Hostería Kayak Piedra de Vapor is a quiet place full of action. Not far from the main road between Quito and Esmeralda, it’s a perfect stop to break the long 5h30min drive into two. Once you stop, you might as well stay for a night or two and enjoy the area.

Hosteria Piedra de Vapor has its name from the island next to it which you can visit from the hostel. El Rio Blanco or the white river can be seen from your window directly from the comfort of your room. But don’t get too comfortable, as there is much more to do around then sitting around.

As the name suggests, Kayak tours are offered by the owner and its staff. They can guide bigger groups and offer a variety of levels from beginner to advanced. If you come during the rainy season (Nov-May) the white river is very fast which makes it hard for groups to be on, but don’t worry, there are plenty of other rivers around to choose from. For more information about the kayaking click here.

HUNGRY?

Additionally, the hosteria offers a nice relaxing area outside with plenty of interesting plants. The food in the restaurant is prepared onsite and has a homely feeling to the well-served portions. If you are lucky enough you can even try a small fruit. Miracle berry or Synsepalum dulcificum is a plant native to West Africa. Miracle Fruit contains a glycoprotein called miraculin, which binds to the tongue’s taste buds when the fruit is consumed. Miraculin acts as a sweetness inducer when it comes in contact with acids, causing sour foods to taste sweet, temporarily. Interestingly, this fruit is also used in cancer treatment to help patients to regain love for the food.

So if you are on the way from Esmeralda to Quito and you want to split the long drive, why not stop at Hostería Kayak Piedra de Vapor and forget the stress around you once and for all.

Hosteria Kayak de Vapor on Facebook