7 Days Complete Volcano Avenue: Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños, Chimborazo, Ingapirca & Cuenca, Private Tour

Embark on a 7-day journey along Ecuador’s legendary Avenue of the Volcanoes, where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant Andean culture, and fascinating history come together. From the snow-capped Cotopaxi and turquoise Quilotoa Lagoon to the adventure town of Baños, the towering Chimborazo, and the ancient Ingapirca ruins, this itinerary offers the most complete exploration of Ecuador’s highlands before ending in the charming city of Cuenca.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Cotopaxi National Park: Walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon and admire one of the world’s highest active volcanoes.

Tigua Community: Take part in a hands-on painting workshop with local artisans, creating your own Andean-inspired masterpiece.

Quilotoa Lagoon: Marvel at the emerald-green waters of this volcanic crater lake, with the option to hike down to the shore.

Baños de Agua Santa: Experience adventure and natural beauty with the Swing at the End of the World, the famous Waterfall Route, and the roaring Pailón del Diablo waterfall.

Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve: Admire breathtaking high-altitude scenery as you climb toward the Whymper Refuge on Ecuador’s highest mountain, home to graceful wild vicuñas.

Ingapirca: Ecuador’s largest Inca archaeological site, blending Cañari and Inca cultures. The site features the Temple of the Sun, an elliptical stone structure aligned with solar events.

Day 1: ARRIVAL QUITO

Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you will be greeted by an English and Spanish-speaking local guide who will accompany you on a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a warm welcome and the convenience of having a friendly expert to assist you, share local insights, and answer any questions about Ecuador.

Overnight in Quito.

Day 2: QUITO – COTOPAXI (100km – 2hrs)

Start the day with a pick-up at your hotel from Quito and travel south to explore two Ecuadorian treasures: the vibrant rose plantations and the awe-inspiring Cotopaxi National Park. Discover the process behind Ecuador’s world-famous roses before heading to the high Andes. At Cotopaxi, walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon, spot Andean birds, and, if the weather allows, ascend to the José Rivas Refuge (4,800 m). Enjoy a special break with hot herbal tea in the middle of the páramo, with spectacular views of Cotopaxi. Lunch will be served in a cozy mountain lodge.

Overnight in Cotopaxi.

Day 3: COTOPAXI – QUILOTOA – BAÑOS (140km – 2.5hrs)

After breakfast at the hotel journey along the Avenue of the Volcanoes toward Quilotoa. Depending on the day, visit a traditional indigenous market such as Zumbahua or Saquisilí, full of colors and sounds.

TUI Wow Moments: Tigua Community Painting Workshop – Discover the artistic soul of the Andes in the heart of the Tigua Community, famous for its colorful naïf paintings that capture everyday Andean life. Instead of just admiring the artwork, you’ll step into the role of an artist yourself. Guided by a local artisan, you’ll create your own painting, drawing inspiration from the breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions that surround you. A truly authentic experience that lets you take home not just a memory, but your very own masterpiece.

Next, arrive at Quilotoa Lagoon and choose between hiking down to its turquoise waters or admiring the view from above. Enjoy an Andean lunch in a nearby community. A day filled with culture, art, and the natural wonders of the Ecuadorian Andes comes to an end. In the late afternoon, we’ll continue our journey toward the charming town of Baños, gateway to adventure and relaxation.

Overnight in Baños.

Day 4: BAÑOS – RIOBAMBA (75km – 1.5hrs)

Breakfast at the hotel. Early pick-up from the hotel for a scenic drive to the hamlet of Runtún. The visit includes the Tree House with its iconic Swing at the End of the World, located at 2,660 meters at the foot of the Tungurahua Volcano. From this spot, enjoy panoramic views while learning about the eruption history of this active volcano. The journey continues along the spectacular Waterfall Route, which connects the Andes with the Amazon Basin. Following the course of the Pastaza River, the road offers views of numerous waterfalls and hills covered with cloud forest. A one-hour hike leads to the impressive Devil’s Cauldron waterfall, where the water plunges into a narrow canyon. In the afternoon, transfer to Riobamba and check in at the hotel.

Overnight in Riobamba.

Day 5: RIOBAMBA – CHIMBORAZO RESERVE – RIOBAMBA (100km – 2.5hrs)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, home to Ecuador’s highest peak. The journey passes through traditional indigenous communities and the impressive La Chorrera Canyon, carved thousands of years ago by volcanic activity. Upon arrival, the route continues along a scenic dirt road to the Carrel Refuge (4,850 m). From here, a one-kilometer trail leads up to the Whymper Refuge (5,050 m), offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscape and a chance to experience the high-altitude páramo. After descending, the adventure continues in the La Moya Community, where a traditional Andean lunch will be served. The visit also includes the Mountain Museum, which tells the fascinating story of the legendary Chimborazo ice harvesters and their enduring traditions. In the afternoon, return to Riobamba with drop-off at your hotel.

Overnight in Riobamba.

Day 6: RIOBAMBA – INGAPRICA – CUENCA (265km – 5.5hrs)

Breakfast at the hotel. Pick-up from your hotel for a full-day journey through the scenic southern highlands toward Cuenca. Our first stop is a small quinoa farm near Guamote, a community project where you’ll learn about the cultivation and processing of this Andean superfood. We then continue to Ingapirca, Ecuador’s most important Inca archaeological site. After enjoying lunch at a historic hacienda, you’ll explore the ruins and discover the fascinating history of the Cañari and Inca cultures. The highlight is the elliptical Sun Temple, offering panoramic views of the surrounding highlands.

*Important: Ingapirca is open Wednesday to Sunday. On Mondays and Tuesdays, the visit is replaced with a stop at the Devil’s Nose Viewpoint. Discover the Devil’s Nose Viewpoint in Pistishi, where you’ll enjoy a short walk along local trails and learn about the engineering challenges of the famous railway that zigzags through the Andes.

In the late afternoon, we continue to Cuenca and drop you off at your hotel.

Overnight in Cuenca.

Day 7: CUENCA DEPARTURE

Breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, transfer to Mariscal Lamar International Airport for your departure flight. End your journey with unforgettable memories of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences.