Ecuador · Geological Wonders

5-Day Ecuador Andes Tour with Quilotoa, Chimborazo and Cuenca

5 Days Round trip from Quito Moderate pace

Tourist at the Quilotoa Lagoon in Ecuador

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Hike the scenic trails around Quilotoa Lagoon and Chimborazo Volcano
02 Explore the ancient Inca ruins of Ingapirca
03 Discover the colonial charm of Cuenca's historic city center
04 Wander through the picturesque lakes and wildlife of El Cajas National Park

Take this 5-day adventurous tour that perfectly blends nature, history, and culture as you experience the breathtaking beauty of Ecuador's Andes, from the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake to the majestic Chimborazo Volcano. Explore the ancient Inca ruins of Ingapirca, discover the charming colonial city of Cuenca, enjoy unforgettable hikes through the lush landscapes of El Cajas National Park, and conclude your journey in the vibrant city of Guayaquil.

After breakfast, leave for Chimborazo Volcano, the highest volcano in Ecuador at 6,263 metres above sea level, considered the farthest point on Earth and two thousand metres higher than Everest.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Cuenca, Riobamba, Guayaquil, Quito, Chimborazo, Galapagos Islands, Quilotoa Lake, Cajas National Park

Languages English, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Quilotoa Lagoon and Riobamba

Start the day by heading towards Quilotoa Lagoon, passing through beautiful Andean landscapes and indigenous villages.
Enjoy a fantastic view of the turquoise-coloured lagoon from the crater.
Begin the descent to the shore to appreciate the scenery.
Take the challenging return journey; if you wish, you can rent mules from the local people (not included) to get back faster and with less effort.
Depart for the city of Riobamba.

Day 02

Chimborazo Volcano, Ingapirca Ruins, and Cuenca

After breakfast, leave for Chimborazo Volcano, the highest volcano in Ecuador at 6,263 metres above sea level, considered the farthest point on Earth and two thousand metres higher than Everest. This measurement is taken from the centre of the planet. Chimborazo has also been called the King of the Ecuadorian Andes.
Walk through beautiful Andean landscapes on a long day tour to observe herds of vicuñas and llamas, hike on the volcano, and visit archaeological sites left by the Incas during their short passage through these Ecuadorian lands.
Conclude the day in Cuenca.

Day 03

Cuenca City Tour and Turi Viewpoint

Explore the city of Cuenca, with its narrow cobblestone streets, one of Ecuador's most important cities.
See buildings with colonial architecture and finely built places of interest.
During the afternoon visit, explore the New Cathedral, parks, flower market, Pajatoquilla hat factory, and Turi viewpoint.

Day 04

El Cajas National Park and Guayaquil

Continue to picturesque El Cajas National Park, a beautiful site 15 km from Cuenca, with about 200 lakes, some of which date back to the ancient Ice Age. The area is connected by rivers that flow into the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
Take an easy 1-hour hike through the moorlands and cloud forest, an area full of various species of birds and wildlife.
Descend to the coast and arrive in Guayaquil for an overnight stay.

Day 05

Departure or Tour Extension

If you wish, you can continue visiting this country's wonders and extend your trip to the Galapagos Islands, the jungle, or other places you would like to visit on this last day in mainland Ecuador.
After check-out, your transportation will take you to the airport.