DAY
1
Depending upon your arrival time, there is a city tour of Quito which is home to an array of beautiful cathedrals, elegant old mansions, interesting museums, squares and parks. This outstanding cultural, architectural and artistic heritage led Quito to be declared the first Cultural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978. The day is rounded up at our Quito Hotel.
DAY
2 (B-L)
Upon pick up from your hotel we drive north to Otavalo, to visit the indigenous market. Here natives from the mountains descend into the valley to sell their crafts, textiles, musical instruments and goats in the tiny town of Otavalo. This is the most famous indigenous market on the continent and the warmhearted Otavaleños are certain to charm you. Here we spend the day bargaining with the locals over fine sweaters, tapestries and woodwork. We will also visit the leather city of Cotacachi and the crater lake of Cuicocha. At the end of the day we drive back to Quito.
DAY
3 (B-D)
As we travel to the south of Quito, we visit Ecuador’s first National Park, home to Cotopaxi, known to be a place of worship by the natives for centuries. It is the second highest summit in the country dominating the landscape with a height of 5,897m. It is possible to explore the Andean moorlands all the way up to the snow line (4,800m) where many species of highland birds dwell.
DAY
4 (B-D)
Continuing our drive south through the beautiful "Avenue of Volcanoes" we arrive at Riobamba, known as the liveliest city in Ecuador's Central Andes, Riobamba has old colonial charm, with cobbled streets, stately squares and popular Saturday markets. Once here, we visit Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest volcano of 6,310m famously regarded as the farthest point from Earth's centre and if weather conditions permit us we visit the Chimborazo refuge lodge. Before drawing our day to an end in a typical hacienda, we visit Guano, a well-known handmade rug and tapestry center, if time permits.
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DAY
5 (B, Box Lunch, D)
The day commences with a trip through the highlands offering spectacular views of Chimborazo. Arrive to Alausi to begin a breathtaking descent down the Nariz del Diablo, a 45-degree gradient mountain. Once back in Alausí we drive south towards the fortress of Ingapirca, a major pre-colonial Inca site which dates back to the 15th century. This is the most important religious and political monument left by the Incas and the many pre-Columbian cultures that once dwelled in this area. It is a direct testimony of their mechanisms of defense and how the Incas really lived. Before returning to Cuenca in the late afternoon to enjoy a well deserved rest at the hotel.
*Important: Due to operational reasons and rail maintenance the train portion of the trip is subject to cancellation without previous notice. The train operates everyday except on Monday and early wake up is required to complete this trip. Supplement for premium service on train $15 (panoramic window, more comfortable seating, Non-alcoholic soft drink, snack).
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DAY
6 (B-D)
Regarded by many as the most charismatic colonial city in the country with something of a European flavour, Cuenca boasts some of Ecuador's most unusual indigenous communities as well as remote landscapes. Famed for its huge cathedral and the smaller Indigenous cathedral its market places and handicrafts are living testimony to the regions rich indigenous and artesian heritage. While here we encounter the cities major areas of interest letting its cobblestone streets, graceful wrought-iron balconies and florid squares captivate us.
DAY
7 (B-D)
Making our way to Guayaquil, we drive through the largest Ecuadorian Lake complex known as "El Cajas", continuing across the lowlands we pass sugarcane and banana plantations among many others. Shortly after lunch we visit the Historical Park of Guayaquil, which is made up of three main areas; Wildlife, Traditions and the Urban Architectural Zone. Focusing on the introduction of local Fauna and Flora, a lot of which are on the near extinction list, this park offers you the opportunity to witness these scarcely seen species. In addition to these there are also theatrical performances that take place twice a day and although they are in Spanish, they are very enjoyable. Open from Wednesday through to Sunday, this park is an educational and cultural experience. The day draws to close in Guayaquil where we spend the night.
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DAY
8 (B) Guayaquil. Transfer out
Transfer from your hotel to the airport.
Prices 2013 per person:
| Standard | Luxury | Accommodation | |
| 1 person | USD3537 | USD3938 | single room |
| 2 people | USD1983 | USD2323 | double room |
| 3 people | USD1548 | USD1944 | triple room |
| * 4 people | USD1733 | USD2040 | double room |
Prices include: Private transportation with an english speaking guide, breakfast and dinner (not in Quito), Box Lunch during the train trip, entrances to Museums in Quito and Cuenca, Ingapirca and train ticket., all transfers, Cotopaxi and Cajas National Park
* Tours for 4 passengers and up will have a private guide and driver due to local tourism regulations
Ecuador Scenic Standard hotel accommodation:
Ecuador Scenic De luxe hotel accommodation:
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