Day 1: Arrival Quito
Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you will be greeted by an English and Spanish-speaking local guide who will accompany you on a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a warm welcome and the convenience of having a friendly expert to assist you, share local insights, and answer any questions about Ecuador.
Overnight in Quito.
Day 2: Quito – Cotopaxi (100km – 2hrs)
Start the day with a pick-up at your hotel from Quito and travel south to explore two Ecuadorian treasures: the vibrant rose plantations and the awe-inspiring Cotopaxi National Park. Discover the process behind Ecuador’s world-famous roses before heading to the high Andes. At Cotopaxi, walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon, spot Andean birds, and, if the weather allows, ascend to the José Rivas Refuge (4,800 m). Enjoy a special break with hot herbal tea in the middle of the páramo, with spectacular views of Cotopaxi. Lunch will be served in a cozy mountain lodge.
Overnight in Cotopaxi.
Day 3: Cotopaxi – Quilotoa – Baños (140km – 2.5hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel journey along the Avenue of the Volcanoes toward Quilotoa. Depending on the day, visit a traditional indigenous market such as Zumbahua or Saquisilí, full of colors and sounds.
TUI Wow Moments: Tigua Community Painting Workshop – Discover the artistic soul of the Andes in the heart of the Tigua Community, famous for its colorful naïf paintings that capture everyday Andean life. Instead of just admiring the artwork, you’ll step into the role of an artist yourself. Guided by a local artisan, you’ll create your own painting, drawing inspiration from the breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions that surround you. A truly authentic experience that lets you take home not just a memory, but your very own masterpiece.Next, arrive at Quilotoa Lagoon and choose between hiking down to its turquoise waters or admiring the view from above. Enjoy an Andean lunch in a nearby community. A day filled with culture, art, and the natural wonders of the Ecuadorian Andes comes to an end. In the late afternoon, we’ll continue our journey toward the charming town of Baños, gateway to adventure and relaxation.Overnight in Baños.
Day 4: Baños – Riobamba (75km – 1.5hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel. Early pick-up from the hotel for a scenic drive to the hamlet of Runtún. The visit includes the Tree House with its iconic Swing at the End of the World, located at 2,660 meters at the foot of the Tungurahua Volcano. From this spot, enjoy panoramic views while learning about the eruption history of this active volcano. The journey continues along the spectacular Waterfall Route, which connects the Andes with the Amazon Basin. Following the course of the Pastaza River, the road offers views of numerous waterfalls and hills covered with cloud forest. A one-hour hike leads to the impressive Devil’s Cauldron waterfall, where the water plunges into a narrow canyon. In the afternoon, transfer to Riobamba and check in at the hotel.
Overnight in Riobamba.
Day 5: Riobamba – Chimborazo Reserve – Riobamba (100km – 2.5hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, home to Ecuador’s highest peak. The journey passes through traditional indigenous communities and the impressive La Chorrera Canyon, carved thousands of years ago by volcanic activity. Upon arrival, the route continues along a scenic dirt road to the Carrel Refuge (4,850 m). From here, a one-kilometer trail leads up to the Whymper Refuge (5,050 m), offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscape and a chance to experience the high-altitude páramo. After descending, the adventure continues in the La Moya Community, where a traditional Andean lunch will be served. The visit also includes the Mountain Museum, which tells the fascinating story of the legendary Chimborazo ice harvesters and their enduring traditions. In the afternoon, return to Riobamba with drop-off at your hotel.
Overnight in Riobamba.
Day 6: Riobamba – Ozogoche – Ingaprica – Cuenca (265km – 5.5hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we travel toward the Ozogoche Lagoons, passing by Lake Colta and visiting the historic Balbanera Church, the oldest church in Ecuador, built by the Spanish in 1534. Discover the mystical beauty of the Ozogoche Lagoons, a sacred site surrounded by the Andean highlands, steeped in ancient legends. Located within Sangay National Park, these cold, crystal-clear lagoons offer breathtaking scenery, perfect for connecting with nature, learning about local indigenous traditions, and, with some luck, spotting Andean birdlife. A peaceful and spiritual experience in the heart of the Andes. We then continue to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most important archaeological complex, where you will explore the fascinating history of the Cañari and Inca civilizations. Finally, we proceed to Cuenca.
Overnight in Cuenca.
Day 7: Cuenca – Cajas National Park – Guayaquil (196km – 3.5hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart from your hotel in Cuenca and head into the stunning landscapes of Cajas National Park. The adventure begins at Llaviuco Lagoon (3,100 m), where a gentle one-hour walk reveals the beauty of the Andean cloud forest. The journey continues to Tres Cruces (4,160 m), the park’s highest point, where a short trail leads to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking a mosaic of valleys and glacial lakes, a perfect spot for photos and learning about this unique ecosystem. Finally, reach Toreadora Lake (3,900 m), the starting point for a 2.5-hour hike through highland grasslands, the mystical San Luis forest, and a chain of shimmering lakes including Unidas, Totoras, and Patoquinuas. Depending on conditions, the hike concludes either at Toreadora or Patoquinuas parking area. Afterwards, enjoy a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant before descending dramatically from the cool Andean peaks to the warm coastal plains, arriving comfortably in Guayaquil, Ecuador’s bustling port city.
Overnight in Guayaquil.
Day 8: Guayaquil Deparure
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. End your journey with unforgettable memories of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences.
