Ecuador Tours for striking contours and brilliant colours…

Day 1: Quito
On your arrival at Quito airport you will be collected by your representative and taken to your hotel. You then have the day at leisure to explore the city of Quito. The capital of Ecuador brings the past to life in its museums and monasteries, in the carved stone facades and golden altars of its many churches, as well as in the Archaeological Museum that displays centuries of pre-Columbian treasures. Overnight in hotel.

Day 2: Day tour of Quito and Centre of the World
After breakfast your tour of Quito begins at The Independence Plaza and includes visits to The Cathedral, The Presidential Palace, The Municipal Building and The Archbishop’s Palace. Visit the temple of La Compañía de Jesús then continue on to the Monastery of San Francisco. In the afternoon visit the Equatorial Monument which marks the exact Middle of the World. Overnight in Quito.

Day 3: Otavalo Market
After breakfast you will be taken to Otavalo Market which is considered to be one of the most popular destinations in Ecuador. The stalls are full of ponchos, scarves, blankets, wall hangings, woven belts, hats, and handbags. Lunch is at one of the charming country inns or haciendas in the area. During the afternoon visit the picturesque town of Peguche; famous for its beautiful leather crafts and textiles. Overnight in Quito.

Day 4: The Andean Train
After breakfast you begin your journey on The Andean Train from Quito to Cuenca stopping at The Valley of Sangolquí which has an interesting market. You will then travel up and down the slopes of Cotopaxi Volcano and on to The Valley of Latacunga for a visit to a rose plantation. Continue onto Urbina and at the foot of Chimborazo volcano visit a Tagua nut workshop. Dinner and overnight in Riobamba.

Day 5: The Andean Train
After an early breakfast you continue with your journey on The Andean Train. Your first stop will be to Guamote an Indian town, then on to Alausí, down the breathtaking Devil’s Nose switch backs, and then back to Alausí for some refreshments. Continue south along the Andes by motorcar to Cuenca, visiting the Inca Ruins of Ingapirca with a stop for lunch. Dinner and overnight in Cuenca.

Day 6: The Andean Train - Cuenca - Guayaquil
After breakfast you have the day to discover the beauty and charm of Cuenca which has been recognised as a World Cultural Heritage Site with its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas and museums. Lunch is served at a traditional restaurant. You will be transferred to the airport in the late afternoon for your flight to Guayaquil. Overnight in Guayaquil.

Day 7: Guayaquil
After breakfast you will be taken to see the main attractions of the Port of Guayaquil starting with the Centennial Plaza, and along the 9th of October Boulevard to the heart of the business district. Walk past the Moorish Clock Tower and Bolivar Park then drive to The Crystal Palace, The Integration Square, The Plaza of flags, The Plaza Olmedo, and onto Barrio Las Penas. You will then be transferred to Guayaquil airport.

Why not combine this Highlight Tour with a mini tour from the Mini Tours page? If you would prefer to talk to us, please contact Lynda, Judith or Emma on 020 7924 7978 for a quote.

International flights are not included.