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8 Days in Ecuador's Heartland: From Mountains to Hot Springs
|8 Days, 8 Destinations |Starts from Quito
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No booking fees
Earn €20 in travel credits

Duration
8 days

Max Group Size
16

Tour Code
ANDES TO AMAZON

Tour Type
Request as group tour

Departure Type
Guaranteed

Age Requirement
12 - 80 Ages

Guiding Method
Fully guided

Operated In
English, Spanish

Physical level
moderate

Tour route map

Quito

Pickup Time:

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Quito

Dropoff Time:

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Activities

AdventureExplorerHealth, Spa & WellnessNational ParkWalking TourSee Itinerary

Tour Overview

Get ready for an incredible 8-day journey through the heart of Ecuador! We'll explore the charming streets of Quito, haggle for treasures in Otavalo's markets, and soak up the serene beauty of Cuicocha. Feel the power of Cotopaxi and gaze into the emerald waters of Quilotoa. Then, experience the awe of Pailon del Diablo, a breathtaking waterfall. Stand in awe of Chimborazo's towering presence and find tranquility in the Papallacta hot springs. Join us for a week of culture, nature, and pure relaxation - memories guaranteed!

ATTRACTIONS
OVERVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY
INCLUDES
AVAILABILITY

Highlights

  • Quito
  • Otavalo Indigenous Market
  • Cotopaxi National Park
  • Quilotoa Lagoon
  • Papallacta Hot Spring

Itinerary

We extend a warm welcome to Ecuador, and we couldn't be more excited to have you here!
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Once you arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, your driver will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name to take you to your private transportation. Your journey begins with a sense of relaxation and anticipation as you embark on a scenic 45-minute drive into the enchanting city of Quito. Along the way, the picturesque landscapes will provide a delightful backdrop as you receive a comprehensive overview of the itinerary for your upcoming adventures, setting the stage for a truly memorable experience.
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Upon your arrival and check-in at your hotel, we recommend taking some time to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Quito and explore its captivating cultural offerings. Situated at an astonishing elevation of 9,350 feet (2,850 meters), Quito proudly stands among the highest cities in the world, and its breathtaking views are sure to leave you in awe.
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Meals included: -
Our journey takes us along the iconic Pan-American Highway, heading north to the Quitsato solar clock. This culturally significant site, constructed in pre-Hispanic times, was designed to track the solstices and equinoxes. It's also the very spot where the equator line intersects, marking it as the literal center of the world.
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To truly savor the local flavors, we make a delightful pit stop for a cup of Ecuadorian coffee or rich chocolate, accompanied by delectable biscuits - oven-baked treasures bursting with unmatched flavor. What's even more special is that we'll have the chance to witness the entire baking process.
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Our next destination is the vibrant town of Otavalo. Just a short drive away, we pause at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the breathtaking San Pablo Lake, with the majestic Mount Imbabura standing tall in the background. Soon after, we'll arrive at South America's largest and most renowned indigenous handicraft market (open every day of the week).
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Take a leisurely stroll around La Plaza de los Ponchos, with approximately 2 hours to explore and shop for unique treasures. We then head to Cotacachi, known for its craft market specializing in high-quality leather products. You'll have about 45 minutes to peruse the charming shops.
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Our final stop takes us to the stunning Cuicocha Lagoon, nestled at 3068m (10,065.62 ft) within an active volcanic crater, complete with picturesque islets or domes, a natural wonder you won't want to miss.
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Meals included: Box Breakfast, Lunch
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, setting the tone for a day of exploration. You'll be picked up and whisked away to the captivating Historic Center of Quito, where every cobblestone, plaza, and colonial structure tells tales of centuries gone by. This cherished district earned its UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 1978, and it's not hard to see why.
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Our adventure begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Basilica, a neo-Gothic masterpiece. Its stained glass windows come alive with vibrant floral scenes, while playful gargoyles pay homage to the country's rich wildlife. Climb the towers for a sweeping view that will surely steal your breath away. Next, step into the grandeur of the San Francisco convent, a sprawling testament to history, and be captivated by the opulent baroque splendor of La Compañía church, where various artistic styles seamlessly blend within gold-adorned interiors.
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The afternoon is free to explore the city on your own.
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Meals included: Breakfast
You will start your day at 06:00 AM, you will go head to Cotopaxi National Park. You will visit Lake Limpiopungo, located in the highlands of the park. Here, you will have a spectacular view of Cotopaxi Volcano's gigantic cone. Lake Limpiopungo offers a variety of birds, and occasionally even wild horses. A short walk around the lake will allow you to admire the Andean plant and animal life along the way.
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Then, you will visit another highlight: Quilotoa Lagoon. This 2-mile (3 km) wide crater lake is filled with 820 feet (250 m) of mineral-rich green water. Hike along the lake's outer rim, enjoying the views from three lava domes, or follow a path to the lake itself. Hiking in the area, especially uphill, can be challenging, so consider renting a mule for some help along the way. After exploring the lake, it's time to travel south to Baños de Agua Santa, a city on the edge of the Amazonian Basin known for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls.
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Meals included: Box Breakfast
Today, you have the freedom to choose your next adventure:
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OPTION 1: Baños through the Waterfall Route
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Start your day by following the picturesque Route of the Waterfalls, beginning at the Agoyan dam. You'll make your way to the stunning Manto de la Novia Waterfall, where you'll have the chance to hop on the Tarabita (a cable car) for a ride across the Rio Patate to explore the waterfall on the other side. As you journey on, you'll reach the Mirador de San Jorge viewpoint before arriving at the awe-inspiring Pailón del Diablo, a waterfall that stands tall at around 100 meters. A leisurely 30-minute stroll through a tropical mountain forest will take you to the base of this natural wonder, followed by a relaxed 45-60 minute walk back up. Afterward, you'll return to Baños for a leisurely afternoon on your own terms.
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OPTION 2: Amazon Tour
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Embark on an unforgettable adventure that begins at an animal rescue center, where you'll learn about local wildlife rehabilitation. Next, explore a private reserve to gain insights into indigenous life and medicinal plants, guided by knowledgeable locals. The journey continues with a hike through lush jungle trails leading to a stunning waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip. Conclude your adventure at the Indichuris lookout, offering panoramic views of the expansive jungle canopy, capturing the essence of nature's beauty and the richness of cultural heritage.
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Meals included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day in Baños de Agua Santa, a paradise for adventure and relaxation. Soak in the rejuvenating hot springs, explore the vibrant town, or hike to stunning waterfalls. Embark on an exhilarating bike ride along the famous Ruta de las Cascadas, and try your hand at canyoning, zip-lining, or bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush. Experience the thrill of white-water rafting, take a scenic cable car ride, or visit the Swing at the End of the World for breathtaking views. With its diverse activities set against a backdrop of lush landscapes, Baños offers something for every traveler.
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Meals included: Breakfast
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** For the adventurous, consider adding our optional excursion to Chimborazo, the closest point on Earth to the sun.
Get ready for a day packed with Ecuadorian wonders! Our adventure kicks off in the morning in Puyo, where you can grab a delightful breakfast (not included) to fuel your day. Then, it's off to Paikawe Lagoon for some enchanting wildlife encounters and a playful canoe ride.
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Ever wondered about the magic of Ecuadorian chocolate? Get the insider's scoop and even taste a bit! Next, we'll visit the Santa Rita neighborhood for a tour of a cocoa farm, followed by a traditional lunch experience (not included).
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In the afternoon, prepare for ultimate relaxation at the Papallacta Hot Springs. These soothing waters hold the very essence of volcanic energy, offering a truly rejuvenating experience. Whether you're into local delicacies, scenic hikes, or spa treatments, there's something for everyone here.
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As the day draws to a close, we'll make our way back to the vibrant city of Quito.
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Meals included: Box Breakfast
At the designated time for your international flight, your private driver will be waiting for you at your hotel lobby to help you with your luggage and drive you to the airport for your departure.
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Meals included: Breakfast

Trip includes

Included

7 nights of accommodation in hotels (2.5 Stars)

Hotel

Bilingual national guide (English / Spanish)

Guiding Method
Fully guided

English Spanish

According to the itinerary (B=breakfast, BL=box lunch, L=lunch, D=dinner)

Vegan Vegetarian Meat

Transportation to the mentioned sites

Transfers from hotel to airport and airport to hotel 

Coach / Bus

Excluded

International flights

Travel insurance

The tour includes stops for food (mentioned as not included) and the range of food expenses for each site is $5.00 to $10.00 per person.

  • Visa and Passport fees
  • Alcoholic or additional beverages
  • Medical fees such as doctor or emergency rooms visits, vaccinations, ambulances, or emergency evacuation.
  • Excess baggage charges 
  • Snacks 
  • Activities not included in the tour itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Meals or beverages not indicated in the program
  • Extras in hotels such as laundry, phone calls, internet, minibar 
  • Personal expenses

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By design, this is a group tour. You can however request a private, customized version of this tour for yourself or your private group of people. Private departures are usually more expensive, but come with these benefits:

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