- Rich Culture
in Quito - Visit Indigenous Markets
in Otavalo - 5 Days/4 Nights
in Timeless Luxury
Real adventurers crave cultural connection—and this tour through Ecuador’s heartland delivers it in spades. Immerse yourself in Andean traditions with an itinerary that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Starting with exploration of Colonial Quito and wrapping up with serene lake views, our local Guides will reveal Ecuador’s hidden gems.
Imagine yourself walking through the vibrant Otavalo indigenous market, right in the heart of Ecuador's Andean mountains. As you wander, you're surrounded by all sorts of beautiful crafts made by local artisans. Chat with the friendly vendors, admire their handmade items, and soak up the atmosphere of indigenous culture all around you. This is just one of many authentic experiences that bring Ecuador to life—one that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Authentic (USD per person)
* Add the above price to your Galapagos rates for the full price of your Ecuador adventure.
& Otavalo Valley
Colonial city tour, visit to indigenous craft villages and studios, and the famed Otavalo market
Step into a fairytale with our Lakes and Markets tour—a journey that's been described as nothing short of magical. With nearly four decades of experience in Ecuadorian exploration, we're passionate about connecting our Guests to authentic experiences. From the enchanting Gold Church in Quito to the serene lakes of the Otavalo Valley, each stop adds a lasting memory.
- INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT ARRIVAL TO QUITO & TRANSFER TO HOTEL
AM | PM: Arrive in Quito (most flights arrive in the evening) and take a private transfer into the Colonial quarter of the city. - Meals included: No meals this day
- Overnight: In Colonial Quito
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Begin your journey in the heart of Quito's historic center, the very first UNESCO World Heritage site. Condé Nast even hails it as Latin America's Best Preserved Colonial City." On a private luxury tour, stay in authentic Spanish-style colonial hotels nestled amidst the old town's charm. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’re in Europe—without the jet lag!
Wind your way through cobblestone streets and hilly lanes, passing centuries-old Spanish-style residences adorned with garden courtyards. Marvel at the opulent golden altar of La Compañia Church and savor a chocolate-tasting session featuring the finest cacao in the world. Colonial Quito is the perfect base for other day tours in the region, including Otavalo and the Andes Highlands.
From Colonial Quito, embark on multi-day guided adventures to explore Ecuador's pristine national parks, colonial haciendas, and lush cloud forests like Cotopaxi and the mystical Mashpi.
Ecuador boasts pristine national parks, stunning colonial haciendas, and unspoiled cloud forests. For a taste of Ecuadorian country life, rustic mountain-side Haciendas preserve their essence while providing unique comfort and service. And if you seek unique wildlife encounters in the Central Andes Highlands, our Glamping experiences offer active exploration, gourmet cuisine, and unparalleled immersion in nature's wonders.
Combine an Amazon Adventure with your Galapagos Cruise or Mainland Ecuador tour for the ultimate wildlife safari in the Western Hemisphere. It’s surprisingly easy to journey from the high-elevation Colonial city to a luxury lodge in the Amazon Jungle.
Ecuador's headwaters offer prime habitat, exceptional wildlife viewing, and immersive river cruises in the Amazon basin. Extending your stay in the Amazon is the easiest and most cost-effective way to explore the Earth's largest tropical forest. A quick 30-minute flight from Quito takes you to Coca on the Napo River, followed by a scenic 2-hour motorized launch up the river to your lodge or river cruise. Here, you'll encounter Pygmy Marmosets (the world's smallest monkey species), blue morpho butterflies, and a rich variety of birds, from Toucans to Scarlet Macaws, in one of the planet's last truly wild frontiers.
Most consider Cuenca the country’s most beautiful city, a step back in time reminiscent of Europe! We also call this vibrant urban hub Ecuador’s ‘city of rivers’. Cuenca is made for walking, a city that has preserved its cobblestone streets and whimsical feel. Modern shops and cafés mix with the Spanish-style mansions of old, with a slew of museums, churches, and squares to revel in. It’s the perfect place to pause, breathe, and indulge in fine dining.
After an unforgettable Galapagos Yacht Safari, don’t forget to sit back and reminisce. The Galapagos Islands are also home to beautiful beaches with soft white sand providing a feeling of paradise that deserves a few extra days to soak up the sun and relax.
For those seeking a luxury island tour, our carefully selected accommodations on Santa Cruz and San Cristobal Islands offer a tranquil haven where you can extend your Galapagos experience. Immerse yourself in the gentle rhythms of island life, take leisurely strolls along pristine shores, or simply savor the feeling of absolute relaxation as you indulge in spa treatments. The magic of Galapagos awaits.