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Quito City Tour 4 Hrs.

QUITO OLD TOWN

Private transportation from the hotel to downtown.
Tour start with a visit to the Sucre Theater, soon we have the "Independence Square" where are located the principal buildings of the city like Government Palace , the Cathedral of Quito, the Archbishop Palace and the City Hall that form a Roman grid, of the traditional Spanish style.

We´ll be able to see the beautiful churches like "La Compania"(1605), "The Sacrarium Church" admiring its fascinating altars. And the Church and Monastery of San Francisco (1535), the first one built in Quito, will find exceptional paintings, linens and sculptures from the XVI and XVII century.

The route ends with exceptional scenic overlook "Panecillo Hill", that it is a natural formation from where is possible to be observed the contrast between the old city and modern Quito, next to the beautiful "Virgin of Quito". Return to the hotel.

 (City Line) Colonial Tour and Middle of the World ( Equator )

LA COMPANIA  CHURCH

After visiting the Colonial center of Quito in the City tour program, we will take toward the north route. "The Middle of the World" is located 30 minutes north from Quito, it´s a small replica of a Colonial style city. Here we can find the monument of the same name that symbolizes latitude zero; it indicates the exact point by where it crosses the Equatorial line.

In the Monument it is possible to visit the Ethnographic Museum, in which they are represented the main ethnic groups of the country and biodiversity, also there is the astronomy museum, Quito Colonial miniature, and handicrafts stores.

Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees.

The Middle of the World 3 Hrs.

 THE MIDDLE OF THE WORLD

 

We will take the north route to the "Middle of the World", located 30 minutes northeast from Quito, is a Little Spanish style city This it is the site where Charles Marie De la Condamine and his expedition, in 1736, made their studies to measure the arc of the diameter of the Earth.

In this place the visitors have the unique opportunity to be in both hemispheres at the same time.
The monument was constructed to indicate the exact site.

The Ethnographic Museum can be taken the elevator until the top from the monument and be visited that is in the interior.
Inside of this city we can find restaurants and handicraft stores.
Optional lunch.

Quito 2 D/1N:

Arrive to Quito.
(Transfer In) Transfer to the hotel of your preference.
It is possible to organize optional visits to the surrounds of Quito (Option under request).

02 Day:
Breakfast (Transfer Out) transfer to the airport, to continue with tour required or we will take the transport continuing the different extension programs.

Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge 1 DAY

Our tour begins from Quito toward the south by the Panamerican Highway 30 Km; to the left flank is the Pasochoa Refuge. This refuge comprises of the national system of protected areas of Ecuador.

It is one of the main Andean humid forest that the central valley has, in this place we can admire different plants and more than 100 species of birds, and those are a true attractiveness for the visitor.

We can make several long walks by the diverse footpaths, same that go from the thirty minutes, excellent option for the family, and footpaths that occupy a whole day for most adventurous.

Lagoon and Hot Springs of Papallacta 1 DAY

THE TERMS OF PAPALLACTA

After a route of two hours from the City of Quito, we found the town and the lagoon of Papallacta located at 3800 meters above the sea level, which attractive are medicinal thermal waters (alkaline water sulfurated) of volcanic origin and its lagoon.

Here we´ll be able to make long walks around the lagoon, horseback riding, simply fishes or to enjoy the landscape.

Also we can visit the famous swimming pools of Papallacta and to take a refresh bath. In order to have lunch something traditional of this zone can be chosen that is the flavorful trout: a specialty of this place.

Mindo Cloud forest 1  DAY

MINDO CLOUD FOREST

Located to 90 km to the northwest of Quito, with a privileged climate, Mindo It´s name is because the pre-Columbian town of the Mindus, who lived in this sector and left some archaeological vestiges, like tombs that still in the zone. Mindo is characterized by the presence of dimmed subtropical forest.

This forest is one of the last paradises of the world, and has been declared by "Bird Life International", as an area IBA, (Important Bird Area), since it has been gotten to discover
more than 450 species of birds, in addition to registered 120 species of mammals, 60 species of reptiles, 45 species of amphibians, thousands of insects and more than 4000 species of flora.

Some of the different activities it is possible to do in Mindo are: excursions to different waterfalls from the zone, long walks, rafting in White-water rivers and bird watching.

National Park Cotopaxi 1 DAY

COTOPAXI VOLCANO

Our fascinating tour begins in Quito, towards the south the Cotopaxi National Park.

We´ll take the famous "Volcanoes Avenue" in which we will see a lot of snowpeaks surrounding the road, such as The Illinizas, Viudita, Corazon, Atacazo, and more. Until arriving at the National Park Cotopaxi. In the Park a long walk of 1 and a half hours can be made until the first refuge of the Volcano called Jose Rivas located to 4800 meters a.s.l.

We will visit Limpiopungo lagoon, where we will have our box lunch, admiring the beautiful Andean landscape.

We´lll visit the Site museum where it´s an explaining of the flora, fauna, and geological description of the zone.

INDIAN MARKETS

Indigenous Markets in all Latin America are very famous around the world and have great affluence of national and foreign tourists by their traditions, own and cultural characteristics like their crafts, their textiles, ceramics, jewels, paintings all elaborated by hand, without forget the "animal fairs" with species of all the sizes, making these markets an attractive for the tourist.

Otavalo Indian Market

INDIGENOUS MARKETS

Our trip we will initiate from Quito toward the north to the Calderon town, where are the famous and decorative manufactures of breath dough called "Mazapán" can be appreciated.

We continue until Cayambe, traditional for the delicious "Biscuits" and their very known "Cheese of Leaf" or "Queso de Hojas" of this city. After two hours of trip, during which some shutdowns are made simply to enjoy the charming Andean landscape, is the province of the lakes
"Imbabura".

Before arriving at Otavalo a fabulous view of the San Pablo Lake and the Imbabura Volcano can be observed. In Otavalo we will visit the Indian market, one of the biggest markets in South America. We have lunch, in some of the beautiful restaurants. After we will arrive at the Cotacahi town, famous by the very fine leather articles.

Finally we will visit the Lagoon of Cuicocha.

Market of Saquisilí

HANDCRAFTS

Considered one of the most important popular markets of the country, is the destiny of tens of inhabitants of remote regions which meet here in Saquisilí to buy, to sell and to interchange products, fruits and animals.

Market of Pujilí 1 DAY

Is another colourful Indian market located in the Ecuadorian Andes in the province of Cotopaxi.

Basically it is a varied agricultural market, where the visitors can admire the typical style of life of the region and customs of the populations

National Park Cotopaxi & Indian Market 1 DAY

This tour mixes the visit to the National Park Cotopaxi, the scene is wonderful and incomparable views later we will visit one the markets previously mentioned of the zone, this tour.

Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees.

CUENCA ATENAS OF ECUADOR

CUENCA

The city of Cuenca is well-known like the home of four rivers. Declared Cultural Patrimony of the Humanity by UNESCO and it is considered like one of the best ones conserved and more beautiful colonial cities of Ecuador. Its enchantment is in the colonial architecture, the beautiful churches that date from XVI and XVII centuries, narrow houses with red roofing tiles and streets. The city has a provincial and lodges an infinite wealth in the manufacture of ceramics, the famous Panama hats and jewelry shops of high quality.

Cuenca Basic 2D/1N

1 Day:
Arrival to Cuenca. We receive you at the airport .
Transfer to the hotel of your preference.
This day optional excursions to the surrounds of Cuenca can be organized (under request).

2 Day:
Breakfast, transfer to the airport.

Includes: private transport, bilingual guide, lodging in a hotel.

City tour (noon) 3 Hrs

You will cross all the city of Cuenca declarated by UNESCO like "Cultural Patrimony of Humanity" a pretty and colorful city of Ecuador.

Tour begins with a long walk by downtown admiring the colonial architecture. We will be able to appreciate the market of flowers until arriving at the main square of Cuenca, the Cathedrals and the famous Museum of the Conceptas, which is in the old infirmary of the Convent of the Immaculate Conception.

Here is a small sample of the religious colonial art can be admired. Tour finishes with the pre-Columbian ruins of All the Saints.

Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees

City Tour (full day) 6 Hrs

After making the long walk before described, we enjoy a delicious lunch in a typical restaurant.

After, some of the local workshops are visited where the people are making ceramic, Panama Hats and leather products.

Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees

Gualaceo/Chordeleg and Sigsig 1 DAY

Early in the morning we leave Cuenca to visit Gualaceo, in the way we observe Paute the greatest hydroelectric dam of Ecuador, until arriving at Gualaceo, famous by the manufacture of wool textiles, chalinas, belts, among other crafts. Here also the market of animals, the most important market of Gualaceo, on Sundays.

At few kilometers from Gualaceo is the city of Chordeleg, famous by the manufacture of fine jewelry in gold and silver and by its textiles.

We will be able to observe the workshops. We continue our trip to visit Sigsig, quiet colonial city located 25 km of Gualaceo where we find the famous Panama Hats.

Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees

Cajas National Park 1 DAY

CAJAS NATIONAL PARK

It´s located to 30 km to the west of Cuenca . It is known by the beautiful lakes and it has great interest for nature lovers.

Here it is possible to find small forests of quinua.
This park is the perfect place to enjoy long hikings or simply to enjoy the breathtaking landscape.

It is also an excellent place to make birdwatching.

Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees

Incas Ruins of Ingapirca 1 DAY

INGAPIRCA

At 3230 meters above sea level are the famous ruins of Ingapirca, which constitute the main ruins of the empire of the Inca times. Ingapirca was not only a strength of the Inca civilization, but also an administrative center of the Empire.

The main structure is the Temple of the Sun, which was constructed with religious intentions and in which still can be observed the delicate stone work. Imagine to even back down in the time when the Sun and the Moon governed the empire.

Also we invited you to visit the museum to admire the fine ceramics and jewelry shop of the old civilizations.

Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees

Saraguro Indian Market 1 DAY

Toward the south of Cuenca after 4 hours trip, it´s located the Saraguro town.

Sundays it is the main day of this market, the clothes of the people of this town have typical black color because they keep it in memory of the death of the last Inca Atahualpa.


Includes: Private transport, bilingual guide, all entrance fees.

COMBINED PROGRAMS

The following is a description of some tours of special interest, created for those who they want to share the different aspects from this magical country and its culture.
Signals:

Otavalo and Lakes 2D/1N

MOUNTAIN BIKE

Day 1.
In our way towards the City of Otavalo, we visit the Ruins of Cochasquí, the town of Cotacachi famous by the leather articles, the beautiful Lake of Cuicocha, San Antonio de Ibarra and the famous Yaguarcocha Lake (Lake of Blood). At the afternoon arrive to Otavalo and lodging in the hotel of your election. (B)

Day 2.
Early in the morning, before the breakfast we visit the animal market of Otavalo

Return to the hotel to have breakfast and continuing our visit to the Indian Market of Otavalo, the biggest in America, where is possible to buy an infinity of handicrafts. (B)

Level of difficulty: comfortable
Includes: Private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, bilingual guide, indicated meals, all entrance fees.
Not include: personal expenses, drinks, extras, tips.

Southern Highlands 3D/2N

CLIMBING

Day 1.
From Quito we drive by the Pan-American highway towards the south to the Cotopaxi National Park, where we will have the opportunity to admire the Highest active volcano in the World, the Cotopaxi (5897 m.a.s.l). Lodging in a Traditional Hacienda. (B, BL).

Day 2.
This day we will visit the deserts of Zumbahua, and then we visit to the Volcanic Lagoon of Quilotoa.

In the evening we travel to Baños, a beautiful town located in the gate of the Ecuadorian Amazon. (B, BL).

 Day 3.
After the breakfast return to Quito. In the way we will visit the Chimborazo, the highest snow-covered mountain of the country. (B,BL).

Level of difficulty: comfortable
Includes: Private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, bilingual guide, indicated meals, all entrance fees.
Not include: personal expenses, drinks, extras, tips

The Volcanoes Avenue 5D/4N

THE VOLCANOES AVENUE

Day 1.
We travel to the city of Otavalo. We will visit this day the indigenous ruins of Cochasquí. Then we visit the city of Cotacachi, famous by the manufacture of leather, the Cuicocha Lake and the population of San Antonio de Ibarra, famous by the wood sculptures.
Hotel in Otavalo

Day 2.
Early in the morning we will visit the market of animals. Come back to have the breakfast. Then we visit the famous Otavalo Indian market. In the evening, after the lunch we will go to Machachi, visiting before the famous lagoons of Mojanda. Lodging in a local Hacienda (B)

Day 3.
After the breakfast we will visit the Cotopaxi National Park, to make a hiking in the highest active volcano. In the evening transfer to the town of Baños. (B, BL).

Day 4.
Travel next to the Pastaza Canyon to visit the famous "Pailón del Diablo" waterfall, and 3 or 4 waterfalls more in the way. Hotel in Baños (B)

Day 5.
Breakfast and return to Quito. Visit to the Refuge of the Chimborazo, the highest snow-covered mountain of the country. (6310 m). (B, BL)

Level of difficulty: comfortable
Includes: Private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, bilingual guide, indicated meals, all entrance fees
Not include: personal expenses, drinks, extras, tips.

Cotopaxi and Cuenca 5D/4N

THE ANDES

Day 1
In the morning we travel from Quito to Riobamba. In the way we visit the Cotopaxi National Park to admire the highest volcano of Ecuador. Lodging in a beautiful hacienda in Riobamba. (B, BL)

Day 2
(wed/fri/sun). Early In the morning transfer to Train station in Riobamba. The train is going to Alausí, through breathtaking landscapes and the famous Devil´s Nose, and there we will be able to understand why this train is called "The most difficult train in the World". In the evening transfer to Cuenca, visiting in the way the strength Inca of Ingapirca.
Lodging in the charming city of Cuenca (B, BL)

Day 3.
Full day in the beautiful Cajas National Park . Hotel in Cuenca (B, BL).

Day 4.

Visit to the Valleys of Gualaceo and Chordeleg, famous towns by their handicrafts made with gold and silver. This day we will have the opportunity to buy crafts. In the evening return to Cuenca. Hotel (B)

Day 5.
In the morning City tour in Cuenca and the El Turi scenic overlook. In afternoon flight back to Quito. (B)

Level of difficulty: Comfortable
Includes: Private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, indicated meals, all entrance fees, train tickets
Not include: Internal flights, personal expenses, meals, extras, tips.

Hiking Haciendas 5D/4N

HACIENDA LA CIENEGA

Day 1:
We depart from Quito towards Cayambe city. Here are located the lagoons of Mojanda at 3800 m. above sea level .The tour continues until the towns of Zuleta. Lodging in the San Luis Hacienda. (B)

Day 2:
Early after breakfast we visit the famous Indigenous Market of Otavalo.

Lunch in the Cusín Hacienda. We visit the famous waterfall of Peguche and the town of Illumán. Lodging in the Pinsaquí Hacienda (B, L)

Day 3:
Early we have breakfast, and transfer to the Cotopaxi National Park . Lunch in Ciénega Hacienda and visit the farm of flowers in the San Agustín of Callo Hacienda. Lodging in the Ciénega Hacienda (B, L)

Day 4:
Early after breakfast we go to Ambato and then Baños, visiting these cities and their surrounds. In the evening arrive to the Valley of Patate. Lodging in a local Hacienda. (B)

Day 5:
Early breakfasts, then we have a long trekking by the surrounds of the local hacienda. In the evening return to Quito. (B) *** Optional horse riding the last day. * * *

Level of difficulty: comfortable.
Tour includes: private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, bilingual guide, indicated meals, all entrances fees.
Not include: personal expenses, drinks, extras, tips.

Podocarpus National Park and Vilcabamba Valley 3D/2N

Day 1:
From Cuenca drive to the city of Loja (4 hours), located to the Southeastern of Ecuador. In the way we visit the Sagarugo town. Loja is a pacific city with colonial style. Next we travel until the Sacred Valley of Vilcabamba, also known like "the valley of longevity", where the inhabitants easily reach more than 100 years of age. In the way is possible to observe vast plantations of fruits and sugar cane. Lodging in one local hostería.

Day 2:
Early after breakfast we visit the Podocarpus National Park , that conserves great amount of unique endemic species in the world. Its complex topography mixes the Andean and Amazonian area, which allows to enjoy varied and unique microclimates. More than 90 species of trees existent here, being the most representative tree the Podocarpus, that gives the name to the park. In afternoon return to Vilcabamba valley . (B, BL)

Day 3:
Breakfast and return to Cuenca city (B)

Level of difficulty:
comfortable
Includes:
private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, bilingual guide, indicated meals, all entrances.
Not include:
flight to Cuenca, personal expenses, drinks, extras, tips.

Machalilla National Park 4D/3N

MACHALILLA NATIONAL PARK

Day 1:
Flight from Quito to Portoviejo city. We transfer you until the Machalilla National Park . In the way we visit Montecristi, town where the artisans create the beautiful and originals Panama Hats. Arrive to Puerto Lopez. Lodging. (B)

Day 2:
After breakfast travel to the beautiful Beach of Los Frailes, surrounded by tropical dry forest. After morning of relax we visit the "Agua Blanca" community, and their in situ museum. Return to Puerto Lopez (B, BL)

Day 3:
We early have the breakfast, after that we will take our tour to the "Isla de la Plata", also part of the Machalilla National Park. This island is home of colonies of marine birds, boobies, frigates, pelicans and seal lions, reason why is called "the Little Galápagos". During the months of July, August and September we will be able to watch the Dance of Humpback Whales, which arrive from the south to reproduce in these coasts. Return to the hotel (B, BL)

Day 4:
Early after breakfast we transfer to Portoviejo to take the flight to return to Quito. (B)


Level of difficulty:
comfortable
Includes:
private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, bilingual guide, indicated meals, all entrances.
Not include: internal flights, personal expenses, drinks, extras, tips.

Enjoy the beauties of  Ecuador 15D/14N

During the development of this trip, we will have the opportunity to experience and enjoy the rich culture and the beautiful landscapes of Ecuador. From the Andes highlands to the fabulous beaches of the country.

The Highlands

Day 1:
Arrival in Quito. Transfer to your hotel. Visit to the old town of Quito. After lunch, visit the Equator and the Ethnographic museum. Hotel.

Day 2:

Travel to Otavalo town. Visit Cotacachi village, famous for its leather goods (shopping possibilities).
Visit Cuicocha Lake. San Antonio de Ibarra. Hotel in Otavalo. (B, L).

The Amazon
 

Day 3:
Drive east to cross the highlands of Antisana Volcano and down to the town of Tena. This drive is full of wonderful views of the eastern part of the "Cordillera de los Andes". Finally we will arrive at our lodge located on the shores of the Napo river, one of the biggest tributaries of the great Amazon river.
(B, L, D).

 Day 4:
Day to spend admiring the marvellous vegetation of this area in company of an experienced Indian jungle guide. Canoe ride along the Napo river. (B, L, D).

Day 5:
Early morning our bus will take us to the towns of Puyo and Baños. This trip offers plenty of fantastic views of the rugged landscape of the Pastaza Canyon. Hotel. (B).

Day 6:

Morning travel towards Mount Chimborazo refuge. Enjoy great views from the highest Ecuadorian Mountain. Late afternoon drive down to Riobamba city. Hotel. (B, BL).

The Coast

Day 7:
This day we will enjoy one of the most exciting trips: the famous Ecuadorian train ride down to "Devil's Nose", from where our bus will take us through wonderful landscapes towards Cuenca city. Hotel. (B, BL).


Day 8:

In Cuenca. Visit this beautiful Spanish-style city.
(B).

Day 9:
Morning visit to the beautiful Cajas National Park, continuing afterwards towards Guayaquil city, the biggest city of Ecuador. (B, BL).

Day 10:
Morning visit to Guayaquil and then travel to Pto. López. Accommodation in a nice Hotel at the beach (B).


Day 11:

Relaxing day to enjoy the beach (optional tour to visit Isla de la Plata – "The small Galapagos").
(B).

Day 12:

Travel to Santo Domingo de los Colorados

The Colorados Indians live in this area. Still now they keep their ancestral traditions. Hotel. (B, L).

Day 13:

Morning visit to the Colorado Community. After lunch travel up to the highlands, enjoying beautiful views of the rugged western landscapes. Hotel in Latacunga town. (B).

Level of difficulty: Comfortable
Includes:
Private transport, lodging in double rooms full-featured, indicated meals, bilingual guide, all the entrances.
Not include:
personal expenses, drinks, extras, tips.

 
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  Quito - Ecuador

 

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