Arrival in Quito.
Transfer in.
Accommodation in Mercure.

The tour begins with a great view of the Orellana's way and Guapulo Sanctuary (XVII Century). We will continue towards the downtown, where we will take a walk visiting the Independence Square, surrounded by historically important buildings, such as the Cathedral (XVI Century), the Presidential Palace, El Sagrario Church (XVII Century), and one of the most beautiful baroque churches in South America, La Compania de Jesus (XVII Century).

After some stops to take pictures or just to get your breath back, we will visit the Church and Monastery of San Francisco built a few months after the Spaniards arrival (XVI Century). The tour finishes with a visit to the Panecillo Hill where the Virgin of Quito, (the only winged virgin) is located. From this perspective you will be delighted by the spectacular view of Colonial Quito mainly. Afterwards continue this amazing tour, 15 km north of Quito, towards the Middle of the World. Lunch in a nice restaurant. Here you will have two options, either to visit the Ethnographic Museum, located inside the Equator Monument, which shows a display of the main cultures of Ecuador. This monument was built to commemorate the Geodesic Scientific Mission, which came to Ecuador, during the 19th century, in order to study and measure the Earth Meridian. Or, visit the Inti Nan Museum, a scientific and cultural Museum, located in the exact place where the Equator Line crosses and where you will be shown with different scientific experiments that you are truly standing on the 0° Meridian. Return to Quito in the afternoon. Acccommodation in Mercure Alameda.

We will drive north towards the Province of Lakes, Imbabura. During the trip you will taste the different flavors of northern highlands cultures and landscapes. Our first stop is in Calderon Town, well known for its bread figures. Then, we will continue towards Guayllabamba Valley, where you will be delighted by the different tastes of typical exotic fruits. Continuing north we will arrive in Cayambe Town, where you will enjoy the magnificent view of the snow-capped mountain, Cayambe (5,790 m), the worlds highest point where the Equator Line crosses, and of course taste the famous salt biscuits with leaf cheese. Arriving to our final destination, Otavalo, you will be impressed by the picturesque view of the Imbabura Mountain and the San Pablo Lake. We will visit the famous Otavalo Indian Market (shopping possibilites), Cotacachi Village, well know for its leather products, and the Cuicocha Crater Lake. Return in the afternoon to Quito. Accommodation in Mercure Alameda.

Drive along "The Volcanoes Avenue" towards the world's highest active volcano, Cotopaxi (5,897 m). Drive on a third order road through a Pine forest to Limpiopungo Lake located 3,800 meters above sea level along the slopes of the magnificent Cotopaxi Volcano (If desired it is also possible to drive to a parking lot in order to hike towards the Rivas Refuge). In the afternoon drive to Riobamba and visit the city. Overnight in a nice Hacienda.

After breakfast, transport to Alausi. On the way visit El Colta Lagoon, and La Balbanera Church, the first spaniear church built in Ecuador. From Alausi enjoy a train ride to "The Devil's Nose". Later on drive to Ingapirca Ruins, an Inca Complex built over the ruins of a Canari settlement, an important native culture of Southern Ecuador, so it is also possible to find ruins of this culture. In the afternoon continue to Cuenca. Overnight in Hotel El Dorado.

After breakfast enjoy a tour to this magnificent city declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage of Mankind. Visit the downtown, where during a short walk, we will visit the Old and the New Cathedrals, the flowers market, where you can appreciate the different kinds of flowers that grow in this region, the Rotary Market, where you can find many different handycrafts. Afterwards, visit a factory of the famous Panama Hat. We will finish this city tour by enjoying the beautiful landscape that offers Tomebamba River, the one that divides Modern city and Old city. Lunch in a nice restaurant. Free afternoon.

Drive to Guayaquil through the spectacular Cajas roads. After four hours of driving you will be delighted with the change of altitude and landscape. The road reaches 4,000 meters of altitude and is surrounded by a beautiful Paramo landscape, full of lakes. This adventure ends at sea level, where the agriculture of the coast plays an important role in the landscape. Arrive in Guayaquil and overnight in Hotel Unipark.

Transfer out to the airport for a flight back to the United States.

2-3 pax

$1325.00

4-6 pax

$980.00

7-10 pax

$780.00

Single Supp

$280.00

All Prices Subject to Change

• Private Transport
• English Speaking Guide
• All Entrance Fees
• Noted Meals
• Hotel Accommodation in Double Room with Breakfast Included

• Other Meals
• Tips
• Personal Expenses
• International Departure Tax