website, a night in a private room with 3 meals would cost around USD 70/person. A package with 1 night + roundtrip transportation from Quito + a guide would cost USD 134.

I think USD 64 for transportation and a guide would be a lot of money! Is it possible to save some on taking public transportation or other kind of transfers?

Thanks!

Paki · Joined: 25 Aug 2006 Posts: 4

We took the lodge's transfer, but according to my Lonely Planet guidebook, there's public transportation to a town nearby. From there you would have to arrange some sort of private transport, probably negotiating with someone locally for a ride. If I recall correctly, the distance is about 16km and it's possible to hike in.

Bellavista is 2 hours from Quito and I doubt you'll find a taxi willing to take you for less (remember they would likely have to drive back to Quito empty).

I didn't think the transfer rate was unreasonable. There was no one else sharing our van that day, and our guide stopped at the equatorial monument and a volcanic crater along the way per our request, so we were able to make a tour of it.

Chloe · Joined: 26 Aug 2006 Posts: 5

This is a long way from Quito.
When you finally get to where you have to turn off the Highway ,it is about another 30 to 35 minutes of riding uphill ,moslty on a dirt road.

I think that for $64 extra ,which would included transportation and a guide is a good deal.

You can do some side tours on the way back.

Peg is correct it is a looong way to get there.

Have a nice trip there.