Welcome to Quito! The capital city of Ecuador is beautifully situated in the Andes, squeezed between mountain peaks and volcanoes at an altitude of 2,850 meters (9,350 ft). A city full of traditional Ecuadorian Sierra Culture, bustling markets, relaxing parks, busy commercial streets choked with traffic, and the incredible historical colonial city center.
Our driver will carry a sign with your name on it and welcome you at the arrivals area. You will be transferred to your hotel in the city. The rest of the day/evening is free to acclimatize and get used to your new surroundings.
Duration: transfer of 45 min to 1 hour 15 min / Type: private transfer
Be prepared for unpredictable weather – the Quiteños literally say there are 4 seasons in one day! The mornings usually start off fresh and sunny, but around mid-day weather may feel warm while the sunshine is very strong. In the afternoon temperature starts to drop quickly and it may rain.
A spectacular day visiting one of the highest active volcanoes in the world (5897m) and exploring the Andean grasslands (paramo) of the incredible national park. In the morning you will visit the picturesque Limpiopungo Lake favored by water birds and learn more about the area the small park museum. Afterwards, the car will take you up to the parking lot from where you can hike up to the first refuge to experience this volcano up close. This is a steep hike for about one hour with amazing views.
Tour duration: 7-8 Hours / Type: This is a privately organized tour
Warm clothes (including hat, scarf and gloves), and waterproofs are recommended for this tour. Also, remember that it's important to drink lots of water and stay hydrated while at high altitude.
Breakfast
English speaking driver/guide
Quilotoa is a real highlight of your tour that will literally take your breath away! An emerald green Laguna inside the crater of an active 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.
There is also time for an interesting stop at the Tigua art workshop to meet the Toaquiza family and admire some impressive local artwork with impressions of life in the Andes.
Afterwards, you will be drop-off at Isinliví village.
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. In the Quilotoa community there are nice restaurants serving local food.
Warm clothes (including hat, scarf and gloves), and waterproofs are recommended for this tour. Also, remember that it's important to drink lots of water and stay hydrated while at high altitude.
A full day to enjoy your amazing surroundings in the Ecuadorian Andes. The Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge can provide you with hiking instructions – they have easy, moderate to exhilarating self-guided hikes lasting from 1 up to 6 hours through incredible mountain landscapes, canyons, crossing rivers and passing by tiny highland villages. The local farmers population is very friendly and it's a very safe area for hiking.
The Lodge can also help you arrange other activities at an additional cost, such as a visit to the local cheese factory, horse-back riding, mountain biking and even cow milking. We also recommend visiting the local woodwork shop of Don Bosco. A box-lunch can be ordered at the lodge.
Hikers advise: Some people who are not from this region don’t know exactly how to deal with locals, especially if they ask for money, ‘caramelos’ (candy) or ‘regalos’ (gifts). You probably will meet local people when you are hiking around. These people obviously have less money than most western travellers. Our experience is that handing out change, pens, or candies to kids or grown-ups along the way is not a very wise thing to connect to these people, or to help them. Giving out of guilt or pity is a lose-lose situation, giving out of respect and friendship is a win-win.
Breakfast
Dinner
An early morning transfer to Riobamba to meet with your mountain guide.
Then, a day exploring the impressive Chimborazo Volcano. Today we take you to follow Whymper´s footsteps - the British explorer was first to conquer this impressive summit - up to the second refuge at 5000 meter. On the way up, we may see lamas, alpacas, wild bulls and the beautiful vicuñas (wild lamas) and your guide will explain about the history of this region and the rich flora and fauna of this amazing landscape. If you prefer a gentler day then just let your guide know and he will devise an alternative itinerary in the park for you.
Warm clothes (including hat, scarf and gloves), and waterproofs are recommended for this tour. Also, remember that it's important to drink lots of water and stay hydrated while at high altitude.
Breakfast
Private transport (Spanish)
English speaking guide (Tour)
Today 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.
Tour duration: 2 Hours / Type: This is a shared tour service (the transport for the day is private)
Closed on Monday & Tuesday.
Usually there are site guides with a basic English speaking knowledge available but not always. Unfortunately, this is not something that we can pre-reserve for you.
Breakfast
Local guide in Ingapirca (Spanish or English - shared)
Private transport (Spanish)
Entrance fees
A half day tour to acquaint you with the attractive white-washed city of Cuenca – for many considered the most beautiful city in Ecuador. The tour includes the colonial highlights of the city including its handsome plazas and domed cathedrals, as well as an introduction to its history and unique culture. You will visit the traditional Barrios of San Sebastian, the Museum of Modern Art, Calderon Park, the Flower Market, the Sagrario Catherdral and the Immaculate Conception Catherdral, which is considered the largest in Latin America.
Of course a visit to Cuenca is not complete without a visit to the famous Panama Hat Factory where you can observe the making of the world’s finest hats! You can also try out a ceramics lesson where you can make your own pots in local style.
Tour duration: 4 hours / Type: This is a privately organized tour service
Depending on your flight schedule, our driver will transfer you out to the airport.
Breakfast
English speaking driver/guide (tour)
Transfer to the airport (Spanish)
Hotel late check-out
Entrance fees
Domestic flight
