4 WORLDS OF ECUADOR
This marvelous trip around the FOUR WORLDS OF ECUADOR will offer you a complete alternative to visiting the best places in the country in one just tour of 21 days / 20 nights. Ecuador has four different regions that offer culture, adventure, and wildlife such as the Andes, the Amazon jungle, the Pacific coast, and the highlight of the Galapagos Islands. You will be able to visit indigenous communities on the highlands, and the rainforest jungle, relax on the beach on the coast, and cruise around the Galapagos Islands.
NATURE
WILDLIFE
TREKKING
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Quito: the capital of Ecuador is perched high in the foothills of the Andes at 2,850 m (9,000 ft) . It was built on the foundations of an ancient Inca city and is famous for its well-preserved colonial old town, with several 16th- and 17th-century churches, and other structures that blend European, and indigenous styles. These include the cathedral, on the Plaza Grande, and the highly decorated Jesuit church of the Compañía de Jesus.
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Mitad del Mundo: This is one of the most famous attractions in Quito, You can visit the monument or the insitu museum called Inti-Ñan . You can discover the great details of the solar system, the effect that the position of the equator and ancient cultures and much more..!
- Cotopaxi National Park: The Cotopaxi volcano, an almost perfect snow cone that rises to 5,897 meters is unique in the world. It is perhaps, next to the Galapagos, the greatest symbol of our natural geography, recognized worldwide. The imposing Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, dominates the protected area's landscape, which also includes two smaller volcanoes close by; Morurco (4,880 m) and Rumiñahui (4,722 m) . Cotopaxi is located in an area called "Avenida de los Volcanes" (Avenue of the Volcanoes).
- Termas De Papallacta: Papallacta is a small town in Ecuador located at an altitude of 3,250 m in the Andes near the Cordillera Oriental on the road from Quito, which leads to the Amazon rainforest. The tourist route from Quito to Papallacta passes through several small towns and villages before ascending to a maximum of over 4,000 meters where mountains and glaciers are visible.
- Upper Napo River: There are three kinds of forest along its banks: ‘Terra Firme’ forest is found on the areas of high ground and does not flood, whereas ‘Varzea’, forest is subject to periodic seasonal flooding, and ‘Irapo’ forest is permanently flooded. Each of these has its own effects on the astounding flora and fauna.
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Baños de Agua Santa: Baños de Agua Santa is a town in Ecuador's Tungurahua Province and is a gateway to the Amazon Basin. It is known for its access to hiking trails on the active Tungurahua Volcano to the south and its mineral-rich hot springs. In the Downtown of Baños , the Church of Our Lady of the Holy Water has paintings depicting miracles attributed to the Virgin Maria. To the east, El Pailón del Diablo and Agoyán are spectacular waterfalls on the Pastaza River.
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Ingapirca: which means "Inca Wall" was, above all, an astronomical observatory of the movement of the sun and the moon, it was also a sacred space dedicated to the worship of their gods built by the Incas on the basis of a first Cañarí settlement, which populated the southern Ecuadorian.
- Cuenca: It is one of the most beautiful cities in the country and is made up of four rivers that cross it, charming colonial streets, European-style architecture, churches and cathedrals, ruins that reveal the passage of the Incas and cultural, art and craft centers of long standing.
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Los Frailes beach: has three consecutive beaches from white sand to black sand. It has won several awards for being among the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador. Enjoy the places to walk, viewpoints and also the waves and marine diversity.
- Galapagos National Park: Extraordinary flora and fauna, geological features, and many unique species have made this park a major global center for scientific research and nature tourism. In recognition of its natural values, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978. Despite all the problems it has faced, especially by organisms introduced from the mainland, is one of the best-preserved archipelagos and a world leader in the management of fragile ecosystems.
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Otavalo: Is a city in the Andean highlands of Imbabura Province, northern Ecuador. It is surrounded by volcanoes, including the Imbabura Volcano. It is known for its Otavalo Indigenous Market in the central Plaza de Ponchos, where locals dressed in traditional indigenous clothing sell colorful textiles and handicrafts.
- Mindo: It is known for its numerous species of birds, butterflies and orchids that inhabit the surrounding cloud forest, part of the Mindo-Nambillo Reserve.
DAY 1: TRANSFER AIRPORT TO THE HOTEL
Our Guide will receive you at the Airport in Quito at your arrival. He will take you to the hotel in Quito. Overnight in Quito.
- Accommodation in a double room in a hotel of your choice.✅
DAY 2: CITY LINE (QUITO COLONIAL + MITAD DEL MUNDO) + TELEFERICO
We will visit some of the most famous squares the old town Quito, churches, and colonial buildings. The Plaza de la Independencia with its Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, the Municipal Building, the Statue of Independence, and the Cathedral. We will continue to the churches of El Sagrario and La Compañía, and then the church and convent of San Francisco. We will take a look inside the church and be amazed by the exuberant gold that was used to decorate the oldest church in Quito. Then we will move to the Panecillo and the statue of the Virgin of Quito. From here we will have the opportunity to see both parts of Quito and the surrounding snow-capped volcanoes! In the afternoon we will continue the famous Mitad del Mundo. This is one of the most famous attractions in Quito, you can visit the monument or the in situ museum called Inti-Ñan. You can discover the great details of the solar system, the effect that the position of the equator and ancient cultures and much more...!
Finally, you will visit the Teleferiqo (cable car) of Quito. Over 2,500 meters you will reach the top of the Pichincha Volcano, this great visit is a unique experience, which offers a great view of the landscape of the north, center, and south of the city. After this visit, we will be dropped off at our hotel. Overnight in Quito.
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- Accommodation in a double room in a hotel of your choice.
DAY 3: COTOPAXI FULL DAY
After Breakfast, Our trip will continue today to the Cotopaxi National Park. The Cotopaxi is considered the largest active volcano in the world at 5897 meters high (19,347 feet high). During our stay in the National Park, we will admire its natural environment, its Flora and Fauna with the explanations of your naturalist guide. We will try to ascend to the refuge located at 4,810 m (15,392 ft). Since the Cotopaxi Volcano is currently active, the ascent will be granted by the National Park authorities. We will also take a walk around the Limpiopungo Lake which is located at the foot of the volcano to observe some birds of the Páramo region (Andean Grasslands). On a clear day, the view of the volcano reflected on the surface of the lake is magnificent. We make a short visit to the small museum that talks about the park, its nature, wildlife, and the eruptions of the park's centerpiece. We will be able to visit the refuge where we will be able to enjoy the wonderful views that this place offers, be sure to bring warm clothes since the wind is strong. If we are lucky we will be able to observe the fauna that inhabits the Cotopaxi National Park. In the afternoon return to Quito. Overnight in Quito.
DAY 4: TERMAS DE PAPALLACTA – LODGE IN UPPER NAPO
After breakfast, we will go to the east of Quito. Our first stop will be the Papallacta Hot Springs, this beautiful thermal water spa where you can relax and enjoy pools perfectly suitable for rest and fun. In a magical and natural environment with cozy facilities that offer exclusivity combining high-quality treatments with the benefits of thermal water. (Entrance to the general pools included). We will continue the trip to the Guango Lodge for a brief bird watching and we will enjoy the wonderful number of hummingbirds around this place, it is not uncommon to see 14 species of hummingbirds in one hour and the beaked hummingbird. (Optional visit, entrance fee not included) We will continue to the city of Tena and then to Ahuano to stay at Loge in Upper Napo Area. Upon arrival, we will receive a welcome cocktail and then we will transfer to your bungalow, after that we will make a night walk in the jungle looking for reptiles, frogs, insects, etc. After that, we will have dinner at Lodge. Overnight at lodge.
DAY 5: AMAZON JUNGLE FULL DAY (SAMPLE)
After breakfast, you will canoe upriver for ten minutes, reaching a small shore where a fun and exciting one-hour hike begins, discovering the diverse flora and fauna of the secondary rainforest. After the short hike, you will reach the impressive Las Latas waterfall, where you can take a refreshing bath in its crystal-clear waters and enjoy the views of the surroundings, which mixed with the sounds of the jungle, make it an unforgettable experience. Then you will return for lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, visit the Tiyuyacu community: learn about artisanal gold panning, demonstration pottery, making of chicha, extraction of pita fiber, and use of the blowgun for ancestral hunting.
Or you can organize your day activities with the guide you can choose other activities such as visiting the Butterfly House, the Amazon Rescue Center, or visiting the Indigenous community. These activities have an extra cost ranging from $1 to $5 per person. Dinner at Lodge. Overnight at Lodge.
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- Double accommodation in a hotel of your choice.
DAY 6: AMAZON – PUYO – BAÑOS
After breakfast, we will travel to Puyo and Baños all the way we will be able to observe few landscapes that the Ecuadorian jungle offers and several rivers that are next to the road. Then we will do a trekking to reach the famous "Pailón del Diablo cascade"; a marvelous and amazing place of the nature. We will continue driving on the "Route of the cascades" where you will visit the different waterfalls in the area such as Agoyan, Manto de la Novia, and San Pedro, and you will also be able to enjoy the famous "Tarabita", a small cable car that crosses the great canyon on the Pastaza River. After this interesting adventure, we will go to the town of Baños de Agua Santa. Overnight in Baños.
DAY 7: BAÑOS - "ROUTE OF THE CASCADES" - RIOBAMBA
After breakfast, we will visit the surroundings of the town of Baños, the main church, and some other places... After this visit, you will visit the famous "route of the cascades" where you will visit some different cascades such as Manto de la Novia, San Pedro, and more... The highlight of this route is the famous "Pailon del Diablo cascade"; a beautiful and majestic waterfall around the cloud forest of the zone. In the afternoon we'll go to Riobamba city. On the way we will make a brief visit of the Chimborazo volcano for photos. Overnight in Riobamba.
DAY 8: RIOBAMBA - INGAPIRCA - CUENCA
After Breakfast, we will visit some interesting historic places of the city of Riobamba in the morning... Then we'll go towards the south and we'll the Balbanera church, which is the first one founded in Ecuador. A short time around the peaceful lagoon of Colta Lagoon. These two are unique Andean landscapes of the area.
We’ll reach the area of the Andean train called the famous "Devil’s Nose”, the tour is not operating at this time due to the company of trains being “out of business” but our guide will show you the operation and the route… After this visit, we'll continue south and we’ll reach the Inca Ruins of Ingapirca, (Days of service: Wednesday to Sunday) famous place of Inca ancient times. Ingapirca is the most important pre-Columbian archaeological site in Ecuador. It is located in the southern Andean region of Ecuador, at 3,160 meters above sea level, in the province of Cañar. Finally, we'll reach Cuenca city. Overnight in Cuenca.
DAY 9: CITY TOUR IN CUENCA - GUALACEO - CHORDELEG
After breakfast, we will start our adventure of this day and have a city tour through the city of Cuenca, a beautiful city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You will be able to discover its cultural and architectural diversity. visiting the most important churches and monuments of this city. We will also visit the Turi viewpoint, where you will have a panoramic view of the entire city. After lunch (not included) we will visit the colonial towns of Gualaceo and Chordeleg, two of the most important towns near the city, famous for their handicrafts made with gold and silver, and for their colonial traditions. Overnight in Cuenca.
DAY 10: EL CAJAS NATIONAL PARK – GUAYAQUIL CITY
After breakfast, we will go to a short hiking excursion around the El Cajas National Park. This is an interesting visit full of nature, the lagoons are the remains of the last ice age. The small and big lagoons are connected by internal small rivers, whose crystal-clear waters flow into the Pacific Ocean. The hiking also includes a part of the famous forest of "trees of paper". After this visit, we'll continue the trip towards the coast of Ecuador to reach the city of Guayaquil. On your arrival, we'll make a short city tour around the city and its main tourist places. Overnight in Guayaquil.
DAY 11: GUAYAQUIL – MONTANITA - PUERTO LOPEZ
After Breakfast, we will drive around the famous "Ruta del Sol" passing by several beaches on the Pacific Coast. We'll visit the town of Ballina. Some other small villages along the route. Finally, we'll reach Montañita where we'll spend the day on the beach. Late in the afternoon, we go to Puerto Lopez. Overnight in Puerto Lopez.
DAY 12: PUERTO LOPEZ - LOS FRAILES - PUERTO LOPEZ
On this day we have a relaxing day we will make a trip from Puerto Lopez to Machalilla National Park, and visit Los Frailes Beach. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador due to its extension, white sand, and tranquility. It belongs to the Machalilla National Park and is surrounded by cliffs and a viewpoint. To get to the beach you must go through a beautiful dry forest that exhibits species of flora and fauna typical of the area. Then we will return to Puerto Lopez. Overnight in Puerto Lopez.
DAY 13: PUERTO LOPEZ - GUAYAQUIL
Afte Breakfast, Get ready to return to the city of Guayaquil, there is no rush you can relax on the beach in the morning or perhaps visit the small town of Puerto López famous for surfing. At noon trip to Guayaquil. Overnight in Guayaquil..
DAY 14: FLIGHT TO GALAPAGOS FOR CRUISE
The guide takes you to the airport for the flight to the Galapagos Islands.
DAY 14 TO 18: GALAPAGOS CRUISE - 5
DAYS / 4 NIGHTS – FULL BOARD SAMPLE OF ITINERARY ACCORDING TO YOUR CHOICE.
ITINERARY C - 5 DAYS
WEDNESDAY
AM: Baltra Airport: Arrival and Transfer to the boat
PM: Santa Cruz: South Plazas (HK)
THURSDAY
AM: Santa Cruz: Black Turtle Cove (PR)
PM: Santa Cruz: Highlands (HK)
FRIDAY
AM: Genovesa: Darwin Bay (HK/SN)
PM: Genovesa: Barranco (HK/SN)
SATURDAY
AM: Santiago: Sullivan Bay (HK/SN)
PM: Bartolome (HK/SN)
SUNDAY
AM: North Seymour (HK)
Baltra: Transfer to the Airport
LEGEND
HK: HIKING
SN: SNORKELING
PR: PANGA RIDE
DAY 18: FLIGHT RETURN FROM GALAPAGOS TO QUITO - OTAVALO
After the morning visit the guide of the yacht will take you to the airport for taking the flight back to the continent. Our guide will pick you up at the airport to transfer you to Otavalo. Overnight in Otavalo.
DAY 19: OTAVALO - MINDO
After Breakfast, we'll visit the beauty cascade of Peguche with a short hike around the place. After this visit, we'll have time to visit the indigenous market of Otavalo, one of the largest in America. In this market, the people of the zone sell their textiles and handicrafts.
After free time in the market, we'll continue the trip to the town of Cotacachi, recognized for leather clothing and crafts. we'll continue with our final visit of the day, the Ecological Reserve Cuicocha, where the main attraction is the lagoon located inside the crater. It's possible a short walk around the lagoon or a short trip in small boats on the lagoon. (with additional cost). In the afternoon we will a trip to Mindo for around 3 hours, Overnight in Mindo.
DAY 20: MINDO CLOUD FOREST FULL DAY - QUITO
We head towards Mindo Cloudforest where fun and adventure in nature are guaranteed. Located about 49 miles from Quito. Mindo is the most famous town for birdwatchers in the Andes of Ecuador, due to the number of species we can find in the area. Orchids, bromeliads, and more than 40 species of butterflies are the highlights of this area. Our guide will lead to some activities possible to do on this day, some of them could be birdwatching hiking, also an ecological walk to the waterfalls or canopy. You will have time for lunch (Not included) then we will visit the Chocolate Factory or Butterfly Farm. After this interesting visit, we will return to Quito.
DAY 21: TRANSFER OUT - END OF OUR SERVICES
Breakfast. The guide will pick you up at your hotel at the assigned time according your inbound flight. Transfer to the airport.
END OF OUR SERVICES
YOUR
ACCOMMODATION
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
---|---|---|
QUITO | IKALA QUITO | BREAKFAST |
UPPER NAPO | SELINA TENA https://www.ecuadorgreentravel.net/amazon/lodges-in-upper-napo/selina-lodge.html |
BREAKFAST-LUNCH-DINNER |
BANOS | SELINA BANOS | BREAKFAST |
RIOBAMBA | CASA REAL | BREAKFAST |
CUENCA | SELINA CUENCA | BREAKFAST |
GUAYAQUIL | GRAND HOTEL GUAYAQUIL | BREAKFAST |
MONTANITA | SELINA MONTANITA | BREAKFAST |
OTAVALO | INDIO INN | BREAKFAST |
MINDO | CASA AMARILLA | BREAKFAST |
RATES 2024 - 2025 | PRICE |
---|---|
LAND TOUR AROUND ECUADOR BASED IN ECONOMIC HOTELS ACCOMMODATION | $2,649 |
GOLONDRINA YACHT (5D/4N) + AIR TICKETS (GYE – GPS – UIO) (Subject to availability on dates) | $2,340 |
GRAND TOTAL PER PERSON | $4,989 |
INCLUDE:
- Private transportation during the whole program with English speaking guide-driver
- Transfers airport – hotel - airport.
- Accommodation in double/twin rooms with private bathroom.
- Meals according the description of program.
- Excursions according to the itinerary.
- Museum entrance fees during the land program.
- Air tickets (GYE-GPS-UIO) (Subject to availability on dates)
- 5 days tour aboard the Galapagos Cruise. (Subject to availability on dates)
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals not specified in the program.
- Extra activities not specified in the program.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Entrance fee to Galapagos National Park. $200 p.p (Subject to change)
- Transit control card to Galapagos Island (TCT) $20 p.p (Subject to change)
- Gratuities.
- Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
- Other non expecified.
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
---|---|---|
QUITO | REINA ISABEL | BREAKFAST |
UPPER NAPO | SELINA TENA
https://www.ecuadorgreentravel.net/amazon/lodges-in-upper-napo/selina-lodge.html |
BREAKFAST-LUNCH-DINNER |
BANOS | LA FLORESTA | BREAKFAST |
RIOBAMBA | CASA REAL | BREAKFAST |
CUENCA | INCA REAL | BREAKFAST |
GUAYAQUIL | UNIPARK | BREAKFAST |
PUERTO LOPEZ | MANDALA | BREAKFAST |
OTAVALO | INDIO INN | BREAKFAST |
MINDO | SISAKUNA LODGE | BREAKFAST |
RATES 2024 - 2025 | PRICE |
---|---|
LAND TOUR AROUND ECUADOR BASED IN 3 STAR HOTELS ACCOMMODATION | $2,772 |
BONITA YACHT (5D/4N) + AIR TICKETS (GYE – GPS – UIO) (Subject to availability on dates) | $3,150 |
GRAND TOTAL PER PERSON | $5,922 |
INCLUDE:
- Private transportation during the whole program with English speaking guide-driver
- Transfers airport – hotel - airport
- Accommodation in double/twin rooms with private bathroom.
- Meals according the description of program.
- Excursions according to the itinerary.
- Museum entrance fees during the land program.
- Air tickets (GYE-GPS-UIO) (Subject to availability on dates)
- 5 days tour aboard the Galapagos Cruise. (Subject to availability on dates)
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals not specified in the program.
- Extra activities not specified in the program.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Entrance fee to Galapagos National Park. $200 p.p (Subject to change)
- Transit control card to Galapagos Island (TCT) $20 p.p (Subject to change)
- Gratuities.
- Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
- Other non expecified.
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
---|---|---|
QUITO | MERCURE ALAMEDA | BREAKFAST |
UPPER NAPO | CASA DEL SUIZO https://www.ecuadorgreentravel.net/amazon/lodges-in-upper-napo/selina-lodge.html |
BREAKFAST-LUNCH-DINNER |
BAÑOS | SANGAY | BREAKFAST |
RIOBAMBA | ABRASPUNGO | BREAKFAST |
CUENCA | SANTA LUCIA | BREAKFAST |
GUAYAQUIL | UNIPARK | BREAKFAST |
PUERTO LOPEZ | LA TERRAZA | BREAKFAST |
OTAVALO | PINSAQUI | BREAKFAST |
MINDO | SACHATAMIA LODGE | BREAKFAST |
RATES 2024 - 2025 | PRICE |
---|---|
LAND TOUR AROUND ECUADOR BASED IN 4 STAR HOTELS ACCOMMODATION | $3,167 |
GALAXY (5D/4N) + AIR TICKETS (GYE – GPS – UIO) (Subject to availability on dates) | $3,650 |
GRAND TOTAL PER PERSON | $6,817 |
INCLUDE:
- Private transportation during the whole program with English speaking guide-driver
- Transfers airport – hotel - airport.
- Accommodation in double/twin rooms with private bathroom.
- Meals according the description of program.
- Excursions according to the itinerary.
- Museum entrance fees during the land program.
- Air tickets (GYE-GPS-UIO) (Subject to availability on dates)
- 5 days tour aboard the Galapagos Cruise. (Subject to availability on dates)
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals not specified in the program.
- Extra activities not specified in the program.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Entrance fee to Galapagos National Park. $200 p.p (Subject to change)
- Transit control card to Galapagos Island (TCT) $20 p.p (Subject to change)
- Gratuities.
- Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
- Other non expecified.
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
---|---|---|
QUITO | PATIO ANDALUZ | BREAKFAST |
UPPER NAPO | CASA DEL SUIZO
https://www.ecuadorgreentravel.net/amazon/lodges-in-upper-napo/la-casa-del-suizo.html |
BREAKFAST-LUNCH-DINNER |
BAÑOS | LUNA VOLCAN | BREAKFAST-DINNER |
RIOBAMBA | ANDALUZA (DOUBLE SUITE) | BREAKFAST-DINNER |
CUENCA | MANSION ALCAZAR | BREAKFAST |
GUAYAQUIL | UNIPARK (SUITE) | BREAKFAST |
PUERTO LOPEZ | PUERTO LOPEZ | BREAKFAST |
OTAVALO | HACIENDA CUSIN | BREAKFAST |
MINDO | BELLAVISTA LODGE | BREAKFAST-LUNCH-DINNER |
RATES 2024 - 2025 | PRICE |
---|---|
LAND TOUR AROUND ECUADOR BASED ON 5 STAR HOTELS ACCOMMODATION | $3,797 |
ECOGALAXY CATAMARAN (5D/4N) + AIR TICKETS (GYE – GPS – UIO) (Subject to availability on dates) | $4,250 |
GRAND TOTAL PER PERSON | $8,047 |
INCLUDE:
- Private transportation during the whole program with English speaking guide-driver
- Transfers airport – hotel - airport
- Accommodation in double/twin room with private bathroom.
- Meals according the description of program.
- Excursions according to the itinerary
- Museum entrance fees during the land program
- Air tickets (GYE-GPS-UIO) (Subject to availability on dates)
- 5 days tour aboard the Galapagos Cruise. (Subject to availability on dates)
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals not specified in the program.
- Extra activities not specified in the program.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Entrance fee to Galapagos National Park. $200 p.p (Subject to change)
- Transit control card to Galapagos Island (TCT) $20 p.p (Subject to change)
- Gratuities.
- Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
- Other non expecified.
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