Quito to Guayaquil Explorer
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Journey across the heart of Ecuador on this 5-day adventure from Quito to Guayaquil. Discover the colonial charm of Quito, marvel at the emerald lake of Quilotoa, explore the ancient Ingapirca ruins, and wander through the cobblestone streets of Cuenca before reaching the vibrant port city of Guayaquil. This trip captures the very essence of the Andes.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
5 daysHotel Rating
3 or 4 star hotelsStarts
QuitoEnds
GuayaquilMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Ecuador that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Country
EcuadorMeals Included
Breakfast: 4Passengers
£2,560.00
£1,280.00
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 15
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Group Size
Min 1 / Max 15Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Group ToursAccommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Itinerary
Day 1 - Quito
On arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, we meet you and transfer you to your hotel in modern Quito – our guide will be waiting with a sign for an easy meet-up. The rest of the day is at leisure with no scheduled activities, so you can settle in and acclimatise at your own pace – the adventure begins tomorrow. Overnight in Quito.
Day 2 - Quito - Riobamba - Quilotoa
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart Quito this morning along the Avenue of the Volcanoes for Quilotoa – a striking crater lake at around 3,600 metres (11,811 feet), its vivid green waters set among the Andean foothills. We walk down to the water’s edge in about 25 minutes, and the climb back up takes roughly an hour; if you’d prefer a gentler return, you can hire a mule locally. We then continue to the Tigua community to see their colourful naïve paintings depicting Andean life, inspired by local landscapes and traditions. After the visit, we drive on to Riobamba – overnight in Riobamba.
Day 3 - Riobamba - Cuenca
After breakfast in Riobamba, we drive towards the Ozogoche Lagoons, travelling via Lake Colta and stopping at Balbanera Church – the country’s oldest, built by the Spanish in 1534. Inside Sangay National Park, the cold, clear lagoons lie high in the Andes – we take time to appreciate the setting, learn about local traditions and, with luck, spot Andean birdlife. We then continue to Ingapirca, the country’s most important archaeological complex, to explore the site and its Cañari and Inca history. We finish the day in Cuenca – overnight in Cuenca.
Day 4 - Cuenca - Guayaquil
After breakfast at the hotel, we explore Cuenca’s cobbled streets, colonial architecture and lively plazas. We visit the New Cathedral – with its striking blue domes – and the Old Cathedral, then learn about the UNESCO–listed tradition of weaving the toquilla straw hat. We also browse the city market to take in its colours and flavours. Later, we travel to Guayaquil, watching the scenery shift from Andean highlands to coastal lowlands – overnight in Guayaquil.
Day 5 - Guayaquil
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer you to the airport in Guayaquil for your departure flight – our services conclude on arrival at the terminal. Your journey ends here, with memories of diverse landscapes, rich culture and unique experiences.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Reviews
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Prices & Dates
'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices (if available) are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room.
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