Ecuador 7 Days Tour from Quito to Cuenca

Day 1: Explore Quito’s Historic Center, El Panecillo, the Middle of the World & Intiñan Museum

1. 1h
   Begin your adventure exploring Quito’s beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. Stroll through Independence Square (Plaza Grande), surrounded by impressive colonial buildings and the city's most important landmarks.
2. Fundacion Iglesia de la Compania
   30m · Admission ticket included
   Visit one of South America's finest Baroque churches, renowned for its breathtaking interior adorned with intricate gold leaf decorations.
3. Pass by
   Discover one of Quito's oldest and most iconic religious complexes, celebrated for its rich history, remarkable colonial architecture, and beautiful plazas.
4. 20m
   Continue to Quito's most famous hilltop viewpoint, home to the iconic Virgin of Quito statue, where you'll enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the Ecuadorian capital.
5. Mitad Del Mundo
   30m · Admission ticket included
   Stand on the Equator and visit the iconic monument marking latitude 0°, one of Ecuador's most visited attractions.
6. Intinan Equator Museum
   1h · Admission ticket included
   End the day with interactive exhibits and fascinating demonstrations that showcase the science, culture, and traditions associated with the Equator.

Day 2: Discover Otavalo Market, Cuicocha Crater Lake, Cotacachi & Andean Artisan Traditions

1. Guayllabamba
   10m
   Depart Quito and travel north through the scenic Andean highlands, making your first stop in Guayllabamba town, where you'll have the opportunity to taste the region's famous cherimoya, a delicious tropical fruit native to Ecuador.
2. Miralago
   20m · Admission ticket included
   Admire breathtaking panoramic views of San Pablo Lake and the surrounding Imbabura Volcano while sampling the area's traditional bizcochos, a beloved local pastry. Here you can taste the famous biscuits.
3. Otavalo Market
   1h
   Explore one of South America's largest and most famous indigenous markets, where you'll have free time to browse colorful stalls filled with handwoven textiles, alpaca products, jewelry, paintings, and authentic Ecuadorian handicrafts.
4. 20m · Admission ticket included
   Visit local family run workshops to discover the ancestral techniques used to create handwoven textiles on traditional looms and handcrafted Andean musical instruments, preserving centuries of Indigenous craftsmanship.
5. 40m · Admission ticket included
   Visit the renowned Ñanda Mañachi workshop to discover the craftsmanship behind traditional Andean musical instruments. Learn how iconic instruments such as pan flutes, quenas, charangos, and drums are handcrafted, while gaining insight into the rich musical heritage and cultural traditions of the Indigenous communities of the Ecuadorian Andes.
6. Cotacachi
   1h
   Stroll through this charming Andean town, internationally recognized for its high-quality leather goods, boutiques, and welcoming atmosphere. Here we have the lunch
7. Cuicocha Lake
   20m · Admission ticket included
   Conclude the day from a viewpoint with to see this spectacular volcanic crater lake, surrounded by the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve. Enjoy stunning scenery, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable views before returning to Quito for the evening.

Day 3: Explore Cotopaxi National Park, José Rivas Refuge, Toachi Canyon & Quilotoa Highlands

1. Cotopaxi National Park
   30m · Admission ticket included
   Journey into one of Ecuador's most spectacular protected areas, home to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the world's highest active volcanoes. Enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes while learning about the park's unique ecosystems and wildlife.
2. 1h 30m · Admission ticket included
   Hike to the José Rivas Refuge at approximately 4,875 meters (15,994 ft) above sea level, where you'll be rewarded with unforgettable views of Cotopaxi's snow-capped slopes and the surrounding volcanic scenery.
3. 30m · Admission ticket included
   Visit the park's interpretation center to gain insight into the geology, biodiversity, volcanic activity, and conservation efforts that make Cotopaxi National Park one of Ecuador's natural treasures.
4. Laguna de Limpiopungo
   30m · Admission ticket included
   Continue to the picturesque Limpiopungo Lagoon, located within Cotopaxi National Park and surrounded by breathtaking páramo landscapes. Enjoy a short, easy walk along the lagoon's trails while taking in spectacular views of Cotopaxi Volcano and observing native high-altitude flora and birdlife in one of the park's most scenic locations.
5. Canon del Rio Toachi
   15m · Admission ticket included
   Stop to admire the dramatic landscapes of the Toachi Canyon, a scenic viewpoint offering spectacular panoramas of deep valleys, rugged cliffs, and the Andean highlands.
6. Reserva Ecologica Los Ilinizas
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Continue to the picturesque region entering to the Ilinizas Natoinal Park, surrounded by traditional Indigenous communities and stunning mountain scenery. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy dinner included before preparing to explore the famous crater lake the following day.

Day 4: Explore Quilotoa Crater Lake, Journey to Baños, Visit Casa del Árbol & Pachamama Hands Viewpoint

1. Laguna Quilotoa
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Begin the day at one of Ecuador's most breathtaking natural wonders. Walk along the rim of the spectacular volcanic crater while enjoying panoramic views of its emerald green lake. For those seeking a closer experience, there is the option to descend approximately 40 minutes to the shoreline, where you may also choose to take an optional kayak or boat ride across the crater lake ( kayak or boat not included).
   
   After continue your journey through the Ecuadorian Andes toward the charming town of Baños, passing picturesque mountain landscapes and traditional rural communities along the way.
2. 40m · Admission ticket included
   Visit the iconic Casa del Árbol, home to the world-famous "Swing at the End of the World," where you can soar above the mountains while taking in spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and, weather permitting, Tungurahua Volcano.
3. 30m · Admission ticket included
   End the day at the impressive Pachamama Hands Viewpoint, a striking panoramic attraction offering unforgettable views of the lush mountains surrounding Baños an ideal spot for memorable photographs before heading to your accommodation for the evening.

Day 5: Discover the Avenue of the Waterfalls, Manto de la Novia Cable Car, Pailón del Diablo & Riobamba

1. 40m
   After breakfast, set out along Baños' famous Avenue of the Waterfalls, one of Ecuador's most scenic routes, where lush cloud forests, deep canyons, and spectacular waterfalls create unforgettable Andean landscapes.
2. 30m · Admission ticket included
   Ride the cable car across the Pastaza River canyon for breathtaking views of the beautiful Manto de la Novia Waterfall. Adventurous travelers may also choose to experience the optional zipline (canopy) across the valley (zipline not included).
3. 2h · Admission ticket included
   Visit one of Ecuador's most iconic waterfalls and enjoy a scenic walk through the lush forest to reach several spectacular viewpoints, where you'll experience the incredible power and beauty of this magnificent cascade up close.
   
   After travel through the scenic Ecuadorian Highlands to the historic city of Riobamba, often known as the "Sultan of the Andes." Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure.

Day 6: Explore Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, Ingapirca Ruins & Journey to the Historic City of Cuenca

1. 30m
   Depart Riobamba and travel to the majestic Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, home to Ecuador's highest mountain and the point on Earth closest to the sun due to the planet's equatorial bulge. Enjoy spectacular high-altitude landscapes while learning about the unique ecosystems of the Andean páramo.
2. 1h 30m · Admission ticket included
   Ascend by vehicle to approximately 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) above sea level and continue with a short walk to the Hermanos Carrel Refuge, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Chimborazo Volcano and its surrounding glaciers.
3. 20m · Admission ticket included
   Continue with a short walk to the picturesque Cóndor Lagoon, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. This peaceful high-altitude lake offers excellent opportunities to admire native flora, wildlife, and the impressive landscapes of the reserve.
4. Ingapirca Archaeological Complex
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Explore Ecuador's most important Inca archaeological site, where you'll discover the fascinating history of the Inca and Cañari civilizations while visiting the remarkably preserved Temple of the Sun and other ceremonial structures.
5. 20m · Admission ticket included
   Take a short walk to the famous Inca Face, a remarkable natural rock formation whose profile resembles a human face, surrounded by beautiful Andean scenery and local legends.
6. Cuenca
   1h 30m
   Continue to the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city of Cuenca, where you'll check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 7: Discover Cuenca’s Historic Center, Turi Viewpoint & the Art of Panama Hat Weaving

1. 30m
   Begin the day exploring the charming UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Cuenca, celebrated for its elegant colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and picturesque cobblestone streets.
2. 30m
   Stroll along one of Cuenca's most vibrant streets, lined with historic buildings, cafés, museums, and cultural landmarks that reflect the city's unique character.
3. 30m
   Experience the authentic atmosphere of Cuenca's oldest traditional market, where you'll discover local produce, regional specialties, colorful flowers, and handcrafted goods.
4. 20m
   Explore this lively square, home to local artisans and handicraft vendors, offering an authentic glimpse into the city's daily life and traditions.
5. 20m
   Admire one of Cuenca's most picturesque plazas, famous for its vibrant flower stalls and charming colonial surroundings
6. 20m
   Visit the city's main square, surrounded by historic landmarks and beautifully landscaped gardens at the heart of Cuenca's historic center.
7. 1h · Admission ticket included
   Discover the city's most recognizable landmark, admired for its striking blue domes, impressive architecture, and magnificent interior.
8. 15m · Admission ticket included
   Step inside the original cathedral, an important historical and religious monument that reflects the city's colonial past.
9. 40m
   Take in spectacular panoramic views over Cuenca from one of the city's most iconic viewpoints, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
10. 45m · Admission ticket included
    Visit one of Ecuador's most renowned Panama hat manufacturers to learn about the traditional craftsmanship behind the world-famous handwoven toquilla straw hats, recognized as part of Ecuador's cultural heritage.
11. 30m
    Conclude your city tour with another stroll along Calle Larga before returning to your hotel, where your unforgettable journey through Ecuador comes to an end.
    
    You can find free time or we leave you at the hotel.
    End services.

Pickup details

You must wait at the hotel lobby and the guide will identify himself to you with his credentials and the name of our operator, Ecuador Traveler Planet.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness