Cotopaxi to Cuenca Tour: 4 Days through the Ecuadorian Andes

This Cotopaxi to Cuenca tour covers 4 days of the Ecuadorian Andes: Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños and Chimborazo on the way south, ending in colonial Cuenca. Prices start at $680 per person.

Travel Ecuador: Discover the Country’s Most Iconic Landscapes and Cities on an Unforgettable 4-Day Adventure from Cotopaxi to Cuenca

This incredible Travel Ecuador tour takes you on an unforgettable four-day journey through some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders and cultural attractions. Begin this tour by exploring the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, enjoy a peaceful hike around Limpiopungo Lagoon, and then discover the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake.

Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Baños, famous for its waterfalls, hot springs, and panoramic viewpoints. Stroll along the Avenue of Waterfalls, where you can visit the Bridal Veil waterfall, the Agoyan waterfall and admire the imposing Devil’s Cauldron. Experience the famous “Swing at the End of the World” at the Treehouse.

Your journey continues to Riobamba in the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, where high-altitude trekking will allow you to spot vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas, creating an unforgettable Andean adventure. While gazing at the imposing Chimborazo volcano. Finally, immerse yourself in Ecuador’s rich history and culture as you explore the Ingapirca Archaeological Complex and the charming city of Cuenca. Visit historic plazas and the iconic New Cathedral, and discover the crafting of traditional toquilla straw hats.

Arriving early or staying an extra night in the colonial south? Use our complete guide to things to do in Cuenca Ecuador to plan the free hours around this tour — the New Cathedral domes, Mirador de Turi at sunset, and the flower market are all steps from where day four ends.

Highlights

• Cotopaxi National Park: Admire the majestic Cotopaxi volcano and explore Limpiopungo Lagoon.
• Quilotoa Crater Lake: Descend into the impressive volcanic crater and enjoy its vibrant turquoise waters.
• Baños: Stroll along the famous Avenue of Waterfalls.
• Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve: Observe local wildlife and enjoy breathtaking high-altitude Andean views.
• Ingapirca Archaeological Complex: Explore Ecuador's most important Cañari and Inca ruins.
• Cuenca: Explore historic plazas and churches and visit a traditional toquilla hat weaving workshop.

Itinerary

1. Day 1Cotopaxi and Quilotoa

   

   Your adventure begins early with pickup at your hotel in Quito, heading to Cotopaxi National Park. Enjoy a peaceful walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon. Next, you will head to the magnificent Quilotoa Crater Lake, recognized as one of Ecuador's most impressive natural wonders. Then, we will make a brief stop at the impressive Toachi River Canyon, a spectacular geological formation shaped by centuries of volcanic and river activity. The day ends with a transfer to your hotel, where you can relax and rest for the days ahead.

   Overnight: La Floresta Hotel in BañosMeals: lunch

2. Day 2Full Day Baños

   

   Travel to the vibrant city of Baños, famous for its waterfalls, adventure activities, and relaxing hot springs. Explore the famous Avenida de las Cascadas (Waterfall Avenue), including the impressive Pailón del Diablo, one of Ecuador's most iconic waterfalls, along with the Agoyan waterfall and El Manto de la Novia (Bridal Veil) waterfall. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Casa del Árbol (Tree House), home to the famous Columpio del Fin del Mundo (Swing at the End of the World), where you can enjoy thrilling moments and panoramic views of the Tungurahua volcano. Then continue your journey for approximately 2 hours until you reach Riobamba, where you will spend the night.

   Overnight: Hacienda la AndaluzaMeals: breakfast, lunch

3. Day 3Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve

   

   After breakfast, your guide will pick you up to explore the impressive Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve. Here you will have the opportunity to observe the local wildlife, including vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas roaming freely. Arrive at the first refuge at 4,800 meters above sea level. If you wish, you can continue climbing 200 meters to the second refuge at 5000 meters, one of the highest accessible points in Ecuador. From here, the views of Chimborazo, the country's highest mountain and inactive volcano, are unforgettable. After exploring the reserve, enjoy lunch before continuing to Ingapirca, where you will spend the night in a local hotel.

   Overnight: Posada de IngapircaMeals: breakfast

4. Day 4Ingapirca Ruins and City Tour Cuenca

   

   Start the day by exploring the Ingapirca Archaeological Complex, Ecuador's most important Cañari and Inca site. Walk along ancient trails and learn about the importance of this civilization. Then, travel to the charming city of Cuenca for an afternoon tour of its historic squares, churches, and a traditional toquilla hat workshop. At the end of the tour, you will have flexible options to continue your journey: travel to Guayaquil, return by land with us, or stay in Cuenca to explore at your own pace. Just let us know your plans in advance so we can organize everything perfectly.

   Meals: breakfast

Prices per person