ANDES & THE VOLCANOS AVENUE

Upon arrival at Quito airport, you will be met by your guide, who will transfer you to your hotel. Situated in a circle of Andean peaks, Quito is the world’s second-highest capital, with arguably one of the finest settings in the world. Originally settled by the Quitu tribe in the first millennium, Quito was an important part of the Inca Empire, before being destroyed and re-founded by Spanish conquistador Sebastián de Benalcázar in 1534. The colonial center, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978, is one of the largest and best preserved in Latin America. It is home to excellent museums, churches, and art galleries. Accommodation in Casa El Eden or similar

Your day begins with a visit to the iconic Chimbacalle Train Station, a historic site that once connected Ecuador by rail and now marks the exciting return of the legendary Alausí – Nariz del Diablo route. As you explore this beautifully restored station, you’ll feel the spirit of Ecuador’s railway heritage come alive, setting the tone for a day filled with discovery.

We then venture into the heart of Quito’s historic center, the largest and best-preserved in the Americas. Walk along the Calle de las Siete Cruces, admire centuries-old facades, and reach Plaza de la Independencia, where history and daily life blend in perfect harmony. Along the way, you’ll meet a family of traditional sweet makers and delight in a tasting of Ecuadorian chocolate, discovering the art behind each flavor.

The journey continues with a stop at La Compañía, a baroque jewel, before diving into the world of La Escuela Quiteña, where local artisans keep the city’s colonial beauty alive. You’ll even get a chance to create your own handicraft.

In La Ronda and San Marcos, you’ll feel Quito’s vibrant cultural pulse, through music, art, and warm community vibes. Wander through colorful streets, hidden galleries, and charming cafés. To end on a high note, enjoy a mini bar tour with sweet pairings and local drinks, before stepping into a restored 17th-century house—now an experiential boutique hotel. Here, you’ll meet a local painter whose specialties include train-themed art, and join in a unique creative session inspired by your journey. Cap it all off with a welcome drink on a rooftop terrace, taking in stunning views of El Panecillo and the historic city below.

Accommodation in Casa El Eden or similar

After enjoying an early breakfast, the tour will depart Quito heading south through the famous “Avenue of the Volcanoes.” Almost midday, you will arrive in the National Park, which is located 60 km away from the city of Quito.

The Cotopaxi Volcano is one of the most important landmarks in Ecuador because it is the highest active volcano in the world. Lush endemic flora and fauna of the area can be observed, including: one of the most representative species is the Chuquiragua (also known as the mountaineer’s flower), wild horses, deer, llamas, and more.

Whilst in the National Park you can also visit Limpiopungo Lake, located near Rumiñahui volcano (149.96 meters), or go hiking to observe the birds. At the end of the day, we will arrive at Baños to rest for the next day of the adventure.

Accommodation in Floresta Hotel or similar

Located in a valley of waterfalls and hot springs, Baños has become a mecca for international travelers seeking year-round good temperate weather, a small-town atmosphere, and a base for exploring the great Ecuadorian outdoors. Baños or bath in English is named after its famous hot springs and thermal baths. There is a lot on offer from waterfalls, adventure to horse riding, and don’t miss the active Tungurahua volcano, which is visible from anywhere in Baños.

We will take a short tour and visit the center. The city enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate. Later, we begin the route of waterfalls, including Agoyan, Heavens Door (Puertas del Cielo), Weddings Veil (Manto de la Novia), Devils Pan (Pailón del Diablo), Machay, and many more.

Accommodation in Floresta Hotel or similar

After breakfast, you will head to the province of Chimborazo. Here you will find many trails perfect for hiking and expeditions through various ecosystems such as paramos, lakes, mountains, and Andean forests. Chimborazo, (6,310 meters/20.697 feet above sea level) is Ecuador’s highest mountain.

Its name comes from Quechua: Chimborazo, razo, rasu = snow and chimbo probably from chimbana = to cross, since three snow-covered passes surround the mountain.

Lush endemic flora and fauna of the area can be observed, including one of the most representative species: the Chuquiragua (also known as the mountaineer’s flower). You will also see lamas and several birds. Furthermore, you experience the unique environment of the Andean paramo.

Accommodations in Chimborazo Lodge or similar

After an early breakfast, the tour continues departing Riobamba to the south, as we head for Alausi where we will board the train to the “Devil’s Nose”. En route we will make several stops, visiting the Balbanera Church, Colta Lake, and the indigenous town of Guamote (Note, Thursday is market day).

Mid-morning, you will arrive at the town of Alausi, where we will begin our adventure on Ecuador’s famous “Devil’s Nose” train. About a four-hour ride, we will return to Alausí in the early afternoon. Our bus will be waiting to take us to Ingapirca, and tour members are more than welcome to pack a box lunch to enjoy along the journey.

Continuing on, we will pay a visit the Ingapirca fortress, located at 3100m above sea level. These ancient ruins are the most important in the country. Their true history is still a mystery, as studies state they could have been a fortress, an observatory or a temple.

After visiting the ruins we will finish our trip on the road to Cuenca, arriving in the early evening for an optional dinner and free evening.

Accommodation in San Juan Hotel or similar

Just after breakfast, the tour will depart, heading northwest towards Cajas National Park. After a short drive we will arrive at Cajas National Park where we will be able to take part in different activities such as hiking, fishing, bird-watching, viewing flora and fauna, and more. We can visit the Interpretation Center placed in La Toreadora Lake (the biggest and the most important in the whole complex).

Here we will see pictures and presentations of the park.

Accommodation in San Juan Hotel or similar

Today after breakfast we will enjoy a city tour of Cuenca. Cuenca is Ecuador’s third largest city; yet it still retains its pleasant provincial air. Its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas and museums make it very special and the city is considered by many the most beautiful in all of Ecuador. Today we will enjoy a full day city tour to discover, at a leisurely pace, the beauty and charm for which Cuenca has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site. This is a walking tour in the colonial downtown area of Cuenca, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of its people, the colourful parks and plazas, religious monuments and handcraft shops, plus an explanation of Cuenca’s history.

In the afternoon, visit a workshop where Panama straw hats of the best quality are made and then drive up to the hill of Turi to admire the city.

Accommodation in San Juan Hotel or similar

Following your final breakfast in Cuenca, your guide will meet you to ensure a smooth and comfortable departure. They will accompany you on a private transfer to Mariscal Lamar Airport (CUE) to board your domestic flight. This flight will connect you to your international departure from either Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito or José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil for your journey back home.