You will be welcomed at the airport by our representatives and then taken to your hotel. Once there, they will provide you with a package of documents, a detailed explanation of the program, and assistance with your luggage and hotel registration.
Day 2
Quito - Intiñan
In the morning a short trip to the north of the city of Quito will lead us to our planet’s Latitude 0º0’0” where
the Intiñan museum known as “The trek of Sun” will guide us through the wonderful world of the Andean
Cosmo-vision, culture and traditions. After this visit, enjoy an inspiring tour through the streets and main
squats of Quito Historical Center. A visit to the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo is part of this
spectacular visit.
Overnight in Quito
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 3
Quito - Imbabura - Andean Handicrafts and Markets
An early start will take you due north on a beautiful scenic drive to the province of Imbabura, a magic land
of lakes and mountains of outstanding beauty. The day opens the possibility to learn about the customs of
the people living in the area, learn about the relationship between the concept of the Middle of the World
and all the archaeological sites found in the area.
The Northern Highlands are the home of the Otavalo Community, the Otavalos are known around the world
for their weaving patterns and textiles which pre-date the Spanish conquest. The market is world known for
its colorful textiles, woven on back-strap and shuttle looms, its piles of ponchos and hand-made textiles,
hats, Indian jewelry and creative handicrafts. This is a unique occasion to wonder through this maze of color
and enjoy some fun bargaining and buying great quality handicrafts at superb prices. Close by is the town of
Peguche where some of the Otavalo Indians live and opens the possibility to see the typical houses of the
area . Lunch will be offered at one of the many charming Hosterias or Country Inns of the area.
Overnight in Quito.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 4
Antisana Reserve - Patate Valley
The Antisana Volcano is the fourth highest mountain in the Ecuadorian Andes. Massive glaciers feed water to
lakes and rivers of the reserve, which sustain the abundant wildlife of the region. Fifty percent of the Andean
Condors that live in Ecuador have chose Antisana as their home, as well as many other species of highland
birds. The route south of Quito goes through the Famous Avenue of the Volcanoes up to Patate Region. Very
close is located Baños, this small village is considered the Gate to the Amazon Rainforest, the environment is
impressive, a mixture of highland landscapes with vegetation that becomes exhuberant and greener as it
descents to the Amazon Basin, along the Pastaza river canyon it is possible to admire dozens of waterfalls.
Overnight in Patate
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5
Ingapirca Fortress - Cuenca
In the morning drive to Riobamba, the 1st city founded by Spaniards, and then drive south to Ingapirca
Complex, located approximately two hours away from the city of Cuenca; Ingapirca Fortress is without any
doubt the most important archeological vestige left by the Inca Civilization in Ecuador. Despite several studies made in the area, is a mystery until today the final use of this architectonic complex. Its different
spaces make us doubt if it was a fortress, a center of astronomic observation or a temple devoted to the
sun and moon. Inside the complex, we will find a clear evidence of the great sumptuousness of the Cañari
and Inca Cultures, the different didactic areas we find in this onsite museum represent clearly a rich
cultural interchange and evident prove of the expertise hands of this pre Hispanic communities in the
ceramic, sculpture and metallurgy industries. After this exciting experience, continue your trip to Cuenca. Overnight in Cuenca.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 6
Cuenca
Located at the Southern Highlands in a picturesque valley surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery we
find the city of Cuenca declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site in 1989, Cuenca, known as well as “Santa
Ana of the 4 rivers”, was specifically built to satisfy the demands of the Spanish elite during the conquest
period; today this city displays with glamour a French Neoclassic architecture represented in its nicely
decorated balconies with colourful flowers, main squares and colossal churches that exalt the monumental
beauty of this old colonial city. Our excursion is an encounter with traditions, emblematic shields, culture, art
and religiousness, is a walking stroll through the historic center, a special path that will allow us to admire
the magnificent art and cultural diversity of the city, exploring some of the most unusual angles and
perspectives.
Overnight in Cuenca
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7
Cuenca
You will be taken to the airport early in the morning for either you international return flight home.
Included:
- Regular transportation
- Bilingual English/Spanish speaking
- Meals as per itinerary description
- 6 nights lodging
- Tours
800 559 5192
