Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Quito’s UNESCO-listed historic center
Stay at Casa Gangotena, a converted mansion on Plaza San Francisco
Explore Old Town’s cobblestone streets, plazas and 16th-century churches at your leisure
Fly from the Galapagos to Quito, Ecuador’s capital and cultural center. Located at 9,350 feet, Quito’s colonial opulence meets traditional Ecuadorian culture. From the airport, you are met and taken to Casa Gangotena, a converted mansion on Plaza San Francisco. Quito’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you have the rest of the day to wander cobblestone streets lined with ornate 16th century churches, stroll through plaza markets where Indigenous artisans sell their handmade textiles and savor the sights, sounds and smells in anticipation of tomorrow’s adventure.
Day 2: Discover the Baroque landmarks of colonial Quito
Tour the historic center with a local guide, beginning at Plaza Grande
Step inside La Compañía de Jesús, renowned for its gold-leaf interior
Explore the Church and Convent of San Francisco and take in views from El Panecillo
Experience Quito’s historic center on a guided half-day tour showcasing the city’s Baroque splendors and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The tour typically includes Plaza Grande, the city’s political center; the Church and Convent of San Francisco, a massive religious complex; La Compania de Jesus Church, famous for its intricate stone-carved façade and gold leafed interior; and El Panecillo, a statue of the Virgin of Quito offering panoramic views of Old Town. We may also visit the Mercado San Francisco, the city’s oldest market, or La Ronda, a narrow pedestrian street known for its bohemian vibe and artist workshops. After the tour, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, including lunch and dinner. Later, opt to join an exclusive neighborhood activity at the hotel.
Day 3: Explore Otavalo’s Indigenous textile traditions
Cross the Equator and travel through the Andean highlands to Otavalo
Browse one of South America’s largest Indigenous markets for textiles, jewelry and traditional clothing
Watch local weavers demonstrate traditional techniques, then have lunch at a historic hacienda
Drive this morning through the Andean highlands, passing volcanoes and small mountain towns en route to Otavalo, crossing the Equator on the hour and a half drive. At the celebrated Otavalo Market, one of the largest and most famous indigenous markets in South America, find an array of colorful textiles, jewelry and traditional clothing. Observe traditional weaving techniques and learn about the importance of textiles in Andean culture during a stop at a nearby weaving village and enjoy lunch at an historic hacienda that offers a glimpse into the country’s colonial past. Return to Quito and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Note: depending on market schedule, days 2 and 3 may be reversed.
Day 4: Depart Quito for homeward flights
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey
Transfer this morning to the airport for flights home.