Andes Tour – 5 Days
Explore the Ecuadorian Andes: traditional markets, towering volcanoes, hot springs, and a culture rich in nature and tradition.
5 Days – 4 Nights
Explore the best of Ecuador on a journey full of contrasts and beauty. From the vibrant Andean culture of Otavalo to the wonders of Cotopaxi National Park, this trip invites you to immerse yourself in unforgettable landscapes, traditional markets, towering volcanoes, and relaxing hot springs. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and unique experiences awaits you at every step of this adventure.
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Quito / Transfer to Otavalo Accommodation Otavalo |
| Day 2 | Otavalo FULL Day / Return to Quito Accommodation Quito |
| Day 3 | Quito City Tour / Transfer to Cotopaxi National Park Accommodation Cotopaxi Area |
| Day 4 | Cotopaxi National Park / Transfer to Papallacta Hot Springs Accommodation Papallacta Hot Springs |
| Day 5 | Papallacta Hot Springs / Transfer Out – International Flight |
Detailed Itinerary
Our journey begins upon arrival in Ecuador. A specialized guide will pick us up at the airport in the city of Quito and accompany us to the town of Otavalo, where we will check into our hotel and rest.
Accommodation Hacienda Pinsaqui
After breakfast, we will head to the town of Otavalo for a rich encounter with the Kichwa Andean culture. Following a warm welcome, an Indigenous family will invite you to take part in their daily activities.
Put your bartering skills to the test and shop for the perfect gifts at the bustling market, famous for its textiles and Spanish-inspired handicrafts. Then, visit Cotacachi, renowned for its leather craftsmanship, including jackets, gloves, belts, bags, hats, and shoes. Nearby lies the glorious Cuicocha caldera (guinea pig lagoon).
Walking or boating across the lake, you can see the guinea pig-shaped islet as well as the immense beauty of the lake.
In the afternoon, we will return to Quito.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation Hotel Ikala Quito
In the morning, we will set out to visit the beautiful and magical Historic Center of Quito, known for its remarkable architecture and considered the best-preserved in South America. We will visit the Basilica, one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic style, then continue to El Panecillo, where we will find the Winged Virgin of Legarda. Our tour will continue through the historic center, where we will visit the Plaza Grande.
After lunch, we will head to Cotopaxi National Park for check-in at our hacienda and some rest.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation Hacienda el Porvenir
Nature lovers will find unique places to explore in Ecuador, and one of the most iconic is undoubtedly Cotopaxi National Park.
After breakfast at the hotel, the guide will be ready to begin the excursion. On this tour, we will first visit the Interpretation Center known as Mariscal Sucre, which features several exhibition rooms, a souvenir shop, and a cafe. Then we will head to the parking area of Cotopaxi National Park, where the trained guide will provide general information about the area, its flora and fauna, and of course, about the Cotopaxi volcano.
We will then begin our hike to the first refuge, “Jose Rivas,” which offers food services and also provides the option to stay overnight as part of the acclimatization process before summiting the volcanoes. We will return to the parking area and take a walk around the Limpiopungo Lagoon. This site features viewpoints from which you can observe various species of aquatic birds such as coots, teals, and gulls. Due to the surrounding slopes, the lagoon fills with water depending on the season, making it an ideal habitat for biodiversity.
In the afternoon, we will head to Papallacta Hot Springs.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation Papallacta Hot Springs
Enjoy a relaxing day in the Andes. Afterwards, you can unwind in the warm volcanic pools of Papallacta.
Your driver will take you to the airport in time for your flight. Return home with countless and unforgettable memories. See you soon and goodbye!
Meals: Breakfast
Andes Tour Prices – 5 Days 4 Nights
Prices and hotels may change depending on availability at the time of booking
Included services
- Assistance in all activities according to the itinerary.
- SIB Entry Authorization for Protected Areas
- 1 night of accommodation in Quito.
- 1 night of accommodation at Hacienda Pinsaqui.
- Meals: according to the itinerary (D = breakfast, BL = Box lunch, A = lunch).
- Private guide/driver for transfers and excursions.
- 1 night of accommodation at Hacienda El Porvenir.
- 1 night of accommodation at Papallacta Hot Springs.
Services NOT included
- International airfare ticket
- Meals not included in the itinerary
- Extra drinks
- Tips
- Personal expenses
- Optional excursions
- Travel insurance
