A journey through the stunning sierras and traditional haciendas of Ecuador. A world of dominating volcanoes, delightful colonial towns, UNESCO World Heritage sites and breathtaking national parks

THE AVENUE OF VOLCANOES

Ideal Length: 7 Days

Highlights 

• A journey through the dramatic sierras of Equador. At 2,800 metres above sea level and ringed my snowy peaks and volcanoes, Quito’s historical ‘Old Town’ is a lovely spot to commence your adventure.

• Travel the Avenue of Volcanoes to dominating Cotopaxi set amongst the stunning National Park scenery.

• Cosy up in fire-warmed haciendas with magnificent vistas of the Andes.

• Ride the Devil's Nose train, the steepest track your ever likely to ride, it is still considered a great feat of engineering and the views are spectacular.

• Explore UNESCO heritage listed Cuenca, being one of the first cities of the Inca Empire, it is overflowing with historical buildings and is a beautiful place to explore.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY 

This itinerary may be tailored, lengthened or shortened, just for you and your companions click here to enquire.

QUITO ~ 2 NIGHTS

A visually impressive mix of old-world colonial charm and trendy modernity surrounded by high mountain landscapes and imposing volcanoes. Explore old town Quito and it’s local markets bursting with colours, flavours and the rich aromas of Ecuadorian cooking. 

Gourmet Highlight:
Dine out at one of Quito’s top ranking restaurants and one of our favorites. Look out for yellow potato gnocchi with truffles, Pangora (stone crab) and perhaps an avocado salad seasoned with lemon foam. Be sure to try the original cocktails in the lounge and check out the 25 ft cylindrical wine cellar with giant glass doors!

Overnight:       Casa Gangotena or Casona del la Ronda

COTAPAXI NATIONAL PARK ~ 1 NIGHT

South of Quito lies the Avenue of Volcanoes and the jewel in the crown Cotopaxi National Park. Its crater lakes, diverse wildlife and sublime views are dominated by the 5,900m active, snowcapped Cotopaxi volcano. Cozy up in a Highland Hacienda with spectacular views across the National Park. You might like to take a morning horse ride, Andean Condor can sometimes be spotted!

Overnight:       Hacienda San Augustin

ECUADORIAN HIGHLANDS ~ 1 NIGHT

Relax in the thermal baths of Baños en route to the “River Valley”, Riobamba, located at the very heart of Ecuador and in the shadow of it’s largest mountain, Chimborazo. To the north is the active 5,000m Tungurahua  volcano which can be seen smoking large plumes of ash and lava into the air. 

Overnight:       Hacienda Abraspungo, Riobamba

CUENCA and THE CLOUD FOREST ~ 2 NIGHTS

The exciting Devils Nose train meanders through the steep Andean countryside and misty cloud forests via a series of impressive switchbacks, an engineering marvel, en route to the Inca ruins of Ingapirca. The Unesco historic centre of Cuenca is filled with galleries, cobblestone lanes and a life-style so laid-back that it’s almost forgotten in time. A short flight takes you back to Quito or on to Guayaquil at the end of your highland exploration.

Overnight:       Mansion Alcazar

Hungry for More? 

Join a cruise through the Galapagos Islands - stunning volcanic scenery and unique flora and fauna await!