Images of Ecuador

Images of Ecuador

11 days from £4175 per person

Two towering stone spires of the Basilica del Voto Nacional in Quito

Perhaps more than any other country, Ecuador encompasses South America. Jungle, colonial towns and volcanic valleys blend with stunning countryside and an abundance of wildlife to create a destination that is both enlightening and magical. From the stately capital Quito, journey south through the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’, past small market towns and wonderful ancient Inca sites. Ecuador is a special country where Spanish influence combines to create a wonderful confection of tradition, natural beauty and captivating atmospheres.

Route: Quito – Cotacachi – Cotopaxi – Riobamba – Cuenca – Guayaquil

Itinerary Highlights

Quito, Ecuador’s capital, sits at an altitude of 2850m in the Andes. Built on the site of an Inca city the city is known for its Spanish colonial buildings, some of which are 500 years old.

Cotacachi and nearby Otavalo are market towns famous for their handicrafts, predominantly leather goods and textiles, but jewellery, musical instruments and spices are also traded.

The centre of Cuenca in Ecuador’s South is a historical centre, with many impressive colonial buildings and monuments. The Old and New Cathedrals are symbols of the city.

Itinerary: Images of Ecuador

Day 1 London Heathrow to Quito

Fly from London Heathrow with Iberia Airlines via Madrid to Quito. On your arrival you will be met and transferred by car to your accommodation. (N)

Accommodation in Quito: Plaza Grande Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Casa Gangotena (or similar)

Day 2 Quito (2,820m)

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. (B)

Accommodation in Quito: Plaza Grande Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Casa Gangotena (or similar)

Day 3 Quito to Cotacachi – 130kms

Leave Quito and drive north from through dramatic the mountain landscape. The journey to Cotacachi passes tiny villages, white churches and sparkling lakes. (B/D)

Accommodation in Cotacachi: La Mirage Hotel & Spa (or similar)

Day 4 Cotacachi

Today explore the local market villages around Cotacachi which are noted for their traditional handicrafts. (B/D)

Accommodation in Cotacachi: La Mirage Hotel & Spa (or similar)

Day 5 Cotacachi to Cotopaxi via Otavalo – 170kms

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 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. (B/D)

Accommodation in Cotopaxi: Hacienda San Agustin de Callo (or similar)

Day 6 Cotopaxi to Riobamba – 106kms

Today drive to Banos, a small market town situated in a stunning valley surrounded by waterfalls and hot springs. Enjoy the lush landscapes and relax in the natural bubbling pools. After lunch continue to Riobamba and marvel at the wonderful views of five volcanic peaks – Chimborazo, Carihuairazo, Altar, Tungurahua and, on a clear day, Sangay. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at the authentic hacienda you will spend the night at. (B/D)
Accommodation in Riobamba: Albergue Abraspungu (or similar)

Day 7 Riobamba to Cuenca – 254kms

Today, if possible, take the train and enjoy the incredible ride to the small town of Alausí before continuing via the Devil’s Nose to Huigra. That afternoon travel by car onto Ecuador’s most renowned Inca site at Ingapirca; visit the Temple of the Sun which was once used for astronomical and ritual purposes. Finish the day at the beautiful, colonial city of Cuenca. (B/L/D)
Accommodation in Cuenca: Mansión Alcazar (or similar)

Day 8 Cuenca (2,535m)

Today enjoy a sightseeing tour of the UNESCO-listed Cuenca, considered to be one of Ecuador’s most beautiful Spanish colonial cities. Visit the Parque Calderón, the heart of the city which is home to the beautiful blue-domed cathedral. Cuenca is also an important handicrafts centre and is famous for its Panama hats, ceramics and jewellery. The afternoon will be spent leisure to further explore the cobbled streets of the old city. (B)
Accommodation in Cuenca: Mansión Alcazar (or similar)

Day 9 Cuenca to Guayaquil – 188kms

This morning drive through the Cajas National Park to Guayaquil, a colourful port city which is the gateway to Ecuador’s pacific beaches and the Galapagos Islands. In the afternoon take a tour to the Santa Ana Hill for wonderful views of the city. (B)
Accommodation in Guayaquil: Oro Verde Hotel (or similar)

Upgrade option: Hotel del Parque (or similar)

Day 10 Guayaquil to London Heathrow

This afternoon return to Guayaquil Airport and depart on the Iberia Airlines flight via Madrid to London Heathrow. (B)

Day 11 Arrive London Heathrow

Arrive London Heathrow in the afternoon. (N)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Domestic flights
Private car and driver
Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
Hotel accommodation and taxes

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.