11-Day Wonders of Ecuador

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Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is nestled in an Andean valley at an elevation of 9000 feet. The historic centre of Quito is replete with narrow and winding cobblestone streets, magnificent churches, and open squares. Visit the official equator monument for your perfect photo with one foot in each hemisphere. You will also learn about the importance of the 1736 Geodesic Mission scientific study and perform scientific Equator tests at the Inti Ñan museum, as well as other fun activities.

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The indigenous town of Otavalo is famous across South America for its colourful market, diverse handicrafts, and indigenous Indian groups, but the area offers far more. Located 2 hours north of Quito, it offers a combination of activities such as visits to the beautiful lagoons in the Andes, indigenous weavers, handicraft markets, waterfalls, Andean birdwatching, it is a fantastic place to visit.

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Visit Cotacachi, located only 10 minutes away from Otavalo, it is an artisan town famous for leather products, handicrafts and clothes. Afterwards, you will visit the beautiful Cuicocha Lagoon. With a wide caldera of 3 kilometres (2 miles) that was created by an eruption, it's at the foot of Cotacachi Volcano. It has two forested islands; although it is prohibited to visit them, you can take a boat around the lake.

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Cotopaxi National Park is home to Ecuador’s most captivating volcano. Towering at 5897 metres, the giant Cotopaxi peak boasts a perfectly symmetrical snow-capped cone and picturesque surrounding parkland. You will have lunch at the park ́s restaurant. Trek up to the volcano refuge and enjoy panoramic views from the snowline (on clear days). Visit the Cotopaxi National Park Museum to learn about the destructive history of the volcano. Stop for photos and a short walk at pretty Limpiopungo Lake.

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Quilotoa crater lake is a rewarding day trip in the Ecuadorian Andes, especially when trekking to the lakeside. Not only will the crater lake take your breath away but there are wonderful landscapes and indigenous villages along the way. Visit Tigua art workshop to see the famous colourful artwork that originated in this region of Ecuador. Enjoy fine views of Toachi Canyon and rural scenery during the road journey to Baños.

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Enjoy a day at leisure in Baños, with its multiple activities, you are in a location that marks the point where the Amazon and the highlands meet, so you can see mountains covered with plants of the Amazon, a lot of waterfalls and a very picturesque landscape. The town is located at the bottom of the Tungurahua volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. At a time agreed with your guide, you will visit the swing at the end of the world for a unique and breathtaking picture.

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Your day starts early morning with a transfer to Alausi to get board the famous Devil ́s Nose Train. Recently restored, this is one of the principal tourist attractions in Ecuador. Next is an unforgettable visit to the most impressive Inca ruins in Ecuador, Ingapirca. Built in the 15th century on a hilltop, there are excellent views over the surrounding countryside from the ruins. A local guide will explain the origin and purpose of the ruins and give you the lowdown on Incan history in Ecuador.

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A full day amidst the white-washed buildings and cobbled streets of Cuenca. An introductory tour to the colonial highlights of the city including its handsome plazas and domed churches. Then head to the famous Turi Lookout, for a beautiful view of the city. You will also see how the famous Panama hats are made by local families as the Panama hat is actually Ecuadorian, a fact that many people don't know.

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Today, we journey from Cuenca down to El Cajas National Park. There are more than 260 lakes in the park, with the most famous one been Lake Lupa. Beware that the park is cold and windy, so warm clothes are recommended. You will also find very interesting and different flora and fauna, such as the Polylepis tree (paper tree) and with some luck, the South American Condor. Head back to Cuenca to take a flight to Quito. On arrival, you will be taken to a hotel near the airport.