Bygone days & Cultural Treasures Standard

Welcome to Ecuador! Pick up at Quito Airport and transfer to your hotel followed by free time to settle-in and acclimatize to your new surroundings.

Time to acquaint yourselves with the best sites of the city of Quito. In the morning a tour of the beautiful colonial plazas and churches as well as panoramic city views atop the Panecillo. After lunch time to explore the excellent Museo del Banco Central - generally considered to have the best archaeological exhibits in the country and an excellent introduction to the various cultures that have existed here before us. Overnight in Quito.

Transfer north of Quito to visit the indian market at Otavalo, famous across the Americas for its fine handicrafts and colourful locals. In the afternoon and evening there is free time to explore the beautiful grounds of Hacienda Cusin (Comfortable Option)- a charming 17th century estate steeped in history and tradition where you can enjoy a peaceful overnight stay. The Regular tour stays at a cosy hotel in central Otavalo.

A fascinating day visiting some of the small indian villages surrounding Otavalo. During the trip you will see locals making handicrafts, playing Andean musical instruments, and weaving traditional shawls. You will also visit the beautiful volcanic lake of Cuicocha, and the Peguche Waterfall - a sacred site where the locals take their energizing ritual baths during the festival of the sun god. Overnight in Quito.

An early morning flight down the Andes to 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 a ceramics lesson where you can make your own pots in the local style. Overnight in Cuenca.

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.

Return flight to Quito after breakfast. Then, a chance to visit the fascinating Capilla Del Hombre museum which was built by local artist Guayasamin as a tribute to humankind, and the art-work on display depicting the historic suffering and struggle of Latin America's poor indigenous population is extremely moving. Overnight in Quito.

Transfer Out

You will be picked up at your hotel for a transfer to the airport in time for your international flight out.