Our driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Free time to relax and acclimatize to your new surroundings.
Spanish Speaking Driver
A full day to acquaint yourself with the best sites of the city of Quito. In the morning you will enjoy a tour of the colonial highlights including the cathedral and most impressive churches and pretty plazas. After lunch we head north to the equator - stand literally in the middle of the world! We also visit the unique Inti ñan museum where you can prove (or disprove) various scientific phenomena that only hold true at the equator. Don´t forget to take your passport along if you want a special equator stamp in it!
Breakfast
English Speaking Guide
A spectacular day visiting one of the highest active volcanoes in the world (5897m) and exploring the Andean grasslands (paramo). In the morning you will visit the picturesque Limpiopungo Lake and the small park museum. Afterwards you can head up to the volcano refuge at the snowline (approx. 1 hour hike up).
Expert Tip: Warm clothes are recommended for today and remember to drink plenty of water to avoid the effects of high altitude.
We often use Mid sized SUVs, such as a Hyundai Tucson, for day tours with a Driver/Guide. These SUVs typically are comfortable for 4 passengers. However, if you feel that you might want a bit more space, please let us know and for an additional cost, we can upgrade to a larger vehicle.
Breakfast
Boxlunch
English speaking guide
Private transport
Quilotoa is a real highlight of your tour that will literally take your breath away! An emerald green Laguna inside the crater of an extinct volcano with steep jagged cliffs and views straight down the entire valley of volcanoes (on a clear day), as well as amazing landscapes along the drive through what is sometimes referred as the Grand Canyon of Ecuador. The trek into the crater to the lake shore is very popular. There is a possibility for an optional mule ride out (approx. 10$) for those with tired limbs. At the shore you can also rent a kayak to explore the lake and fumaroles. The village of Quilotoa is also an interesting crafts center.
The village of Quilotoa is set at 3,800m so remember to stay hydrated throughout the day to help avoid the effects of the altitude. It can also be very windy and cold, so be prepared.
A free day in Baños to explore the town at your own pace. There is a whole array of potential activities to enjoy from relaxing hot springs to trekking, biking, canyoning and horse-riding to name but a few. You can also visit the famous Swing at the Edge of the world - if you are lucky you may also get a glimpse of the active Tungurahua Volcano!
An unforgettable visit to the Ecuador’s most impressive Inca ruins! Ingapirca was built in the 15th century on a strategic hilltop with excellent views over the surrounding countryside. A local guide will explain all about the believed origin and purpose of the ruins which combines both Inca and Cañari Indian history, and there is also a small museum to visit if you wish.
Breakfast
Guided Tour Ingapirca (Spanish or English)
Private transport (Spanish)
Cuenca - a full day amidst the white-washed buildings and cobbled streets of Cuenca. An introductory tour to the colonial highlights of the city including its handsome plazas and domed churches, followed by free time to explore the city by yourselves. Overnight at Cuenca.
Breakfast
English Speaking Guide
Cuenca to Guayaquil – today we journey from Cuenca down to the coastal city of Guayaquil, Ecuador’s biggest port and commercial centre. On route we pass through El Cajas National Park on route, and also views of banana and cocoa plantations on route. In the afternoon a guided tour will introduce you to the charms of the city such as the modern Malecon walkway along the impressive River Guayas, the Iguana park, and the colonial highlights.
Please take extra care out by yourself in the city as there is more crime in Guayaquil than in other Ecuadorian cities. It is not advisable for example to wander the streets with your camera in open view.
Keep in mind to bring rain gear and warm clothes for this trip, as the weather is unpredictable and it can change quickly. Also remember to stay hydrated for the high altitude.
Breakfast
Lunch
English speaking guide
A transfer takes you over the Ruta del Spondylus to the small beach town of Puerto Lopez. Enjoy the colourful scenery on the way - through small fishing towns and along the coast with amazing sea views. The afternoon is free to relax at the beach and explore the small town at your own pace.
Breakfast
Private transport (Spanish)
A day to explore one of the prettiest islands along the Ecuadorian coast. Isla de la Plata is often known as “a poor man’s Galapagos” due to the similarity of the birdlife (blue and red footed boobies, pelicans, frigate birds) encountered here; the trip includes a guided hike and opportunity to snorkel. In season (aprox June to October) humpback whale watching is also included.
Breakfast
Boxlunch
English speaking guide
Shared transport
Snorkel equipment (mask & fins)
Entrance fees ($5-$20)
Puerto López dock fee
A fantastic day in the Machalilla National Park. This trip includes visits to the stunning secluded white-sand beach at Los Frailes, a short trek in the endangered tropical dry forest and a visit to the interesting Agua Blanca indigenous community to see the archaeological museum and natural Sulphur/mud pool.
Breakfast
Boxlunch
English speaking guide
Private transport (Spanish)
Entrance fees ($5-$20)
Free time in the morning to relax at the beach is followed by a transfer to Manta Airport and a flight back to the highlands of Quito.
Breakfast
Private transport (Spanish)
Transfer Out
You will be picked up at your hotel for a transfer to the airport in time for your international flight out.
Breakfast
Airport transfer (Spanish)
