Welcome to
ECUADOR
Active
Get ready for a unique experience in a country full of contrasts and extraordinary landscapes!
Active Ecuador invites you to explore in a unique way, where natural and cultural diversity intertwine to create an incomparable destination. From the peaks of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon and the paradisiacal Galapagos Islands, Ecuador is your gateway to unparalleled excitement and discovery.
A Mosaic of Unparalleled Adventures
Destinations
Emblematic
Ecuador is waiting to captivate you in every emblematic destination of Ecuador Efectivo!
Culture
Vibrant
Activities
and more
OUR OPTIONS
Discover the diversity and excitement that awaits you with Ecuador Activo's programs.
We invite you to explore our exciting travel options and get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience. Remember that our options are designed to serve as the foundation of your personalized adventure planning, tailored to your individual needs and tastes.
We are here to turn your travel dreams into an unforgettable reality.
Ecuador Active
- 3 days
- 2 nights
It is located only 40 kilometers from the coast of Puerto Lopez and is part of the Machalilla National Park. It is a very important tourist destination since it is home and refuge for a great variety of marine birds such as blue-footed, red-footed and masked boobies, frigates, pelicans, tropical birds, albatrosses and sea lions. In addition, it is an ideal place for activities such as diving and snorkeling because here you can find the last samples of coral reefs of the Ecuadorian coast. If you have the opportunity to visit between June and September, you will also be able to observe whales.
The Spondylus Route in Ecuador is a scenic coastal road that runs along the Pacific coast, offering breathtaking ocean views and pristine beaches. breathtaking ocean views and pristine beaches.
INCLUDES
- Private transportation
- Bilingual guide
- Lodging
- Meals according to itinerary
- Entrance fees to visit sites
- Horseback riding in Cotopaxi National Park
- Equipment for activities
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Unspecified foods
- Unspecified items
itinerary
1
Arrival in Quito
Once you arrive at Quito's Mariscal Sucre Airport, we will be waiting to take you in a private transfer directly to your hotel, which is centrally located with easy access to restaurants, bars, craft stores and parks. On this first day, you will have time to explore on your own and begin to discover this beautiful city. Quito is located at 2,800 meters above sea level, so we recommend that you relax and prepare for the exciting adventure that awaits you.
2
City Tour Quito + Middle of the World
We will start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, followed by a transfer to the Historic Center of Quito, the largest and best preserved in Latin America. Our first stop will be the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional Church, famous for its neo-Gothic style and its detailed decorations of gargoyles and Ecuadorian fauna.
We will continue our visit to the Plaza de la Independencia or Plaza Mayor, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, the municipal building and the emblematic Metropolitan Cathedral Church. Our next stop will be the magnificent Iglesia de la Compañía, whose interior is adorned with exquisite gold leaf details.
Afterwards, we will visit the open square of San Francisco and its monumental church and convent, known as El Escorial de los Andes, built in the 16th century by the indigenous people of the San Andres School. For lunch, passengers will enjoy a culinary experience in a fine dining restaurant located in the Historic Center.
We will continue our tour to the Panecillo, a hill crowned by the winged Virgin of Quito, from where you can appreciate a beautiful view of the city and the impressive Andean landscape. In the afternoon, we will continue to Mitad del Mundo, located 22 km north of Quito, where the equatorial line is located. Here we will live the experience of standing on the two hemispheres and visit the Intiñán museum, where we will perform a series of dynamic experiments that confirm the location of the equatorial line.
In the late afternoon, we will return to the hotel to rest and relax after a day full of incredible experiences.
3
Rucu Pichincha Volcano
We will start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel to recharge our batteries. At 8:00, we will meet our transportation and a certified mountain guide to head to the cable car, where we will ascend to the station at Cruz Loma at 4000 meters above sea level. From there, we will hike along the rim to the base of the mountain, continuing on an exciting journey to the summit at 4696 meters. We will take a photo break and then descend back to the cable car to return to Quito.
In the afternoon, we will head to Machachi to continue our adventures.
4
Cotopaxi Volcano
In the morning, we will enjoy a horseback ride into Cotopaxi National Park. Cotopaxi Volcano is the highest active volcano in the world, at 5897 meters above sea level or 19388 feet, and one of the most beautiful snow-capped mountains in Ecuador. During the tour, we will marvel at the incredible landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. In the park, we will visit the interpretation center to learn about the fauna and flora of the area, as well as important information about the impressive Cotopaxi Volcano.
Afterwards, we will walk for approximately one hour to visit the Limpiopungo Lagoon. For those who want more adventure, we can coordinate the ascent to the parking lot of the volcano, located at 4,600 meters, and from there walk an hour and a half to the José Rivas refuge, located 200 meters up a steep slope.
5
Quilotoa Lagoon
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will prepare for an early morning hike around the Quilotoa Lagoon, which will take about 6 to 7 hours. This lagoon, located in an extinct volcanic crater, is one of the most beautiful and spectacular places to visit. With its calm waters and beautiful green and turquoise color, reaching the edge of the lagoon is an incredible experience that will allow you to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
6
Bathing - Canyoning
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, at 9:00 a.m. our day of adventure begins. We will gear up for the activities and head out in a private car to Rio Blanco, a drive of about 20 minutes. Once there, our guide will explain the rappel techniques and safety instructions. We will have the opportunity to practice on land before entering the canyon. After getting ready, we will walk uphill for about 20 minutes through breathtaking scenery. Then, we will enjoy the experience of rappelling down 3 different waterfalls, and at the end of the canyoning section, we will have the opportunity to experience a natural water slide, the icon of this trip!
In the afternoon, we will visit the impressive Pailon Del Diablo waterfall, which is about 80 meters high and is one of the most spectacular waterfalls to visit in Baños and Ecuador.
7
Tena - Jatunyacu Rafting
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will prepare for an exciting morning activity: Rafting on the Alto Napo River, known locally as the Jatunyacu River, which means "BIG WATER" in Quichua. This river is truly impressive, with big waves and lots of fun. It is an exciting trip for beginners and experts alike, offering the perfect combination of thrilling rapids, calm pools and fabulous jungle scenery to delight everyone. Being the headwaters of one of the two rivers that form the mighty Amazon River, this rafting adventure is not to be missed! No previous rafting experience is necessary. After the activity, we will enjoy lunch and return to the hotel to relax.
8
Papallacta Hot Springs - Quito
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will start our return trip to Quito. On the way, we will stop to visit Papallacta, a small village located at an altitude of 3,250 m (10,600 ft) in the Andes, near the eastern mountain range that leads to the Amazon rainforest. Here you will find Termas Papallacta, a spa and hot springs resort set in the magical landscape of the high Andes. More than a destination, it is an integral experience that will awaken all your senses.
9
Transfer out
Passengers will be picked up at the hotel and transferred to the airport for their flight home.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in U.S. dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout 2024, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; in case a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated and tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
Spondylus Route
- 6 days
- 5 nights
Welcome to an unforgettable journey through the enchanting Spondylus Route, where the beauty of the Pacific meets Ecuadorian culture. This exciting journey from Guayaquil to Aguas Blancas will immerse you in spectacular landscapes, golden beaches and unique cultural experiences.
The Spondylus Route in Ecuador is a scenic coastal road that runs along the Pacific coast, offering breathtaking ocean views and pristine beaches. breathtaking ocean views and pristine beaches.
INCLUDES
- Transportation for visits and excursions
- Local guide
- Lodging
- Maritime transportation
- Meals according to itinerary
- Entrance fees to visit sites
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Unspecified foods
- Unspecified items
itinerary
1
Transfer in Guayaquil
We will meet you at the José Joaquín de Olmedo airport and will be happy to accompany you on your private transfer to your hotel in a central location. There you will have the opportunity to visit restaurants, bars, craft stores and parks. On your first day, you will have time to explore and discover all that this beautiful city has to offer. I am sure you will fall in love with every corner of this city.
2
City tour Guayaquil - Transfer to Puerto Lopez
To start we will have a delicious breakfast at our hotel and then an incredible tour of the beautiful city of Guayaquil awaits us. We will start at the Plaza de Administración, where the impressive neoclassical style Municipality is located before continuing our way to the Moorish style Clock Tower. Then, we will explore the spectacular Simon Bolivar Malecon, an urban regeneration project that seeks to unite the city and its citizens with the beautiful Guayas River. It will be a wonderful 3 km walk! At the Rotonda, we will learn about the liberation processes in South America by Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín. Afterwards, we will go to the historic and intimate neighborhood of Las Peñas with its beautiful wooden houses. And to finish, right from the Santa Ana hill, we will enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view that will leave you breathless, we assure you that you will love it! After lunch, we will head towards Puerto Lopez where we can finally rest.
3
Playa de los Frailes - Agua Blanca
We would love to accompany you on your visit to the incredible Los Frailes beach and the beautiful community of Agua Blanca. This tour combines the natural beauty of the Ecuadorian coast with a unique experience of history and culture. Los Frailes is a spectacular beach with three consecutive beaches and different colors of sand, surrounded by hills, cliffs and viewpoints that offer the most beautiful views of Machalilla National Park. On our visit, we will explore its trails and reach the highest point to discover some of the best views. Then, we will visit the community of Agua Blanca, located in the heart of the dry forest and home to one of the best preserved archaeological sites in the park. Our visit includes entrance to the archaeological museum and a walk through the cultural sites and the tropical dry forest. Finally, the tour culminates at the sulfurous and medicinal lagoon of Agua Blanca, prized for its healing health properties.
WHAT TO BRING
- Clothing according to the season.
- Swimsuit.
- Towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats.
- Sport shoes, sandals.
4
Isla de la Plata
We are here to provide you with information about an incredible tour. We will start our tour from the Puerto Lopez pier, where the guide will greet you with enthusiasm. At this point, each passenger will have to pay for the use of the pier directly. We will board a comfortable boat to explore the wonderful Isla de la Plata, known as "The Little Galapagos". This natural paradise is located about 40 kilometers off the coast of Puerto Lopez, and belongs to the Machalilla National Park. Here we will have the opportunity to appreciate the great variety of marine birds that inhabit this place, such as blue-footed, red-footed and masked boobies, frigate birds, pelicans, tropical birds, albatrosses and sea lions. It is also an ideal area for scuba diving and snorkeling, as we will find the last coral reef formations of the Ecuadorian coast. Also, if you visit during the months of June to September, we will have the chance to see whales during the tour!
- Departure to Puerto Lopez
- Whale watching (June - September).
- Arrival at La Plata Island
- Hiking through the island's trails to realize the following activities
- Seabird watching.
- Box Lunch
- Sea turtle watching (November - May)
- Snorkeling practice
- Return to Puerto Lopez
The transportation is done in yachts with capacity for 16 people, which are equipped with two outboard motors, bathrooms, communication systems, and life jackets.
5
Isla de la Plata
Departure will be from the Puerto Lopez pier. There you will meet the guide and, in a very kind way, you will be asked to pay for the use of the dock directly by each passenger. Then we will embark on a boat to visit the island of La Plata. This is exciting! The island is considered "The Little Galapagos" and is located only 40 kilometers off the coast of Puerto Lopez. It is part of the Machalilla National Park and is an impressive nesting site for seabirds such as blue-footed, red-footed and masked boobies, frigate birds, pelicans, tropical birds, albatrosses and sea lions. It is also perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling! Here you will find the last samples of coral reefs of the Ecuadorian coast and between the months of June to September you can go whale watching, it will be an unforgettable experience!
Duration: 7 hours
▪ Departure to Puerto Lopez
▪ Whale watching (June -September).
▪ Arrival at Isla de la Plata
▪ Walk along the island's trails to observe sea birds.
▪ Box Lunch
▪ Sea turtle watching (November - May)
▪ Snorkeling practice
▪ Return to Puerto Lopez.
The transportation is done in yachts with capacity for 16 people, which are equipped with two outboard motors, bathrooms, communication systems, and life jackets.
6
Puerto Lopez - Guayaquil
Breakfast at the hotel. Free morning to enjoy the beach. Approximately 14:30, passengers will be picked up from the hotel to go to the city of Guayaquil.
7
Departure transfer
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport according to flight time. End of services.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in U.S. dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout 2024, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; in case a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated and tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
Farms Program
- 5 days
- 4 nights
Discovering the route of the haciendas is an incredible experience! The views are breathtaking: the mountains and the majestic Cotopaxi volcano appear before you in vibrant colors, spectacular! You will forget the noise of the city and breathe the fresh mountain air, a rest for the soul! Here, you will travel back in time and see firsthand the magnificence, design and comfort that characterize these haciendas, I assure you that you will be captivated by everything you see! Don't miss this unique experience!
Haciendas / Hotels: Patio Andaluz and Hacienda La Alegría
INCLUDES
- Transportation for visits and excursions
- Local guide
- Lodging
- Meals according to itinerary
- Entrance fees to visit sites
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Unspecified foods
- Unspecified items
itinerary
1
Arrival in Quito - Transfer airport - hotel
Welcome to Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport! It will be our pleasure to take you in a comfortable private transfer from the airport to the beautiful city of Quito, enjoy the ride while you enjoy the beautiful views of our city!
2
City Tour - Transfer Hacienda La Alegria
We will start our adventure today with a delicious breakfast at the hotel to get ready and full of energy. Our friendly guide will pick us up at the hotel to take us to explore the largest and best preserved historic center in Latin America. First, we will stop at the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional Church, known for its neo-Gothic style and Ecuadorian fauna ornaments that make it a unique place. Afterwards, we will visit the beautiful Independence Square, surrounded by buildings such as the Presidential Palace, and the majestic Metropolitan Cathedral. We will continue our tour to the impressive Iglesia de la Compañía and the historic Plaza de San Francisco. Our day will end with a breathtaking view from the hill of Panecillo where the Winged Virgin of Quito is located. Finally, we will head to Hacienda La Alegria, located in the heart of the Andes, to enjoy dinner and overnight.
3
Activities at Hacienda La Alegria
This is the perfect place to connect with the nature of the páramo, the Chagra culture and the hacienda life and live an exciting experience in a breathtaking natural environment. On this day, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an incredible horseback ride led by our Chagras experts, who know our safety rules to perfection, including our prevention, mitigation and evacuation plans. The adventure awaits you! In addition, you will enjoy a delicious lunch and dinner and spend the night in our comfortable facilities. We hope you enjoy your stay at Breakfast at the Hacienda!
4
Cotopaxi National Park
Today is a day full of adventure. We will head south along the Panamerican Highway to reach the spectacular Cotopaxi National Park, home to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, a place full of natural beauty and wonders to discover!
On the way, we will stop to check in at the southern checkpoint of the national park and learn more about the biodiversity and geography of the area at the interpretation center. Afterwards, we will hike around the Limpiopungo Lagoon to see the impressive Cotopaxi Volcano. It will be a perfect day to take lots of selfies!
If you wish, you can visit the José Rivas mountain refuge parking lot, where you can discover much more about the breathtaking beauty of this place. We can also enjoy a special lunch at a beautiful hacienda! After a day full of exciting adventures, we will return to Quito to enjoy a delicious dinner and comfortable lodging. See you soon!
5
Transfer to the airport
Breakfast. Transfer from the hotel to the airport to take the international flight back home.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in U.S. dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout 2024, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; in case a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated and tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
Farms Program
- 7 days
- 5 nights
The route of the haciendas is a unique experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes. On this road you can enjoy the majesty of volcanoes such as Cotopaxi, Imbabura, Cayambe and other spectacular landscapes such as the beautiful lakes. As you travel through the mountains, you will be able to breathe fresh air and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city. In addition, you will have the opportunity to travel back in time and experience the splendor, design and comfort that these haciendas offer. We assure you that you will live an unforgettable experience in this wonderful nature tour!
Haciendas / Hotels: Illa Experience and Hacienda Zuleta
INCLUDES
- Transportation for visits and excursions
- Local guide
- Lodging
- Meals according to itinerary
- Entrance fees to visit sites
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Unspecified foods
- Unspecified items
itinerary
1
Arrival in Quito- Transfer to Otavalo
Arrival at Mariscal Sucre Airport in Quito. Private transfer from the airport to Otavalo. Dinner at Hacienda.
2
Otavalo (market - Cuicocha - Cotacachi)
Breakfast. At the scheduled time, passengers will be picked up from their hotel, the guide will give an introduction of the tour and some recommendations for the day. During the tour we will have the opportunity to visit the largest indigenous market in Latin America, meet the people, their clothing, customs and products that are valued around the world.
▪ Otavalo Market - The city of Otavalo has been declared as "intercultural capital of Ecuador" for being a city with enormous potential in several aspects, possessing a charming landscape, cultural richness, history and commercial development. This town is mainly known for its colorful indigenous market, the largest
in Latin America.
▪ Cuicocha: The crater of the Cuicocha Volcano is one of the most beautiful natural sites of our beautiful Ecuador. This site is located in the province of Imbabura, within the Cotacachi Cayapas Reserve. It is a lake site that has two islets in the middle of its lagoon. Yerovi and Teodoro Wolf. Being an active volcano, it is a natural tourist attraction that attracts the attention of locals and strangers. Near its islets you can observe bubbling springs, which gradually expels its strength from its interior through these fumaroles. The wildlife is very rich in both flora and fauna. Countless species of birds, bromeliads and orchids along the way, and the most exquisite of this adventure, the different views of the inter-Andean valleys of Otavalo, Cotacachi, Atuntaqui, Peguche; And with luck on clear days, you can see the majestic Cayambe, the volcanic complex of the Mojandas Fuya Fuya, Yanaurco, and Mojanda; and of course the Colossus of the Mama Cotacachi and Taita Imbabura.
▪ Cotacachi - The city of Cotacachi is settled on the slopes of the volcano of the same name, it is located in the northern part of the country. Its inhabitants are engaged in the leather industry (processing and marketing).
At the end of the tour passengers will be transferred to the Hacienda. Lunch - Dinner.
3
Activities at Hacienda Zuleta
Breakfast.
Visits to choose from during your stay:
1. Visits to the Condor Huasi Project and the condor viewpoint, unique in Ecuador, without guide.
2. Large extensions of gardens and lagoon.
3. Visit to the chapel.
4. 60 km of self-guided trails.
5.Visit to the community and different sites of interest such as embroidery stores, workshop
saddles, house museum, etc., without guide.
6. Archaeological site Caranqui, without guide.
7. 1,700 hectares of land in production, cheese factory, orchard, vermiculture, milking,
sheep, trout.
8. Projects of the foundation embroidery store
Lunch - Dinner. Lodging.
4
Transfer Otavalo to Quito - Middle of the World
Breakfast. Return to Otavalo during the trip we will visit the Middle of the World where the equinoctial line is located. This location was determined in the 18th century by the French Geodesic Mission together with Spanish and Ecuadorian geographers. We will experience the experience of standing on the two hemispheres and visit the Intiñán museum, to perform a series of dynamic experiments that confirm the location of the equinoctial line. Time for lunch (not included). Arrival in Quito. Lodging.
5
City Tour - Cotopaxi National Park
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the historic center of Quito, the largest and best preserved in Latin America. The first stop will be the Basilica del Voto Nacional Church, well known for its neo-gothic style with gargoyles and Ecuadorian fauna among its ornaments. We will continue our visit to the Independence Square or Plaza Mayor, the
itself which is surrounded by the Presidential Palace, Archbishop's Palace, the municipal building and the emblematic Church of the Metropolitan Cathedral. Our next stop will be the Iglesia de la Compañía (Church of the Company) whose interior is decorated and elaborated with gold leaf. We will visit the open square of San Francisco and its monumental church and convent, known as El Escorial de los
Andes, built in the 16th century by the indigenous people of the San Andres School.
Then, we will leave the city of Quito taking the Panamerican Highway to the south and arrive at Cotopaxi National Park after a two-hour drive. The Cotopaxi volcano is the second highest peak in Ecuador with 5,897 m.a.s.l., an active volcano, conical in shape, with snow on its summit and surrounded by beautiful Andean paramo vegetation.
The visit begins with the registration of travelers at the southern checkpoint of the National Park, and then move to the interpretation center to learn about the fauna and flora of the area and general information about the volcano and the Andes Mountains. After this stop, we will hike for about 1 hour around the Limpiopungo Lagoon, an ideal place to admire the majestic volcano and take beautiful pictures. Optionally, it is possible to go in the vehicle to the parking lot of the mountain refuge José Rivas, and from that point walk 200 meters to reach the refuge that is used as a base point by hikers who ascend to the top of the volcano. The parking lot is located at 4,600 meters above sea level. Passengers will enjoy lunch (not included in the rate). At the end of the day, we will head to the hotel located in Cotopaxi.
6
Horseback riding to the Mirador
Breakfast at the Hacienda, the ideal place to connect with the páramo, the Chagra culture and hacienda life. In addition, it is an adventure center like no other in Ecuador, where you live exciting experiences in a stunning natural environment.
This day we will enjoy a horseback ride to the Mirador which lasts 2 hours, this activity is led by our Chagras, expert riders who know perfectly our safety standards (prevention, mitigation and evacuation plans).
It is important to note:
- Riders may not exceed 220 pounds.
- The use of helmets during the ride is mandatory.
- The activity is led by our native guides who speak Spanish.
- Prior reservation is required to guarantee the service.
- All rides are conducted within the exclusive trails of the hacienda.
- Private outings operate with a minimum of 2 people.
- Daily outings have a maximum number of participants (20 guests).
7
Transfer to the airport
Breakfast. Transfer from the hotel to the airport to take the international flight back home.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in U.S. dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout 2024, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; in case a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated and tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
Epic Andean Adventure
- 14 days
- 13 nights
From the emblematic Middle of the World to the imposing peaks of Ruco Pichincha, Pasochoa, Rumiñahui, Ilinizas, Quilotoa, Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, and the indigenous communities of Otavalo, Peguche, Cotacachi, this program will immerse you in the geographic and cultural diversity of this amazing Andean country. Discover the beauty of its mountains, lagoons, volcanoes and the authenticity of its communities while you explore in depth the wonders that Ecuador has to offer. Embark on an unforgettable journey of trekking and connection with Ecuadorian nature and culture!
Embark on an epic 14-day trekking adventure through the natural majesty of Ecuador.
INCLUDES
- Transportation for visits and excursions
- Bilingual and mountain guide
- Lodging
- Meals according to itinerary
- Entrance fees to visit sites
NOT INCLUDED
- Domestic or international airline tickets
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Unspecified foods
- Unspecified items
itinerary
1
Arrival in Quito
Arrival at Mariscal Sucre Airport in Quito. Private transfer from the airport to the hotel located in a central area, with easy access to restaurants, bars, craft stores and parks. On this first day, passengers will have time to explore on their own and begin the discovery of this beautiful city. Quito is located at 2,800 m.a.s.l. so we advise you to relax and prepare for the adventure that awaits you on this first day.
2
City tour Quito - Middle of the World
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer from the historic center of the city of Quito, the largest and best preserved in Latin America. The first stop will be the Basilica del Voto Nacional Church, well known for its neo-gothic style with gargoyles and Ecuadorian fauna among its ornaments. We will continue our visit to the Plaza de la Independencia or Main Square, which is surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, the municipal building and the emblematic Metropolitan Cathedral Church. Our next stop will be the Church of the Company whose interior is decorated and elaborated with gold leaf. We will visit the open square of San Francisco and its monumental church and convent, known as El Escorial de los Andes, built in the 16th century by the indigenous people of the San Andres School. We will continue to the Panecillo, a hill crowned by the Winged Virgin of Quito from where we have a beautiful view of the city and the impressive Andean landscape. Here, passengers will enjoy a traditional lunch with a beautiful view of the city. In the afternoon we continue the tour to Mitad del Mundo, located 22 km north of the city of Quito where the equinoctial line is located. This location was determined in the 18th century by the French Geodesic Mission together with Spanish and Ecuadorian geographers. We will live the experience of standing on the two hemispheres and visit the Intiñan museum to perform a series of dynamic experiments that confirm the location of the equinoctial line. At the end of the afternoon return to the hotel.
3
Free Day
Free day for passengers to explore the city on their own.
4
Cable Car - Rucu Pichincha
At the indicated time, passengers will be picked up from their hotel where the guide will give them a brief introduction to the city and recommendations for the day. During the tour you will be able to contemplate from different points, the city of Quito, volcanoes, mountains and large buildings that surround it and make it unique. From here you can take the road to the summit of the Rucu or to nearby tourist sites such as the Chapel of La Dolorosa, the swing or viewpoints. The way to the summit can take between 5 to 7 hours each way. At the end of the day return to the hotel.
5
Free Day
Free day for passengers to acclimatize and prepare for several days of trekking.
6
Pasochoa Trekking
Breakfast at the hotel.
Visit Pasochoa, an extinct volcano that is very fertile as a result of lava and thousands of years of eruption. Covered with Andean forests and moorlands, you can find many different species of plants, trees, animals and insects. Our trek takes about 6-7 hours in total. After reaching the summit of Pasochoa (4'200 m / 13'779 ft) we head to our lodge to rest for the night.
7
Rumiñahui
We continue to Cotopaxi National Park. We start our tour at the edge of the impressive Limpiopungo Lagoon at 3900m. Rumiñahui is a beautiful rocky mountain whose name means: rock face: Rumi (stone) Ñahui (face). We hike to the top and return in approx. 4 - 5 hours. We cross beautiful moorlands and the last part of the summit is a fun and easy rocky climb to Central Rumiñahui. The view is incredible of the active volcano Cotopaxi, Sincholagua, Pasochoa and the surrounding valleys. We return to our lodge to rest.
8
Ilinizas Trekking
The trip takes us about 30 minutes to the statue of the Virgin almost at 4000 m. The hike to the hut will take about 2 hours and one hour back. Crossing moorland and a small polylepis forest, the hike is very scenic with excellent views of the valley. We return to our lodge to rest.
9
Quilotoa Lagoon - Riobamba
We headed to the central Andes. Lake Quilotoa is one of the most spectacular sites in Ecuador, although relatively out of the ordinary. The crater lake was formed when the volcano erupted many thousands of years ago. It is about 250 meters deep and is characterized by its incredibly bright turquoise color. We walk around the lake for about 4-5 hours to complete the circuit around the crater. Then we will be transferred to the south of Chimborazo province to our hotel for the night.
10
Chimborazo Trekking
After breakfast we go for a wonderful trekking through the area and base of the mountain to admire the moors, views and meet the Andean camelids, alpacas and vicuñas. We arrive at the mountain refuges and reach up to 5000m at the base of the mountain. We return to Quito for our next adventures.
11
Day off
Free day for passengers to rest and explore the city on their own.
12
Otavalo - Indigenous Communities
We will leave the city of Quito towards the north of the country to visit some local communities in Otavalo, artisan workshops that are dedicated to making handicrafts and clothing using materials such as sheep wool and alpaca. We will visit an indigenous family in San Rafael to observe the handicraft work with the natural fiber of the plant called "totora" (schoenplectus californicus). In addition, we will visit a workshop of Andean musical instruments and to complement our tour we will enjoy a short walk inside the Cascada de Peguche Protected Forest, then we continue to the city of Cotacachi to enjoy lunch and then have some free time to walk and visit the city. In the afternoon return to the city of Otavalo to stay in the center of the city.
13
Cuicocha Lagoon Trekking
This interesting tour is totally 100% of a hike around the Cuicocha crater lake. We start the tour at 09:00am, from the city of Otavalo to then enjoy a 4 to 5 hour hike around the Cuicocha crater lake, an active volcano located within Cotacachi Cayapas National Park very diverse in silver and large territorial extension. Especially on clear days we can observe volcanoes such as Cotacachi 4939masl, Imbabura 4630masl, and Cayambe 5790masl. Our guide will explain the origin of the crater, medicinal, decorative, food and animal plants that exist within the route we are going to walk. We will start at 3060 masl and reach an altitude of 3450 masl, the highest point of the route we are going to explore. In the afternoon we will return to the city of Quito.
14
Departure transfer - international flight
Breakfast at the hotel. Passengers will be picked up depending on the flight schedule and taken to the Quito airport for their flight back home.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All rates are in U.S. dollars and per person.
- Rates apply throughout 2024, except on Ecuadorian holidays.
- Tours for 1 to 3 passengers are conducted with a guide-driver; in case a different service is required, a supplement applies.
- If local taxes change, rates will be updated and tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated.
- Outlet Viajes reserves the right to modify itineraries due to unforeseen events or national regulations. Tour operators will be informed and itineraries updated accordingly.
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