As varied as the landscapes of the Andes Mountains and the rainforest through which this journey will take you, so diverse are the people you will be encountering here. You will experience the diversity of fascinating Cultures on the Equator!
As varied as the landscapes of the Andes Mountains and the rainforest through which this journey will take you, so diverse are the people you will be encountering here. You will experience the diversity of fascinating Cultures on the Equator!
Arrival in Quito
Quito - As you approach Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the vast Andean capital, Quito.
Quito - Upon landing, your driver will be ready to greet you and take you to your hotel in Quito.
Transfer to Baños via Quilotoa Lagoon with a Photo Stop
Quilotoa - Today’s journey takes you…
Arrival in Quito
Quito - As you approach Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the vast Andean capital, Quito.
Quito - Upon landing, your driver will be ready to greet you and take you to your hotel in Quito.
Transfer to Baños via Quilotoa Lagoon with a Photo Stop
Quilotoa - Today’s journey takes you into the western Ecuadorian Andes to visit the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon. This breathtaking crater lake was created by a massive volcanic eruption centuries ago. Stroll along the crater’s edge to take in the magnificent views and snap some memorable photos. Then, continue your drive to Baños, where you’ll settle into your accommodations for the night.
Banos - Nestled in a valley of waterfalls and hot springs, Baños offers plenty for visitors to enjoy. Your private guide/driver will make several stops along the way for you to capture photos of the volcanoes.
This charming town is famous for two main attractions: its naturally heated thermal baths, which give Baños its name, and its adventure sports. The surrounding area boasts mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and hot springs to explore.
Check into your hotel and relax before visiting the swing at the end of the world, where you and your family can marvel at the stunning Llanganates and Sangay National Park mountains. To end the day, enjoy a soak in the hot springs.
Baños - Guamote & Tasting Guamote
Chimborazo Province - Next, we’ll head to the project area to showcase various handicrafts produced by the sewing project, available for purchase by travelers and travel agencies.
After the tour, enjoy hot, freshly brewed coffee and delicious empanadas in the dining area.
Full-day Communities
Exploring the Ancient Ingapirca Ruins: A Private Journey through History and Culture
Ingapirca Ruins - This morning, continue your journey south to Cuenca with a stop at the Ingapirca ruins, the most significant ruins in Ecuador.
From there, drive to Cuenca and spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. Make the most of your time in this Andean city by strolling around Parque Calderón and visiting the blue-domed Catedral Nueva. Other notable landmarks include the Catedral Vieja and the Tomebamba River waterfront promenade, where you can purchase unique handicrafts.
Cuenca - Welcome to Cuenca!
Arriving in the highlands of Ecuador at about 2,560 meters (8,400 feet) above sea level, Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical buildings and its significance as an agricultural and administrative center.
The day is yours to explore at your own pace.
Drive from the Highlands to the Coast: Cajas National Park to Guayaquil
El Cajas National Park - After a traditional local breakfast while enjoying the landscapes of Cuenca, you’ll drive to Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil.
On the way, you’ll pass through El Cajas National Park, home to 200 glacial lakes and numerous hiking trails, making it one of Ecuador’s most beautiful spots, located 105 miles (32 km) west of Cuenca. During the trek, you’ll cross gaps and Polylepis forests, with your guide explaining the moorland vegetation. The highlight will be the Garden of the Virgin of Cajas or Tres Cruces Viewpoint at 13,648 feet above sea level (4160 masl).
After a lunch stop, you’ll embark on a 3.5-hour drive, reaching one of the highest points in the Ecuadorian highlands before descending toward the coast. You’ll pass rice plantations on your way to Guayaquil, where you’ll check into your hotel and spend the rest of the evening at your leisure.
Guayaquil - After a lunch stop, you’ll embark on a 3.5-hour drive, reaching one of the highest points in the Ecuadorian highlands before descending toward the coast. You’ll pass rice plantations on your way to Guayaquil, where you’ll check into your hotel and spend the rest of the evening at your leisure.
Depart Ecuador
Guayaquil - At the designated time, your private driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil for your scheduled flight.
- 3-star hotel accommodation in double rooms.
- Private English-speaking driver for the entire journey.
- Daily breakfast included.
- Lunch provided.
- All entrance fees for specified attractions and activities.
- 3-star hotel accommodation in double rooms.
- Private English-speaking driver for the entire journey.
- Daily breakfast included.
- Lunch provided.
- All entrance fees for specified attractions and activities.
- Domestic and international flights
- Travel insurance
- Optional excursions
- Personal expenses such as tips
- Alcoholic drinks
- Any other meals, drinks, and/or services not mentioned in the program
- Domestic and international flights
- Travel insurance
- Optional excursions
- Personal expenses such as tips
- Alcoholic drinks
- Any other meals, drinks, and/or services not mentioned in the program
If you cancel at least 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
If you cancel at least 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.