UNIVERSIDAD DE ESPECIALIDADES TURISTICAS NATIONAL TOURIST GUIDE

Transcription

1 UNIVERSIDAD DE ESPECIALIDADES TURISTICAS NATIONAL TOURIST GUIDE TRAVEL THROUGH GREEN PASTURES 2 days 1 night 3 Dutch (35-40 years) AGRICULTURE EXPERTS Written by: Jessica Sinchi Teacher: Sergio Lasso Quito, Ecuador November, 2014

2 AGROTOURISM IN PICHINCHA AND SANTO DOMINGO DE LOS TSÁCHILAS PROVINCES AUTHOR: JESSICA NOEMI SINCHI CAMPOS APPROVED BY: Signature: Signature: Professional guide: Efrain López Tutor: Sergio Lasso Signature: Signature: English teacher: Cesar Cacuango Career Coordinator: Paola Freire

3 DEDICATION This thesis is dedicated to my parents for their unconditional support throughout my life. Thanks to my siblings thanks for all the support and love they have shown me throughout my career; You are one of the most beautiful blessings from God and I want to thank to my two great love ones Israel and my little boy Mateo for all their unconditional love for me and their patiently waiting for my return home.. 1

4 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I would like to sincerely thank my supervisor, Prof. Efrain, for his guidance and support throughout this process of graduation. Also I would like to thank to Paola, Cesar and Sergio, especially, I express my heartfelt gratefulness for their guide and support that I believed I have learned from them. To all my friends, thanks for their friendship, it has been a wonderful experience. I cannot list all the names here, but you are always in my mind. Finally, I would like to leave the remaining space in memory of my grandma ( ), a wonderful person and very important part of my life. This thesis is only a beginning of my journey. 2

5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY What is Agrotourism? Agrotourism describes the act of visiting a working farm or any agricultural, horticultural or agrobusiness operation to enjoy, to be educated or to be involved in activities. Agrotourism is a form of tourism in which rural culture is harnessed economically to provide various tourism options. It has some resemblance to ecotourism, but its purpose is not to attract tourists to nature, but into cultivated landscapes. "Landscapes grown" this is a key term. To farmhouse is essential to first develop a culture of healthy crops as a result of plant protection, efficient, profitable and competitive crops. No tourist will want to be on a farm or ranch badly cropped, messy, unhygienic with no cultural or technological value. Therefore, the logical order is to learn and educate all those involved in the implementation of a clean, healthy, productive agriculture and, if possible, with added value to the project, with these features, is becoming something worth. Agrotourism in Ecuador Much of the rural landscape in the coastal plain is of plantations. A huge range of tropical fruits as well as coffee and cocoa are grown. It is possible to visit several haciendas to understand a little more about the history and current realities of agriculture in the area. Several agencies organize tours and you can also deal directly with some haciendas. However they tend to be in quite isolated locations. The use of greenhouses to grow crops high efficiently and productivity is a good practice. These can be produced efficiently: Tomato, uvilla, peas, cucumber, pepper, babaco, strawberry, escargot, flowers and so forth. Activities people can do in farms or ranches The activities that can be done in the farms or ranches are: tour for families and school children, day camps, hands-on chores, self-harvesting of produce hay or sleigh rides and overnight stays including breakfast. Some people become involved in agrotourism as a way of supplementing their income. Others desire an opportunity to educate the public and to introduce people into farming. 1

6 1. Introduction The Republic of Ecuador, it s located in South America, between Peru and Colombia, it has an area of km² and represents one of the most diverse countries on the planet. Its combination of high abundance of animals and plants in relation to their size and their different characteristic microclimates make this country prone to unique species. In the high due to the rainfall and uniform temperatures, have made this country one of the 17 most megadiverse countries in the world, according to the Environment Programme of the United Nations. It has three continental regions, Coast, Mountains, Amazon and Galapagos Islands. When we speak about farmhouse, we must leave the cities to go into the tropical rainforests of Santo Domingo and the moorlands of Mejía Canton, reaching very small villages by paved roads. Getting in touch with nature you can observe the lifestyle that lead farmers in each region and you will note the differences on how they live, due to the benefits of their land the villagers do not need to go to big cities to buy food because in many cases it is supplied by their own production. I want to show you a little part of Ecuador, a place which is known as the number 23 province, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas. It was amazing to travel to this area of my country. Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, is one of the newest province, it was declared on November 6th It this region is in the interior of the coastal lowlands, agriculture and stock-farming are important activities. Crops as bananas, cacao, oil palm, rice, soybean, sugar, cotton, tobacco, coffee, tropical fruits are produced for both export and domestic markets. More than 1,000 km of coastline with wonderful beaches, cliffs, lovely bays, national parks and protected areas and a well-developed tourist infrastructure along the coast offer excellent opportunities to relax and entertain in a tropical paradise. Whale watching, eco touring and community tourism are the booming activities of recent years. The route Quito-Aloag-Santo Domingo has many attractions to offer like an incredible view and natural scenery that can be appreciated from high mountain forests to cloudy forests and the transition of climate and humidity creates a variety of habitats and that is why this zone has a large percentage of biodiversity. 2

7 2. Justification The group of tourist who I am going to travel was three Dutch agriculture experts from 35 to 40 years old, who are characterized as uncomplicated and solidary people, who enjoy the good weather, specially sunny days and new experiences so based on their profile, I decided to design a tour in which the tourists can feel part of a community and can see how rural people work daily in their crops. I went several times to Machachi because there are plenty of farms and ranches that practice agrotourism and I could find some of them which practice that activity but the chosen ones were the best to make this decision I visited all of them and I asked what activities they offer, then I realized that most of the farms just offer horse riding to Corazón Mountain, Cotopaxi and Illinizas volcanoes and they don't do agrotourism although they say in their websites that the tourists can do agricultural activities. To get to Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas from Quito we will take Panamerican highway heading south until Machachi then we come back to Aloag and finally Aloag - Santo Domingo, this route offers the best landscapes due to the fact that it is possible to see how the vegetation changes between the highland and the coast region. Talking about services, we will travel in a van because it has more space than a vehicle. Cafe de la Vaca in Machachi is the place for having breakfast but unfortunately we could not have breakfast there because it was so crowded, but we stopped at El Hornero and we had a delicious breakfast. Sur Campestre is a restorant in Machachi and we luch there, also offered us agrotourism activities and Kasadsa Eco Lodge hosting service, the dinner and breakfast, all these places are known for their good service. 3

8 3. PICHINCHA PROVINCE TO VOLCANO S ROUTE 3.1. History of Pichincha It was created according to the Colombian Territorial Division of June 25th, 1824 covering the territories that nowadays have the provinces of de Cotopaxi y Esmeraldas, but there were some changes when the Ecuadorian Republic was created. In 1847, it was divided to be created the Esmeraldas province, and in 1851 it suffered a new fragmentation with the creation of Leon Province (Cotopaxi), being formed by the Cantons Cayambe, Mejía, Pedro Moncayo, Pedro Vicente Maldonado, Puerto Quito, Rumiñahui, San Miguel de los Bancos, Santo Domingo and Quito, that is its capital. It covers an area of 13,253 km2, with suitable fields for agriculture, for corn, potatoes, wheat, barley, legumes, grasses, flowers, citrus, sugar cane, avocados, custard apples, banana and herbs production. It occupies the valley of Guayllabamba with land elevations such as Cayambe, Saraurcu, Cerro Tips, Sincholagua, Ruminagui, Illiniza, Corazón, Atacazo, Antisana, and Pichincha with its two main peaks: Rucu Pichincha and Guagua Pichincha. Its hydrography constitutes its two main rivers: Guayllabamba, with its tributaries San Pedro Pita and Psyche; and Blanco, with it is tributaries Mindo, Nambilla, Saloya and Yambi. It has been developed important industries such as textile, plastics, pharmaceuticals, metalworking, sausages, toys, paints, motor vehicles, among others. Archaeological evidence founded in the province of Pichincha confirm that this region was inhabited by people who had technical and aesthetic knowledge; these people were are Collaguazos, Pillajos and Quijos; In any case, it should be noted that it was around this region, called Quito, where the Ecuadorian nationality was formed. 4

9 3.2. General Information of Quito Capital: Distrito Metropolitano Quito Area: km 2 ( has.) Altitude: 2800 masl Temperature: from 15º C to 8º C. Population: 2,2 million according to the last census (2010) 3.3. Political division 3.4. Economy Pichincha is characterized by its diversified economy, with the country's economic capital, and the largest number of businesses and amount of investments mainly in the Cantons of Quito and Rumiñahui, meanwhile Cantons of Pedro V. Maldonado and Puerto Quito has a weak economy based on agriculture and a third group of Cantons which are: Cayambe, Mejia, Pedro Moncayo and San Miguel de los Bancos are located in an intermediate situation but they also has agricultural productivity. 1 Quito, the capital of the province of Pichincha and Ecuador is the second city that contributes most to the national GDP after Guayaquil. Quito has the highest level of tax collection in Ecuador according to (SRI), being at the present the most important economic region of the country. 1 as_mercedes.pdf 5

10 3.5. Capital city - Quito The story of Quito has its roots in the tribe of the Quitus. Its name Kitu means middle of the world in aboriginal language. Quito was founded on December 6, 1534, the Spaniards named San Francisco de Quito. In the XVI century the monumental constructions of the Catholic churches were built, the religiosity was a big part of the people s identity. "The street of the seven crosses" (the García Moreno street in the Old Town) it s a proof. On August the 10th of 1809, the people of Quito give the First Scream of Independence in America. Many of the participants were killed by the Spaniards. But, in any case, the seed was planted. Almost 20 years later, Ecuador was born as an independent nation and Quito was named as the capital city. Map of Quito 1734 / Dionisio Alcedo y Herrera According to a decree issued on September 24th, 1830 in Riobamba city by the First Constituent, Quito was declared as the capital of the Republic of Ecuador. Currently Quito has achieved important awards, such as "South America's Leading Destination" for 2 consecutive times. On September the 18th, 1978, UNESCO declared Quito as the First Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as an attempt to preserve its colonial style. This Old Town is one of the most impressive of all of South America. In the 1980s, the city grew and began to develop a tourist conscience that, today, in the 21st century, is fully grown. 6

11 3.6. Mariscal Sucre Antonio José de Sucre was born in Cumana, on February 3th He joined the army at the age of 15, after the War of Independence in With Simon Bolívar, Sucre fought in several battles, led the Patriots to the Battle of Pichincha (1822), which finished with the independence of the Gran Colombia, Later on he arrived to Peru by request. In 1825, he promoted the birth of the Republic of Bolivia, which ruled until He got back to the Gran Colombia and Simon Bolivar commissioned him to lead a campaign against Peru. He won the battle and got Tarqui, and achieve that the Peruvian return to their country and leave the Grancolombian soil. On June 4th, 1830, Bolivar's enemies killed him in the mountains of Berruecos Carcelen Bus Station Mr. Paco Moncayo opened Quitumbe - Carcelen bus station in 2009, and closed Cumandá bus station because it was causing too much traffic problems in the downtown and this impedes the normal traffic flows both north and south of the city of Quito. From the Carcelen bus station interprovincial buses departure to Carchi and Imbabura, northern provinces and from Quitumbe bus station in the south buses leaves to the southern provinces and coastal provinces Peak and Plaque Law It was implemented on May 3rd, 2010, to fresh the traffic on city streets. It was due to the increasing of traffic jams that had face the inhabitants of the city, especially during rush hours. Initially the move was effective and reducing cars on the roads was noted, but with the passage of time jams returned. One reason: the annual increase in the fleet of the city which now is around 450,000 cars. It is in the morning from 7:00 to 9:30 and the afternoon from 16:00 to 19:30. It isn t for official transportation. 7

12 3.9. Simon Bolivar Avenue It is the longest way in the city, it is 58 kilometers long, connects the north, south and valleys that surround Quito. This avenue, also called Oriental for its location, it goes from Carapungo (North) to Tambillo (South), the two limits are near the Bus Terminals. Simon Bolivar avenue was created to avoid the traffic in the city and it has helped us to move from North to South faster. Its name is due to the Venezuelan officer who led our troops against the imperialism; he founded the Great Colombia and was one of the leading figures of American Emancipation. He contributed decisively to the independence of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru and Venezuela Eucalyptus Since colonial times, the landscape of the Sierra has changed. In the Valley of Machachi, a few decades after the Spanish founding Quito, the forests has disappeared and the situation was dramatic in some places where the soil became aridity and corroded. By the nineteenth century it was imperative to find a solution to the replacement of the vegetation, people nearby pressed the residuary forest and frontier distant forests. As a solution, Gabriel García Moreno agreed to introduce exotic forest species recommended by scientists from European cities, and so in May 1865 the first two boxes of eucalyptus seeds arrived to the Andes from Australia, after a stopover in Europe. Nicolas Martinez was instructed to open the drawers and started planting. Afterwards he said that few seeds were germinated Pines The presence of pine (Pinus radiata) in our country is more recent. It is originally from California, USA, it was introduced to Ecuador in The first pine plantation on a large scale took place in the wilderness of the Cotopaxi volcano and it was spread since the year of There are many species of eucalyptus and pine that were introduced to Ecuador. Hard to believe that two species brought from abroad are now so abundant. 8

13 4. Tambillo This parish is located in the Lower Montane Forest, highlighting areas of secondary and primary forest stand: the most important plant species are saddled, rosemary, mountain cotijo, duco, cedar, violet, myrtle, alder, fern, laurel yield, ragwort, datura, guanto, Kikuyu and Holco. 5. Ecuador Railways Public Company The railway is a symbol of national unity and the progress of the country. The precursor for the work was President García Moreno, who initiated this project after the Constituent Assembly of 1861 authorized the hiring of domestic and foreign companies. In km of the line was put into service, from Yaguachi to Milagro. After his death in 1895 the work was taken over by General Eloy Alfaro, delegating the analysis and study of a new route to Engineer Sighald Muller, after two years of research Muller called the project "the most difficult railway in the world" due to the geographical obstacles that it had to face. Archer and John Harman were hired, who employed indigenous and black people and 4,000 Jamaicans. Many problems presented themselves and General Alfaro was willing to take power to supervise and carry forward the construction, but this did not happen because the company complied with the agreed deadlines. A golden stake was placed by América Alfaro in the last railway station of Chimbacalle, thus finalizing Ecuador s largest infrastructure project. The train arrived at station Chimbacalle Quito on June 25th 1908, officially inaugurated with a great national civic celebration. This great work was supplemented on August 26th 1957 by the Quito to San Lorenzo line (373.4km). Currently, the railroad serves as a tourist attraction using various routes, the train also features a Cruise Train, which was awarded the South American Leading Luxury Train Award 2014 by the World Travel Awards. 9

14 6. Panamericana higtway The Panamerican Highway, or "Panamerican route," is a collective system of roads, 48,000 km long, linking almost all countries of the Western Hemisphere of the Americas together with a stretch of roads. It was conceived in the V International Conference of American States in 1923, celebrating the First Pan-American Road Congress in Buenos Aires in 1925, which followed the 1929 and The Panamerican highway is almost complete, and it goes from Alaska in North America to Patagonia in South America. The remarkable stretch that doesn t allow connecting the road completely is a journey of 87 miles of hard mountain forest, located between the east end of Panama and northwestern Colombia called the Darien Gap. The Panamerican Highway is cut in Yaviza Panama, and in Colombia in Turbo City it starts again given to the Panamerican Highway in South America a via which reaches Medellin Colombia's second city 80 Avenue encountering the same city. 7. Volcano Route The Avenue of the Volcanoes is a spectacular attraction that shown its best side from June to August. These are two rows: the Cordillera Occidental and Oriental, where mountains, valleys and ravines are distributed. You can also admire and fall in love with amazing scenery from Carchi and Loja, and appreciate the beauty of nature, and love the pure and intense life, extreme adventures living in the cloud forests that hide different species of flora and fauna. The paths between the moor grasses are restful and relaxing. Several waterfalls such as the Condor, Machay and Aguarico which are formed by Pita River can be found along the route. 10

15 Sincholagua Volcano Located north of Canton Mejía, its floor is formed by large streams. However, it is a unique viewpoint of several mountains of the highlands. The paths between the moor grasses restful and relaxing. Several waterfalls and the Condor Machay and Aguarico formed the Pita River Road can be found along the route Pasochoa Wildlife Reserve This refuge was established in 1996 and since its beginnings it was conceived as one of the richest areas for nature caring in the Sierra region. It covers an area of 500 hectares, and protects several species of flora and fauna belonging to the Andean forests, many of which already has disappeared in other forests Rumiñahui Volcano The Rumiñahui volcano is an excellent gazer of the volcanoes in this area. Rumiñahui means Stone Face in Quechua language, it is an extinct volcano and extensively eroded which had a boiler that have become their eastern walls and only traces of the other, these walls reach up to 800 meters from its base, and this impressive height could be due the collapse of the magma chamber beneath the volcano El Corazon Mountain It is an inactive volcano of 4788 meters, its named the Heart because two streams flow down from the top and form a heart but not always was named The Heart, because years ago it was known as "Guallancatzo" or "Anchasit". To the East of the volcano is a small hill called Moya. Nearby it is possible to find buildings that are from indigenous called Pucarás this building served as a strong military base and strategic viewpoints. 8. Mejía Canton Province: Pichincha Population: habitantes Temperature: 12 C Superficie: 1476 Km2 Parrishes: Machachi, Cutuglagua, Uyumbicho, Tambillo, Alóag, Aloasí, El Chaupi y Manuel Cornejo Astorga (Tandapi). 11

16 Mejia has become known by its agricultural work which is really linked with its chacarera culture which in this recent years has taken great impulse especially with the "Chagra Walk ", but not only that, as hundreds of tourists visit the area famous for its thermal and mineral waters, colorful markets and its friendly people. Being Mejia farming and ranching area per excellence, for many years, it has stated big ranches and farms of great importance, where you can watch the milking, participate in the planting and harvesting of products, honey collection, horseback riding, bullfighting and other activities own of the agro area Machachi Surrounded by mountains, it is a prosperous land dedicated to agriculture and livestock; it is very close to the culture of the Chagras, Machachi. The Panzaleos were the first to occupy the area. Machachi became independent on November 11th, In 1824, Machachi was declared canton in the province of Pichincha but on July 23rd, 1883 it is created Mejía Canton, named that way in honor of Quito patriot, José Mejía Lequerica. In the late nineteenth century, began the selling of Machachi mineral water from the springs of Thessaly, in the farm of Zaldumbide family, and thus the Güitig, the mineral water brand has become the more sold and famous in Ecuador. In the early twentieth century, the French Pierre Denis industrialized production, prompting Güitig to expand their market to the central Andean provinces, and since 1921 was born The Thessaly Springs Comp Paseo del Chagra (Chagra Walk) The eruption of Cotopaxi volcano in 1877, the festival of St. James and declaration of Mejia town as Canton are the three events that gave rise to the traditional ride processional called Paseo del Chagra. In 1981 the first Paseo del Chagra event was organized, from now on evey year it is developed into the town s streets. In 1983 the party was formalized, and the same year, the Paseo del Chagra event was institutionalized in the festival calendar of Ecuador. The Chagra characters are symbols of miscegenation in the valleys and highlands of Ecuador. The word Chagra comes from "farm" (land where corn is grown). Activities include daily live in the mountains, the cold wind of the moor and the sun or light rain caressing grassland. Horsemanship, his unconditional partner, it is an art in the Chagra culture. 12

17 8.3. Flower plantation Machachi Valley is considered one of the greatest agricultural areas of Ecuador and its livestock production, soils of high organic content, sources of water quality and its excellent climate, makes this an ideal place to produce roses. Rose s cultivation has had a great impact on the Ecuadorian economy since the 80s when the boom export started. The insertion of Ecuador in the business of roses has carried out to be the fourth largest producer of roses worldwide. In 2012 it was exported $ 572,446,000 which represents 74.7% of total exports of flowers in our country, our Ecuadorian roses for quality: very long thick stems, large buttons and bright and colors are considered the best in the world with its main exports to the United States, Russia, Britain, Italy and Canada. 9. Potatoes crop The potato is one of the most popular crops in the Highland region for its high carbohydrate content makes it an energy source. The potato crop is a sectored in the country and find some varieties such as Superchola, Gabriela, Esperanza, Red, Fripapa and Mary (North), Gabriela, Esperanza, Maria, Frypapa and native species: Uvilla and Leona White (Center) and Bologne, Esperanza, Gabriela and Jubaleña (South). The regions with a greater volume of potatoes produced are: Carchi, Pichincha, Tungurahua, Chimborazo and Cotopaxi. 13

18 10. ALOAG TO SANTO DOMINGO DE LOS TSÁCHILAS ROUTE Aloag The word Alóag has a Caribbean origin, from the word aboa which means house or room, Alóag was the base of an Indian chief, so Aloag mean the room of the main Indian. The first settlers belonged to Panzaleo indian tribe who lived on the slopes of Rumiñahui and Pasochoa, forming a triangle we now know as the parishes of Machachi, Alóag and Aloasí. During the Colony Alóag, was runned by Indians Aloasí and they were also runned by the Dominicans in August 1745, the it was elevated to the status of parish church. Alóag is one of the oldest parishes in the Canton. Most inhabitants are farmers and artisans. It is important to check that the dairy industry is the main source of wealth for its strategic location has become a dynamic town center serving as a crossing point between the two natural regions of the coast and the highland, in fact in this are crosses the road to Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas and the South highway Biodiversity Being located in a tropical region and limited by a branch of the Andes, you can find a great biodiversity and ecosystems. Ecuador is host to 1,640 species of birds, 4,500 species of butterflies, 345 species of reptiles (learn more about rainforest snakes here), 358 species of amphibians, 258 species of mammals and more than 16,000 species of plants (with 4,000 species of orchids alone). There are eight ecosystems in this little country. All are unique, beautiful but unfortunately threatened by the destructive processes of man. Agriculture, livestock and deforestation, along with industrial processes and mismanagement of toxic waste have greatly decreased the biological wealth. 14

19 10.3. Cloud Forests Cloud Forests Because of the moisture and coolness, Cloud Forests are very green and lush. This unique climate allows loads of epiphytes, plants that live on other plants, to grow almost out of control. There are mosses on the trunks of trees, orchids between the mosses, ferns growing on branches, algae covering leaves much more so than in Rain Forests. There is a distinct dry season but moisture levels are still maintained by mists that condense on the side of mountains. Cloud Forests are characterized by fast moving, clear rocky rivers. Although small in size, the Andean Cloud Forests of Ecuador are considered to be the single richest hotspot of biodiversity on the planet, containing approximately 15-17% of the world's plant species and nearly 20% of its bird diversity. Because of natural barriers, have many more range restricted or endemic species. If we look at epiphytes, such as Orchids, Cloud Forests are more diverse at tree species Tropical Rain Forest Rainforests are flatter and often separated by swamps, lakes or streams. This is important in the distribution of species. Rainforests are incredibly diverse but the plants and animals are more widespread. Another difference is that Rainforests have larger, silt laden, slow moving rivers, Rainforests are incredibly diverse but the plants and animals are more widespread. Rainforests have larger, silt laden, slow moving rivers. The flora of the northwestern tropical rainforest is full of huge trees. The trees of this ecosystem are: laurel, wax palm, pambil, tangaré, sande, tagua and others. Among others there are abundant epiphytes, bromeliads, ferns, mosses and orchids. 15

20 Orchids Ecuador has 4,187 orchid species which have been classified at this time, equivalent to 24% of Ecuador's native flora Bromeliads The Hawaiian pineapples grown in Milagro or in Santo Domingo cities are bromeliads, between the US and Europe are grown annually three million different species of bromeliads. All bromeliads are native from America. In Ecuador, the only crops are pineapple bromeliad: approximately 600 hectares with 60,000 plants are grown per hectare. Only in Holland are grown annually 20 million bromeliads and are sent to Asia, USA and Europe Hummingbird Ecuador with only 0.2% of the land area, is home to 124 species of hummingbirds, 35% of all species in the world. The surprising abundance of these birds in our country has earned him the name "the land of the hummingbird". Hummingbirds, orquindies, are only found from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego. Most of them live in the tropics and frequents visit all types of habitat Rivers Activities like rafting, boating and sledging are very popular for tourists as this area has rivers Category 2, 3, 4 as Blanco, Toachi, Damas, and Baba are rated as the best in Ecuador, suitable for this kind of extreme sports, these rivers have a landscape contrast. The Toachi and Blanco rivers originate in the snows of the Pichincha and Illinizas mountains, and the water feed the tropical forests, and direct the water to the west of the Andes. On these rivers you can go rafting, and during this adventure sport you have the opportunity to observe the magnificent tropical wildlife such as otters, herons landscapes, exotic birds, etc., and you can also camp along the river. 16

21 10.6. Hidalgo e Hidalgo Contraction Hidalgo e Hidalgo S.A. (HeH Constraction), established in Ecuador in 1969, working on road works, bridges, tunnels, electrification, ports, irrigation and buildings. Provides more and better connectivity between populations, towns, counties, cities, provinces and regions to ensure sustainable development. They have also created jobs Tandapi Located in Pichincha province, Mejía Canton. It was founded on January 20th, 1909, it is on an altitude of meters. Sharing the two major climates, tropical forests and high mountains, it has an area of km2. At the beginning the parish was named after Antonio Ricaurte, but it was changed on January 10th, Because there was some connection with this land and during the second government of Eloy Alfaro, it was called Manuel Cornejo Astorga, who participated in the murder of García Moreno after that this person hid and settled in this area. 17

22 10.8. Devil face It was Sculpted between 1985 and 1987 by César Buenaño, he was commissioned to topple the mountain, in a sharp bend in the road Alóag Santo Domingo, because it did let the visibility to drivers and was helping to cause accidents. He made a sketch of the sculpture and began developing their own tools to sculpt, in the morning overturns the mountain and in the afternoon was styling the rock. With its tractor made its way into the mountains in order to avoid people watch the sculpture before he finally finished, after that with a dynamite charge the sculpture appeared overnight, along with a number of legends and fantasies. The purpose was to leave a message of wisdom. Brutal power, internal power, the power of decision and not force us to do things we do not want. The sculpture is based on the animal physical traces of man and animal because we are unaware (fangs, ears) and reasonable that the man is thinking (eyes, nose) Hidroelectric Project Toachi Pilatón The Toachi-Pilatón Hydroelectric Project, began its construction in June 2011 and was scheduled to be completed within 44 months. It has an investment of about $ 408 million do not including financing costs, the remaining capital for execution of the work comes from Russia, China and Ecuador. It will supply between 7% and 8% of the energy demand of the country and the work will be operational in October next year with the creation of 254 (MW). Currently the project has a significant advance, the final designs has been completed and is completed on a 100% the project construction camp "La Palma", driveways (20.4 km long), the tunnel route Alóag Santo Domingo. Additionally it is important to note that the crystallization of Toachi Pilatón effectively contribute to reducing CO2 emissions, making it an alternative for the planet through the use of renewable natural resources. Another important aspect is the contribution to the community, because the project has created employment opportunities, benefiting directly to hundreds of families. 18

23 Alluriquin Known as Sweet Earth by the tradition of sweets (marshmallows, brown sugar, peanuts) and sugar cane alcohol, at the beginning this work as a familiar activity but gradually the activity was encouraged. The origin of its name "San Jose" Catholic community, "Alluriquín" takes us to the story of Father Juan de Velasco, colonial, meaning its name means "Place of rest next to the Rivers : referring to the Damas River. It occupies an area of 33.1 ha. It has a very nice and varied climate. Since the days of the Royal Audience of Quito, Alluriquin was an inn or "inn house" where travelers spent the night before continuing their journey the next day. With the opening of the Alóag-Santo Domingo route, the town center of this parish was formed from Pumping station Santo Domingo The pumping station run clean, proper treatment and disposal of hydrocarbon waste accumulated in the containment areas. Oil production in 2013 increased 3.5%. In the periods, oil production fell 9%. A year later it was able to halt this decline and from 2011 began to recover oil output, which has not yet reached the volumes achieved in By 2013, million barrels were extracted, representing around 6.5 billion. Hydrocarbons have made over the last 40 years one of the main sources of income for Ecuador. Oil activities are state controlled ( ) by Petrocuador. There was built in Esmeraldas the first refinery and the Pipeline System Trans (SOTE) that transfers oil from oil fields in the east to the Pacific coast, 503 kilometers along which I walk light crude (29 to 30 API ) with high commercial value. 19

24 11. SANTO DOMINGO DE LOS TSÁCHILAS PROVINCE History The Order of the Dominicans missioners evangelized this area where the name and the Tsáchilas ethnic group who have painted their hair red, Colorados originates. Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas is the fourth most populous city in Ecuador, following Guayaquil, Quito and Cuenca. It is located in the humid tropics. Thus, it has a rich trade. Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas also holds the largest livestock market in the country. It has a rich commerce since this province is a land port of trade between the Sierra and the Coast. Santo Domingo began his struggle to become a province in 1966, it wasn t yet canton, it was a rural parish, but while being called Santo Domingo province, was formalized it became canton on July 3rd, However, aspirations to become a province do not finished with the province and several committees to become canto and province (1985/1992) were presented, these projects were not treated or approved. The Fourth Committee structured the May 4, 2006 and was chaired by Mayor Paz y Miño Kléber Flores. It was the final motion with an effective leadership that brought together all the forces and sectors of the population. Thus, the on November 9th 2006 the Tribunal Electoral de Pichincha Provincial convene the people of Santo Domingo to a referendum for November 26th, in which citizens were consulted if they agreed with a provincial status. The 83.61% said yes. With these results, on June 7th, 2007 the President signed the law and was sent to Congress and on November 6th, 2007 it was published in the Official Gazette the Creation of Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas Province General information Capital: Santo Domingo Location: 133km from Quito / 268km from Guayaquil Area: 3,523 km2 Altitude: 655m above sea level Climate: Tropical humid Temperature: 22.90C Population: 450,000 inhabitants 20

25 11.3. Political Division Cantons: Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas and La Concordia Economy of Santo Domingo Agriculture and livestock invigorate the rural area of Santo Domingo, thanks to its location; its main economic activity is livestock, so here it develops the largest livestock market in the country. The economic contribution at the national level is 2%. 27.3% of the population is engaged in agriculture, forestry, hunting and fishing, which is the most important activity for the province. Trade accounts for 21.3%. It is extremely important service activities (14.2%) and manufacturing (7.9%). Activities which are not adequately described are 16.6%, while 6.7% Construction and transportation 5.5%. 21

26 11.5. Social posture of Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas The incidence of poverty in Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas is 72.2% but the indigence of extreme poverty in the province is 31%, becoming this province the one who is under the extreme poverty line Agricultural production activities Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas has 301,967 a land of hectares, equivalent to 16% of the 4th region and 2% of the national total. There is a predominance of grasses grown accounting for just over half of the provincial area used. Permanent crops (21%) and the mountains and forests (16%) added to the grassland reveal the existence of protected areas and areas suitable for livestock, Agricultural products of Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas Agriculture is the main activity in Santo Domingo and due to its favorable conditions of fertility of the land in the farming is suitable. The most productive lands are located in Santo Domingo, Quinindé, El Carmen, Quevedo. The tropical climate products such as cocoa, coffee, banana, abaca, banana and oil palm are cultivated. Among others the tubers, especially cassava and taro are also produced. Fruit production, resulting in 47% of the surface is also highlighted. Regarding livestock production, cattle farming predominates, there are 71,232 heads. Milk production is a significant item, contributes with the 11% to the national production, rising 138 millon litrers of milk produced. 22

27 CACAO (Theobroma cacao) Cacao history When the Spanish came to America, cacao beans were used as currency and also to prepare a delicious drink. It was not until the late nineteenth century, after several experiments, the Swiss managed produced the first chocolate, thus beginning a global industry. 2 In the second half of the sixteenth century, this business has attracted the interest of guayaquileños visionaries because for almost a century, the socioeconomic order of the country developed around Cocoa. In 1600 and the first harvests were always on the banks of the tributaries upstream of Guayaquil, which is known in the world as Up Cacao. There are records that Ecuador produces cocoa since 1780, but in 1911 was when this country became one of the largest exporters Crop development of cacao Ecuador has a great superiority in this product: over 70% of world production of Fine and Smelled Cacao is on our land, becoming the sixth largest producer of cocoa, under the big producers: Ivory Coast, Ghana Indonesia, Cameroon and Nigeria. In total the country has planted 500,000 hectares of cocoa Production of cocoa Cocoa production is concentrated in the provinces of Los Ríos, Guayas, Manabi and Sucumbios. Two types of cacao are cultivated: CCN-51 Cocoa and Cacao Nacional, the latter is Cacao Fino de Aroma. The marketing is done through associations of producers, intermediaries, brokers and exporters. In 2011, Ecuador received the award for "best cocoa for its oral quality" and "best cocoa beans by geographic region" at the Salon du Chocolat in Paris

28 International Cacao Trade The main destination of the fruit is the United States, Mexico, Malaysia, Germany and Holland. For Ecuadorian cacao, internationally known as 'gold nugget', there are two organizations that support exporters, a statewide initiative (PROECUADOR) and a privately run (Anecacao). Both agencies provide producers with useful tools to produce manufacture or export this fruit and its processed products OIL AFRICAN PALM (Elaeis guineensis Jacq) History Oil palm was introduced in 1953 in Esmeraldas, La Concordia Canton by Roscoe Scott; at that time the plantations were relatively small. I was not until 1967 when it starts to boom with more than 1,000 hectares planted History of oil palm They are native of Western Equatorial Africa, where it is known that the natives were already performing the extraction of oil 5000 years ago Oil palm development Oil palm cultivation is one of the major crops in the country because of the many uses of this plant well and its use as biofuel. It is grown mainly in the provinces of Esmeraldas, Los Ríos, Pichincha, Santo Domingo and in the provinces of Sucumbios and Orellana Production of oil palm In 2009, there were planted nearly 23,000 hectares of oil palm. The palm fruits are fleshy clusters are grown and brought to the oil mills. This is used to make shortening, used as oil. Ecuador is recognized internationally for the tropical climate that favors picking fruit throughout the year. 24

29 Plantations in Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas Fruits that are grown and that are sold in national and international markets are pineapples, mangoes, papayas, melons. While pears, strawberries, apples, blueberries, grapes, and plums uvillas are grown in the highlands. Also citrus, avocados, kiwi, dragon fruit and a variety of tropical fruits are produced on the coast. In addition, other fruits such as tree tomato, passion fruit, sapodilla, naranjillas are unique in the tropics. It is also important the role they have gained in the international market of exotic fruits such as kiwi, dragon fruit, borojó, uvilla and naranjillas Santo Domingo due to its diverse climate is characterized by growing different kind of fruits Pinapple The exportation variety cultivated is Golden Sweet or super sweet. It is characterized by the golden color of the skin, rich in vitamin C, its tropical, exotic taste and the low level of acidity. The fruit is usually intended for cutting and canning industry. The main plantations are in the provinces of Los Rios and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas because they have better conditions for their production Papaya This fruit is naturally grow in the tropics and is adapted to a variety of climates. In Ecuador, Mexican variety papaya is grown traditionally; it is yellow and red pulp. However, other commercial plantations of other Hawaiian type varieties are known. The Hawaiian papaya is a variety that was inserted into the country a few years ago and is characterized by its size, smell, and sweet flavor. Hawaiian and Mexican: In the international market are the two major classifications of papaya recognized. Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas is the papaya s province producer, followed by Guayas under the same production system. 25

30 Passion Fruit The passion fruit also known as passion fruit belongs to the family of Passiflora edulis. It is grown in tropical and subtropical climates. The commercial varieties are purple, yellow and passion. It is rich in vitamins and minerals. Ecuador is the largest producer of this fruit in South America, and the largest exporter of frozen passion fruit pulp. The main areas of cultivation of this fruit are located in the provinces of Manabi, Esmeraldas, Guayas, El Oro, and some parts of Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas Destination of Ecuadorian exports The main target markets for non-traditional Ecuadorian fruit accumulated in the period from 2007 to July 2012, were the United States accounts for 42%; followed by Spain with 13%; Chile with 11% and Belgium with 6%; among the countries that require this type of fruit from Ecuador. 26

31 Beef Cattle Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas is the largest livestock market in the country. Each year $ 17 million in imported meat for burgers for Carl's Junior, McDonald's and Burger King is produced, they import beef that has a special fat that serves to prepare the burgers they sell in their stores Holstein Cattle This breed originated in the Netherlands, the Dutch breed, Holstein or Friesian is the most productive of all dairy breeds. This breed is the heaviest of the "dairy" races; has two variants in terms of coat color: white paint with black, white and red Brahman Catle This cattle was imported from Costa Rica and Brazil; but there are derived from US The Brahman which has been listed as a beef breed for excellence in terms of productivity, daily gain and profitability. This is ideal for cattle meat production in tropical countries. The high performance of the race and his great ability to produce excellent quality meat by being well adapted to the climatic conditions, rapid growth and muscle development, ability to produce more meat in less time, calves in excellent condition, producing long life, are most fertile in tropical conditions, live longer and greater longevity leave more offspring. 27

32 12. TSÁCHILAS - CHIGUILPE S COMMUNITY History The Tsáchilas are the local ethnic group, also known as Colorados (reds). The history of the Tsáchilas was dramatically marked by the appearance of plagues and diseases brought by the Europeans to America. Their population was almost exterminated by small pocks, a sickness for which indigenous peoples from the "new world" had no antibodies. This pre-hispanic culture managed to survive diseases and a cultural clash Language The original language of the Tsáchilas is Tsafiqui; it means true language. The name of their culture was "Chi", and from there comes the name of the river "Toachi", which stands for "the way for the Chi". This language comes from the linguistic family Chibcha; the second language of the Tsáchilas is spanish Shamanismo In many of their ceremonies the Shaman (witch doctor and spiritual leader) uses "Nepi", their sacred plant, which has hallucinogenic effects. As healing plants are used for relaxation, among other uses, people also often use river stones collected which are special, since the stone when rubbed into the body of the person is full of negative energies Costums and traditions Originally, both Tsáchila men and women used long hair. After the small pocks plague, men cut their hair short with a mineral rock called obsidian and then dyed it red as a symbol of life. This became a tradition held to this day. According to their beliefs, with the magical and symbolic language of their bodies they keep plagues away and their culture will survive Natural medicine The Tsáchilas believe in the spiritual powers of their natural surroundings. Their famous shamans "clean" your body and spirit mixing the power of medicinal plants and invoking the spirits of the forest. They burn specific wood on stones that absorb the heat, spill water over this and breathe in the vapor produced for spirit cleansing purposes. 28

33 12.6. Clothing Women wear "tunans", cloths of colorful stripes around their waists. They also wear colorful ribbons on their hair. All these colors symbolize life. Men use similar cloths but only in black and white or blue and white. Men s attire is called "manpe tsanpa", Tsáchilas also wear a cotton crown over their heads, a symbol of dignity and peace Body and hair ink Both Tsáchila men and women paint black stripes on their bodies. The purpose of these is not purely decorative; they are believed to be a protection from diseases and insects. Since the men of this culture have painted their hair red for centuries, with a vegetable dye taken from the seed of the "achiote" Kasama Festivity In Tsafiqui language "Kasa" means new and "ma" day, the start of a new day or New Year. This event is a great party to meet again with their roots, greet their families, sharing feelings of prosperity and friendship. Kasama Party is held on Holy Saturday, with a display of culture, tradition and customs lately is a tourist attraction. The priostes party went fishing and hunting, this activity invited men of families and women priostes harvested fruits to make chicha and prepare food for the men when they came hunting. One night before the feast, the Shamans meet rituals clean community, tradition ended in the morning with a bath in the river. This party is in honor of the moon and sun and the people perform various dances and activities such as spear throwing, stone, hunting and fishing, taken from chicha, peeled green banana and choice of Moin Sona (Queen Tsáchila). 29

34 12.9. Traditional Music and dance of Tsáchilas The marimba is one of the main musical instruments and is made of wood and bamboo chonta, these are materials that are near the area. In their celebration they have the cutom of sharing chicha, food and music. This festival usually lasts for 2-3 days. Chiguilpe Community TOLON PELE 13. VALLE HERMOSO It has 18 little communities, with an area of 700 km2, housing 7,000 residents. It has a temperature 28 C. The climate and soil characteristics make it suitable for the cultivation of oil palm, hemp, palm, passion fruit and pineapple are its main products, although beef cattle and milk has also achieved important development. Important industries of palm oil, palm hearts and especially poultry and pig are settle here. Blanco River originates on the slopes of Pichincha, down mountains Mindo and receives the waters of the Rio Toachi, it is navigable in the upper reaches. 30

35 14. MISHILICK FARM What is Mishilick Farm? Mishilick Farm was created as a resting place for their owners to achieve encouraging residents in Valley Hermoso cocoa farming and where they can earn more income their day to day living Process to get the chocolate Select the cob: The cob has to be havets when it is very mature, ears be it national or CCN (It's a hybrid that produces large cobs). Fermentation and drying: The pulp and seeds are placed in a greenhouse to accelerate the fermentation, after this the cacao beans are placed at 3 different levels and this process will take 5 to 6 days until the seed has absorbed its white cover Control lot: To control that the process take its course one cocoa pit is opened and must be of a dark brown or chocolate it should have slits or deep cracks, if 80% of the lot is in the same conditions, it means that a a good process was obtained. Roast the cacao: The seeds are placed in roasting machines then get the crunchy cacao. Grind the cacao: The cacao is roasted milling machines created by the owners of the property which have been adapted for its specific use, obtaining cocoa called nibs. Blend the cacao: The VIPs are taken to the shredders to achieve a thick paste of a deep brown color. Separate the cacao butter: To separate the cacao butter a hydraulic press is used the two products, butter is used for multiple purposes and a portion is refunded to chocolate. Placement in the refiner: The new chocolate dough is placed in a refiner and where a percentage of cocoa butter obtained, plus the amount of sugar mixture to obtain any type of chocolate is this sweet, semi-sweet or bitter, too you may add milk. Tempering chocolate: It consists of varying the temperature of the mixture, going form hot to cold. Pour the chocolate into molds: Place chocolate into molds of different shapes. 31

36 15. Itinerary TRAVEL THROUGH GREEN PASTURES DAY TIME ACTIVITIES 7:00 Pick up in UCT 07:00 to 08:00 Transfer to Machachi 08:00 to 08:45 Breakfast in Café de la Vaca 08:45 to 09:00 Transfer to Bee Farm in Aloasi 09:00 to 10:00 Tour in the Bee farm in Aloasi 10:00 to 10:10 Transfer to place of elaboration of cheese 10:10 to 10:40 Visit to Alexandrita cheeses 10:40 to 12:30 Sur Campestre Farm, three activities DAY 1 12:30 to 13:30 Lunch in Sur Campestre in Aloasi 13:30 to 15:30 Travel to Santo Domingo city Visit to banana, cocoa bean, balsa tree and mayoka 15:30 to 16:30 plantations in Tolon Pele Tsáchila Community 16:30 to 17:30 Meeting with Tolon Pele Tsáchila Community 17:30 to 17:45 Transfer to purification baths place 17:45 to 19:15 Purification Bath (Temazcal Activity) 19:15 to 19:30 Transfer to Kasadasa Eco Lodge 19:30 to 20:30 Dinner and in Kasadasa Eco Lodge 08:00 to 09:00 Breakfast in Kasadasa Eco Lodge 09:00 to 09:30 Transfer to Valle Hermoso Village 09:30 to 10:30 Introducing about Mishilick Farm 10:30 to 12:00 Chocolate processing DAY 2 12:00 to 13:00 Lunch in the field prepared with local products 13:00 to 14:00 Walking around nature and fields of the area. 14:00 to 15:00 Visit the Blanco river 15:00 to 17:00 Go back to Quito city 16. Conclusions On the trip we had some logistical problems, which were solved as was presenting the occasion. I have to emphasize patience, cooperation and solidarity on the part of teachers assigned to grade because their collaboration could go ahead with the tour but the principal conclusion is the amazing Ecuadorian gastronomy can be a principal attraction of this country. We need more promoters who can invest in new routes using communities in their tours. We have an amazing agriculture with organic products and the innumerable traditional recipes with delicious flavors. All those characteristics can be the Ecuadorian Gastronomy growing o win recognition. 32

37 17. Recommendations Always be amiable, friendly and kind with the tourists, try to always keep a smile on your face. Make the route at less three times before the tour for being sure about all the routes and locations of the itinerary. Give to the tourist curios information about the tourist attraction not only the conventional information. Study the profile of your tourists for having an idea how to treat them and what kind of information could be good for them. Always be punctual and patient with the tourists Bring books, magazines or brochure relating to the tour and if it s possible a dictionary translation kichua to Spanish 18. Another Itineraries ITINERARY TWO DAY TIME ACTIVITIES 7:00 Pick up in UCT 07:00 to 08:30 Transfer to Yunguilla valley 08:30 to 09:15 Breakfast in Yunguilla Community 09:15 to 12:00 Tour in Yunguilla Community 12:00 to 13:00 Lunch in Yunguilla Community DAY 1 13:00 to 15:00 Travel to Santo Domingo city 15:00 to 16:00 Observation of plantations in Tsáchila Community 16:00 to 17:15 Meeting with the Tsáchila Community 17:15 to 17:30 Transfer to Temazcal 17:30 to 19:30 Temazcal Activity 19:30 to 20:30 Dinner and in Kasadasa Eco Lodge 08:00 to 09:00 Breakfast in Kasadasa Eco Lodge 09:00 to 09:30 Transfer to Valle Hermoso Village 09:30 to 10:30 Introducing about Mishilick Farm DAY 2 10:30 to 12:00 Chocolate processing 12:00 to 13:00 Lunch with food from the field. 13:00 to 14:00 Visit the Blanco river, Mishilick 14:00 to 16:00 Go back to Quito city I did not choose this route because there is just Yunguilla Community to do activities about agrotourism and it takes us all afternoon at the same place, and also for me Aloag Santo Domingo is the best way to take the tourist because we can see many different places. 33

38 ITINERARY THREE DAY TIME ACTIVITIES DAY 1 DAY 2 7:00 Pick up in UCT 07:00 to 08:00 Transfer to Machachi 08:00 to 08:45 Breakfast in Café de la Vaca 08:45 to 09:00 Transfer to flower plantation 09:00 to 09:45 Tour to flower plantation 09:45 to 12:00 Hourse riding to Umbria Reserve 12:00 to 13:00 Lunch in Papagayo Logde 13:00 to 15:00 Travel to Santo Domingo city 15:00 to 16:00 Observation of plantations in Tsáchila Comunity 16:00 to 17:15 Meeting with the Tsáchila Comunity 17:15 to 17:30 Transfer to Temazcal 17:30 to 19:30 Temazcal Activity 19:30 to 20:30 Dinner and in Kasadasa Eco Lodge 08:00 to 09:00 Breakfast in Kasadasa Eco Lodge 09:00 to 09:30 Transfer to Valle Hermoso Village 09:30 to 10:30 Introducing about Mishilick Farm 10:30 to 12:00 Chocolate processing 12:00 to 13:00 Lunch with food from the field. 13:00 to 14:00 Walking around nature and crops of the area. 14:00 to 15:00 Visit the Blanco river, Mishilick 15:00 to 17:00 Go back to Quito city Unfortunately I didn't choose this route because the flower farms in Machachi don t work on Saturdays and this activity have changed the itinerary because the other activities were in the same sector. 34

39 19. Anexos PICHINCHA PROVINCE Breakfast in El Hornero Pizzeria Illinizas Volcanoes. This pictures was taken from El Hornero Pizzeria Corazón Volcano. It was taken from El Hornero Pizzeria. 35

40 Sergio and Cesar teachers in the horse riding actividty in Sur Campestre Restaurant. SANTO DOMINGO DE LOS TSÁCHILAS PROVINCE Teachers in Chiguilpe Community with Mr. Calasacon a Tsáchila man. Women of Tolon Pele from Tsáchila Community with marimbas. Tsáchila Community Tolon Pele 36

41 Mishilick Farm. Process to get chocolate Select the cob Fermentation Drying Roast the cocoa 37

42 Cacao grinder Separate the cacao butter Chocolate refiner Pour the chocolate into molds CHOCOLATE 38