Journey through Ecuador

On arrival in Quito, Ecuador's Andean capital, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Explore Quito's UNESCO-listed historic centre, strolling through elegant plazas and past centuries-old churches including La Compañía and San Francisco. Continue to the Middle of the World, where the equatorial line is celebrated through interactive exhibits exploring Ecuador's geography and culture.

Head north of Quito into the Andean highlands to Otavalo, renowned for its colourful handicraft market and indigenous traditions. In the village of Pijal, meet the women of the Sacha Warmikuna project, learn about local customs and help prepare traditional ají (hot sauce) before enjoying a delicious lunch. Later, browse the leather workshops and shops of nearby Cotacachi before returning to Quito.

Leaving the high Andes behind, descend into the lush cloud forest surrounding Mindo, one of Ecuador's renowned birdwatching areas. Spend time at a local birdwatching site, keeping watch for some of the colourful species that inhabit this biodiverse region while enjoying your first introduction to the dense vegetation and misty forests of Mindo.

Delve deeper into Mindo's cloud forest, following forest trails and crossing by cable car as you explore an area dotted with waterfalls, keeping watch for hummingbirds, toucans and other birdlife along the way. You will also visit a butterfly nursery to learn about the different stages of the butterflies' life cycle.

Journey south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, a spectacular corridor through the Ecuadorian Andes, where towering volcanic peaks rise above the highlands. Enter Cotopaxi National Park and walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon, looking out for native birdlife and perhaps wild horses across the surrounding páramo, a distinctive high-altitude grassland ecosystem. Continue into Chimborazo Province for an overnight stay in a traditional Andean hacienda near Riobamba.

Continue through Ecuador's southern highlands, stopping at Alausí to hear the story of the celebrated Devil's Nose railway before crossing the unusual desert-like terrain around Palmira. At Ingapirca, explore Ecuador's most important Inca archaeological complex and learn how Inca and Cañari influences came together here. Later, travel onwards to the UNESCO-listed city of Cuenca.

Characterised by terracotta-tiled roofs, cobbled streets and picturesque riverside areas, Cuenca is one of Ecuador’s most characterful colonial cities. Take in Calderón Square, the New Cathedral and views from El Turi before learning how traditional Panama hats are made. You will also visit nearby Chordeleg and Gualaceo, which showcase the region’s craftsmanship, from intricate silverwork to colourful, handwoven Macana shawls.

Today is free to enjoy this charming city at your own pace. Browse artisan shops, visit a museum, or linger over coffee in a local café. Alternatively, venture into the high Andes on an optional excursion to nearby Cajas National Park, known for its rugged páramo and serene glacial lakes.

Transfer to Cuenca Airport and fly back north to Quito. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for your final night in the capital.

Today you will be transferred to the airport in Quito, where your arrangements end.