Embark on a breathtaking 9-day journey through the captivating landscapes and cultural wonders of Ecuador. This immersive tour showcases the highlights of this diverse country, from its historical treasures to its natural splendors.
Below is a simple itinerary:
Day 1: Quito City Tour and Middle of the World. Explore the historic and architectural gems of Quito, including the impressive Basilica, La Compañía church, and Plaza Grande. Experience the unique thrill of standing with one foot in each hemisphere at the Middle of the World monument. Discover fascinating scientific phenomena at the Inti Ñan Museum.
Day 2: Day Tour Venture to Otavalo. famous for its indigenous culture and vibrant handicraft market. Delve deeper into the local traditions with a visit to a weaving workshop and a chance to witness indigenous music played by a talented family.
Day 3: Quilotoa Lake. Travel south through the stunning "Avenue of the Volcanoes" to reach Quilotoa. Marvel at the majestic Andean views and the breathtaking Quilotoa Lake. Descend to the crater's edge, either on horseback or by foot, and explore the surrounding indigenous markets (dependent on market days).
Day 4: Cotopaxi National Park. home to the magnificent Cotopaxi Volcano. Explore the Paramo biodiversity and learn about the ecological importance of the area. Embark on a short hike and ascend to the first refuge of the volcano for stunning views. Optional further ascent to the glaciers (weather permitting).
Day 5: Amazon Day trip. Discover the essence of the Amazon with a day trip from Baños. Visit a Quichua community, enjoy a canoe ride, marvel at Inchinduris Viewpoint, and be captivated by Hola Vida Waterfall. Experience culture and nature in one day.
Day 6: Baños and the Waterfalls. Embark on a short hike to the famous "Treehouse," offering breathtaking valley views and a unique swing experience. Journey along the enchanting waterfalls route, with stops at beautiful cascades such as Pailon del Diablo and El Manto de la Novia. Enjoy thrilling activities like cable car ride or zip-lining.
Day 7: Devil's Nose Hike - Ingapirca - Cuenca. Hike to the best viewpoint of the Devil's Nose Mountain and admire the stunning Andean landscapes. Learn about the engineering marvels involved in the creation of the Devil's Nose train route. Visit a local family farm to experience the region's crops and culture. Explore the ancient Incan ruins of Ingapirca, where the Incas merged with the native indigenous community.
Day 8: Cajas National Park - Drop off at the Airport. Embark on a professionally guided tour of Cajas National Park, featuring a gentle 1.5-hour hike through the biodiverse Llaviuco cloud forest and a scenic 2-hour journey across the Toreadora grasslands, showcasing breathtaking vistas of Andean lakes and landscapes. This excursion epitomizes the harmonious fusion of peaceful exploration and exhilarating discovery within Ecuador’s splendid natural sanctuary.
Day 9: Cuenca Half-Day City Tour - Drop off at the Airport. Discover the beauty of Cuenca, known as Ecuador's most beautiful city. Explore traditional neighborhoods, visit the flower market, and marvel at the grandeur of the "New Cathedral." Observe the intricate process of Panama hat-making and explore the terraced houses of the Barranco area. Enjoy a panoramic view of Cuenca from the Turi viewpoint. Then we will drop you off at Cuenca airport to take your flight back to Quito.
Immerse yourself in Ecuador's rich history, natural wonders, and vibrant culture on this unforgettable 9-day tour. Experience the best of this diverse country and create lasting memories of your journey through its breathtaking landscapes and captivating attractions.
English/Spanish
SUV or Van based in the number of participants
8-Breakfast / 7-Lunch / 2-Dinner
As detailed in the itinerary
Based on category selected
Embark on an immersive Quito city tour that takes you on a captivating journey through the city's rich history and cultural landmarks. Begin your exploration at the magnificent Basilica del Voto Nacional, an architectural masterpiece with its intricate details and stunning panoramic views from the top. Continue to the historical district, where you'll walk through the charming streets, visiting the main square and its surrounding attractions. Marvel at the grandeur of the cathedral and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of San Francisco plaza.
But the adventure doesn't stop there! Your tour continues to the Middle of the World, where you'll visit the Inti Ñan Museum. Step onto the equatorial line and learn about the fascinating scientific and cultural significance of this unique location. Engage with interactive exhibits that demonstrate the effects of being on the equator and discover ancient indigenous traditions.
🛌Overnight in Quito.
🍽️Meals: Breakfast
Embark on an extraordinary expedition that delves into the vibrant heart of Ecuador’s indigenous heritage. Your journey commences with a scenic drive through the enchanting Andean landscapes, where each turn unfolds breathtaking vistas that captivate the soul.
As you arrive in the storied town of Otavalo, the illustrious Plaza de Ponchos awaits—a bustling epicenter renowned as the largest indigenous market in South America. Here, you will encounter a congregation of local artisans, each presenting their exquisite creations. Meander through the market’s corridors, adorned with hand-woven textiles, meticulously crafted jewelry, and a diverse collection of artisanal treasures, each narrating the rich tapestry of ancestral artisanship.
The day’s exploration continues with a visit to a revered workshop of Andean musical instruments, offering a glimpse into the melodious traditions of the region. Next, we journey to Cotacachi, a town celebrated for its fine leatherwork, where the artistry of generations is etched into every piece.
🛌Overnight in Quito.
🍽️Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Embark on an unforgettable Cotopaxi tour and discover the majestic beauty of the second-highest peak in the Ecuadorian Andes. At 5,897 meters high, Cotopaxi Volcano will leave you in awe. Venture into the Cotopaxi National Park and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the Paramo ecosystem while gaining ecological insights into its significance. Take a leisurely stroll in the enchanting Limpiopungo area, where breathtaking views of the volcano await you, weather permitting. Marvel at the grandeur of Cotopaxi and create memories that will last a lifetime surrounded by the pristine landscapes and natural wonders of this iconic destination.
🛌Overnight in Cotopaxi area
🍽️Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We continue on an extraordinary Quilotoa tour as we journey through the renowned "Avenue of the Volcanoes," revealing breathtaking vistas of the Andes, Quilotoa lake, and the vibrant landscapes of the surrounding moors. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Quilotoa as you descend to the edge of the crater lake, embracing its mesmerizing beauty. Choose to return on horseback or indulge in a leisurely walk along the rim, taking in the panoramic views. Delve into the local culture and artistic heritage with a visit to a Tigua Painters workshop, where you can witness the renowned craftsmanship and creativity that defines this region. Uncover the secrets of Quilotoa and create lasting memories of this enchanting journey.
🛌Overnight in Baños
🍽️Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Puyo, nestled in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage as you visit a local Quichua community and learn about their traditions and way of life. Take in breathtaking panoramic views from the Inchinduris viewpoint and embark on a thrilling canoe trip along the scenic Pastaza River. Indulge in a delightful chocolate workshop, where you'll discover the secrets of making delicious Amazonian chocolate. For the adventurous, an optional hike to the magnificent Hola Vida Waterfall awaits. Experience the wonders of the Amazon in this immersive and exciting day excursion.
Overnight in Baños
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Prepare for an exhilarating day tour in Baños that will leave you in awe. Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of Pailon del Diablo Waterfall as its mighty cascades captivate your senses. Discover the enchanting Manto de la Novia Waterfall, where you can feel the refreshing mist on your skin. Don't miss the chance to visit the iconic Tree House and indulge in panoramic views of the lush surroundings. If you're seeking adventure, soar through the sky on the thrilling Vuelo del Condor or challenge yourself with an exhilarating rafting experience. Baños offers an unforgettable blend of natural wonders and adrenaline-pumping activities, ensuring a day filled with excitement and unforgettable memories.
🛌Overnight in Riobamba
🍽️Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We continue our journey as we travel south from Riobamba to Cuenca, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Ecuador. Our first stop takes us to the legendary Devil's Nose Mountain, where we'll have the opportunity to indulge in a short hike and soak in the mesmerizing views of the surrounding scenery. While the train experience is currently unavailable, we'll make the most of our time by exploring this remarkable location by road. Continuing our adventure, we'll visit the awe-inspiring Ingapirca Ruins, a significant Inca-Cañari archaeological site that showcases the fascinating ancient culture of Ecuador. Prepare to be captivated by the historical wonders that await on this remarkable journey.
🛌Overnight in Cuenca
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a 40-minute drive from Cuenca, our Cajas tour begins with a stop at the Llaviuco area, here we will embark on a 1.5-hour hike through the ecosystem of primary montane forest, also known as cloud forest. This hike offers you the opportunity to see the dense flora and beautiful views, as well as the possibility of seeing various bird species such as hummingbirds toucans, etc.
Then, we will visit the dividing inland waterway, where you'll have the chance to see some of the park's impressive 200+ lakes and our guide will explain about their importance as a water source for Cuenca and southern Ecuador.
Our tour will continue with an amazing 2-hour moderate hike in the highlands through the moorland ecosystem of wetlands and lakes to get to the unique forest of polylepis trees. These are the highest-growing trees in the world and are native to South America. You will learn about the diverse flora and fauna that calls the park home and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Before returning to Cuenca and dropping you of at the airport, we will have a delicious lunch at a traditional restaurant in the area, where the specialty is trout. The tour is a perfect combination of adventure and culture.
🛌Overnight in Cuenca
🍽️Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience the captivating beauty of Cuenca on our enchanting Cuenca City Tour. Delve into the city's rich heritage as you explore the historical downtown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its charming cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Discover the picturesque neighborhoods of San Sebastián and San Francisco, immersing yourself in their fascinating history. Immerse your senses in the vibrant 10 de agosto market and the colorful flower market. Marvel at the grandeur of the main square and the impressive New Cathedral. Witness the art of Panama hat making at a local factory and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views from the Turi viewpoint. It's a journey through the cultural and natural wonders of Cuenca.
Drop off at the Cuenca airport
🍽️Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
