Tour itinerary
Day 1,QUITO
Arrive in Quito.
Day 2,QUITO – AMAZON
Head through spectacular Andean scenery into the Amazon. We spend the 3 nights in a secluded jungle lodge on the world’s greatest ecosystem. (BLD)
Day 3 to Day 4,AMAZON
We have two full days in the Amazon to fully appreciate the diversity of this unique wilderness area. We explore on foot and by canoe, accompanied by a local guide. (BLD)
Day 5,AMAZON – BANOS
We take a morning bus to Banos, a lovely town situated in an idyllic location on the slopes of Tungurahua volcano. (B)
Day 6,BANOS
A full day to explore Banos and the surrounding area. There are a range of different options including hiking, riding horses into the mountains, exploring by mountain bike and relaxing in the hot pools for which the town is famous. (B)
Day 7,BANOS – RIOBAMBA
Morning bus journey to Riobamba at the foot of the Chimborazo Alps. The afternoon is free to explore the surrounding mountain scenery. (B)
Day 8,RIOBAMBA - CUENCA
Board the famous ‘Devil’s Nose’ railway for the journey across steep-sided ravines and rocky gorges to Alausi. Continue by bus to the old colonial town of Cuenca, stopping in Ingapirca, Ecuador’s finest Inca ruins. (Note: if the train is not running we will travel by bus instead). (B)
Day 9,CUENCA
Morning walking tour of this beautiful city. Its cobblestone streets, flowering plazas and whitewashed buildings with old wooden doors and ironwork balconies make it a pleasure to explore. (B)
Day 10,CUENCA - CAJAS NATIONAL PARK
Over 250 lakes separated by rocky ridges make Cajas NP one of the most beautiful natural spots in Ecuador, with abundant birdlife including the condor and many hummingbirds. We spend the day touring the park by bus and on foot. (B)
Day 11,CUENCA – QUITO
Last chance to buy an authentic Panama hat, originally made in Cuenca, before we fly back to Quito. (B)
Day 12,QUITO
Quito is one of Latin America’s most historically important cities with a wealth of architectural gems and the dramatic backdrop of the Pichincha volcano. The day is free to explore. (B)
Day 13,QUITO – OTAVALO
We set off by bus to Otavalo, a traditional Andean town with one of South America’s best markets. The afternoon is free to explore the town. (B)
Day 14,OTAVALO - ALTO CHOCO
Saturday is market day in Otavalo and the streets throng with stalls selling the brightly coloured textiles for which the region is famous. In the afternoon you will travel north by public bus to the Alto Choco Reserve. (BD)
Day 15 to Day 19,ALTO CHOCO
You spend the week volunteering and relaxing in the lodge amidst the beautiful surroundings. (BLD)
Day 20,ALTO CHOCO – QUITO
Say farewell to your hosts and return to Quito. (B)
Day 21,QUITO
Tour ends after breakfast. (B)