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
EXTREME SPORTS
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
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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 Compania de Jesus.
- Cotopaxi National Park: Cotopaxi is a tourist place in Ecuador, one of the heights that you cannot miss visiting. Discover here how to get there, climate, altitude, biodiversity, and more. A representative volcano of the Sierra Region.
- 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.
- Baños: Also known as "Piece of Heaven", "Gateway to the Amazon", "Puerta de El Dorado" or "City of the Volcano". It is the land of rivers to practice extreme sports.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 Cloud Forest: It is known for its numerous species of birds, butterflies and orchids that inhabit the surrounding cloud forest, part of the Mindo-Nambillo Reserve.
ITINERARY
DAY | ITINERARY | OVERNIGHT | MEALS |
---|---|---|---|
1 | TRANSFER AIRPORT - HOTEL | Hotel in Quito | N/A |
2 | QUITO CITY TOUR - MITAD DEL MUNDO - TELEFERICO | Hotel in Quito | B |
3 | COTOPAXI VOLCANO | Hotel in Quito | B |
4 | TERMAS DE PAPALLACTA - LODE IN UPPER NAPO | Lodge in Upper Napo | B - D |
5 | AMAZON JUNGLE TOUR | Lodge in Upper Napo | B - L - D |
6 | DEPARTURE FROM LODGE - PUYO - BAÑOS | Hotel in Banos | B |
7 | BAÑOS - ROUTE OF THE CASCADES - TRIP TO RIOBAMBA | Hotel in Riobamba | B |
8 | RIOBAMBA - INGAPIRCA - CUENCA | Hotel in Cuenca | B |
9 | CUENCA CITY TOUR - GUALACEO AND CHORDELEG | Hotel in Cuenca | B |
10 | EL CAJAS NATIONAL PARK – GUAYAQUIL CITY | Hotel in Guayaquil | B |
11 | GUAYAQUIL - MONTANITA - PUERTO LOPEZ | Hotel in Puerto Lopez | B |
12 | VISIT LOS FRAILES BEACH | Hotel in Puerto Lopez | B |
13 | PUERTO LOPEZ - TRIP TO GUAYAQUIL | Hotel in Guayaquil | B |
14 | TRANSFER HTL - AIRPORT / FLIGHT TO GALAPAGOS | Galapagos Cruise | B - L - D |
15 | GALAPAGOS CRUISE - SNORKELING - HIKING | Galapagos Cruise | B - L - D |
16 | GALAPAGOS CRUISE - SNORKELING - HIKING | Galapagos Cruise | B - L - D |
17 | GALAPAGOS CRUISE - SNORKELING - HIKING | Galapagos Cruise | B - L - D |
18 | TRANSFER AIRPORT / FLY BACK TO QUITO - TRIP TO OTAVALO | Hotel in Otavalo | B |
19 | OTAVALO MARKET AND SURROUNDINGS - TRIP TO MINDO | Hotel In Mindo | B |
20 | MINDO CLOUD FOREST - RETURN TO QUITO | Hotel in Quito | B |
21 | TRANSFER OUT - END OF OUR SERVICES | No hotel | B |
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: TRANSFER AIRPORT TO THE HOTEL
Welcome to Ecuador, our guide will receive you at the Airport at your arrival and he will take you to the hotel. Overnight in Quito.
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- Accommodation in a double room at the hotel of your choice in Quito.
DAY 2: QUITO CITY TOUR - MITAD DEL MUNDO + TELEFERICO
We will visit some of the most famous squares, 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 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..!
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 at the hotel of your choice in Quito.
DAY 3: COTOPAXI FULL DAY
Today our trip continues with an exciting visit to one of Ecuador’s most iconic destinations: Cotopaxi National Park. Departing from Quito in the early morning, you’ll leave the bustling city behind and head towards the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano. Standing at 5,897 meters tall, Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and offers stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Your journey through the park will reveal a stunning Andean landscape, from snow-capped peaks to lush paramo landscapes. As you walk through the park, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, alpacas, and a variety of bird species. Each step brings you closer to the volcano’s impressive glacier, a sight that is both astonishing and humbling. Your adventure includes a visit to the Limpiopungo Lagoon, a serene place that reflects the beauty of Cotopaxi and its surroundings. Here, you can enjoy the panoramic views, take stunning photographs, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. For those seeking additional thrills, an optional hike to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,800 meters offers a closer view of the volcano’s glacier and a taste of what high-altitude trekking is all about. After a day full of exploration and adventure, you’ll return to Quito, taking with you memories of an extraordinary journey through one of Ecuador’s natural treasures. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or just looking to experience the beauty of the Andes, you can enjoy the trails and the views from the top of the mountain. After that, we return to Quito where we will spend the night.
DAY 4: TERMAS DE PAPALLACTA – LODGE IN UPPER NAPO
Today you can enjoy the famous hot springs "Termas de Papallacta". These hot springs are an excellent option for relaxing and the nature of the param in Ecuador. There are excellent self-guided walks and there is a complete spa where you can enjoy some beauty spa massages (extra fees not included). We will continue to the city of Tena and then to Huano to stay at La Casa del Suizo Lodge (depending on the lodge you choose.) Upon arrival we will receive a welcome cocktail and then we will transfer to your bungalow. If you wish, you can take a dip on a sandy beach on the Napo River. Overnight at Lodge in Upper Napo Zone.
DAY 5: AMAZON JUNGLE FULL DAY (SAMPLE)
Secondary Forest - Las Latas Waterfall - Quichua Family After breakfast, you 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 jungle forest. After the short walk, you will arrive at 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. You will then return for lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, you will visit a Quichua family and learn about their millennial culture and traditions, such as gold rinse on the river bank, traditional pottery making, the elaboration of the typical drink "chicha" made of yuca (a traditional Ecuadorian yuca ), and the use of the “serbatana” (blowgun for hunting use). After this incredible encounter with the Quichua culture, walk back to the lodge on pads of secondary jungle. Upon arrival enjoy a snack. At night, after dinner, you will have the usual gathering around the fireplace to share the experiences lived during the day. Remember that this is just one example of what a day could be like. You can decide what to do according to your interests in coordination with our guide. Overnight at Lodge in Upper Napo Zone.
DAY 6: AMAZON – PUYO – BAÑOS
After breakfast we will travel to Puyo and Baños all the way we will be able to observe the amount of landscapes that the Ecuadorian jungle offers and several rivers and tributaries that are next to the road. You have the afternoon free to visit the zoo or simply relax near the thermal waters of Baños.. Overnight in Baños.
DAY 7: BAÑOS - "ROUTE OF THE CASCADES" - TRIP TO RIOBAMBA
After breakfast, we will visit the surroundings of the town of Banos, 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 to the Chimborazo volcano for photos. Overnight in Riobamba.
DAY 8: RIOBAMBA - INGAPIRCA - CUENCA
We will visist some interesting historic places of the city of Riobamba in the morning... Then we'll go towards south and we'll the Balbanera church, which is the first one founded in Ecuador. The 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 the company of trains is “out of business” but our guide will show you the operation and the route… After this visit we'll continue towards south and we’ll reach the Inca Ruins of Ingapirca, 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. Ingapirca, a Kichwa word that means 'wall or wall of the Inca', is a symbol of Inca rule before the Spanish conquest of America; The four-hectare archaeological complex is an obligatory step for all those who want to know the Qhapaq Ñan – Andean Road System, since this site, in addition to concentrating the Cañari culture (500 AD) was an important ceremonial area, which united diverse cultures through Tahuantinsuyo... Finally we'll reach Cuenca city. Overnight in Cuenca.
DAY 9: CITY TOUR IN CUENCA - GUALACEO - CHORDELEG
After the breakfast we will start our adventure of this day have a city tour through the city of Cuenca, a beautiful city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You will abel to discover its cultural and architectural diversity. visiting the most important churches and monuments of this city. We will also visit the Turi viiewpoint, where you will have a panoramic view of the entire city of Cuenca. After the lunch (not included) In the afternoon we will visit the colinal tows 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 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 include 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. At our arrival we'll make a short city tour around the city and its main touristic places. Overnight in Guayaquil.
DAY 11: GUAYAQUIL – MONTANITA - PUERTO LOPEZ
Today we will drive around the famous "Ruta del Sol" passing by several beaches of the Pacific Coast. We'll visit the town of Ballenita. Some other small villages along the route. Finally we'll reach Montañita where we'll spend the day in 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
After the midday. 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. Overnight in Guayaquil..
DAY 14: GUAYAQUIL - FLIGHT TO GALAPAGOS
GALAPAGOS CRUISE FROM DAY 14 TO 18
Transfer hotel to airport in Guayaquil for taking the flight to the enchanted Galapagos Islands. .At your arrival in Galapagos the guide of the yacht will meet you and taking you on board.
PM: HIGHLANDS
Either if you do this visit starting from Baltra or from Puerto Ayora, a bus will take you to the highlands stopping along the way at one of the reserves to visit the lush highland forests where you will look for Galapagos Giant tortoises in their natural environment. This is the best place in the Galapagos to see these gentle giants (reaching over 300 kg / 600 pounds!) casually grazing and resting in freshwater ponds. This is also home for a great diversity of birds rarely found at the lowlands, including finches (tree, woodpecker and vegetarian finches), flycatchers and several species of water birds. You will visit a lava tunnel (depending on the itinerary) and learn how these extraordinary formations were created by ancient volcanic eruptions.
DAY 18: BACHAS BEACH - RETURN FLIGHT GALAPAGOS - TRANSFER TO OTAVALO
Bachas gets its name from the remains of two large barges (mispronounced by locals as “bachas”) left by the Americans during WWII. At low tide you can still see the iron skeletons of the barges buried in the white sand. From November to May, this place is also one of the most important sea turtle nesting grounds in the entire Galapagos islands. There are also several small saltwater lagoons where we often see flamingoes, herons, and other aquatic birds.
Highlights: American flamingoes, white-cheeked pintails, sandpipers, lava gulls, and blue-footed boobies.
Trail: 1,6 km / 1 mi
Then, transfer to the airport to take your flight back to continental Ecuador.
Our guide will pick up you at the airport. Departures from Quito through the Pan-American North Highway until arriving at Cayambe town, where we'll have the opportunity to taste the delicious “Bizcochos”, a type of biscuit baked in a clay oven. Then we'll reach the viewpoint of Lake San Pablo for photos and take some beverages. Overnight in Otavalo.
DAY 19: OTAVALO - MINDO
On this day in Otavalo, 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 short trip to Mindo, 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.
RATES AND ACCOMMODATION - 2025
RATE PER PERSON - $4,991
INCLUDES:
- Meals according to the program.
- Private transportation throughout the program with an English-speaking guide-driver.
- Hotel accommodation in double rooms with private bathrooms.
- Excursions according to itinerary.
- Entrance fees to museums according to the itinerary.
- Accommodation in a double cabin at the Galapagos Cruice 5-days/4-nights.
- Round trip Galapagos flights.
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals are not specified in the program.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee ($200 p.p).
- Transit Control Card (TCT $20 p.p).
- Extras Activities.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities.
- Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
- Other non specified.
FIND ACCOMMODATION DETAILS BELOW
QUITO - IKALA QUITO HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
UPPER NAPO - SELINA LODGE
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
BAÑOS DE AGUA SANTA - SELINA BAÑOS
Meals included: Breakfast.
RIOBAMBA - CASA REAL
Meals included: Breakfast.
CUENCA - SELINA CUENCA
Meals included: Breakfast.
GUAYAQUIL - GRAND HOTEL GUAYAQUIL
Meals included: Breakfast.
PUERTO LOPEZ - MANDALA HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
OTAVALO - EL ANDARIEGO
Meals included: Breakfast.
GALAPAGOS - GOLONDRINA GALAPAGOS YACHT
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
MINDO CLOUD FOREST - CASA AMARILLA
Meals included: Breakfast.
RATE PER PERSON - $5,623
INCLUDES:
- Meals according to the program.
- Private transportation throughout the program with an English-speaking guide-driver.
- Hotel accommodation in double rooms with private bathrooms.
- Excursions according to itinerary.
- Entrance fees to museums according to the itinerary.
- Accommodation in a double cabin at the Galapagos Cruise 5-days/4-nights.
- Round trip Galapagos flights.
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals are not specified in the program.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee. ($200 pp.)
- Transit Control Card. (TCT $20 pp.)
- Extras Activities.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities.
- Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
- Other non specified.
FIND ACCOMMODATION DETAILS BELOW
QUITO - HOTEL REINA ISABEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
UPPER NAPO - SELINA LODGE
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
BAÑOS DE AGUA SANTA - LA FLORESTA HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
RIOBAMBA - CASA REAL
Meals included: Breakfast.
CUENCA - HOTEL INCA REAL
Meals included: Breakfast.
GUAYAQUIL - UNIPARK HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
PUERTO LOPEZ - MANDALA HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
OTAVALO - HOTEL EL INDIO INN
Meals included: Breakfast.
GALAPAGOS - ORION GALAPAGOS YACHT
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
MINDO CLOUD FOREST - SISAKUNA LODGE
Meals included: Breakfast.
RATE PER PERSON - $6,833
QUITO - MERCURE ALAMEDA
Meals included: Breakfast.
UPPER NAPO - CASA DEL SUIZO
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
BAÑOS DE AGUA SANTA - SANGAY HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
RIOBAMBA - HACIENDA ABRASPUNGO
Meals included: Breakfast.
CUENCA - SANTA LUCIA HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
GUAYAQUIL - UNIPARK HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
PUERTO LOPEZ - LA TERRAZA HOTEL
Meals included: Breakfast.
GALAPAGOS - GALAXY GALAPAGOS YACHT
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
OTAVALO - HACIENDA PINSAQUI
Meals included: Breakfast.
MINDO CLOUD FOREST - SACHATAMIA LODGE
Meals included: Breakfast.
RATE PER PERSON - $8,483
QUITO - HOTEL PATIO ANDALUZ
Meals included: Breakfast.
UPPER NAPO - CASA DEL SUIZO
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
BAÑOS DE AGUA SANTA - LUNA VOLCAN
Meals included: Breakfast - Dinner.
RIOBAMBA - ANDALUZA
Meals included: Breakfast.
CUENCA - MANSION ALCAZAR
Meals included: Breakfast.
GUAYAQUIL - UNIPARK (SUITE)
Meals included: Breakfast.
PUERTO LOPEZ - HOSTERIA DEL PARQUE
Meals included: Breakfast.
OTAVALO - HACIENDA CUSIN
Meals included: Breakfast.
GALAPAGOS - ALYA GALAPAGOS CATAMARAN
Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
MINDO CLOUD FOREST - BELLAVISTA LODGE
Meals included: Breakfast.
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