Discover Ecuador and Learn Spanish
Discover the best of Ecuador and learn Spanish in a travelling classroom where you learn Spanish in four locations – just the right blend of culture, discovery, learning and adrenaline sports. A unique 4 week programme! You spend the weekdays learning Spanish with fellow travellers, approximately 20 hours per week, combined with a number of exciting activities at each destination.
We run this program in conjunction with various language schools across the country.
Activities & Highlights
- Becoming Spanish expert with 20 hours of Spanish a week
- Four different locations one per week so it’s always interesting and different.
- Visit the Equator, Cuenca, Montanita and historic Quito.
- Visiting World heritage sites
- Small semi-guided group so it’s easy to make friends
- Surfing and beaches of Montanita
- Even hit the Galapagos Islands!
Please note group numbers tend to be quite small around 4 to 6 people per trip this makes it really intimate and much better than large groups where you don’t ever get to really know anyone.
The trip is semi-guided so that in the different locations there are locally based coordinators at your disposal who also died you show you around the different locations. However please note on transfer days you are not accompanied by a coordinator and the group travels independently between the different locations.
Photos
Itinerary
During this four week trip, combining fun and educational Spanish lessons with amazing once-in-a-lifetime activities, there is a general structure that involves 20 hours per week of language tuition in each location. It takes place from Monday to Friday, comprising of four hours each day, and the best thing is that there are different classes according to level and ability, so there is no need to worry about making a ‘culo’ of yourself! If you don’t know what that means we’ll let you Google it – think of it as homework ;0)
When you’re not in the classroom you’ll be out and about with your new trip mates exploring the cities or getting your adrenaline pumping with some uber cool activities like mountain biking around a volcano, gliding off cliffs, snorkelling and whale watching, and surfing the waves in a gorgeous beach town that would make the Aussies jealous. Once a week there are also cookery lessons that teach you to whip up some hot Ecuadorian cuisine, and salsa lessons so that you can sizzle on the dance floor. Don’t worry guys, we don’t make you wear sequins (unless you really want to!).
The trip starts in Montañita on the first Monday of the month and follows a rotation around the following destinations.
- 1st Monday of each month: Montañita
- 2nd week: Manta
- 3rd week: Quito
- 4th week: Cuenca
First week of the month: Montañita Baby!
You start this epic adventure on the gorgeous pacific coast and the so-laid-back-it’s-horizontal village of Montañita. This is a little slice of paradise where you get to stay in a cool eco resort that is basic yet idyllic – right by the pool, a sparkling blue pool and comfy mini dorms (or privates on requests). You’ll spend your days in the classroom and on the waves and evenings partying in this surfing/backpacking mecca. You’ll be surfpacking!
The Town
By day life revolves around the beach. Picture it – soft golden sand, warm turquoise water and a melting pot of people from all over the world enjoying the best surf in Ecuador. Thanks to the mixture of different cultures and languages that visitors bring to Montañita, it has a unique Ecuadorian/Western flavour and provides a good alternative to the cities that you’ve seen so far.
At night the village turns into fiesta central! You’ll find yourself strolling down ‘Cocktail Alley’ a road that leads to the beach where you can sample every imaginable concoction from the little stalls. The owners will be vying for your custom by blasting rhythmic beats and by the time you get to the beach you might want to have a little siesta before continuing the night in one of the many live music venues or Latin dance clubs. Remember those weekly salsa lessons? They’ll come in really handy now! If you’re too worn out from your surfing lessons then plonk yourself by a beach bonfire and listen to the reggae sounds.
You might find that your biggest challenge this week is dragging yourself away from this awesome place.
The Surf
We are lucky enough to have an Ecuadorian surfing legend teaching you to ride the waves at Montañita. Luis Malave, known by his friends as Vago, is an all round awesome dude and can provide tuition for anyone from a total beginner to someone looking to build on their skills. His knowledge of the sport, wave conditions and the best spots in the area are unrivalled, so you are definitely in good hands, plus, he is happy for you to practice your newly learned Spanish and he may even have a word or two you can add to your vocabulary. All you need to do is bring along your sense of fun and adventure! You will have 3 surf lessons and on the Saturday we take you on a surf trip to show us your skilla!
Second week of the month: Manta
The second week of this adventure is spent in the lovely coastal town of Manta, which is the perfect place to try out some of Xtreme’s favourite pastimes – kitesurfing and paragliding. After a week of surfing you will be well used to the water and paragliding gives you the chance to imagine soaring above the earth like the bird life you’ve seen over the last few weeks. Then there is also whale watching (in season) and snorkelling to see stunning marina life!
The school where your Spanish lessons take place is located centrally in downtown Manta, so you’re well placed to explore the town.
The City
Manta is set around a bustling bay and offers a great combination of cultural and natural attractions. The Malecón is the esplanade that follows the curve of the bay and it’s a great place to go for a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze, while the main beach, Murciélago, has a vibrant boardwalk lined with restaurants and cafes where you can try some local specialties such as the dish ‘Viche de Pescado’, tuna with peanuts, yucca, corn and sweet potato. You should also look out for and try any dishes that you’ve had a go at making in the cookery lessons to see if you should be applying for Masterchef!
At night the beach area comes alive with people who like to party, particularly on weekends and there is no shortage of bars and clubs where you can shake your ass until the sun comes up. It’s the last week of this trip so make the most of it!
Montecristi
This is the town where the famous Panama hats are made. That’s right, Panama hats actually come from Ecuador. This is partly because it’s the area where they were mostly sold in the 19th century (it was a busy area for travellers, therefore more lucrative), but also thanks to one Teddy Roosevelt who was photographed wearing one whilst viewing the construction of the Panama Canal.
In addition to the hats Montecristi is a great place for buying other local crafts, such as ceramics, at the shops in the main plaza, as well as admiring the ornate colonial architecture.
Crucita
This beach town is well known for its paragliding, thanks to the impressive cliffs, and this is exactly what you’ll be doing! Soaring off and flying like a bird, whilst admiring the beautiful scenery below. It’s an awesome feeling and well worth building up the courage to do. We’re not called Xtreme for nothing you know!
Isla Del Plata
This island is home to a plethora of sea birds, including the impressive albatross, not to mention sea lions, iguanas and indigenous plant life. There are two hiking routes to explore or if you prefer you can discover the underwater world of coral reefs and colourful marine life. If you visit between June – September you even have a chance of seeing the humpback whales, with July and August offering almost guaranteed sightings.
Week 3 - Quito
Our third stop is Quito, the capital and historic centre of Ecuador. We will take you to the Mitad del Mundo (the centre of the world), the cable car and get the best views from Quito or Guayasamin Museum and then mountain biking through the stunning Cotopaxi National Park. Cotopaxi is the highest active volcano in the world.
The City
With a beautiful old town worthy of UNESCO World Heritage Site status, a modern new town with museums galore and a vibrant atmosphere, Quito certainly has plenty to keep you busy. A city tour will show you all the main sights of the city as well as get you oriented for exploring on your own throughout the week.
The old town consists of some lovely streets with colonial style buildings as well as a main plaza with some impressive government and religious buildings, including the oldest cathedral in South America, whereas the new town has the fantastic Casa de Cultura Ecuatoriana, which houses some of the best museums on archaeology, art and traditional culture. This area is also home to Parque el Ejído and the Vivarium, which lets you get up close, but luckily not too personal, with some of Ecuador’s wildlife including snakes, lizards and iguanas.
For wildlife of a different kind you’ll find a buzzing bar and club scene in Quito, with venues to suit just about any tastes, whether you are looking to salsa the night away, listen to some live music or even get a taste of home at an English pub (shame on you!). You may well need to have had a drink or two in order to try Ecuador’s most loved dish of roasted guinea pig. It tastes like chicken. Probably. If you find yourself struggling to acclimatise to the altitude or you just need a pick-me-up for staying out late then try a cup of Coca Tea or chew on some coca leaves – Ecuadorian Red Bull.
Quito also makes a great base for exploring the surrounding area, with its stunning landscapes and interesting villages, which is exactly what you get to do whilst your here.
Mitad Del Mundo
Although very touristy and hardly off the beaten track, you cannot visit Ecuador and not go to Mitad del Mundo – the Middle of the World. You can straddle the bright yellow line that marks the equator and marvel at the fact that you’re in both the northern and southern hemispheres. Weird! It’s a lot more impressive than telling your mates you’ve stood with one foot in England and one in Wales.
Cotopaxi National Park (trekking and downhill mountain biking)
For the adrenaline junkies amongst you how does whizzing down one of the world’s highest active volcanoes on a bike sound? At 19,347 feet, Cotopaxi is a beast of a volcano that is a bit like Mount Fuji’s very similar looking brother and provides the perfect environment for some Xtreme cycling. Obviously you won’t be going up that high, but high enough for your breath to be well and truly taken away on the journey down.
In addition to the volcano there is a huge area of national park where you might get to see some of Ecuador’s wildlife, including Andean foxes, pumas, llamas and even hummingbirds.
Fourth week of the month: Cuenca
Week four takes you to the lovely historic town of Cuenca, official name Santa Ana de los Cuatro Ríos de Cuenca, where you dive into what is one of the most important cultural centres of Ecuador. Museums, galleries, artisan crafts, impressive archaeological sites and stunning countryside await you here. It’s a complete change from the capital city, giving you a real taste of the different faces of Ecuador and there are some real treats in store.
The City
Cuenca is a stunning old city that is much more relaxed than the hustle and bustle of Quito. Walking around the narrow cobbled streets, lined with red roof colonial houses with ornate iron balconies, you could imagine that time has stood still. Thanks to UNESCO Cuenca will stay this way, since it was awarded World Heritage Site status in 1999. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Cuenca is an important cultural and art centre in Ecuador and during your week you’ll have chance to totally immerse yourself with visits to the museums and art galleries.
It’s also a great place to pick up some authentic souvenirs, such as jewellery, ceramics and clothing. Shopping trips are the ideal opportunity to practice your Spanish, not to mention ordering some local food and drinks in the bars and restaurants. Look out for Motepillo, a Cuenca speciality that is even suitable for vegetarians (no guinea pig here!).
Cojitambo and Ingapirca ruins
Located around an hour from Cuenca are the Ingapirca ruins, which are a fantastic example of the ingenious work of the Incan and Cañari cultures. This network of stone structures is built around a circular sun temple, which evidences the ancient cultures’ knowledge of solar patterns. Not too far away are the less visited ruins of Cojitambo, which are actually thought to be larger than Ingapirca and resemble the shape of a sleeping lion. The terraced walls and settlements are still in pretty good shape, providing great photo ops.
Baños Hot Springs (optional, not included)
The peaceful little village of Baños is just a few miles from Cuenca and not to be confused with the large town of Baños in the Tungurahua region is home to some relaxing, therapeutic hot springs. Ok, so it’s not exactly ‘Xtreme’ but everyone needs some chill out time occasionally and this is the perfect place. This optional trip allows you to detoxify in the sauna, lounge in the pools and then explore the village and surrounding countryside.
The end………or is it…..?
Your four week trip of a lifetime may have come to an end, but that doesn’t mean you have to go home! Why not add extra weeks to your package and extend your stay to practice your Spanish and return for a week, or more, to your favourite location – see friends again, make even more new ones. You can make this an 8 week adventure! If your budget will stretch you could even visit the world famous Galapagos Islands. You’ve come all this way, it would be a shame not to!
Galapagos Extension
There is an optional 8 day wildlife and multi sport Galapagos extension available.
You will be on board the first class yacht, Valkiria, a ten berth, 15.5 metre catamaran that offers excellent value for money – the price we can offer you is far better than the normal price of economy and tourist class boats. This trip will absolutely blow your mind!
Accommodation
During this trip you will stay in family homes. The homestays are in Manta, Cuenca and Quito giving you the opportunity to really get to know the language and culture. All host families are very reliable and are checked our by us. You will have your own room, and breakfast and dinner is included.
In Montanita you will stay in shared mini dorms. These are large, private and quiet. A maximum of only four per dorm allows you plenty of space.
Homestays in Quito, Cuenca and Manta
With an Ecuadorian host family you have the opportunity to be fully immersed in Ecuadorian life. It is important to understand that you will be located in the local village. It is quite poor and won’t have the conveniences you will be used to. It is full immersion in Ecuadorian life. There will be flush toilet and your bed. You will be roomed by yourself (unless you are a couple).
The families are very friendly but facilities are basic by western standard. The families all enjoy chatting with you, they are used to people not speaking much Spanish, to find out about your home, family, what you like etc. These chats normally after dinner are a highlight for many students, and the perfect way to practice the Spanish you have learned.
With out a doubt the best way to get to know a country is to “live with the locals.“ The Spanish School provides its students with homestay with some of the best families in Quito, Cuenca and Manta. Homestays provide students with an opportunity to get to know Ecuadorian life, practice Spanish and make life long friendships with people from other countries. This should be the experience of a lifetime, but it is always good idea to prepare to make this experience the best that it can be.
Remember that this is a family that you are living with. They will worry about you and try to make sure that you have a good time. Here is some advice to make sure that your stay will be the best that it can be.
Always let your family know if you are going to be coming home late or when you are leaving for the weekend.
Meals are important in Ecuador, so let your family know if there is a problem or if you need to change something about eating together.
Be respectful of telephone use and other household items. These families will do all they can to make your stay here in Ecuador comfortable. Remember that it is important to respect and become part of your family. This means helping to clean your dishes and maintain your bedroom. This will usually be discussed with the family upon arrival.
Cabañas in Montanita (upgrade about 70 usd a week)
We have made a big effort to be good to the environment. Much of the building materials are ecologically friendly, recycled water to feed our large and growing garden, please bring biodegradable soap and shampoo if possible, solar outside lighting, rainwater collection for swimming pool and jacuzzi, and a recycling system. Our accommodation is a perfect combination of location, quietness and luxury, swimming pool, jacuzzi, and large communal kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak any Spanish before I start?
Are there any costs for books?
What other activities are there and how do I sign up?
How easy can I get cash out?
What are the visa requirements?
Do I need vaccinations?
Price
| Duration | Standards Shared |
| 4 weeks | 1449 |
Included
- All Accommodation
- 2 meals per day in Quito, Cuenca and Manta.
- 4 hours Spanish tuition a day
Classes in Montanita are split: 2 hours in the morning, 2 hours in the afternoon: e.g. 8-10 and 1-3 or 10-12 and 3-5 - All the activities (except those listed as additional optional extras)
- All transport to activities and between the four locations (unguided)
- Free T Shirt
- Loads of extra activities check the itinerary
Please note: The Traveling classroom includes 4 destinations with 4 different schools: Each one decides the itinerary for each location, and if for any last minute reason (without our intention) the activities can be replaced for others with the same cost.
Included in Galapagos Extension
Berth (based on shared twin), island tours, qualified bilingual Galapagos guide, meals.
Excluded
- Flights
- Insurance
- Visas
- Drinks and personal expenditure
- Galapagos trip (optional extra)
- Kitesurfing (optional extra)
- Banos (optional Extra)
- Airport pick up, Arrival in Montanita, to your host-family; optional: airport transfer from Guayaquil ($100.00)
Excluded in Galapagos Extension
- Insurance
- National Park entry £67
- Air fares Guayaquil – Galapagos return. This ranges from £215 - £300 return. We can also book these locally.
Dates
The programme starts on the first Monday of the month please arrive on the Sunday. You will be required to pay a local payment for the first night accommodation. Please note transport to Montanita is not included, but we can arrange private airport pickup for £100. You will need to fly into Quayagil.
There are low-cost alternative forms of transport to get you to Montanita if you do not require a private airport pickup from as little as four US dollars.
This trip gives you a good overview of all the Ecuador, but it’s really easy to combine with some other exciting programs like Spanish and surf and also are South America travel passes so you can take your adventure onto neighbouring countries like Peru and Bolivia. Just ask us for options for different trip combinations.
“I’ve fallen in love with Ecuador, it’s amazing country and to learn Spanish in four different settings was a great way to make a language course more interesting.”Henrietta Atkinson
“It was really useful to learn Spanish before travelling through South America, a great variety of different destinations but my favourite would definitely have to be Montanita.”Sarah Farrow