5-Day Quito & Volcanoes Avenue: Quilotoa, Ingapirca, Cuenca, Guayaquil

Journey across the heart of Ecuador on this 5-day adventure from Quito to Guayaquil. Discover the colonial charm of Quito, marvel at the emerald lake of Quilotoa, explore the ancient Ingapirca ruins, and wander through the cobblestone streets of Cuenca before reaching the vibrant port city of Guayaquil. This trip captures the very essence of the Andes.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Quilotoa Lagoon: Marvel at the emerald-green waters of this volcanic crater lake, and hike down to the shore.

Tigua Community: Marvel at Tigua’s vibrant naïf paintings of Andean life and landscapes.

Ingapirca: Ecuador’s largest Inca archaeological site, blending Cañari and Inca cultures. The site features the Temple of the Sun, an elliptical stone structure aligned with solar events.

Cuenca: Discover Cuenca’s colonial charm, from its cathedrals to its UNESCO-listed toquilla hat tradition.

Day 1: ARRIVAL QUITO

Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, meet your guide holding a sign and transfer to your hotel in modern Quito. Take time to rest and acclimate at your leisure, the adventure begins tomorrow!

Overnight in Quito.

Day 2: QUITO – QUILOTOA – RIOBAMBA (260km – 5hrs)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart in the morning traveling along the stunning Avenue of the Volcanoes toward Quilotoa. This impressive crater lake, set at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), dazzles with its emerald-green waters and breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean foothills. The day includes a hike down to the crater’s edge (approx. 25 minutes). The return ascent takes about an hour, but for those who prefer a gentler option, mules are available for rent. Next, continue to the Tigua Community.

TUI Wow Moments: Tigua Community Painting Showcase – Discover the artistic soul of the Andes in the heart of the Tigua Community, famous for its colorful naïf paintings that capture Andean life with vibrant strokes. Their artwork, inspired by local landscapes and traditions, offers a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural identity.

After this enriching experience, the journey continues to Riobamba, where the day concludes.

Overnight in Riobamba.

Day 3: RIOBAMBA – OZOGOCHE – INGAPRICA – CUENCA (265km – 5.5hrs)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we travel toward the Ozogoche Lagoons, passing by Lake Colta and visiting the historic Balbanera Church, the oldest church in Ecuador, built by the Spanish in 1534. Discover the mystical beauty of the Ozogoche Lagoons, a sacred site surrounded by the Andean highlands, steeped in ancient legends. Located within Sangay National Park, these cold, crystal-clear lagoons offer breathtaking scenery, perfect for connecting with nature, learning about local indigenous traditions, and, with some luck, spotting Andean birdlife. A peaceful and spiritual experience in the heart of the Andes. We then continue to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most important archaeological complex, where you will explore the fascinating history of the Cañari and Inca civilizations. Finally, we proceed to Cuenca.

Overnight in Cuenca.

Day 4: CUENCA – GUAYAQUIL (196km – 3.5hrs)

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Cuenca’s cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant plazas. Visit the “New Cathedral” with its iconic blue domes, the “Old Cathedral”, and learn about the UNESCO-listed tradition of weaving the “toquilla straw hat”. Enjoy the colors and flavors of Cuenca’s local market before traveling to Guayaquil, taking in the dramatic shift from Andean highlands to coastal lowlands.

Overnight in Guayaquil.

Day 5: GUAYAQUIL DEPARTURE

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. End your journey with unforgettable memories of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences.