A complete tour through the highlands of Ecuador from the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage capital city of Quito to the equally lovely colonial city of Cuenca in the south, passing along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, including visits to historical haciendas, volcanic national parks and indigenous Andean market towns as well as a trip along the famous Devils Nose Train Ride.
Day 1 Arrive Quito
Private guided transfer in from flight to Boutique Hotel Café Cultura. Lunch on own. In the afternoon explore the historical centre of Quito. First stop is Itchimbia Park which offers fantastic views across Quito´s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then continue on to visit the neo-gothic Basilica, Independence Square where you find the Cathedral and Presidential Palace, La Compañia de Jesus church famous for its gold leafed interiors and San Francisco Square and church. Dinner and overnight in Boutique Hotel Café Cultura with breakfast included. (D)
Day 2 Quito – Cotopaxi
After breakfast begin the journey south towards the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes and enjoy a visit to the wonderful world of the Ecuadorian Paramo that is Cotopaxi National Park. The majestic snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano is the highest active volcano in the world. Lunch included at a local hacienda within the National Park. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Hato Verde including breakfast. (B,L,D)
Day 3 Cotopaxi
After breakfast set off for a full day tour to the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, with a stop off at the village of Tigua on the way to see the colorful paintings which are produced by the local indigenous artists. Box lunch provided. On arrival at Quilotoa enjoy a hike down to the beautiful blue/green waters of the crater lake. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Hato Verde including breakfast. (B,L,D)
Day 4 Cotopaxi – Baños
In the morning visit the village of Salasaca which is well known for the weaving of tapestries. The people here have a unique style of dress with black woven ponchos and wide-brimmed, white felt hats. After strolling around the market, visit the home of a master weaver, and learn all about the ancestral technique of backstrap weaving. Lunch on arrival at Hacienda Manteles. In the afternoon hike to the local Payacucho Waterfall which is located within the hacienda’s privately protected 200 hectare cloud forest reserve. This hike is suitable for all levels of fitness and takes around 1 and a half hours. The hacienda provides welly boots since the trail crosses small streams before arriving at the waterfall. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Manteles with breakfast included. (B,L,D)
Day 5 Baños
After breakfast head off towards Baños and from there follow the course of the Pastaza River towards Puyo, a stunning road trip which passes a number of beautiful waterfalls including the Manto de la Novia and the Pailon del Diablo. Return to the mountain spa town of Baños for lunch. In the afternoon enjoy a stroll around the main square and nearby streets, sample the local ‘melcocha’, a handmade toffee which is prepared on every street corner. Take a dip in the local hot springs. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Manteles with breakfast included. (B,L,D)
Day 6 Baños – Riobamba
Enjoy a morning hiking or relaxing at Hacienda Manteles. After lunch at the hacienda continue your journey onto the city of Riobamba located at the foot of the Chimborazo Volcano. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Abraspungo with breakfast included (B,L,D)
Day 7 Riobamba - Cuenca
After an early breakfast at the hacienda, continue you journey south along a breathtaking stretch of the Andes. Lunch included at a local hostería next to the Ingapirca ruins. Enjoy an afternoon visit to the magical Inca ruins at Ingapirca. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Caballo Campana with breakfast included. (B,L,D)
Day 8 Cuenca
In the morning enjoy a tour of the city of Cuenca including visits to the main churches, the flower market, a stroll along the river, the Turi lookout and local Panama hat factory. Lunch at a local top restaurant. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city some more or visit a museum of your choice. Dinner and overnight at Hacienda Caballo Campana with breakfast included. (B,L,D)
Day 9 Cuenca – Quito
After breakfast, set off to visit some of the surrounding market towns such as Gualaceo and Chordeleg. Lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon catch your return flight to Quito. Private transfer in on arrival in Quito airport. Dinner and overnight in Boutique Hotel Café Cultura with breakfast included. (B,L,D)
Day 10 Quito – home
Private transfer out to the airport to catch your international flight (B)
Includes: Private transportation with English speaking guide, accommodation and meals as specified (B,L,D), activities specified including city tours and entrance fees to visitors sights specified, flights Cuenca - Quito
Not Included: Meals on own, soft and alcoholic drinks, entrance fee to the Cotopaxi NP, extra activities at haciendas, tips and personal expenses.
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