Great experience. The crowds were larger than we've seen in the past, but we were able to navigate the challenges thanks to the knowledge of Jackie and Mateo. Being able to see the preparations for the Friday Jesus de Gran Poder procession were the highlight of the trip. I won't soon forget seeing San Francisco Church completely empty of pews, or a thousand penitents lined up in the San Andrés Franciscan High School grounds waiting to walk the 6 KM route.

The first thing I have to say is, for me, the most important... This trip was absolutely life-changing and transformative. The second thing is that it was incredibly thoughtful, well-organized, engaging, informative travel from the heart. The time we spent at the various ecolodges and in and around Quito, was coordinated such that it provided authentic immersion into the cultural and natural ecosystems, while being a thoughtful and important transition to and from our week spent with the Cofán indigenous community in the Cuyebeno Reserve, in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Jacquie, our Ecuadorian guide, was phenomenal in her knowledge of flora and fauna, of Ecuadorian history and all of the complex cultural layers of this country was outstanding. I've never had the opportunity to experience such a phenomenal guide in my travels to Central and South America. Her sense of humor, engaging personality and keen intelligence, as well as her ability to connect meaningful with both trip attendees and the locals engaged with while travel, was really a paramount piece to what made this trip so enjoyable. I already miss her and it's only been a few weeks since my return home! Our week with the Cofán, including the three days and two nights we spent on the Zabalo River, at the location of the first Quiet Park International, was an experience that I hold deep gratitude for and that I will hold onto tightly for the rest of my life. This part of the trip is one that requires an open heart, open mind, flexibility, keen awareness of the sacred cultural and natural ecosystems you have been invited to visit as a guest and as such, it will be one where the rewards are not measured by the comforts of home but the genuine empathy and significant humility and gratitude that is cultivated as you remain open and aware of what is around you. If you're seeking this type of travel, a trip where you return as a person who is more aware and in awe, then this trip is exactly the one for you.

I had the best time on this carefully curated trip. It was clear that Angie and Jacquie put so much thought and care into each decision, and they anticipated every possible need we might have throughout the trip. Every experience was unforgettable, from the views to the wildlife to the food to the incredible people they introduced us to along the way. I had so much fun paddling and swimming in the rivers, hiking through the forests, and birdwatching, but I also so much appreciated the expertise and respect for the local culture and way of life that Jacquie and Angie brought to the experiences. I don't know how I'll ever travel without the two of them again. Can't recommend this trip enough!