Quito & Cotopaxi: A Dynamic Duo for Adventurous Spirits
UNCOVER THE MAGIC OF ECUADOR’S CENTRAL ANDES

With nearly 40 years of Ecuador expeditions, this tour is one of our favorites for balancing enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture. Begin in Quito, where the city's colonial architecture and rich heritage set the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Venture to Cotopaxi National Park, tracing the iconic 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' along the way. At the picturesque Hacienda El Porvenir, nestled in the Andean highlands, enjoy luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views of Cotopaxi Volcano, and activities like horseback riding and “cooking in the clouds” classes. Whether exploring Quito's vibrant streets or the serene trails of the Andes, this tour adds depth to your Galapagos adventure without tricky logistics. There’s a reason they call Hacienda El Porvenir a place of legendary moments—and we can’t wait to take you there.

STARTING FROM
$1,756

Authentic (USD per person)


* Add the above price to your Galapagos rates for the full price of your Ecuador adventure.

DESTINATIONS
Colonial Quito, Central Andes & Cotopaxi Volcano
ACTIVITIES
GET TO KNOW THE ANDEAN WAY OF LIFE

Explore the main highlights of Quito and enjoy an authentic Andean Hacienda Experience.

DURATION
5 Days /
4 Nights
Discover the Allure of Hacienda El Porvenir
SET A HIGHER BAR FOR HOSPITALITY AT A COZY ANDEAN HACIENDA

Nestled at an altitude of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), Hacienda El Porvenir charms visitors with its grassy roof and authentic Andean way of life. In this majestic setting, Ecuadorian hospitality sets a new bar for warmth and welcome. Immerse yourself in local culture, savor the breathtaking views, and feel at home in a sanctuary that sets a new standard for memorable stays.


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Tour Images to Tease Your Sense of Adventure
San Francisco Church in Quito Ecuador
Visit Quito’s stunning San Francisco Church, Plaza Grande, and the Presidential Palace.
Horseback riding around Cotopaxi Volcano
Explore the Central Andes through your style of adventure: horseback riding, biking, or hiking.
Sustainable agriculture at Hacienda el Porvenir
Discover fascinating local traditions and gain firsthand knowledge on an authentic Andean farm.

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Authentic Accommodations, Historic Charm
KICK OFF YOUR GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE WITH THE R&R YOU DESERVE

Experience the ideal blend of historic charm and natural beauty with our Quito + Hacienda El Porvenir tour. This adventure offers a unique combination of vibrant city life and serene Andean landscapes, ensuring a memorable journey through Ecuador. From wildlife lovers to history buffs, it’s an ideal addition to your Galapagos cruise.

Hacienda el Porvenir in Ecuador
AUTHENTIC PROPERTY IMAGES HACIENDA EL PORVENIR

Become enchanted at elevation! Nestled at 11,811 feet in the heart of the Central Andes, Hacienda El Porvenir offers a cozy retreat with stunning views and authentic Andean hospitality. Enjoy the charm of a grassy-roofed hacienda, discover local culture, and experience the warmth and welcome that sets Ecuador apart. Farm to table cuisine will leave you craving more of the region.

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Patio Andaluz Hotel in Quito
AUTHENTIC PROPERTY IMAGES HOTEL PATIO ANDALUZ

They say location is everything! Hotel Patio Andaluz delivers, ideally situated steps from the iconic Independence Square. A mere 7-minute stroll takes you to the renowned Church and Square of San Francisco, while in just 5 minutes, you can reach the captivating Church of la Compañía with its stunning golden interior. Think: prime location and warm Ecuadorian hospitality.

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Cotopaxi National Park Tour Itinerary in Brief
DAY 01
  • 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
DAY 02
  • HALF-DAY QUITO CITY TOUR
    AM | PM: Enjoy a half-day private walking tour of Quito’s historic center and a chocolate-making class. You have the choice of starting early after breakfast at 9 AM, or you can also enjoy a relaxed morning to sleep in and begin your tour right after lunch at 1 PM.
  • Meals included: Breakfast
  • Overnight: In Colonial Quito
DAY 03
  • EXPLORE COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK & OVERNIGHT AT EL PORVENIR
    Experience a scenic expedition tracing Alexander Von Humboldt's route and marvel at the breathtaking 'Avenue of the Volcanoes.' Discover the iconic Cotopaxi Volcano and its national park, savor a mouthwatering lunch at Hacienda El Porvenir, and participate in an exclusive 'Cooking in the Clouds' class. Retreat to the hacienda and cozy up by the fireplace after a day of adventure.
  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Overnight: In Hacienda El Porvenir
DAY 04
  • FULL DAY OF ACTIVITIES AT EL PORVENIR
    Start your day with a hearty farm breakfast as you prepare for an exciting adventure ahead. Get dressed in traditional chagra garb and saddle up for a two-hour horse ride through exclusive trails with stunning views of the Andes Mountains. Reach several viewpoints and marvel at the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano before heading back to the hacienda for a delicious lunch made with locally-sourced ingredients. In the afternoon, challenge yourself to the thrilling high ropes course, an exciting activity that combines adrenaline and beautiful scenery. After the activity, depart to Quito for an overnight stay.
  • Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Overnight: In Quito
DAY 05
  • TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT FOR GALAPAGOS FLIGHT
    AM: Take a shared transfer to Quito's Airport where Quasar’s staff will be waiting to check you in for your flight to the Galapagos Islands.
  • Meals included: Breakfast
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Frog and butterfly in Ecuador
Guest Testimonials
Other Tour Options In Mainland Ecuador
CHOOSE BETWEEN ANY OF THE REGIONS BELOW
Essence of Quito: A Journey Through History and Charm
CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS FROM QUITO

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.

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Quito & Beyond: Immersive Adventures in the Heart of Ecuador
DAY TRIPS & MULTI-DAY TOURS FROM QUITO

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.

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Amazon Wildlife Safari: From Quito’s Heights to the Amazon’s Depths
SEAMLESS RAINFOREST ADVENTURE DEPARTING FROM QUITO

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.

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Southern Ecuador Discovery: Colonial Cuenca
MULTI-DAY TOURS

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.

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Galapagos Islands R&R: Post-Cruise Extensions
SANTA CRUZ OR SAN CRISTOBAL ISLANDS

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.