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ESSENCE OF ECUADOR
Day 1 London to Madrid
Madrid to Quito
Depart London Heathrow on the Iberia flight to Madrid and connect with the Iberia flight to Quito, where you will be met and transferred to the Patio Andaluz Hotel for two nights.
Day 2 Quito
Today tour this stately capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site, starting your day with a visit to La Compania with its awe–inspiring gold–leaf interior and fine collections of colonial art. Also visit the baroque–style San Francisco Convent – the first great religious building in South America dating from 1535 – and the Equatorial Monument before finishing the day at Panecillo Hill. Topped with a statue of Quito’s ‘Winged Virgin’ there are spectacular views of both the surrounding mountains and city below. (BL)
Day 3 Quito to Cotacachi – 130 kms
Leave Quito and drive north from through dramatic the mountain landscape. The journey to Cotacachi passes tiny villages, white churches and sparkling lakes and on your arrival stay for one night at the Hacienda Pinsaqui Hotel.
In the afternoon explore the local market villages around Cotacachi which are noted for their traditional handicrafts. (B)
Day 4 Cotacachi to Cotopaxi – 200 kms
This morning visit the colourful market town of Otavalo which is one of the most famous in the area and has been trading since pre–Incan times. Afterwards take lunch at a local hacienda and continue south past Quito and through the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’ to Cotopaxi, at 2,930 metres, to discover the flora and fauna of this beautiful region. Stay one night at the Hosteria La Cienega. (BL)
Day 5 Cotopaxi to Riobamba – 106 kms
Today drive through stunning scenery to Banos, a small market town situated in a beautiful valley known for its waterfalls and hot springs. After lunch continue to Riobamba at 2,750 metres to take in the wonderful views of five volcanic peaks – Chimborazo, Altar, Tungurahua, Carihuairazo and, on a clear day, Sangay. Stay overnight at the Abraspungo Hotel. (B))
Day 6 Riobamba to Cuenca – 254 kms
Today, if possible, join the train for the spectacular ride to Alausi before continuing via the Devil’s Nose to Huigra. Travel by car onto the country’s most renowned Inca site at Ingapirca and end the day at Cuenca for your two night stay at Carvallo Hotel. (B)
Day 7 Cuenca
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Cuenca, considered to be one of Ecuador’s most beautiful Spanish colonial cities and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cuenca is also an important handicrafts centre and is famous for its ikat shawls, Panama hats, ceramics and jewellery. Your afternoon will be at leisure to further explore the cobbled streets of the old city at your own pace. (B)
Day 8 Cuenca to Guayaquil – by air
Guayaquil to Madrid
In the morning transfer to Cuenca airport for the Aerogal flight to Guayaquil, departing at where you will be met and taken on a short sightseeing tour of the city.
Later return to Guayaquil airport for the Iberia flight to Madrid. (B)
Day 9 Madrid to London
Arrive Madrid and connect with the Iberia flight to London, arriving London Heathrow in the afternoon local time.
Planning your journey: We can design a unique journey to suit you as our tours are totally tailor made. By combining your own ideas with our knowledge and experience we can help you to create your own journey tailored exactly to your requirements Once you have formulated your ideas, or if you require some general or specific advice, please call us on 01892 515966 or simply send your ideas to pettitts@btconnect.com. On receipt of your enquiry we will provide you with a full written quotation together with our suggestions and recommendations.
A Guide to Price – ESSENCE OF ECUADOR
Prices vary according to selected airlines, hotels and season, however, an indication to the current cost of this itinerary is from £2,460.00. All prices are per person and are based on a minimum of TWO persons travelling together and sharing a twin bedded room with meals as indicated. If you wish to travel alone we will be pleased to assist you with your arrangements and can provide a proposal on request.
Note: Meal Basis (N) = No Meal; (B) = Breakfast; (L) = Lunch; (D) = Dinner
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