Ecuador Experience

On arrival in Quito we will be met and transferred to the group hotel. This afternoon we will take a tour of this fascinating city. There are features of interest in both the new and old parts of the town. Our tour may include San Agustin Monastery, Independence Plaza, La Compania Church and a view of Quito from Panecillo Hill. In the evening, you are free to sample some of the wonderful local seafood or grilled meats in one of the city's many fine restaurants. Overnight Patio Andaluz or similar.

Meals: Nil

We will drive north through beautiful Andean countryside to the famous market town of Otavalo. The markets here date from pre-Incan times when people came from jungle areas to trade their produce with those of the highlands. This is still the case today, as well as offering many crafts and wares for tourists. It is considered by many to be one of the best markets for textiles and crafts in South America. Time permitting we hope to have the opportunity to visit the surrounding area around Otavalo. The main market day is Saturday; but Wednesday, Friday and Sunday are also good. Overnight Las Palmeras or similar.

Meals: B

This morning, we will head south past Quito towards the foot of Cotopaxi volcano. Nestled in the foothills of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world, our hacienda accommodation provides the perfect setting for those wishing to enjoy this unique countryside (3500-4000m approx). This afternoon and tomorrow morning, we shall have the opportunity to visit Cotopaxi National Park, or simply relax and enjoy the historic hacienda with its pretty gardens and eucalyptus grove. Overnight Hacienda la Cienega or similar.

Meals: B

This morning we will visit Cotopaxi National Park. In the afternoon, we will be transferred south through the Avenue of the Volcanoes. This route offers great views of various volcanoes, including Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Sangay and Altar. Overnight Hosteria Abraspungo in Riobamba or similar.

Meals: B

This morning, we will embark on a scenic land journey through the generous valleys of the austral Ecuadorian Andes. On the route, you will stop for a visit to a small indigenous community where you will learn about the planting and harvesting process of Quinoa, a protein-rich grain that has fed Andean people for thousands of years, and has just recently been adopted by high cuisine worldwide. The local women will take you to the plantations to show you the ins and outs of the harvesting process. Next, we will reach the town of Alausi, an indigenous settlement that has not changed much in centuries. Here we will go to a panoramic lookout from where to observe a segment of the famous Ecuadorian interregional railroad. Built in 1861, it is considered a masterpiece of railway engineering, commonly named “the most difficult railway in the world”. Sadly it has stopped operating, but we can admire its complex layout in the rocky cliffs. Our journey continues to Ecuador’s most significant Inca site of Ingapirca at 3160m. Though famed as a classic Inca site, Ingapirca, actually translates to “Wall of the Incas”, but is thought to be sacred to the Canari Indians prior to the Inca’s. Ingapirca was strategically positioned on the main ancient highway from Quito to Cusco and soldiers would have settled here to maintain order in this region. The highlight here is the elliptical Temple of the Sun, which crowns a rocky hillock that was considered a sacred place by ancient tribes. Mysterious tombs are silent witnesses of the fierce power disputes that occurred here before the final Spanish invasion in the 15th century. From Ingapirca we will then be transferred to our hotel in Cuenca. Overnight Los Balcones in Cuenca or similar. PLEASE NOTE: Ingapirca site is not open on Monday, Tuesday Christmas and New Years Day, an alternative site of Coyoctor will be visited if you are heading to Cuenca on these days. Coyoctor is an archaeological site known for its large stone monoliths and structures associated with the Cañari culture. It is believed to have been a ceremonial and astrological center. Carved stones have been found here, suggesting the possible existence of a calendar or an astronomical observation system. It is known for its megalithic monuments and their possible connections to astrological practices and the observation of the sun and stars. It is also considered an important ceremonial center for the Cañaris before the arrival of the Incas.

Meals: B

This morning after breakfast, we will enjoy a city tour of Cuenca, the third largest city in Ecuador and UNESCO World Heritage listed. Perhaps because of its isolation, Cuenca has kept its old-world architectural charm and its colonial ambience, with its cobbled streets and many buildings of interest. Many visitors consider it to be the most beautiful city in the country, as well as the centre of arts and crafts, such as jewellery making and ceramics. This afternoon we will drive 5 hours to Guayaquil. On our way we stop at a Cacao Hacienda for a delicious coastal lunch in a peaceful and cozy atmosphere. We will also visit the plantation and learn about the production process from the cacao bean to the end product 'chocolate'. This visit wouldn't be complete without a chocolate tasting! You will also see mangos, papayas and other species from the Dry Tropical Forest at the Hacienda. After this visit we continue our way to Guayaquil for our last night in Ecuador. Overnight Unipark Guayaquil or similar.

Meals: B,L

Transfer to Guayaquil airport, where trip concludes

Meals: B