The Andes and Cascade Avenue

A six-day immersion in the Andean World, from Quito, along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, Riobamba, Devil Nose Train, and Colonial Cuenca. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Andes, with visits to centenary Haciendas, fertile fields of vegetables and roses, in close contact with the local culture. This is a journey along the history, the spirituality, the flavors, the customs, traditions, and legends of the Andean Region.

DAY 1 | Welcome to Quito, Ecuador!  

Upon arrival to the Quito airport, you will be met by your local host who will provide you with a private transfer to the Dann Carlton or Mercure Alameda hotel for a two-night stay with breakfast and taxes included.

DAY 2 | Quito City Excursion & Middle of the World | B.

Visit the old Spanish Colonial District of Quito with its beautiful plazas and unique churches. The Spanish architecture converts Quito in a very special place. After the visit of the old town, we will take you to the south side for a magnificent view of the city from El Panecillo lookout point. A visit to the Middle of the World monument is also scheduled. Mitad Del Mundo is one of Quito’s most famous attractions, situated about 10. Km. to the north of Ecuador’s Capital. In 1736 a French scientific expedition came to Ecuador to determine the position of the Equator. On the sight there is a monument, which houses an Ethnographic Museum. Here you will learn about life styles, clothing, and utensils of different ethnic groups of Ecuador. Just outside Mitad Del Mundo there is an interesting open-air museum called “Inti-Ñan,” which explains our solar system, the position of the equator and its effect on gravity; also interesting displays of Ecuadorian ancient cultures and their ways of life. Return to the City by mid-afternoon and drop off at your Hotel. Afternoon at leisure.

DAY 3 | Begin your Guided Excursion of the Volcano & The Waterfall Route /  Quito- Cotopaxi National Park – Hacienda San Agustin de Callo – Patate | B.L.D.

Early departure from Quito by motorcar on the Pan-American Highway to the south, to visit the Cotopaxi National Park, an ecological sanctuary of 88,920 acres, around the magnificent Cotopaxi Volcano, which rises 5897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. The evergreen landscape of the Ecuadorian highlands is one of the main attractions, along valleys and mountains covered by multicolored fields. After an hour and a half, the entrance to the park is reached and then it is up a dirt road for approximately one hour. Upon arrival to the park there is an introductory briefing about the habitat of the Andean paramo or moorlands, its flora and fauna in the small Interpretation Center.

Travel along valleys and mountains, arrive to Cotopaxi National Park, which surrounds the magnificent Cotopaxi Volcano, for an up-close view of the Andean paramo habitat and its unique flora and fauna; a number of high-altitude birds can be observed around Limpiopungo Lagoon, and occasionally, wild horses. On clear days, the perfect snow-capped cone of the Cotopaxi Volcano is quite a sight! At the foot of the volcano is a charming hacienda, where lunch is served in a room with Inca walls, perfectly preserved through the centuries -a truly archaeological jewel. After lunch, mingle with the llamas of the hacienda and stroll along a rose plantation, many varieties, and many colors, ready for exportation. From here, descend towards the town of Patate, to spend the night at 300-year old Hacienda Leito, hidden among the mountains, a magical ambience, where, as the afternoon mist descends, stories are told about those who left in search of the treasure of the Incas in the nearby Llanganatis – and never returned…

DAY 4 | Baños – Route of the Cascades – Ambato – El Arenal – Riobamba | B.L.D.

After breakfast, take a spectacular route along the gorge of the Pastaza River to the town of Baños (Baths), right at the foot of Tungurahua Volcano, from where the thermal waters that gave it its name emerge. Drive along the Route of the Cascades to El Pailón del Diablo (the Devil’s Cauldron) -the most adventurous will descend (medium difficulty) to observe the impressive cascade up close, surrounded by subtropical vegetation and orchids. The force and sound of the waters can also be appreciated from a lookout point without descending. Lunch is served at a hacienda / hostel in the surroundings, and in the afternoon a short stroll along Baños -a town with an international pulse, full of people from all over the world as well as many locals who pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Holy Water. From here, the route to Riobamba is up the mountain, to where the clouds can be touched, alongside the massive Chimborazo, the highest mountain of Ecuador, on the high paramo where vicuñas graze and scamper – this is a protected Faunistic Preserve. On the hillsides, where the land is worked beneath the plow, one might think the farmer’s true objective was to paint the hills in fascinating patterns, not just to till the dark, fertile soil. Great photo ops on this route! Arrive to Riobamba for dinner and lodging at Hacienda Abraspungo or Hacienda Andaluza.

DAY 5 | Riobamba – Alausi – Devil’s Nose – Alausi – Ingapirca – Cuenca | B.L.D.

After an early breakfast depart by road, skirting the flanks of the Andes, an astonishing ride, twisting and turning, along bridging ravines and river gorges. Ride through Indian villages and cultivated fields; here is where most of the cereals in Ecuador are grown, among them, the quinua, considered the perfect grain for its nutritional value. After about 2 hours arrive at the small town of Alausi, the beating heart of the rehabilitation of the Ecuadorian Railway Company in the last years. Great effort has been made to restore the 100-year old train to its old glory and romance. Stations have been renewed, railways and sleepers replaced, engines and classic coaches renovate, and, most important, the project involves the local communities along the route in the rail operation. The highlight is the thrilling 800-meters (2630-foot) descent on the zigzag cuttings on the rock of the Devil’s Nose. At the bottom one finds the newly renovated Station of Sibambe. Here there is time to visit the local museum “Condor Puñuna” built and run by the Nizag community, see the display of local handcrafts, fruit, and medicinal plants and try the local coffee. The train whistle calls guests back on board for the return to the Station of Alausi, where a light snack is served to regain strength. Continue exploring the Andean world by motor coach to the south, visiting the Inca Fortress of Ingapirca en-route. Lunch in the area. Arrival to Cuenca at dusk for dinner and accommodations at Hotel Santa Lucia or Hotel Oro Verde.

DAY 6 | Cuenca a World Cultural Heritage Site / Quito or Guayaquil | B.L.

Cuenca is Ecuador’s third largest city; yet it still retains its pleasant provincial air. Its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas, and museums make it very special. This comprehensive visit includes the Plaza of San Sebastian, a colorful artisans market, where handicrafts are sold. Then, visit the Museum of Modern Art, featuring an excellent collection of contemporary fine art. Next is a visit to the flower market at the small plaza in front of the carved stone entrance to the church of El Carmen de la Asunción. From here, a stroll to the main square, surrounded by the imposing blue-domed Cathedral, the Court of Justice, the Municipal Palace, the Governor’s Palace, and the Church of El Sagrario. Then, a drive along the Tomebamba River to admire the city’s overhanging houses. Lunch is at one of the excellent restaurants in Cuenca, and in the afternoon, drive for a short visit to a ceramics handcraft shop. Then, observe the whole process of making the famous Panama Hats of high-quality toquilla straw. The Spirit of the Andes adventure ends at the airport – to take a flight to Quito or Guayaquil. Air ticket is extra.

Notes: Please bear in mind that the train operation is handled directly by the Ecuadorian Railway Company, the operation and schedules are subject to change without notice. Train tickets are included in the rate. Price of train tickets are subject to change without prior notice. This program is available on private basis for departures on other days at higher price.

Dress in layers (T-shirt, blouse, sweater, and coat). Take a warm coat for evening and rain protection.. Sun protection (SPF 40) even if the day is cloudy. Hat or cap. Good walking shoes.

Altitude: 2,550 meters (7,750 feet) to 3,000 meters (10,000 feet)
Average Temperature: Day 10° to 25° C / 50° to 77° F.
Night 6° to 10° C / 43° to 50° F.

 PRICES PER PERSON IN US$ – NO MINIMUM GUESTS REQUIRED

AVAILABLE FOR DAILY ARRIVALS IN QUITO EXCEPT ON THURSDAYS  

¹ Triple Occupancy share existing beds.

FIRST CLASS

In Quito: Dann Carlton Hotel. With an elegant and understated decor throughout the hotel, the 212 rooms and suites include air conditioning, satellite television, safety box, radio alarm with CD player, mini bar and refrigerator. The rooms are also equipped with a desk, wireless broadband internet, and telephone with voice mail. All the areas of the hotel are covered by our complimentary broadband Wi-Fi service. For those travelling without their laptops, we offer personal computers for the exclusive use of our guest. At the Park 20 Restaurant the friendly staff awaits you with a very fine selection of Ecuadorian and International dishes.

The Hotel Dann Carlton Quito is located near the main shopping centers of the city, opposite the park La Carolina and Exhibition Center Quito. This privileged location makes it a unique hotel in the financial and commercial center of Quito.

             

In Quito: Mercure Alameda Hotel is 3 km from both the Church of the Society of Jesus and the independence monuments at Plaza de la Independencia. This bustling hotel is also a 9-minute walk from exhibits at Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. The perfect combination of services, elegant facilities and comfortable accommodations. The hotel has 147 warmly decorated rooms equipped with all the comforts and security that an international hotel requires. Most rooms offer beautiful landscapes views of the city of Quito, all rooms have free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, minibar and desk, soundproof windows, and complimentary breakfast and parking. Airy suites add living rooms, and 1 upgraded suite offers a sofa and panoramic city views. In addition, the hotel makes available the latest in technology for your absolute comfort. Other amenities include a refined restaurant and a bakery, as well as a gym and a business center. Elegant function rooms and meeting spaces are available.

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In  Patate: Hacienda Leito, is discretely located and nestled on the Patate River valley, at the Ecuadorian province of Tungurahua, only 3 hours drive south of Quito and very close to Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest, surrounded by majestic mountains. Whether you are an adventure-seeker looking for all exciting activities the area has to offer, a couple in search of a romantic getaway, a family seeking a warm atmosphere for all ages, or just a weary traveler halfway between here and there, Hacienda Leito´s comfortable rooms, its charming social areas and its spectacular setting, offers its guests extraordinary hospitality.

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In Riobamba: Hotel Hacienda Abraspungo is located 2,754 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the magnificent Ecuadorian Andes. Set in a country-style house with elegant Colonial décor, Hotel Hacienda Abraspungo has 38 comfortable chic rooms that are unique in that each room takes its name from one of the mountains of Ecuador. That mountain is shown in the photographs displayed within the interior design in the room. Each room has a garden view, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen cable TV, and private bathrooms with free toiletries and hot water, a safe, and free parking. Room service is also offered. Some rooms feature private balconies. A full buffet breakfast with homemade breads and fruits can be enjoyed daily.

The Novoandina kitchen of Abraspungo is a culinary style created by chefs to resume culinary customs of the past, reviving local indigenous ingredients such as quinoa, corn, chochos, beans, among others, which are planted and harvested using ancient techniques. Local markets provide Abraspungo chefs with the proper inspiration to create special dishes, mixing culinary gourmet techniques with local flavors. The Restaurant and Bar Abraspungo are decorated with antiques and picturesque elements of the Andean region, which merge with the warmth of the fireplace to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy a select variety of cocktails, wines and spirits, to make a memorable experience at Abraspungo.

Riobamba Shopping Mall is 0.9 miles away and there is an on-site souvenir shop with regional crafts, the main bus station is a 15-minute car drive from the hotel.

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In Riobamba: Hotel Hosteria La Andaluza is century mansion that has been declared Cultural Heritage of Ecuador is a unique site which houses centuries of history; remembering the roots of Ecuadorian culture, Spanish colonial experiences with people yearning for freedom and setting goals Republican. The Andean landscapes, the beauty of its architecture with conjugated service excellence make Hosteria La Andaluza ideal for rest, relaxation, social and corporate events in direct contact with nature.

In Cuenca: Santa Lucia Hotel Cuenca. This nostalgic boutique hotel occupies a house built in 1859 and offers luxurious accommodations in the charming Old Town district of Cuenca. It is a close walk from Old Cathedral of Cuenca, Museo Remigio Crespo Toral and Madre Park. The modern, elegant rooms offer antique furnishings, free Wi-Fi and plasma TVs with satellite channels. They also provide, desks and seating areas, along with minibars and tea/coffeemakers. If you feel like staying in, room service is available. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast buffet. The restaurant, located in our central patio, takes us to a gourmet world where service and attention are the main characteristics. There’s also a casual restaurant, as well as a cozy bar and lounge serving snacks and cocktails. A living room with an inviting fireplace is the perfect place to sit and reflect on the magic of your day.

In Cuenca: Oro Verde. In this beautiful city you will find our Hotel, recently renewed with 69 comfortable and elegantly furnished rooms based on the best decorative trends, equipped with heating high tech, floating floor, air conditioning, dual glass windows Camera, WIFI, TV cable. All these details makes Oro Verde Hotel the only five-star hotel and the biggest in the city.

We are located just 12 minutes from downtown and airport. Incorporating a large terrace and pergola located near a beautiful water mirror, overlooking Tomebamba River will provide the perfect place for outdoor events, in a fresh and renewed environment. We offer you a delicious and exclusive national and international cuisine in our restaurants, events and catering.

• Prices are subject to change without previous notice.
• The itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, safety, and local regulations.
• Deposit: A $300.00 per person deposit is required to activate the booking process. Due to the popularity of the destination and the high demand for space, early reservations are strongly encouraged. Additional deposits may be required by suppliers, if so you will be notified.
• None of the services have been requested nor confirmed at this time (unless otherwise indicated). If the selected hotels are not available, we will make our best effort to obtain the next best available hotel in the same city/region. We should have confirmation of the suggested services and facilities and/or suitable alternatives within 48 hours after receiving your deposit, which will be applied to the final payment.
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• Meal Codes: B=Breakfast / L=Lunch / D=Dinner.
• All tours and excursions services are SIB shared basis (unless otherwise indicated).
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EcoAmerica Tours, LLC. and/or any of its agents will not claim any responsibility for injury, damage, loss, additional expenses, accidental delay or other irregularities which may be caused either through willful or negligent acts or omissions on the part of companies or individuals providing or engaged in transportation, accommodations or other services related to the execution of the tour, or through natural calamities and other factors beyond its control. Prices are subject to adjustment in the event of any change, without notice. EcoAmerica Tours, LLC reserves the right to change any tour if considered necessary in order to render better service to its clients. Travelers choosing to participate in these vacation programs do so at their own risk. EcoAmerica Tours is not to be held responsible for injuries, damage expenses, and/or costs resulting from accidents or accidental death while participating in these vacation programs. Travelers have been directed to read these disclaimers. EcoAmerica Tours, LLC