Quito arrival transfer. Accommodations at the Dann Carlton hotel or similar.
Day 2
The Chaski Antawa Train
The messenger train runs on the railway built at the beginning of the 20th century connecting the northern highlands to the tropical coast. From Ibarra, the train climbs down to the warm, dry valley of Ambuqui, through sugarcane plantations, magical landscapes, and tunnels and crossing bridges that span deep canyons and gullies. The 26-km ride to Salinas plunges from 7,216 to 4,920 feet (2,200 mt down to 1,500 mt) above sea level in only about two hours. Other sites include Otavalo and its famous indigenous arts and crafts market, the largest in South America. Accommodations at a hacienda.
Day 3
Otavalo-Cotopaxi
To the south of Quito, visit Ecuador’s first park, the Cotopaxi National Park, home to the highest active volcano on earth. You can explore the Andean moorlands with their numerous species of highland birds or hike up to the snow line at 15,800 feet (4,800 meters) above sea level. Accommodations at a hacienda or country inn, close to the Cotopaxi Volcano.
Day 4
Cotopaxi-Riobamba
Continue south toward Riobamba along the Igualata ridge in the Urbina moorlands, the highest point on the Pan-American Highway at the base of Ecuador’s highest mountain, snow-capped Mount Chimborazo at 20,697 feet (6,310 meters). Accommodations.
Day 5
Riobamba - Guano - Balbanera - Ingapirca- Cuenca.
Start your day with a drive through some of the most picturesque indigenous areas of the country. Farther south visit the Ingapirca ruins, before arrival in Cuenca for overnight.
Day 6
Cuenca
Visit the country’s prettiest colonial city. After breakfast, let its cobblestone streets, graceful wrought-iron balconies, and flower-filled plazas captivate you. Its market places and handicrafts are a living testimony to the region’s rich indigenous heritage and crafts. Panoramic view of the city from the Turi vantage-point. After enjoying this outstanding view, visit a Panama hat factory. Lunch in a typical restaurant. Accommodations.
Day 7
Cuenca - El Cajas-Guayaquil
Breakfast. Departure to the coast, passing through El Cajas National Park. This area is known for its beautiful
landscapes and at least 200 lakes, like the famous La Toreadora. This route takes you from 4,000 mt to sea level in three hours, making it possible to observe the different habitats in Ecuador, the moorlands, the Andean forest,
the subtropical forest, and the rainforest. After lunch in Guayaquil, transfer to the airport or hotel.
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