de_DE
es_ES
Arrival into Quito City / Transfer to the Hotel
AM: You've arrived in Quito, the largest and best-preserved colonial city in the Americas, proudly declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Nestled in a valley at the foot of the Pichincha volcano, right on the equator, Quito is widely recognized as the Cultural Capital of South America.
In the evening, one of our friendly travel leaders will meet you in the hotel lobby for a welcome briefing. This will be a great opportunity to discuss all the exciting details of your adventure and answer any questions you might have. Today is all about acclimatizing and getting ready for the journey ahead!
City Tour Quito and Middle of the World
AM: This morning, we will explore Quito’s colonial center: the best preserved historic district in the Americas. Here, you can learn about Quito’s history and artistic legacy while admiring the stunning architecture of its colonial buildings and the uniqueness of its pieces of religious art.
This afternoon, we will continue to the famous “Middle of the World” complex on the equatorial line, where you’ll be able to straddle the planet’s two hemispheres. A great photo op..!!
Trekking Cotopaxi National Park
AM: Begin your adventure with a hike through the high-altitude sierra climate around Limpiopungo Lagoon (13,000 ft / 3,800 m), nestled at the foothills of the Rumiñahui volcano. From this vantage point, you'll witness the most spectacular views of Cotopaxi, the world's highest active volcano. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including wild horses, wild bulls, and various bird species, as you explore. Overnight at Cotopaxi National Park.
Trekking time: 2 hours on flat terrain around Limpiopungo lagoon.
Elevation: 12,631 ft
Elevation gain: 1,000 feet
Distance: 5 miles
Total steps: 15,345
Drive to Isinlivi / Afternoon Trekking
AM: After breakfast, you will drive for around 3 hours to Isinlivi area, after the check-in at the local hotel you will have the afternoon to trek around the area.
Isinlivi is a popular starting point for the Quilotoa Loop trek that offers stunning views of the Quilotoa Lagoon and the Toachi Canyon.
Trekking Through the Toachi Canyoon
AM: Today's trek will immerse you in the enchanting Andean Mountain landscapes, as we embark on a 13.5 km (8.4 mi) hike along the dramatic Toachi canyon. Prepare to be inspired by stunning vistas of small, traditional villages and the rhythmic sight of indigenous communities tending their fields. Our path will lead us down into the depths of the Toachi River canyon before ascending back to the main road. From there, we'll continue to Chugchilán, a quaint town nestled perfectly within the renowned Quilotoa loop, where our Eco-house accommodation awaits. In the afternoon, we'll have the wonderful opportunity to explore the village and gain a deeper cultural experience with the friendly locals.
Trekking time: 2 hours downhill from 10,810 ft (3,295 m) to the Toachi River at 9,500 ft (2,896 m), then 2 hours uphill to Chugchilán at 10,498 ft (3,200 m).
Total steps: 25,481
Trekking to Quilotoa
AM: After an early breakfast, our 11 km (6.9 miles) hiking adventure begins! We'll set out on ancient trails, still actively used by local mountain inhabitants to transport goods and navigate the deep canyons to neighboring communities. Along the way, you might witness the fascinating, traditional custom of bartering, a practice still thriving today. We'll venture deep into impressive canyons before ascending to the top of the crater rim, where you'll be utterly captivated by spectacular, breathtaking views of Quilotoa Lake. The sheer majesty of this place will truly take your breath away.
Following this incredible trek, enjoy a beautiful picnic lunch with panoramic volcano views. Afterward, we will drive to Latacunga city for overnight.
Trekking time: 1 hour downhill from 10,498 ft to the Toachi River at 9,800 ft, then 2.5 hours uphill to 13,000 ft. After, 1.5 hours on flat terrain.
Total steps: 27,518
Trek to Llanganates National Park
AM: Today, embark on a captivating 6-hour trek in Llanganates National Park, a place as renowned for its breathtaking landscapes as it is for its legendary mystery. According to local folklore, the Inca General Rumiñahui is said to have concealed a vast treasure of gold somewhere within the very Tungurahua mountain range you'll be exploring!
Your hike begins at 3,200 m (10,498 ft) and ascends to 3,600 m (12,024 ft), leading you through diverse and fascinating vegetation zones. On a clear day, you'll be rewarded with sweeping, panoramic views of both the Tungurahua and Sangay volcanoes, a truly spectacular sight.
After this magical trek, we'll return to the vibrant town of Baños. You'll have the perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate at a local spa, perhaps with a relaxing massage or a soothing soak in the town's famous hot springs. As evening falls, get ready to experience Baños' lively nightlife!
Hike the road of Waterfalls
AM: Baños: Nestled at the foothills of the active Tungurahua volcano, Baños is a vibrant town celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and thrilling adventure activities. A beloved getaway for many Ecuadorians, it offers lush mountain landscapes and a wonderfully relaxed, yet lively, atmosphere. Here, you can indulge in everything from horseback riding and canyoning to hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and rafting.
In the morning, we'll embark on the famous "Ruta de las Cascadas" (Waterfall Route). Our first stop is the picturesque Bride's Veil waterfall, where you'll experience a thrilling ride across the Pastaza River on a Tarabita (cable car). Following this, enjoy an invigorating one-hour hike to Pailón del Diablo (Devil's Cauldron), Ecuador's second-highest waterfall, where you'll truly feel the sheer power of nature.
Trekking time: 45 minutes downhill from 5,249 ft to 4,950 ft, then 1 hour uphill.
Total steps: 13,000.
Drive from Baños to Quito / Fly back home
AM: Today, our incredible adventure through Ecuador comes to a close as you prepare for your international departure. As you leave this enchanted land, we hope you take with you not just your photos and souvenirs, but also a collection of unforgettable memories and perhaps, a piece of your heart. Ecuador will be waiting for your return!
After breakfast, we will return to Quito to connect with your international flight back home.
Price per person
Double
USD$ 1985
Included in the price
- Private transportation.
- Accommodation based on double occupancy.
- Meals described in the itinerary
- Activities described in the itinerary.
- Certified expert English-speaking adventure guide.
Not included in the price
- International flight
- Travel insurance
- Meals not specified
- Tips & gratuities
- Sodas – Juices – Alcoholic drinks
