Quito to Cuenca along the Avenue of the Volcanoes

Day 1:  Leaving Quito, drive south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes  visiting the Cotopaxi National Park,  home to the world’s highest active volcano at 5897 m (19347 ft). Here we can spot  the Andean Teal, the Andean Coot, the Ecuadorian Hillstar endemic to Ecuador and the giant Andean Condor, with its 3m wingspan. Observe the low growing vegetation and typical plants of the Paramo and spectacular scenery. Depending on weather conditions and group interests, hike up to the snow line at  approximately 5000 m (16400 ft).

Visit to an Indigenous market is included only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

Overnight Riobamba (B)

Day 2:   We start our morning activities heading South. Travel through the Andean countryside; enjoying the ride through spectacular mountain scenery, while observing  indigenous people at work in the patchwork of fields perched along the steep mountain face. We continue on to the Incan ruins of Ingapirca, with the finest example of Incan stonework in Ecuador. Continue on to Cuenca, considered by many Ecuadorians to be the most beautiful city in the country.

Overnight Cuenca (B)

Day 3:  AM visit Colonial Cuenca. The Old Town is best visited on foot. Our tour takes you along the cobblestone streets admiring the historic buildings, hanging balconies, carved wooden doors, the craft fair and colourful flower market, the main plaza with the Old Cathedral, which has been converted to the “Museum for Religious Art”, and the magnificent blue-domed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. See silversmiths at work and handicrafts of almost every kind. We end the tour with a visit to the “Panama Hat” factory. (B)

Afternoon transfer to the airport for flight to Quito or Guayaquil.

• Location: Combined Cultural and Nature Tours, Cuenca and Surroundings, Quito and Surroundings
• Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
• Start / End: Quito / Quito or Guayaquil
• Activities: Walking / hiking in Cotopaxi National Park, nature viewing, tour of Ingapirca, city tour of Cuenca
• Highlights:  Cotopaxi National Park, drive along Avenue of the Volcanoes, Ingapirca Fortress, city of Cuenca
• Season: All year
• Included: Bilingual guide, private transportation, all visits and activities in itinerary, accommodation, meals mentioned in itinerary
• Not Included: Meals not mentioned in itinerary, flight Cuenca to Quito, entrance fees to National Parks and museums, drinks, tips, personal expenses. Ingapirca entrance fees.
• Prices: Please contact us for prices.