11 Days from $5,590 USD / person
Amazonian Getaway, Devil’s Nose and Cuenca
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 – 3
International Arrival
Transfer to Hotel with Guide (1.5 hr)
2 Nights
Quito
The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is one of the most visited countries in South America. Surrounded by volcanoes and the Andean highlands the city provides a cultural feast with its many churches and monasteries. The impressive Gothic basilica offers splendid vistas from its towering heights -it’s fitting that the colonial centre has UNESCO World Heritage status. You can experience the city’s bustling and charming markets too. Quito is one of the highest capitals in the world at 3,000 meters above sea level and so requires altitude acclimatization before you venture out.
Hotel options
Hotel Patio Andaluz – Opt 1
Room
Duplex
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Boutique
Casa Gangotena – Opt 2
Room
Luxury Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Heritage
Day 3 – 6
Transfer to Airport (1.5 hr)
Flight from Quito to Coca
Transfer to your Hotel
3 Nights
Yasuni
The outstanding biological diversity of Yasuni makes it a noteworthy Amazon destination. Located in northeast Ecuador, the UNESCO Yasuni Biosphere Reserve and National Park is one of few places in the world where plant, mammal, amphibian, and bird species all reach their maximum biodiversity. Throughout wetlands, marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers and tropical rainforest, scientists have registered more than 500 species of birds! Visitors keep an eye out for hard to spot animals such as jaguars, harpy eagles, pumas and tapirs. The Yasuni National Park is also claimed ancestral land of the Huaorani indigenous peoples; communities such as the Tagaeri and Taromenane have chosen to live deep in the jungle in voluntary isolation.
Hotel options
Napo Wildlife Center – Opt 1
Room
Cabana
Meals
Full Board and Activities
Style
Lodge
Day 6 – 7
Transfer to Coca
Flight from Coca to Quito
Private transfer from Quito to Cotopaxi (75 km, 1 hr)
1 Night
Cotopaxi
The Cotopaxi province of Ecuador is home to what German explorer Alexander von Humboldt coined ‘The Avenue of Volcanoes’ and contains some of the most dramatic mountain scenery of the country. The province is named after the stunning Cotopaxi volcano, which was described by Humboldt ‘the most beautiful and regular of all the colossal peaks in the high Andes. It is a perfect cone covered by a thick blanket of snow which shines so brilliantly at sunset it seems detached from the azure of the sky.’ In addition to its scenery, this province features a series of small towns known for their indigenous heritage and colorful markets. The region is also known for its historical haciendas (estates) found in the surrounding hills, where we recommend staying for a truly authentic and unforgettable experience.
Hotel options
Hacienda La Ciénega – Opt 1
Room
Hacienda La Ciénega-Standard
Meals
Full Board
Style
Farmhouse / Estancia
Day 7 – 8
Transfer to Riobamba
1 Night
Riobamba
Riobamba is situated 2750 meters above sea level and surrounded by majestic volcanoes, some of which are still active. Because of this privileged location, the city is also known as ‚Sultana of the Andes‘. Due to a strong earthquake in 1797, which destroyed the city almost completely, it possesses almost no historical buildings. Nevertheless, it is a worthwhile destination: A large share of the population is of indigenous origin, which is why many traditions and customs have been retained until today. This can be observed best at the numerous vibrant city markets, where traditionally dressed market-women offer a large variety of products. Furthermore, the city is a perfect starting point for excursions to the surrounding volcanic mountains and the spectacular train ride to the Devil‘s Nose.
Hotel options
Hosteria La Andaluza – Opt 1
Room
Standard Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Farmhouse / Estancia
Day 8 – 10
Transfer to Cuenca
2 Nights
Cuenca
Cuenca is Ecuador’s third largest city and situated in the highlands of Ecuador at 2500 meters. Originally an Incan city, it was conquered by the Spaniards in the 16th century. The colonial architecture from that time is well-preserved and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of the old city and marvel at the monumental churches and the colonial houses with their opulently decorated facades and the beautiful metal balconies. Cuenca is known as the cultural centre of Ecuador and home to many museums and galleries. It is known for its long handicraft tradition: Visit the colorful local markets for jewelry, ceramics, textiles and the world famous panama hats.
Hotel options
Mansion Alcazar – Opt 1
Room
Garden Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Heritage
Hotel Santa Lucía – Opt 2
Room
Standard Room
Meals
Breakfast
Style
Boutique
Day 10 – 11
Transfer to Guayaquil
1 Night
Guayaquil
Guayaquil, the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’ is Ecuador’s largest city and an important trading center of this small Andean country. The combination of gorgeous colonial heritage and modern architecture provides the city with an eclectic air. A city fond of preserving history with its various museums, you can relish the remarkable collections of pre-Columbian art and curiosities at the MAAC. There is also a curious side to Guayaquil: in amidst the downtown crowds of the Plaza Simon Bolivar where the Cathedral stands you will find iguanas making ample appearances!
Hotel options
Hilton Colon – Opt 1
Room
Hilton Colon-Executive
Meals
Breakfast
Style
International
Oro Verde – Opt 2
Room
Leading Suites
Meals
Breakfast
Style
International
Transfer to Airport
International departure
Price & Inclusions
Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.
Price Includes
- Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
- Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
- Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
- Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone
Not Included
- Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
- Tips and personal expenses
- Visa and tourism fees
- Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
- International airfare
What Our Guests Say
“The Enchanting Travels team is top notch. (Thank you Bronwen for another fantastic life experience). From discussion to execution, nothing but the best. This trip to Ecuador/Galapagos Islands was completely hassle free travel and tours. Friendly and very knowledgeable guides and wonderful accommodations and breath taking sights made this trip a very enjoyable one.”
May 2025 Rating 5/5
“We chose Enchanting Travels for a trip to Galapagos and Machu Picchu, and we are so glad we did! The guides selected were local and extremely knowledgeable. Our 3-week schedule was totally stress-free. We had not experienced this type of full service travelling before and we now know this is the only way to see the world!”
March 2025 Rating 5/5
“Everything was first class!! We were cared for in every way. I have traveled throughout the world. Enchanting Travels provided services ABOVE and BEYOND what I have experienced from other travel agencies. I will not hesitate to use them in the future!”
August 2024 Rating 5/5
“While Covid kept me from traveling, I can’t say enough about Lisa and the folks at Enchanting! Lisa was there from start to finish, was always quick to respond and was such an asset to our planning process. When things changed and we realized traveling wasn’t going to happen, Lisa was there again to walk me through my options. Overall and excellent company that stands by their word and provides exceptional customer service!”
June 2020 Rating 5/5
“Enchanting Travels created a magnificent itenerary for visiting the Galapagos and having a world class wildlife experience. The trip details were very appropriate for meeting our travel desires and i unreservedly recommend Enchanting Travels.”
October 2019 Rating 5/5
“This was my first adventure as a solo traveler. But while I may have traveled on my own, I was never alone. I was well taken care of by a superb team of planners, trip coordinators, guides and drivers.”
January 2019 Rating 4/5
Other Itineraries You Might Like
-
Galapagos and Panama: Tropical Getaway
Retrace the footsteps of the great scientist Charles Darwin on this exciting journey through the Galapagos. Head out on land and sea excursions and come face to face with the most fascinating creatures. Feel the adrenaline rush when you snorkel with sea turtles, sea lions, fishes and even, sharks! An exhilarating yet safe adventure. Cruise…
View More -
Cultural Ecuador and Colombia
Discover rich cultural heritage as you travel through the colonial cities of Ecuador and Colombia, right from Quito in the Andean highlands to colorful Otavalo, and bustling Bogota to timeless Cartagena. Highlights of your tour include a visit to the incredibly biodiverse Yasuni National Park in the Amazon as well as a brief sojourn in…
View More -
Peru & Galapagos: Natural Marvels
Arguably two of South America’s most scintillating spots are combined! Enjoy this Galapagos and Peru tour where you can indulge in unique living flora and fauna, and the renowned wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.
View More