13 Days Andes and Coast

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Arrival In Quito⌄

   Passengers are promptly collected from the airport upon arrival for their international flights and seamlessly transported to their accommodations in Quito.

   Overnight: Overnight at Quito, a 3-star Hotel

2. 2A Journey from Quitsato to Cuicocha⌄

   Travel the Pan-American Highway to the Quitsato solar clock—a pre-Hispanic site designed for precise solstice and equinox measurements at the equator's midpoint. Enjoy Ecuadorian coffee, rich chocolate, and local cakes resembling oven-baked bread during a pit stop. Witness the intricate preparation process. Continue to Otavalo, pausing at a viewpoint overlooking San Pablo Lake and Mount Imbabura. Explore Otavalo's La Plaza de los Ponchos, a vibrant indigenous market, for approximately two hours of immersive shopping in crafts and textiles. Head to Cotacachi, known for its specialized craft market, with a 45-minute window to explore charming shops.

   The journey concludes at Cuicocha Lagoon, nestled in an active volcanic crater at 3,068 meters, adorned with picturesque islets. Return to your Quito hotel, completing a memorable and enriching excursion.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch

   Overnight: Overnight at Quito, a 3-star Hotel

3. 3Exploring Quito's Colonial Treasures⌄

   Commence your day with a delightful hotel breakfast, setting the stage for an enchanting exploration of Quito's Historic Center. Embark on a magical tour through winding streets, charming squares, and colonial-era buildings dating back to the 16th-18th centuries—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978. Our first stop unveils the neo-Gothic marvel, the Basilica. Adorned with intricate floral motifs on stained glass windows and whimsical gargoyles representing Ecuador's wildlife, it promises to captivate your senses. Ascend the lofty towers for a panoramic vista. Continuing, we visit Latin America's largest convent, San Francisco, with its rich history and architectural grandeur leaving a lasting impression. The journey leads to the baroque gem, La Compañía church, celebrated for its fusion of artistic styles and opulent interior layered in gold leaf—a testament to its time's artistic and architectural achievements.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight at Quito, a 3-star Hotel

4. 4From Cotopaxi to Quilotoa: An Andean Adventure⌄

   In the morning, embark on a scenic 2-hour drive along the central Panamerican Highway, which will lead you to the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park. Here, you'll have a unique opportunity to explore the exquisite handicrafts crafted by the local community, showcasing their remarkable craftsmanship. Upon reaching the high plateau, you'll embark on a hike around the picturesque Limpiopungo lagoon, allowing you to intimately observe the rich flora and fauna of the area. Following a brief drive up the slopes of Cotopaxi volcano to the "parking lot," your ascent to the refuge begins. From this vantage point, savor a hot beverage while taking in the breathtaking expanse of the Cotopaxi National Park's Paramo (Andean Highlands), set against the backdrop of the dormant volcanoes Ruminahui, Pasochoa, and Sincholagua.

   Following a satisfying lunch, the journey continues towards the mesmerizing turquoise Quilotoa lagoon, believed to be the final resting place of the Inca civilization. First, you'll reach the Toachi Canyon viewpoint, an awe-inspiring area sculpted by volcanic pyroclastic flows, creating a magnificent gorge that traverses the Iliniza Reserve. En route, you'll have the chance to visit a Tigua handicraft workshop, where the customs and traditions of the local people are preserved through their naive paintings. Upon arrival in the Quilotoa community, prepare to be spellbound by the breathtaking vistas from the viewpoint overlooking the majestic lagoon. Finally, your journey will lead you to the charming Andean village of Baños, a fitting conclusion to a day filled with natural wonders and cultural encounters.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight at Baños, a 3-Star Hotel

5. 5Baños: Gateway to Adventure and Relaxation in Ecuador's Heartland⌄

   Explore Baños, the charming gateway to the Amazon rainforest, nestled near the active volcano Tungurahua. Experience a perfect climate and myriad opportunities for thrilling adventures and nature wonders. Optionally, unwind with a bath in the rejuvenating hot thermal springs, enhancing Baños' well-deserved reputation among travelers. Your journey starts with a scenic drive along the Route of the Waterfalls, beginning at the Agoyan dam. Encounter the enchanting Manto de la Novia Waterfall, where a Tarabita cable car ride across Rio Patate provides access to the waterfall on the opposite side. Continuing past the Mirador de San Jorge viewpoint, reach the awe-inspiring Pailón del Diablo, a 100-meter waterfall. A 30-minute hike through a lush tropical mountain forest brings you to the waterfall's base for an up-close experience. After exploration, a 45-60 minute walk returns you to the starting point. Return to Baños, where the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight at Baños, a 3-star Hotel

6. 6A High Altitude Adventure⌄

   Embark on a breathtaking expedition to Chimborazo Mountain, promising an unrivaled encounter with tranquility and Earth's closest proximity to the sun. Scaling beyond 5000 meters at "El Chimborazo," this adventure leaves participants speechless and breathless. Departing from Baños, the journey begins on Panamerican Highway E35, unfolding through the Chimborazo Fauna Reproduction Reserve. The expedition officially starts at the Hermanos Carrel Refuge (4800 meters), leading to the Whymper refuge at nearly 5000 meters, offering a remarkable experience and an adventurous opportunity to surpass the 5000-meter mark. A well-deserved box lunch at the upper refuge marks a pinnacle before descending to the lower refuge. The return journey concludes with a scenic drive to Baños, ending this extraordinary escapade memorably.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight at Baños, a 3-star Hotel

7. 7Guamote Market and Ozogoche Lakes: Cultural and Natural Discovery⌄

   The day's journey begins early, retracing the route to the Panamerican Highway and heading south to Guamote's vibrant indigenous market—a kaleidoscope of Kichua traditions and local life. Strolling through bustling streets, adorned with products and animals, delivers a captivating cultural experience. Venturing into UNESCO-listed Sangay National Park, a 3 km hike to Ozogoche lakes unveils diverse wildlife and highland flora. Panoramic viewpoints showcase the untamed beauty of surrounding mountains, offering a tranquil nature escape. Immerse in the serenity of this pristine ecosystem, savoring peace and fresh air.

   The day concludes in Guamote, a city rich in history, culture, and gastronomy—a perfect retreat for relaxation in your hotel.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight at Guamote, a 3-star Hotel

8. 8Devil's Nose to Ingapirca Adventure⌄

   After a scenic drive lasting an hour and a half, you'll find yourself in an entirely different and captivating environment. Your first stop will be the viewpoint of the Devil's Nose and the Sibambe Train Station. Here, you'll have the opportunity to soak in breathtaking views and witness the remarkable engineering feat of the Devil's Nose train route.

   You'll have the chance to partake in a culinary experience by enjoying lunch prepared by a local Kañari family (lunch is not included). This is an opportunity to savor authentic flavors and immerse yourself in the local culture. Additionally, you'll be invited to share in a ritual ceremony with the family, offering a glimpse into the ancient traditions of the Kañari people, adding depth to your cultural exploration. Continuing with your tour, you'll arrive at the Ingapirca Ruins, a site of great historical significance and cultural heritage. This site is a crucial part of the Inca Road system known as "Capac Ñan." As you explore the grounds, you'll encounter various architectural units, including the Temple of the Sun, Pilaloma, La Condamine, Ingachungana, the Face of the Inca, the Turtle, the Intihuayco, and the Stairway of the Ravine. Additionally, you'll visit the Site Museum, which houses a collection of archaeological artifacts unearthed during the ongoing restoration of the site.

   Finally, your journey will lead you to the charming city of Cuenca, where your tour concludes with a drop-off at Parque Calderón.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight at Cuenca, a 3-star Hotel

9. 9Cuenca through your eyes⌄

   Commence your day in Cuenca with a delightful breakfast, marking the beginning of an enriching exploration. The Pumapungo Museum, situated on the historic Inca site of Pumapungo, unveils the region's deep history. Stroll through colonial artisan neighborhoods, immersing in the city's charm at central markets, where unique artisanal treasures may be found. Your cultural journey continues with visits to museums like the Modern Art Museum, showcasing contemporary regional expressions, and the majestic cathedral, an architectural testament to Cuenca's rich history. The day concludes at the Turi viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panorama of the city and its colonial center, a picturesque perspective capturing the essence of Cuenca. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, providing flexibility for personal exploration or relaxation in this charming city that caters to diverse traveler preferences. Cuenca promises a myriad of experiences for every visitor.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Overnight at Cuenca, a 3-star Hotel

10. 10Cajas National Park and Chocolate Delights: From Highlands to Coast⌄

    After enjoying a hearty breakfast, a scenic 40-minute drive will transport you to the magnificent Cajas National Park, nestled to the west of Cuenca. Your adventure begins with a hike to Laguna "La Toreadora," offering the perfect vantage point to observe the park's most significant lake complex. Here, you'll be surrounded by the pristine natural beauty of the highlands. Following your visit to the Laguna, you'll embark on a trek that spans up to two and a half hours, allowing you to explore the highlands and its unique wetland moors. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to learn about the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this remarkable ecosystem, including the famous Polylepis trees, which are emblematic of the region.

    In the afternoon, your journey continues as you reach a typical coastal agroecological farm. Here, you'll have the chance to enjoy lunch (please note that lunch is not included) and immerse yourself in the world of cocoa. Explore the cocoa plantations, gain insights into the harvesting and drying processes, and savor the rich flavors of chocolate through a tasting experience. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to visit a chocolate workshop, where you can learn the art of crafting chocolate bars.

    Finally, after a brief drive of approximately one hour, you'll arrive in the vibrant city of Guayaquil to pick up passengers. From there, you'll embark on the last leg of this eventful day, making your way to Montañita and ultimately your hotel in Puerto Lopez. Despite the journey's length, the diverse experiences and stunning landscapes along the way promise to make it a memorable adventure.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Overnight: Overnight at Puerto López, a 3-star Hotel

11. 11Isla de la Plata, Ecuador's Hidden Paradise for Seabirds and Marine Wonders⌄

    morning expedition to Isla de la Plata, aptly named the "Silver Island," from the small port. This natural haven is a seabird paradise, hosting species like blue-footed boobies, red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigate birds, and cuckoos. A 2-hour guided walk on scenic trails introduces you to the island's flora, fauna, and rich ancestral history, featuring tales of pirates. Explore dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and secluded bays. The highlight is snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, immersing yourself in a diverse marine ecosystem. Swim alongside colorful fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and majestic manta rays. Depending on the season (June to September), spot humpback whales. A satisfying box lunch awaits as you return to the port, concluding a day filled with adventure. The afternoon is yours to savor at leisure.

    Meals: Breakfast · Lunch: Box Lunch

    Overnight: Overnight at Puerto López, a 3-star Hotel

12. 12Exploring the Heart of Ecuador's Coastal Jewel⌄

    Continue your journey with a transfer to Guayaquil, immersing yourself in a day of exploration. Seminario Park, a favorite among Ecuadorian couples, welcomes you with resident land iguanas basking in the sun. The Gothic-style Cathedral showcases architectural splendor, followed by a stroll along the famous waterfront promenade, "El Malecón," tracing the Guayas River. Visit historic government buildings like the "Palacio Municipal" and "Palacio de Gobernación," with the Moorish clock tower, "La Torre Morisca," offering panoramic views. Explore La Rotonda, commemorating the pivotal meeting of Simon Bolivar and Jose San Martin. The tour unveils Las Peñas, a charming district on Cerro Santa Ana, where brightly painted wooden houses dot the landscape. The day concludes, leaving you free to explore more of Guayaquil, indulge in local cuisine, or simply soak in the vibrant city ambiance at your leisure.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Overnight: Overnight at Guayaquil, a 3-star Hotel

13. 13Farewell to Ecuador⌄

    Your day begins with a hearty breakfast served at the hotel. After enjoying your meal, our team will provide transportation to the airport, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey as you prepare to embark on your international flight.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Overnight: None