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COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK, RIOBAMBA & CUENCA TOUR
3-day tour departing from Quito
“Adventure through the Avenue of the Volcanoes and the southern Ecuadorian Andes, winding along picturesque country sides and colonial cities that give Ecuador the charm it is known for.”
As you leave Quito, passing through farmlands and rural areas, you will find yourself in the company of one of Ecuador’s first National Parks, home to the mighty Cotopaxi volcano. A visit inside the park will allow you to discover highlights of the Andean moorlands with your guide. Further south are even more marvelous Ecuadorian gems like the Ingapirca ruins of the 15th century and the colonial city of Cuenca, another World Heritage Site. Walking in this beautiful city you will find a living and breathing indigenous artisan heritage along a backdrop of romantic rivers and bridges, with the magnificent blue domes of the Cathedral outlining the cityscape.
3 Days Cotopaxi, Riobamba & Cuenca
ITINERARY
Shortly after leaving Quito, you will arrive at Cotopaxi National Park. The first outstanding sight is of course the active volcano, with its famous shape and glacier cover, visible from all over the region making it one of the icons of Ecuador. When entering the park, you’ll be able to enjoy the hiking trail that loops around the stunning Limpiopungo Lagoon located near the entrance. It is mainly a flat trail with beautiful views, brooks and streams, and local flora and fauna. Your guide will explain more about the different species of birds, plants, and mammals that dwell in the area such as hummingbirds, fox, deer and the Andean condor among others. An added plus of the Cotopaxi is that you can also hike up to the snowline if you wish, adding to your mountain experience. Next, you continue to the town of Riobamba, a lovely city full of beautiful French-influenced squares, murals and its beautiful Cathedral, where you will have a well-deserved rest, allowing time to admire the view surrounded by volcanoes, in particular the mighty Chimborazo.
Early in the morning, after breakfast, you will depart towards Cuenca, on the way you will see Colta Lake and also the first Catholic Ecuadorian church La Balbanera. Later on, you will visit Ingapirca, the most important pre-Columbian archeological site in Ecuador and the best-preserved Inca architectural complex. It is incredibly enriching to learn about the different construction techniques, the culture and customs of both the Cañari and Inca nations, and the precision of the solar calculation and aqueduct system they created. The day will then end at one of the most charming cities of Ecuador, Cuenca.
Cuenca is such a charismatic city and has a relaxed atmosphere that you will surely appreciate. Its marketplaces and handicrafts that are on display are a living testimony to the region’s rich indigenous and artesian heritage. While touring the city you’ll see the New Cathedral with its blue and white striped domes that can be seen from all over the city, adding to its beauty. Take mesmerizing photos in one of the four picturesque rivers that cascade into the city, flowing peacefully underneath bridges that seem to have come from a painting. You will be surprised to learn more about the Panama Hat, and the reason why this famous accessory has a misleading name, as it is born in this area and made of locally grown toquilla straw. Many workshops and factories have perfected the art, and still carry on their trade around the city. Marvel and how every color, every weave, comes from the mind of an artisan and makes it an extraordinary and functional piece of art. Once all the adventures have finished, we will take you to the airport for your flight back to Quito.
Prices 2023
Prices Per Person
| HOTEL ACCOMMODATION | LUXURY | FIRST | STANDARD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Guest |
USD 1,946.00
|
USD 1,798.00 | USD 1,566.00 |
| 2 Guests |
USD 1,120.00
|
USD 1,023.00 | USD 893.00 |
| 3-5 Guests |
USD 909.00
|
USD 812.00 | USD 699.00 |
| 6-9 Guests |
USD 694.00
|
USD 597.00 | USD 502.00 |
| 10-16 Guests |
USD 612.00
|
USD 515.00 | USD 427.00 |
| Single Supplement |
USD 145.00
|
USD 94.00 | USD 44.00 |
INCLUDED:
NOT INCLUDED:
What our customers say
Paula Anastasia
This was a wonderful trip for anyone Who loves nature, plants, and birds. Sealife. I did not have high expectations as I let my sister make all the bookings as this was her bucket list trip. The catamaran was clean and accommodating for two people l. I loved its many power outlets and a small vanity outside the water closet for hair care.
Paula Anastasia
Jun, 2023Read more “Paula Anastasia”
Janet
Pablo Rea was extremely helpful, responsive, and enthusiastic. I had some worries about travel at this time, and he was so supportive regarding my concerns and made sure every issue was addressed. The services were highly efficient and reliable. We were so impressed that they arranged for us to get the COVID tests we needed within the time frame required. Everything went smoothly, and it was a fantastic trip. I will recommend this service to my friends. They are very professional. The trip was made easy because they paid attention to all the details.
Janet
Jun, 2021
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Woody
Hola Maria, I have been traveling globally since the mid-1970s. And so I have worked with many travel companies and agents.
I can say without reservation that Sofia has been EXCELLENT (10+)! She is professional, knowledgeable, and efficient. I will certainly recommend her and your company to all family and friends interested in visiting the Galapagos Islands or Ecuador.
Woody
Aug, 2022
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Craig Godsoe
Hello Pablo, The trip has been excellent. It was a logistically complicated trip, but having assistance at every transfer point greatly simplified things. The two guides Javier (Quito); Allan (Guayaquil), went above and beyond. The crew of Horizon was also excellent. I am grateful for all your hard work, which led to an easy and smooth trip.
Craig Godsoe
Jun, 2023
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