12 Days From The Andes To The Coast Ecuador’s Diverse Delights

As you wing your way into Quito, the walls of this Andean valley rise to greet you as do the volcanic peaks all around. The city spreads across the valley floor, climbing its sides up narrow, winding roads. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once you land and take care of the formalities, a driver will meet you and take you to your hotel, a charmingly colorful place with welcoming rooms.

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Embark on an unforgettable journey along the iconic Pan-American Highway, beginning with a visit to the Quitsato solar clock in Cayambe, a cultural monument on the equator with stunning views of the snow-capped Cayambe volcano. Savor authentic Ecuadorian coffee and the region’s famous Bizcochos before heading to Otavalo, home to South America’s largest indigenous handicraft market. Take in breathtaking views of San Pablo Lake and Imbabura Hill, then enjoy shopping at the vibrant La Plaza de los Ponchos and Cotacachi’s artisan leather market. Conclude your adventure at the stunning Cuicocha Lagoon, nestled in a volcanic crater, where a short walk to a viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the lagoon’s turquoise waters and islets. Return to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

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Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, setting the tone for a day of exploration. You'll be picked up and whisked away to the captivating Historic Center of Quito, where every cobblestone, plaza, and colonial structure tells tales of centuries gone by. This cherished district earned its UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 1978, and it's not hard to see why. Our adventure begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Basilica, a neo-Gothic masterpiece. Its stained glass windows come alive with vibrant floral scenes, while playful gargoyles pay homage to the country's rich wildlife. Climb the towers for a sweeping view that will surely steal your breath away. Next, step into the grandeur of the San Francisco convent, a sprawling testament to history, and be captivated by the opulent baroque splendor of La Compañía church, where various artistic styles seamlessly blend within gold-adorned interiors.

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You will start your day at Cotopaxi National Park. You will visit Lake Limpiopungo, located in the highlands of the park. Here, you will have a spectacular view of Cotopaxi Volcano's gigantic cone. Lake Limpiopungo offers a variety of birds, and occasionally even wild horses. A short walk around the lake will allow you to admire the Andean plant and animal life along the way. Then, you will visit another highlight: Quilotoa Lagoon. This 2-mile (3 km) wide crater lake is filled with 820 feet (250 m) of mineral-rich green water. Hike along the lake's outer rim, enjoying the views from three lava domes, or follow a path to the lake itself. Hiking in the area, especially uphill, can be challenging, so consider renting a mule for some help along the way. After exploring the lake, it's time to travel south to Baños de Agua Santa, a city on the edge of the Amazonian Basin known for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls.

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Choose your adventure today: Option 1: Explore Baños along the scenic Waterfall Route, visiting stunning cascades like Manto de la Novia and Pailón del Diablo, with optional cable car rides and forest hikes. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon back in Baños. Option 2: Immerse yourself in the Amazon with a visit to an animal rescue center, a guided jungle hike to a hidden waterfall, and breathtaking views of the jungle canopy from Indichuris lookout. Both promise unforgettable experiences!

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Enjoy a free day in Baños de Agua Santa, a paradise for adventure and relaxation. Soak in the rejuvenating hot springs, explore the vibrant town, or hike to stunning waterfalls. Embark on an exhilarating bike ride along the famous Ruta de las Cascadas, and try your hand at canyoning, zip- lining, or bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush. Experience the thrill of white-water rafting, take a scenic cable car ride, or visit the Swing at the End of the World for breathtaking views. With its diverse activities set against a backdrop of lush landscapes, Baños offers something for every traveler.

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Begin your journey in Baños, traveling through the breathtaking Andean highlands with a scenic stop at Chimborazo Volcano, Ecuador’s highest peak and a stunning natural landmark. Continue to the historic town of Guamote, nestled in the heart of the Andes. Here, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the local indigenous communities. Visit traditional villages, learn about their customs and way of life, and interact with skilled artisans who share their craft and heritage. This enriching experience offers a perfect blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and authentic cultural connections, making it an unforgettable adventure.

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Embark on a captivating journey from Guamote to Cuenca, enriched with historical and cultural experiences. Departing from Guamote, you'll travel through the picturesque Andean highlands, making your way to the Ingapirca Ruins, Ecuador's most significant Inca-Cañari archaeological site. At Ingapirca, explore the ancient complex, including the unique elliptical Temple of the Sun, agricultural terraces, and courtyards. Learn about the fascinating history and architectural prowess of the Inca and Cañari civilizations from knowledgeable guides. After immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Ingapirca, continue your journey to the charming city of Cuenca. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Cuenca offers a blend of historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and a lively cultural scene, making it a perfect destination to conclude your adventure.

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Start your day with a visit to the Pumapungo Museum, an archaeological site that unveils Cuenca’s rich Inca heritage. Wander through the city’s charming artisan neighborhoods and bustling central markets, where colonial architecture and vibrant local culture come to life. Explore the Modern Art Museum, showcasing contemporary artistic expressions, before admiring the grandeur of Cuenca’s majestic cathedral. Conclude your journey at the Turi viewpoint, where breathtaking panoramic views offer the perfect snapshot of this historic city’s beauty.

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After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic 40-minute drive to Cajas National Park, a stunning natural reserve west of Cuenca. Begin with a hike to Laguna "La Toreadora," where you can marvel at the park’s pristine highland lakes. Continue your adventure with a two-and-a-half-hour trek through the highlands, exploring wetland moors and learning about the unique flora and fauna, including the iconic Polylepis trees. In the afternoon, visit a coastal agroecological farm, where you’ll enjoy a cocoa plantation tour, learn about the chocolate-making process, and savor a delicious chocolate tasting. Conclude your day with a short drive to the vibrant city of Guayaquil.

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Embark on a captivating city tour of Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, starting with a visit to Seminario Park, famous for its sunbathing land iguanas and romantic atmosphere. Marvel at the Gothic-style Cathedral, then dive into the city’s history with stops at the "Palacio Municipal" and the "Palacio de Gobernacion" (Government Palace). Climb the Moorish-style La Torre Morisca for panoramic views of the city, before learning about the historical significance of "La Rotonda," where Simon Bolivar and Jose San Martin met. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic "El Malecón" waterfront promenade, and finish your tour by exploring the charming, colorful district of Las Peñas atop Cerro Santa Ana, offering a rich mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

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At the designated time for your international flight, your private driver will be waiting for you at your hotel lobby to help you with your luggage and drive you to the airport for your departure.

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