Enchanting Ecuador By World Journeys

Including a Galapagos Cruise

16 Days / 15 Nights from $19,085 Price Per Person

Sales from 01 January 2023 to 31 December 2025

**Day 1: Quito **
Arrive in Quito where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

**Day 2: Quito**
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Quito, Ecuador’s cultural capital, on a guided city tour exploring its historic landmarks. Ascend to the lofty Virgen de El Panecillo, set on a hill renamed Panecillo (“little bread”) by the Spanish due to its bread-like appearance. Rising 3035 meters above sea level in Quito’s colonial district, it boasts stunning vistas and is crowned by the 45-metre Virgin of Quito statue, crafted by Spanish artist Agustin de la Herran Matorral.

Experience the rich heritage of Independence Square, the historic hub of Quito, with its Presidential Palace and Cathedral, commemorating the heroes of the First Cry of Independence. Discover the baroque splendour of the Church Compania de Jesus, a 17th-century baroque masterpiece adorned with golden domes, one of Latin America’s finest churches. The vast architectural wonder of the San Francisco Church and Convent, houses 3,500 colonial art pieces and illustrates the Legend of Cantuna, a folklore about outsmarting the Devil.

**Day 3: Quito > Otavalo**
Today, head for the Andean Highlands to explore Otavalo, steeped in centuries of culture and history. At the Otavalo Market, known as Plaza de Los Ponchos, dive into Ecuador’s largest market. Originating in the 16th century as a hub for indigenous trade, it is now a treasure trove of textiles, jewellery, instruments, and crafts — an immersive cultural delight.

Visit Miguel Andrango’s Tahuantinsuyo weaving workshop to witness the ancient art of traditional weaving, and experience Tayta Gundo Kaya Wasi, the Andean House of Music, within the Morales family’s ancestral home. Discover equatorial bamboo varieties used for crafting Andean wind instruments and later join an interactive acoustic concert, playing along with the musicians and learning indigenous history through music. Next, visit Peguche, an indigenous community boasting skilled artisans and a 30 metre healing waterfall.

**Day 4: Otavalo > Quito**
Today, you will be met and transferred back to Quito where you will enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, free to explore further.

**Day 5: Quito > Cotopaxi National Park**
Travel along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to the majestic Cotopaxi volcano in Cotopaxi National Park. Towering at 5897 metres above sea level, this colossal peak is a photographer’s dream. Immerse yourself in the park’s rich biodiversity as you hike around Limpiopungo lagoon, set against the backdrop of the neighbouring peaks of Ruminahui and Sincholagua.

You will also explore a vibrant market, teeming with a vibrant array of legumes, fruits, and vegetables harvested from the fertile surrounding valleys. This market is a beloved weekend spot for Quitenos, drawing them in with tantalizing traditional delights, notably the famed hornado (slow-roasted pork), offering a delectable taste of Ecuador’s culinary heritage.

**Day 6: Cotopaxi > Banos > Riobamba**
Visit the lush riverside town of Banos with its famed Basilica, an architectural masterpiece, then travel along the beautiful Route of the Waterfalls to Puyo, delving into the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Amidst this verdant terrain, ecological pathways, airy gondolas, and suspended bridges weave through a tapestry of over 60 cascades nestled within the lush canopy.

As the route descends from the Andes to the Amazon, it unveils some of the nation’s most renowned waterfalls, including the majestic Manto de la Novia and the captivating Agoyan. An unmissable stop is the Pailon del Diablo, an 80 metre waterfall bearing an uncanny resemblance to the visage of the devil.

NB: Occasionally the road between Riobamba and Cuenca is closed, in which case you will overnight in Banos instead of Riobamba.

**Day 7: Riobamba > Cuenca**
Embark on an immersive journey through Ecuador’s rich cultural tapestry on your travels to Riobamba and Cuenca. Just outside of Riobamba is the Palacio Real Community, offering the chance to witness Andean culture, agriculture, handicrafts and in particular, the significance of the llama to the local people.

En route to Cuenca visit the mesmerizing Ingapirca Ruins, a testament to Ecuador’s Canari and Inca heritage. These ruins, known as the “Wall of the Inca,” feature a pre-Hispanic Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon, Inca Trail and more. Conclude with a visit to the Inti Sisa Foundation in Guamote, perched on Chimborazo’s slopes. Engage with locals, learning about the foundation’s educational programs spanning music, English and sewing. These are unique opportunities to witness community-driven initiatives fostering cultural exchange and educational growth.

**Day 8: Cuenca World Cultural Heritage Site**
Discover Cuenca’s historic centre, where iconic landmarks narrate the city’s vivid heritage. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, graces the Abdon Calderon Park. Its alabaster exterior and blue domes, crafted over decades, showcase a striking blend of architectural beauty. Explore the past at the Pumapungo Central Bank Museum, the Door of the Puma, preserving Canari and Inca relics in the urban heart of Cuenca. Uncover ancient textiles, ceremonial garb, and artefacts that paint a vivid picture of pre-Hispanic life. In contrast, the Museum of Modern Arts, once a shelter and a prison, now exhibits a rich array of artworks by local and international artists.

Wander the vibrant Plaza Mayor and the serene San Sebastian Square along Tomebamba River, meandering through the Barranco area’s architectural splendour. Explore the Homero Ortega Hat Museum to learn about the Ecuadorian roots of the famed Panama Hat. In the artistic realm, visit the Jose Encalada Pottery Workshop and witness traditional pottery methods. Ascend to Turi scenic lookout for a mesmerizing vista, capturing Cuenca’s mosaic of vibrant rooftops and verdant parks. Marvel at the Old Cathedral’s colonial elegance, a testament to Cuenca’s rich history, boasting ornate wooden sculptures and baroque altarpieces within its ancient walls.

**Day 9: Cuenca > Gualaceo & Chordeleg**
Depart on a captivating expedition to the picturesque small towns of Gualaceo, Chordeleg and San Bartolome. In Gualaceo visit Ikat workshops where Rosita weaves traditional macanas on her backstrap loom, preserving generations of artistry. Chordeleg is home to skilled goldsmiths like the Jara family, who master the town’s intricate filigree technique. Witness their meticulous creation of timeless jewellery from woven silver designs. Encounter artisans like Flavio, carving masterpieces from resilient wood with graceful expertise. Explore the world of Luis Uyaguari, a luthier crafting coveted string instruments from simple materials. Pause in San Bartolome, a serene village encircled by well-preserved heritage houses, offering a taste of local tradition—an herbal elixir brewed by a welcoming family.

**Day 10: Cuenca > Guayaquil**
As you journey toward Guayaquil, seize the chance for one last embrace of the Andes. El Cajas National Park is a breathtaking natural haven, home to the Tomebamba and Yanuncay Rivers, with an ever-changing canvas of paramos, wetlands, Andean rainforests, and polylepis forests. Home to over 40 mammal species and 150 bird species, it’s a vibrant habitat awaiting your exploration.

Venture to the lower section of Llaviuco Lagoon, where the enchanting elfin Andean rainforest echoes the melodious tunes of the Andean toucan. Descending toward the coast, notice the transformation into lush tropical greenery as you approach sea level.

**Day 11: Guayaquil**
Explore Guayaquil’s vibrant coastal allure on this cultural tour, tracing the lively banks of the Guayas River. Wander along the expansive Malecon 2000, a riverside promenade, watching boats glide through the river’s currents. See the historic structures at the Administration Plaza, and the green iguanas of Seminario Park, seeming to posing for cameras in their natural habitat. Cross over to the monumental Metropolitan Cathedral, a stalwart witness to four centuries of port city history. Meander through Las Penas, a charming neighbourhood adorned with colonial houses, art galleries, and an artistic vibrancy. Follow this vibrant path to the tranquil Santa Ana Port, offering picturesque views of the Guayas River.

Discover the Heritage Cemetery of Guayaquil, an esteemed resting place adorned with statues crafted by European, American, and Ecuadorian sculptors in Carrara marble. Designated as a National Cultural Heritage site, it hosts revered figures — presidents, artists, poets, and Independence heroes.

**Day 12: Fly Guayaquil > Galapagos Islands**
You will be met and transferred to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, your journey begins with a scenic drive to the Itabaca Channel, where you will embark on a ferry to Santa Cruz Island. Enjoy lunch before venturing to a nearby reserve renowned for its remarkable population of giant tortoises in their natural habitat — the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, these gentle creatures roam freely, grazing on grass and basking in serene ponds. The reserve also offers the chance to explore intricate lava tunnels that add to the adventure. As your visit concludes, transfer to the harbour to board the M/Y Isabela II for your choice of two Galapagos cruise itineraries – the Seabird Sanctuary Expedition explores the northern islands, and the Islands of Fire Adventure explores the western islands.

**Days 13 – 15: Galapagos Islands Cruising**
Enjoy wildlife viewing, swimming/snorkelling, island excursions, walking, and a visit to the Giant Tortoise Interpretation Centre, accompanied by expert naturalist guides keen to share there passion for this pristine environment with you. The diverse wildlife of each unique island is astounding, including giant tortoises, blue footed boobies, sea lions and a variety of marine birds.

**Day 16: Galapagos Islands > Guayaquil**
This morning you will be transferred from the dock to Baltra Airport for your flight back to Guayaquil where the journey concludes.

Tailor-made journey: This itinerary can be tailor-made, with the number of days, places visited, and activities varied to suit you.

Inclusions

• • 11 nights’ accommodation
  • 4 nights’ onboard M/Y Isabela II in the Galapagos Islands
  • 15 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 6 dinners
  • Meet & Greet in Quito and the Galapagos Islands
  • English-speaking local guides
  • Private transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary
  • Shared transfers and activities in the Galapagos Islands
  • Entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Flights Guayaquil > Galapagos Islands > Guayaquil
  • INGALA Transit Control Card for the Galapagos Islands
  • Carbon offset fee