My Journey to Ecuador: A Comprehensive Travelogue

My Journey to Ecuador: A Comprehensive Travelogue

My journey to Ecuador began at the Rumichaca Border in Tulcan, once I arrived to the border town, I went all the way down with my bicycle right next to the mountains. After going through the border there was a massive hill which I could not cycle as I had a lot of weight on the bike. So I decided to walk on the bike and this mountain seemed to go forever. I finally got to the top and I saw seen military that was pulling over vehicles as it was getting dark this was a great reassurance to feel safe when you are cycling near the jungles of Ecuador. Needless to say, I heard many stories and seen many things on the Youtube.

I finally arrived in Tulcan city centre where they had safe zones. This was also a vibrant city known for its amazing markets, welcoming people and very rich cultural heritage.

From there, I ventured to Pimampiro, a picturesque town surrounded by lush green hills, and jungles with tropical fruits. I then reached the famous market town of Otavalo. It was very impressive to see the market so busy with people and the variety of fruits and vegetables was great. I continued to the capital city, Quito, which boasts stunning colonial architecture and a rich history. This city was huge. I tried the local food here and ı preferred seafood which was so good the price I paid was 1 USD ( By the way they use USD dollars also) ıt was a like movie theatre in the city centre, it also was great as the people were very helpful. After exploring Quito, I made my way to Ambato, a city famous for its flower festival, and then to Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, with its lively waterfront and bustling markets. My journey concluded in the coastal town of Machala, before finally arriving at Huaquillas.

## Exploring Ecuador’s Rich Cultural Heritage

Throughout my journey, I encountered a diverse array of cultural experiences that showcased the vibrant heritage of Ecuador. In Tulcan, I was captivated by the local markets, where I could sample traditional Ecuadorian dishes and shop for handmade crafts. In Pimampiro, I was struck by the beauty of the surrounding landscapes and the warm hospitality of the locals.

In Otavalo, I was amazed by the skilful artisans who created intricate weavings and other handcrafted items, which I found to be a testament to the country’s rich textile history. I also had the pleasure of attending a traditional music performance, which showcased the diverse musical styles that can be found throughout Ecuador.

Upon arriving in Quito, I was captivated by the city’s stunning architecture and the well-preserved colonial buildings that lined the streets. I also had the opportunity to learn about the country’s indigenous history and the importance of Quito’s historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In Quito, I had an opportunity to visit the centre of the world which was an hour away from the city centre. It was a major attraction as you can imagine and I was very surprised when I saw fellow cyclists who were racing and the final line was the centre of the world what a place to race with bicycles and the section was finished in a breath taking way.

In Ambato, I attended the annual Flower Festival information day, which celebrates the city’s thriving flower industry and showcases the beauty of Ecuador’s diverse flora. The festival included parades, music, and a vibrant display of flowers, providing a vivid glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage.

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, offered a lively waterfront and bustling markets, where I was able to sample the local cuisine which was great and experience the city’s lively atmosphere. I also visited the Malecon 2000, a popular promenade along the riverfront, which offered stunning views of the city and the nearby Sierra Mountains.

My journey concluded in the coastal town of Machala, where I was treated to delicious seafood dishes and had the opportunity to explore the nearby beaches and mangrove forests after doing my work. I mixed pleasure with business here. Finally, I arrived in Huaquillas, a small border town that served as the perfect starting point for my return journey back to Tulcan. I had my last meal which I needed when I was cycling. Thankfully the portions were very generous.

In conclusion, my journey through Ecuador was an enriching experience that allowed me to explore the country’s diverse culture, history, friendly people, food, fruits, vegetables and natural beauty. From the vibrant markets of Tulcan to the stunning landscapes of Ambato and the lively streets of Guayaquil, Ecuador offers something for every traveller to enjoy.

Tolga CAKIR