EcuadorHighlands of Ecuador
Arrive at any time. There are no activities planned until the evening. Please check at the hotel reception for a welcome note from your CEO advising on the time and location of the welcome meeting.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1Show
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Hotel Kituandes
Explore the largest handicraft market in South America, Otavalo market. Villagers from the surrounding countryside come every week to sell handmade goods as well as livestock, fruits, and vegetables.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Otavalo Handicrafts Market Visit
Discover some amazing local art, tapestries, and textiles at Otavalo’s famous artisan market, the largest handicraft market in South America. Wander the stalls to meet local artists, and find one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Try to arrive early for the best bargains (it starts at dawn), and try your hand at haggling – it’s expected for every purchase. A good negotiator could get at least 20 per cent off the starting price.
Optional Activities - Day 2Show
Accommodation
Hotel Santa Fe
Travel by bus to Cotopaxi National Park. In the afternoon, opt to explore the area or mountain bike with views of Cotopaxi Volcano. Spend the night in a mountain lodge near the national park.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Get out and explore the natural beauty of Cotopaxi.
Accommodation
Tierra del Volcan
In the morning, visit Cotopaxi National Park before continuing on with a full day of travel to Cuenca. Enjoy a boxed lunch on the way at a viewpoint overlooking the Andes Mountains.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Cotopaxi National Park Visit
Visit Cotopaxi National Park, home to Cotopaxi Volcano, which stands at 5,897m (19,342 ft). The beautiful cone-shaped, snow-covered volcano is Ecuador’s second highest peak and the highest active volcano in the world. Keep an eye out for park wildlife, including condors, foxes, deer, spectacled bears, and more. For those who want to hike, there are options available (weather permitting). Please ensure you have proper hiking shoes or boots, a waterproof/windproof jacket and warm hats and gloves. Hike is approximately 1.5 hours.
Accommodation
La Casona Cuenca
This morning embark on a half-day city tour of the colonial city of Cuenca, including the Turi viewpoint, a Panama hat factory and the historical centre. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring or at one of Cuenca’s many cafes.
Cuenca City Tour
Head out into this stunning colonial city with your expert local CEO. First visit the Turi viewpoint with sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains before stopping by a Panama hat factory. Then continue to the historical centre to discover the highlights like the new and old cathedrals and the flower market. Learn first-hand why this city deserves it’s UNESCO designation.
Accommodation
La Casona Cuenca
Enjoy a free day to explore beautiful Cuenca. Opt to go hiking in Cajas National Park, visit Ingapirca ruins, or soak in nearby hot springs. Explore the city’s sights, including cobblestoned streets, red-tiled roofs, art galleries, flower markets, shaded plazas, and museums.
Free Time
Head out and explore this colonial city!
Optional Activities - Day 6Show
Accommodation
La Casona Cuenca
Fly back to Quito and enjoy the night in this historical city. Your CEO will escort you and assist you at the airport in Cuenca and once you arrive to Quito our G representative will be there to escort you to the hotel and give you additional information for optional activities in your free day in Quito.
Free Time
Get out and explore this beautiful city.
Accommodation
Hotel Kituandes
Depart at any time. Depart at any time.We recommend booking pre or post nights in Quito for additional time to explore. The optional activities may require additional time, speak to your CEO/ G representative for assistance booking these activities on trip.
Optional Activities - Day 8Show
