Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Quito

   • While approaching the International Airport Mariscal Sucre, you can already glimpse the immense Andean capital of Quito. 
   • After landing, your driver will be waiting to welcome you and take you to your hotel in Quito.

2. Day 2: Transfer to Baños via Quilotoa Lagoon

   • Today's drive takes you into the western Ecuadorian Andes.
   • Visit the picturesque Quilotoa Lagoon. A spectacular crater lake formed centuries ago by a massive volcanic eruption.
   • Walk along the crater's rim to enjoy splendid views and take some memorable photos.
   • Get back on the road and continue to Baños.
   • Get settled into your accommodations for the night.
   • Private guide/driver will make some stops on the way for you to take some pictures of the volcano’s avenue.

3. Day 3: Baños - Guamote & Tasting Guamote

   • Leave Baños after breakfast.
   • Make your way to the impressive Chimborazo Volcano.
   • Spot the volcano several times along the way.
   • Enjoy the splendid view of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
   • Continue the journey toward Guamote, a small Andean town.
   • Spend the night in Guamote.
   • Upon arrival in Guamote, present the dining room's larger context, explain its meaning, reveal the artist behind it, and introduce the individuals featured in it.
   • Proceed to the project area.
   • Exhibit various handicrafts produced at the sewing project. Handicrafts are available for purchase by travellers. Conclude the tour.
   • Enjoy hot, freshly brewed coffee and delicious empanadas in the eating area.

4. Day 4: Full-Day Communities

   • Kick off the day with a visit to the educational facility.
   • A team of facilitators frequently visit nearby community schools to share expertise and offer alternative educational programs.
   • Embark on a picturesque drive through the mountains.
   • Enlighten guests about the local history, culture, and customs of the Indigenous people.
   • First, stop at a primary school where English is taught.
   • Students will give an idea of student life (prepare for football or pato-gonzo game).
   • Visit a traditional weaver's house.
   • Witness firsthand the production process of signature ponchos made from sheep and alpaca wool.
   • Visit an Indigenous family to experience mountain living.
   • Take a look at their authentic housing, called choza. Make your way back to Guamote.

5. Day 5: Exploring The Ancient Ingapirca Ruins

   • Continue the journey south to Cuenca.
   • Stop at the Ingapirca ruins, the most important ruins in Ecuador.
   • Drive to Cuenca after visiting the ruins.
   • Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure in Cuenca.
   • Make the most of your time in the Andean city.
   • Walk around Parque Calderón.
   • Visit the blue-domed Catedral Nueva.
   • Explore other noteworthy landmarks, such as the Catedral Vieja and the Tomebamba River waterfront promenade.
   • Purchase interesting handicrafts at the waterfront promenade.
   • Arrive in Cuenca, located at about 2,560 meters (8,400 feet) above sea level.
   • Cuenca is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical buildings and historical importance as an agricultural and administrative center. Explore the city on your own.

6. Day 6: Cajas National Park to Guayaquil

   • Enjoy a local traditional breakfast while admiring the landscapes of Cuenca.
   • Drive to Guayaquil, the largest city in Ecuador.
   • En route, pass by El Cajas National Park, known for its 200 glacial lakes and numerous hiking trails.
   • El Cajas National Park is located 105 miles (32 km) west of Cuenca.
   • During the trek, cross gaps and Polylepis forests, with the guide explaining about moorland vegetation.
   • Visit the Garden of the Virgin of Cajas or Tres Cruces Viewpoint at 13,648 feet above sea level (4160 masl).
   • Stop for lunch on the way.
   • Proceed with a 3.5-hour drive towards the Coast of Ecuador.
   • Approach one of the highest points in the Ecuadorian highlights and descend toward the coast.
   • Rice plantations will line the way to Guayaquil.
   • Arrive in Guayaquil and check into your hotel to relax.
   • Spend the rest of the evening at leisure in Guayaquil.

7. Day 7: Depart Ecuador

   • At the designated time, your private driver will pick you up from your hotel.
   • Head to Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE).
   • Take your scheduled flight from Guayaquil.