Quito to Cuenca 4 or 5-Day Tour with Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños and Chimborazo

Day 1 · Quito to Cotopaxi Volcano National Park

1. 1

   Laguna de Limpiopungo

   1 h 30 min Admission included

   Upon arrival at Cotopaxi National Park, we explore the unique high-altitude páramo ecosystem surrounding Limpiopungo Lagoon. With Cotopaxi Volcano (5,897 m) rising dramatically in the background, enjoy a gentle walk while learning about the biodiversity of this fragile Andean environment and its ecological importance. This is an excellent opportunity for wildlife observation and panoramic photography.

2. 2

   Cotopaxi National Park

   2 hours

   We will drive up to the Cotopaxi parking area at 4,500 meters above sea level, where the ascent begins toward the José Rivas Refuge at 4,810 meters on the slopes of Cotopaxi, Ecuador’s second-highest peak at 5,897 meters and one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, as well as one of the country’s most iconic highlights; this challenging yet rewarding hike can be adjusted to your fitness level and pace, and once at the refuge you may rest, warm up with a hot drink or soup, acclimate to the altitude, and, if weather and conditions allow, continue toward the glacier for an even closer encounter with this majestic Andean giant.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   1 h 30 min Admission included

   After the hike, we descend from the high slopes of Cotopaxi and continue to a traditional local restaurant, Rondador, located on the outskirts of the park, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy authentic Andean cuisine in a warm, rustic setting. Following lunch, don’t forget to ask for a few carrots to feed the friendly llamas in the garden, a charming and memorable experience, before taking in one last spectacular view of Cotopaxi rising over the páramo. Later, transfer to your selected nearby hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight in Cotopaxi area, Tailored to Your Selected Hotel Category

Day 2 · Quilotoa Crater Lake & Andean Scenic Landscapes

1. 1

   Quilotoa

   4 hours

   Embarking on a journey southward along the celebrated ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes,’ we will reach the majestic Quilotoa Lake. This stunning crater lake, nestled in Ecuador’s Andes, is renowned for its 250-meter depth and vibrant turquoise waters colored by dissolved minerals. It is a treasured destination for those in pursuit of awe-inspiring vistas and the excitement of hiking. Guests have the option to trek down to the crater’s edge or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the rim. For those desiring additional adventure, kayaking and horseback riding are available for an additional fee.

2. 2

   Canon del Rio Toachi

   15 min Admission included

   A geological marvel in Ecuador, formed by pyroclastic flows from the Quilotoa volcano’s eruption around 1280. It’s a favorite spot for outdoor lovers, and we’ll be making a brief stop to enjoy the scenery.

3. 3

   Galeria del Primer Pintor de Tigua - "Julio Toaquiza Tigasi"

   30 min Admission included

   The Tigua painters of Ecuador are celebrated for their vivid sheepskin paintings that capture the essence of Andean life and traditions. Visiting Tigua offers a chance to see these artworks come to life and to connect with the indigenous culture through community engagement and learning about their sustainable lifestyle.

Overnight in Cotopaxi area, Tailored to Your Selected Hotel Category

Day 3 · Baños Adventure: Tree House, Route of the Waterfalls & Pailón del Diablo

1. 1

   La Casa del Arbol

   2 hours Admission included

   After a scenic 40-minute drive from Baños, we begin with a short uphill walk to the iconic Tree House, home of the famous “Swing at the End of the World.” This viewpoint, featured in National Geographic, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tungurahua Volcano and surrounding valleys. The area is surrounded by beautiful gardens filled with flowers that attract hummingbirds, making it a true paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

2. 2

   Banos

   3 hours

   We continue along the renowned Route of the Waterfalls, a spectacular canyon road that follows the Pastaza River through lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs. Along the 45-minute drive, we stop at several viewpoints to admire cascading waterfalls and take photos of the surrounding landscapes. For those seeking extra adrenaline, there is the option to cross the valley in a cable car (tarabita) suspended above the river gorge. Adventurous travelers may also choose to participate in activities such as zip lining, bungee jumping, giant swings, and other adventure experiences, available for an additional cost paid directly on site.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   2 hours Admission included

   Our final highlight is the impressive Pailón del Diablo, one of Ecuador’s largest and most powerful waterfalls. A scenic two-kilometer walk through forest trails and hanging bridges leads us to close-up viewpoints where you can truly feel the force of the cascading water. This natural wonder is considered one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country and a memorable finale to the day.

Overnight in Baños or Riobamba, Tailored to Your Selected Hotel Category

Day 4 · Chimborazo Volcano Highlands & The Legendary Devil’s Nose Route

1. 1

   Mount Chimborazo

   3 hours Admission included

   We will drive through the dramatic highland landscapes for approximately two hours to reach the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, home to Ecuador’s highest peak and the point on Earth closest to the sun when measured from the planet’s center. Surrounded by vast páramo plains and roaming vicuñas, this impressive volcano offers a unique high-altitude experience.

   Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take a one-hour hike toward the second refuge at nearly 4,875 meters above sea level. This is a spectacular destination for geology and volcanology enthusiasts, where you can witness striking evidence of the Earth’s geological history. The hike is flexible and can be adjusted according to your interests and fitness level.

2. 2

   The Devil's Nose Train Ride

   3 hours Admission not included

   Discover one of Ecuador’s most dramatic Andean landscapes at the legendary Devil’s Nose Mountain, an extraordinary feat of railway engineering carved into near-vertical cliffs. This iconic route, once considered a masterpiece of railroad construction, continues to captivate visitors with its breathtaking scenery.

   The Devil’s Nose Train now operates from Friday through Sunday. If your itinerary falls on one of these days, we can gladly assist with booking the train tickets in advance. On non-operational days, the experience can still be enjoyed from scenic viewpoints or via a short guided hike along the mountain trail, offering equally impressive panoramic views of the zigzagging railway and surrounding valleys.

3. 3

   Cuenca

   2 hours

   Continue your journey south through the scenic Andean highlands toward Cuenca, enjoying changing landscapes of mountains, valleys, and traditional villages along the way. Upon arrival in the city, we will provide a comfortable drop-off at either Cuenca Airport or your selected hotel, marking the conclusion of your 4-day tour.

   End of services for the 4-day itinerary.

Overnight in Ingapirca or Cuenca (Fourth night included only in the 5-day tour option)

Day 5 · Cuenca City Tour — Choose Your Afternoon Adventure: Cajas or Ingapirca Ruins

1. 1

   Cuenca

   4 hours

   Cuenca earns its UNESCO World Heritage status at every turn — and this guided half-day tour shows you exactly why. Walk through the historic center, admire the iconic blue domes of the New Cathedral with its gold-leaf altar, and soak up the color of the local flower market. A visit to Homero Ortega's hat factory reveals the true story behind the famous Panama Hat — spoiler: it's entirely Ecuadorian. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace.

2. 2

   Ingapirca Ruins

   4 hours Admission included

   Just two hours from Cuenca stands Ingapirca, Ecuador's most important Inca archaeological site and a place where two powerful civilizations left their mark. Explore ancient temples, ceremonial platforms, and the iconic Sun Temple — a testament to the fascinating blend of Cañari and Inca cultures that once thrived here. With expert guides bringing the history to life, this is one of those stops that turns a sightseeing moment into something you'll actually remember. Drop-off at your preferred location — either the airport or your selected hotel.

3. 3

   El Cajas National Park

   4 hours Admission included

   a short drive leads you into one of Ecuador's most otherworldly landscapes — Cajas National Park, a high-altitude reserve where hundreds of glacial lakes shimmer between rolling hills and ancient Polylepis forests. The ever-shifting weather adds a mystical quality that makes every visit feel different. Hike through the páramo, stand at the continental divide, and breathe in some of the cleanest air on the continent. Raw Andean nature at its finest. Drop-off at your preferred location — either the airport or your selected hotel.