Andean Highlights Tour

Welcome to Ecuador! The Andean Highlights Tour starts here. At arrival at Quito’ international airport, your local guide will meet and greet you. Without further ado, he will take you to your hotel in Quito’s buzzing new town.

Pick up at around 8:30-08:45. First of all, you will enjoy Breakfast at the Hotel. Right after this, your tour begins with a visit to the capital of Ecuador. Quito is located at 2.850 meters above sea level. Therefore, it is nestled in a green Andean Valley. In fact, Quito is one of the oldest cities in South America. Additionally, it has preserved numerous monuments and artistic treasures of the Spanish colonial period. Hence, the colonial Centre of the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978. Surely you will be guided to some of the city highlights: El Sagrario, La Compania, Santo Domingo, La Merced and San Francisco. Later on you will see the “El Panecillo” hill. Due to this, you will have a great view above Quito. Without delay, the trip to the famous Equator Monument “Middle of the World” begins. In fact, it is located in a dry valley on the northern outskirts of Quito. Over there you will explore the Museum in Inti Nan. Of course, it was built next to the equator monument. Also, you will see a lot of experiments. Generally, there are proving the exact location of the equatorial line.

Meals: Breakfast

The Andean Highlights Tour will bring you towards the Cotopaxi province. Our first stop will be the indigenous market of Pujili, a treat for the senses. We will continue along winding roads that pass the most beautiful landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes to reach the picturesque Crater Lake Quilotoa. From the crater rim, it’s possible to walk down to the turquoise lake shores, a hike worth taking. No need to worry about the way back, because there are horses and mules (not included in the program) to help with the climb. Enjoy the unique magic and beauty of this crater lagoon.

Meals: Breakfast

In the morning, you will discover the Cotopaxi National Park and the diverse flora and fauna. While being already there, you will take a hike to the Limpiopungo lagoon. By the way, this lagoon is in a 3800 meters’ height. Later on you will see many rose plantations. In Fact, Ecuador is famous for those roses. Additionally, there will be a guided tour through the plantation. Afterwards the trip continues to Baños. A lively City known for thermal hot springs and its beautiful cathedral.

Meals: Breakfast

Finally, you are in Banos. A city with a pleasant climate. Due to its height of only 1.800 meters. Whenever you can, you should have a look at the beautiful cathedral. Otherwise, just enjoy the unique scenery. Soon enough, the “waterfall route” will begin. In fact, you will walk along the Pastaza Canyon to get to Rio Verde. The final destination will be the Devil’s cauldron, which is a massive, thundering waterfall. The Andean Treasures Higlights Tour continues to the highest volcano in Ecuador. In this case the Chimborazo which has a 6.320 meters’ height. The Edward Whymper refuge offers a great view from an altitude of 5,000 meters. Ultimately, the day ends in Riobamba.

Meals: Breakfast

Today will be an early start for you. You go on a hike near the village of Alausí. Since the train ride unfortunately is not possible anymore, you explore this stunning landscape by foot. Also, it would be a great idea to have lunch on the way to Ingapirca. Because it is one of the largest Inca sites in Ecuador. There you can learn a lot about the Inca and Canari cultures as well. Afterwards you are going to Cuenca. Firstly, check in to your hotel. Then you can enjoy some local dinner options.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, the Andean Highlights Tour will start in the beautiful colonial city of Cuenca. Also, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will show you the imposing new cathedral and the flower market. Further, you will visit a museum dedicated to the famous Panama braided hat. Soon enough, you can have lunch at a restaurant. Otherwise, you can look for a local fusion cuisine. In fact, you’ve got the afternoon free. So you can explore this charming city on your own.

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, head west to cross El Cajas National Park. There is surely a lot to see. A variety of plant and animal life. As well as over 200 lagoons. The next Destination will be Guayaguil. Alongside the way, you will drive through a lot of different plantations. They differ from cocoa, banana to rice and even sugar cane. Once you have arrived, it is time to check in the hotel. Within the city is a lot to see. See the Parque Bolívar or the Plaza de Administracion. Further, you can take a look at the Moorish Clock Tower. Also, there is the Malecón 2000 boardwalk. Additionally, you can visit the artist district of Las Penas. Round off your tour with a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast

Hopefully you enjoyed the Andean Highlights Tour! Say your goodbyes to Ecuador – it’s time to catch your return flight. Or go on and head to the Galapagos Islands. We would be happy to assist you on various available options!

Meals: Breakfast