Classic Ecuador

Day 1  Quito      
Upon arrival transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or explore this charming city at your leisure.      

Day 2  Quito      
This morning enjoy a walking tour of Quito’s beautiful old town. Highlights include the impressive Independence Plaza, the Presidential Palace and the spectacular Monastery of San Francisco. Later travel to the Equatorial Monument and stand along the equator at latitude 0°.      

Day 3  Otavalo      
Depart early and travel north through incredible Andean scenery to reach the vibrant market town of Otavalo. Explore the bustling stalls whilst haggling for colourful handicrafts and textiles. Later visit local artisans in Peguche, an indigenous village famous for its intricate weaving, before returning to Quito.      

Day 4  Quito to Riobamba      
Today travel down the spectacular Avenue of the Volcanoes. Marvel at the picture- perfect cone of the Cotopaxi Volcano and look out for the unique flora and fauna of this region. Wind through the mountains towards Riobamba alongside Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest mountain.  

Day 5  Riobamba to Cuenca  
Begin your day with a visit to an indigenous community on the outskirts of Riobamba. Later, head to the small village of Guamote to see how the Inti Sisa Foundation supports the education of the local community. Continue on through stunning Andean scenery to the Inca ruins of Ingapirca, before arriving in the charming city of Cuenca this evening.      

Day 6  Cuenca      
Enjoy a half day tour around the city’s splendid colonial centre. Explore handicraft and flower markets and see the giant blue domes of the cathedral which dominate the skyline before driving along the attractive Tomebamba River.      

Day 7  Cuenca to Guayaquil  
Drive to the vibrant coastal city of Guayaquil. En route visit El Cajas National Park to see the beautiful lakes and scenery of this Andean cloud forest.

Day 8  Guayaquil      
After breakfast, transfer to the airport.