The Hidden Ecuador No One Talks About

"This happens to NO ONE," my friend and guide Andrea Lucio-Mieles whispered to me. I had just been invited to participate in a ritual bath in a small Kichwa community led by Mamá Rosita, a partera and curandera (midwife and healer).

I accepted, of course, though I had little idea what to expect. I knew I had to go for it. We got lost on the way to the river that night, but the experience was not lost on me. It was profound, akin to a baptism.

Moments like this occurred throughout the weeks we spent in Ecuador. I didn't get the typical tourist-y Ecuador experience. Of course not. 

Led by Andrea, of La Carishina Travel Experiences, I was able to witness and participate in:

·      Traditional dances as part of the Inti Raymi Festival

·      A hike up Cotopaxi, an active volcano

·      Swimming among sea lions in the Galapagos

·      A private bee farm tour

And threaded throughout the experience, there were meals shared (made up of traditional foods, including sancocho and locro), visits to healing waterfalls, and glorious vistas at every turn.

Along the way, I learned multiple lessons about the importance of nature, our role in it, and community. Watch the video below for insights on the Ecuador no one talks about.

Comment below and tell me which lesson or experience resonates the most for you. And follow me on Instagram and on my YouTube channel for more content.

I am traveling to Ethiopia and Papua New Guinea this summer. And I can't wait to share more hidden treasures with you!