Journey across the heart of Ecuador on this 5-day adventure from Quito to Guayaquil. Discover the colonial charm of Quito, marvel at the emerald lake of Quilotoa, ride the legendary Devil’s Nose Train, explore the ancient Ingapirca ruins, and wander through the cobblestone streets of Cuenca before reaching the vibrant port city of Guayaquil. This trip captures the very essence of the Andes.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Quilotoa Lagoon: Marvel at the emerald-green waters of this volcanic crater lake, and hike down to the shore.
Tigua Community: Take part in a hands-on painting workshop with local artisans, creating your own Andean-inspired masterpiece.
Ingapirca: Ecuador’s largest Inca archaeological site, blending Cañari and Inca cultures. The site features the Temple of the Sun, an elliptical stone structure aligned with solar events.
Cuenca: Discover Cuenca’s colonial charm, from its cathedrals to its UNESCO-listed toquilla hat tradition.
Day 1: ARRIVAL QUITO
Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, meet your guide holding a sign and transfer to your hotel in modern Quito. Take time to rest and acclimate at your leisure, the adventure begins tomorrow!
Overnight in Quito.
Day 2: QUITO – QUILOTOA – RIOBAMBA (260km – 5hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, depart in the morning traveling along the stunning Avenue of the Volcanoes toward Quilotoa. This impressive crater lake, set at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), dazzles with its emerald-green waters and breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean foothills. The day includes a hike down to the crater’s edge (approx. 25 minutes). The return ascent takes about an hour, but for those who prefer a gentler option, mules are available for rent. Next, continue to the Tigua Community.
TUI Wow Moments: Tigua Community Painting Workshop - Discover the artistic soul of the Andes in the heart of the Tigua Community, famous for its colorful naïf paintings that capture Andean life with vibrant strokes. Their artwork, inspired by local landscapes and traditions, offers a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural identity.
After this enriching experience, the journey continues to Riobamba, where the day concludes.
Overnight in Riobamba.
Day 3: RIOBAMBA – INGAPRICA – CUENCA (265km – 5.5hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel. Travel to Alausí, passing by Lake Colta and the Balbanera Church (1534), the oldest church in Ecuador. Board the iconic Devil’s Nose Train for a thrilling zigzag ride through the Andes, and visit the small railway museum. Continue to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most important archaeological site, to discover the history of the Cañari and Inca civilizations. The day ends in the charming city of Cuenca.
*Important: Train service and Ingapirca are open from Wednesday to Sunday. For visits on Monday or Tuesday, enjoy an alternative excursion to the mystical Ozogoche Lagoons in Sangay National Park, a sacred Andean site steeped in legends and surrounded by breathtaking highland landscapes.
Overnight in Cuenca.
Day 4: CUENCA – GUAYAQUIL (196km – 3.5hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Cuenca’s cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant plazas. Visit the “New Cathedral” with its iconic blue domes, the “Old Cathedral”, and learn about the UNESCO-listed tradition of weaving the “toquilla straw hat”. Enjoy the colors and flavors of Cuenca’s local market before traveling to Guayaquil, taking in the dramatic shift from Andean highlands to coastal lowlands.
Overnight in Guayaquil.
Day 5: GUAYAQUIL DEPARTURE
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. End your journey with unforgettable memories of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences.
