This 10-day tour takes you through the heart of Ecuador’s Andes, providing an in-depth exploration of the country’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Meet skilled artisans in Quito, Otavalo, Tigua, and Cuenca, and visit historical sites such as Ingapirca and Cajas National Park. Discover unique crafts, participate in workshops, and experience Ecuador’s vibrant artistic traditions.
Arrive in Quito and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a welcome meeting and learn about your upcoming trip. Take in the Andean scenery that surrounds this highland capital, known for its rich history and artistic traditions.
Meal: No Meal
Begin with a visit to Quito’s historic centre, exploring colonial architecture and art galleries. Visit the famous La Compañía Church and the Government Palace. In the afternoon, meet local artists in San Juan, one of Quito’s artistic neighbourhoods, where you’ll participate in a hands-on workshop and learn traditional painting techniques.
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
Travel to Otavalo, famous for its colourful market. Visit the Plaza de los Ponchos and explore a variety of handicrafts such as textiles, ceramics, and leather goods. Meet the Andrango family, master weavers who demonstrate their traditional methods. Continue to Peguche for a tour of the community’s music workshop and instrument making.
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Travel to Tigua, a town known for its distinctive folk art paintings. Meet local artists and learn about their vibrant artwork depicting Andean life. In the afternoon, depart for Quilotoa, a stunning crater lake. Enjoy a scenic hike around the crater rim and take in panoramic views of the turquoise waters below.
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
Visit indigenous communities near Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak. Meet artisans who specialize in weaving, creating intricate designs from llama and alpaca wool. Visit a pewter workshop in the city of Riobamba and learn about the history of these traditional crafts.
Meal: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Explore Ingapirca, the largest Inca archaeological site in Ecuador. Learn about the significance of the site and its role as a ceremonial and military center. Continue to Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant art scene.
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
Visit Cuenca’s historic centre and explore its cobbled streets, churches, and museums. Take a guided tour of the Panama Hat Factory to see how hats are made. Later, explore local art galleries and meet Cuenca’s renowned artists to learn about their influences and techniques.
Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
Travel to the towns of Gualaceo and Chordeleg, known for their exquisite handicrafts. In Gualaceo, visit a weaving workshop where ikat textiles are woven on traditional looms. In Chordeleg, admire the intricate silver Jewelry and filigree work for which the town is famous. Spend the evening enjoying Cuenca’s charming atmosphere.
Meal: Breakfast
Spend the morning exploring Cajas National Park, a beautiful area known for its lagoons and Andean tundra. Take a guided nature walk and observe native flora and fauna. Return to Cuenca and fly back to Quito for a farewell dinner and final reflections on the tour.
Meal: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Quito before being transferred to the airport for your departure flight. Take the time to explore more of the city’s artistic districts or shop for last-minute souvenirs.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation in double rooms
Indicated Meals
Private transportation
Bilingual naturalist guide
Scheduled Visits
Entrance Fee
Roundtrip flights (Quito-Cuenca-Quito)
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses
Tips
Meals not described in the program
Accommodation
Quito: Ikala UIO or Similar
Cotopaxi: Hacienda los Mortiños Suite or similar
Riobamba: Mansión Santa Isabel or similar
Cuenca: Mansiòn Alcazar or similar
Highlights
Visit indigenous communities and engage in hands-on workshops with master artisans.
Explore significant historical landmarks such as Ingapirca and the colonial cities of Quito and Cuenca.
Discover stunning natural attractions like Quilotoa Crater Lake and Cajas National Park.
Travel Tips
Pack layers for varying climates, as temperatures in the Andes can be cool, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for excursions in markets and archaeological sites.
Bring a reusable water bottle and a small backpack for day trips.
Weather Preparedness
The Andes have unpredictable weather, with cool temperatures and the possibility of rain. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothing, and a hat to protect against the sun and cold winds.
Fitness Requirements
This tour involves light to moderate physical activity, including walking tours, light hikes, and traveling at high altitudes. It is suitable for most travellers, but a basic fitness level is recommended.
Rates are based on 3 star hotels, in case of upgrade please let us know enable quote accordingly.
All prices are indicative and starting from prices. Final price will be available based on availability and dates of travel.