Golden Circuit in Ecuador 9D/8N

Transfer from the airport to your hotel (approx. 1 hour). Accommodation.

08:30 Departure from your hotel heading north to visit the “Plaza de los Ponchos,” the famous handicraft and textile market of Otavalo. Continue to Cotacachi, known for its leather goods. Along the way, enjoy beautiful Andean landscapes, including San Pablo Lake and the Imbabura and Cayambe volcanoes. This is a cultural and shopping tour full of local folklore. Return to Quito.

08:30 Departure towards Quito’s Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Basilica (including entrance to its towers and impressive stained-glass windows), Independence Square, Government Palace, La Compañía de Jesús Church (entrance and guided tour included), and San Francisco Square and Church. Continue to the viewpoint of El Panecillo to admire the “Winged Virgin.” Afterwards, transfer to the Middle of the World City for lunch and visits to the Equator Monument and the Intiñan Museum (entrances included). Optional stop at the TelefériQo Cable Car (entrance not included). Return to the hotel. Accommodation.

08:00 Departure along the Pan-American Highway south, passing by several mountains and snow-capped peaks. Stop at three scenic viewpoints to admire Los Ilinizas, Cotopaxi, and Tungurahua volcanoes. Visit a rose plantation to learn about the cultivation, harvest, and export process of Ecuadorian roses. Continue to Guano, known for its handicrafts, monoliths, and mummies. Arrival in Riobamba for a panoramic city tour including Neptuno Park and Loma de Quito viewpoint. Accommodation.

08:00 Departure towards the Chimborazo National Reserve, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Ecuador’s highest peak (6,310 m / 20,702 ft) and spot native camelids such as alpacas and vicuñas. Continue to Ingapirca, the country’s most important archaeological complex, and visit its site museum. Proceed to Cuenca, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accommodation.

08:30 Morning city tour of Cuenca, renowned for its colonial architecture and the four rivers that cross the city. Visit the Cathedral domes (entrance included), El Turi viewpoint, Calderón Park, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Ortega Panama Hat Factory. 15:00 Visit the nearby towns of Gualaceo (including entrance to the Orchid Garden) and Chordeleg, famous for its silver and gold jewelry. Return to Cuenca. Accommodation.

08:00 Overland transfer to Guayaquil (approx. 4 hours), passing through the El Cajas National Park area. Enjoy the view from the “Three Crosses” viewpoint (if the route is open). On the way, admire plantations of cacao, rice, and bananas. Upon arrival, cross the Guayas River over its magnificent bridges and stop at Cerro Paraíso Viewpoint for a panoramic 360° view of the city. Transfer to hotel. Accommodation.

15:00 Visit the Iguana Park and take a walk along the Malecón 2000, visiting attractions such as La Rotonda, Las Peñas neighborhood, and the La Perla Ferris Wheel (entrance included). Return to hotel. Accommodation.

Transfer from hotel to the airport