11 Days Andean Wonders & Quito's Charms: An Ecuadorian Adventure

Ziua 1 · Arrival - Welcome to Quito

1. 1

   Quito

   o zi

   Welcome back to Quito! Arrive at the Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), where your driver will meet you to transfer you to your accommodation.

   Meals included: None

Overnight at Hotel in Quito

Ziua 2 · Cotopaxi National Park - Quilotoa Lagoon - Baños

1. 1

   Quilotoa

   6 min

   After breakfast, you'll head south to Cotopaxi National Park, where you'll visit Lake Limpiopungo. You'll have a spectacular view of Cotopaxi Volcano's gigantic cone. From Lake Limpiopungo, you'll be able to spot a variety of species of birds and occasionally even wild horses. A short walk around the lake will allow you to admire the Andean plant and animal life.

   Head west from Cotopaxi National Park to visit another volcanic wonder: Quilotoa. This 2-mile (3 km) wide crater lake is filled with 820 feet (250 m) of mineral-rich green water. Hike along the lake's outer rim, enjoying the views from three lava domes, or follow a path to the lake itself. Hiking in the area, especially uphill, can be challenging, so consider renting a mule for some help along the way.

   After exploring the lake, it's time to travel south to Baños de Agua Santa, a city on the edge of the Amazonian Basin known for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls.

   Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Overnight at a Hotel in Baños

Ziua 3 · Baños Waterfall Tour

1. 1

   Banos

   6 ore

   Discover Baños, the enchanting gateway to the Amazon rainforest, nestled amidst the slopes of the active Tungurahua volcano. Here, you'll revel in the delightful climate, abundant adventure opportunities, and the optional indulgence of the village's renowned hot thermal springs, making it a cherished destination for travelers.

   Your journey from Baños takes you along the captivating Route of the Waterfalls, commencing at the Agoyan dam. The trail leads you to the Manto de la Novia Waterfall, where an exciting Tarabita (cable car) ride across the Rio Patate grants access to the waterfall on the opposite bank, eventually arriving at the breathtaking Pailón del Diablo, a majestic waterfall.

   A 30-minute trek through a lush tropical mountain forest will take you to the base of this awe-inspiring waterfall, with a return hike of 45-60 minutes back to the starting point. After this exhilarating adventure, you'll return to Baños.

Overnight at a Hotel in Baños

Ziua 4 · Visiting Chimborazo

1. 1

   Mount Chimborazo

   8 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Embark on a captivating adventure to Chimborazo Mountain, where the serenity of hiking at Earth's closest point to the sun will leave you both awestruck and, quite possibly, breathless. Relish the unique rush of adrenaline that accompanies ascending to altitudes exceeding 5000 meters at the colossal "El Chimborazo."

   Our journey commences with departure from Baños, with a brief technical stop for breakfast along the Panamerican Highway E35. Continuing onward, we venture into the Chimborazo Fauna Reproduction Reserve. Our ascent begins at the first refuge, the Hermanos Carrel Refuge, perched at a lofty 4800 meters. From this point, we'll hike further to reach the Whymper Refuge, situated at nearly 5000 meters above sea level. For those still seeking a higher thrill, there's even the opportunity to ascend a bit beyond the 5000-meter mark.

   Following a satisfying box lunch at the upper refuge, we'll retrace our steps to the lower refuge, where our return journey to Baños.

Overnight at a Hotel in Baños

Ziua 5 · Ozogoche Lagoons

1. 1

   Guamote

   6 ore

   In the early morning hours, our adventure kicks off as we travel southward to reach the lively indigenous market of Guamote. This market is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and is one of the most colorful in the country. The market is bustling with a wide array of products and even animals for sale.

   From there, we continue our journey into Sangay National Park, a UNESCO Natural Heritage of Humanity site. Here, you'll enjoy an easygoing hike of around 3 kilometers to one of the Ozogoche lakes. These lakes, are home to diverse wildlife. Along the trail, you'll find scenic viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the wild landscape and the surrounding mountains. It's a peaceful ecosystem that provides a perfect setting for relaxation, a breath of fresh mountain air, and a direct connection with nature.

   Our day ends in Guamote, a town steeped in history, culture, gastronomy, and religious traditions.

Overnight at a Hotel in Guamote

Ziua 6 · Alausí and Ingapirca Ruins

1. 1

   Oprirea 1

   6 ore

   After a relaxed hour-and-a-half drive, you'll find yourself in a whole new environment. Our first stop is the Devil's Nose viewpoint and Sibambe Train Station. While lunch, prepared by a local Kañari family (not included), you'll also get to partake in a special ritual ceremony, giving you a glimpse into the ancient traditions of the Kañari people.

   Moving on with our journey, we reach the Ingapirca Ruins, a site of great cultural significance and a part of the Inca Road system known as "Capac Ñan." Here, you can delve into various architectural marvels like the Temple of the Sun, Pilaloma, La Condamine, La Vaguada, Ingachungana, the Face of the Inca, the Turtle, Intihuayco, and the Stairway of the Ravine. Make sure to visit the Site Museum, where you can explore a collection of archaeological treasures discovered during the ongoing restoration efforts at the site.

   Our adventure concludes with our arrival in the charming city of Cuenca, where we'll drop you off at Parque Calderón.

Overnight at a Hotel in Cuenca

Ziua 7 · National Park "El Cajas"

1. 1

   El Cajas National Park

   6 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Following a delightful breakfast, we'll embark on a journey that will take your breath away. A mere 40-minute drive leads us to the awe-inspiring Cajas National Park, nestled in the western expanse of Cuenca. As we arrive, prepare to be captivated by the sheer natural beauty that surrounds you.

   Our adventure begins with a hike commencing at the enchanting Laguna "La Toreadora," where you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of the park's most prominent lake complex. From here, you'll traverse trails that wind through the highlands and their enchanting wetland moors. During this approximately two-and-a-half-hour hike, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the area's flora and fauna, including the renowned Polylepis trees. Each step of the way offers an opportunity to marvel at the wonders of this unique ecosystem.

   Upon returning to the vibrant city of Cuenca in the afternoon, you'll have the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Overnight at a Hotel in Cuenca

Ziua 8 · Full Day Cuenca

1. 1

   Cuenca

   6 ore

   Following a hearty breakfast, our day begins with an exploration of the picturesque city of Cuenca. We kick things off at the Pumapungo Museum, where history comes to life amid the remarkable archaeological site. Our journey then unfolds with a panoramic tour through the ancient quarters, showcasing the artisan neighborhoods steeped in colonial charm. We'll also delve into the vibrant atmosphere of central markets and visit captivating museums, including the Modern Art Museum and the awe-inspiring Cathedrals. As the day draws to a close, we'll savor the breathtaking views from the magnificent Turi viewpoint, leaving you with a lasting impression of this enchanting city.

   Later, we'll transfer you from your hotel to the airport, where a domestic flight will carry you to Quito. Finally, upon your arrival in the city of Quito, you'll be transported to your hotel, allowing you to unwind and rest after a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Overnight at a Hotel in Quito

Ziua 9 · City Tour Quito - Leisure afternoon

1. 1

   Quito

   4 ore

   Our journey begins as we pick you up and whisk you away to the heart of Quito's Historic Center. Here, you'll embark on a magical tour that winds through its charming streets, picturesque squares, and colonial residences, many of which trace their origins back to the XVI-XVIII centuries. Our first stop takes us to the neo-Gothic masterpiece, the Basilica. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by magnificent stained glass windows adorned with vibrant floral motifs, and the building's exterior is adorned with wildlife-inspired gargoyles. Ascend its towers for a panoramic view that will leave you in awe.

   Next on our itinerary is a visit to one of Latin America's largest convents, San Francisco. This sprawling complex is steeped in history and architectural splendor. Additionally, we'll explore the baroque marvel that is La Compañía church, where a fusion of various art forms converges amidst a dazzling interior gilded in gold.

Overnight at a Hotel in Quito

Ziua 10 · Discovering Otavalo

1. 1

   Otavalo

   6 ore

   Our trip follows the north to get to the Quitsato solar clock. This cultural site was built to measure the solstices and equinoxes, in pre-Hispanic times. The equator line crosses this place, therefore also considered the middle of the world.

   To get to know its gastronomy, we make a stop to enjoy a cup of Ecuadorian coffee or chocolate with local Biscuits. Our next stop is at Otavalo. A few minutes from our main destination, we stop at a viewpoint above the San Pablo Lake with Mount Imbabura in the background. Then we arrive to the biggest and most important indigenous handicraft market in South America.

   Stroll around La Plaza de los Ponchos, where you have about 2 hours for shopping before continuing to Cotacachi. Here we will find a craft market specialized in leather products; Our last visit is to the Cuicocha Lagoon located at 3068m (10.065.62 ft) in an active volcanic crater with islets or domes.

   Finally, you return to Quito to your hotel

Overnight at a Hotel in Quito

Ziua 11 · Departure

1. 1

   Quito

   Trecere fără oprire

   Start your day with a satisfying breakfast served at the hotel, and then our team will ensure a seamless transfer to the airport for your international flight.