Ecuador Explorer
Overview
Discover the extraordinary diversity of Ecuador on this immersive 10-day journey that blends vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes and authentic local charm. Beginning and ending in the historic capital of Quito, this itinerary takes travellers through the lush gateway of the Amazon in Misahuallí and Puyo, before continuing across the scenic Andean highlands through Baños and Riobamba and concluding with the timeless beauty of Cuenca. Designed for travellers seeking a deeper connection with the country, this carefully curated route showcases Ecuador’s remarkable contrasts, from jungle landscapes to vibrant cities and dramatic mountain scenery, offering a rich and memorable exploration of one of South America’s most captivating destinations.
Important notes:
- Some drives on this itinerary may involve winding roads. If you are sensitive to motion sickness, we recommend planning accordingly.
- Driving times indicated in your itinerary are approximate and may vary due to traffic and road conditions.
- If your itinerary includes domestic and/or regional flight tickets, as well as entry tickets to landmarks that require passport details, you must call Air Canada Vacations immediately upon receiving your booking confirmation. Failure to provide Air Canada Vacations with your passport details may result in the unavailability of domestic and/or regional flight tickets and entry passes for certain landmarks included in your tour package. It is mandatory to call Air Canada Vacations at the number provided in your electronic confirmation as soon as your booking is confirmed to submit your passport details.
Format
Locations
- Ecuador
- Quito
- Misahuallí
- Puyo
- Baños de Santa Agua
- Riobamba
- Ingapirca
- Cuenca
- Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), Quito, Ecuador
Inclusions
- Round-trip flight to Quito (if the Flight & Hotel option is chosen)
- One-way domestic flight in economy class between Cuenca and Quito
- Shared transfers for all the services within your itinerary
- 9 nights accommodation in select category (3 nights in Quito, 2 nights in Misahuallí, 1 night in Baños de Agua Santa, 1 night in Riobamba, 2 nights in Cuenca),
- Early check-in upon arrival
- Daily breakfast, unless noted otherwise
- Other meals as per itinerary (drinks not included)
- More Moments activities included:
- Quito half-day city tour
- San Antonio de Pichincha half-day city tour
- Amazon Discovery tour
- Orchids Botanical Garden tour
- El Pailon del Diablo tour
- La Balbanera Church tour
- Fortress of Ingapirca tour
- Cuenca half-day walking city tour
- Hotel taxes
- Fees and service charges
- Service of an English-speaking local guide
- Entrance fees to the monuments as mentioned in the itinerary
- Earn extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Quito
Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration. Once cleared, you’ll collect your luggage and exit the baggage hall, where a local representative will be waiting to greet you with an Air Canada Vacations sign bearing your name. Your representative will then escort you to your transfer for a comfortable journey to your hotel to check in.
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set off on a captivating half‑day exploration of Quito. This immersive experience invites you to soak in the city’s charm, cultural richness and unique atmosphere as you journey through its most emblematic areas.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to your hotel, with the remainder of the day free to relax or continue discovering Quito at your own pace.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day city tour
This half‑day sightseeing excursion showcases the very best of Quito, a city celebrated for its rich cultural legacy, ornate facades and dazzling gilt altars. Your journey begins at Independence Square, followed by visits to the Archbishop’s Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. You will also explore outstanding examples of art and architecture, including the impressive Santo Francisco Convent. The experience concludes with a panoramic view of Quito’s historic district from Panecillo Hill, offering an exceptional perspective of the city’s beautifully preserved layout.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 2
Quito – San Antonio de Pichincha – Quito
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set off on today’s exciting adventure, a half‑day tour to San Antonio de Pichincha to explore its most iconic landmarks, including the famous Middle of the World Monument and the engaging, interactive Intiñan Museum.
After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day city tour
Begin this adventure with a short drive to the north of Quito, where you will arrive at our planet’s Latitude 0°0’0” to visit the iconic Equatorial Monument. Here, you can learn about the 18th-century French Geodesic Expedition, one of the first scientific missions designed to measure the Earth’s shape. Next, you will visit the Intiñan Museum, also known as “The Trek of the Sun”, where you will be guided through the fascinating world of Andean cosmovision, culture and traditions. Interactive exhibits and playful demonstrations of physics allow you to witness the unique phenomena that occur at the equator. This is also the place where you can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere—a truly unforgettable experience
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 3
Quito – Misahuallí
After an early breakfast and check out, your journey continues toward Misahuallí. Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately 4 hours, descending from the Andes into the lush jungle, where expansive forests shelter countless species of birds, ants, butterflies and other native wildlife.
Upon arrival in Misahuallí, you’ll check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. You may choose to participate in one of the complimentary activities offered by the lodge. A full list of available activities will be provided to you upon check‑in.
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4
Misahuallí
After an early breakfast, your local guide will lead you on a full-day adventure to explore the lush Ecuadorian Amazon, combining the beauty of pristine rainforest with thrilling, adrenaline-filled hikes along winding jungle trails.
More Moments Activities Included
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Amazon Discovery tour
Today’s journey takes you deep into the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, following winding trails through both primary (old growth) and secondary (regenerating) forests, alive with colourful birds, butterflies and an incredible diversity of trees and medicinal plants. Your knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into how these plants are used in traditional medicine, local construction, and daily life. Along the way, embrace moments of adventure on hanging bridges and by swinging from tree vines, creating an unforgettable and immersive rainforest experience.
Meal(s): Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 5
Misahuallí – Puyo – Baños de Agua Santa
After an early breakfast, today’s journey takes you on a three‑hour drive to Baños de Agua Santa, widely known as the gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon.
En route, you’ll pass through Puyo, where a visit to the vibrant orchid botanical garden awaits! Afterwards, your journey continues toward the picturesque town of Baños de Agua Santa. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Orchids Botanical Garden tour
Step into a living mosaic of colour and fragrance with a guided visit to the Orchid Botanical Garden of Puyo. Set in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, this tranquil sanctuary showcases an impressive collection of native orchids and exotic tropical plants, many found nowhere else on Earth. As you stroll along lush pathways, learn about the region’s remarkable biodiversity and the cultural significance of these rare blooms. Surrounded by birdsong and rainforest greenery, the garden offers a peaceful yet inspiring encounter with Ecuador’s natural heritage, perfect for nature lovers, photographers and anyone seeking a deeper connection with the Amazon.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 6
Baños de Agua Santa – Riobamba
After breakfast and check out, your tour guide will take you to El Pailón del Diablo, a stunning and powerful waterfall on the Rio Pastaza, a tributary of the upper Amazon River Basin.
After enjoying lunch, your journey continues along the Pan-American Highway toward the historic city of Riobamba, passing through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
More Moments Activities Included
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El Pailon del Diablo tour
Today’s journey begins with a scenic drive that leads you to a remarkable natural wonder, an impressive site where three cascading falls converge to form an extraordinary whirlpool, with soothing waters of approximately 23°C. A short walk through the lush, verdant surroundings enhances the experience, offering the chance to spot colourful birds along the way. Immersed in the sights and sounds of the rainforest, this visit beautifully captures the magic and serenity of Ecuador’s natural landscapes.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 7
Riobamba – Ingapirca – Cuenca
After breakfast and check out, your journey continues with a scenic 5‑hour drive toward Cuenca. As you travel through the highlands, enjoy sweeping panoramic views and take in the striking transitions of the Andean landscape, with possible opportunities for photo stops along the way.
En route, you will visit La Balbanera Church, followed by the impressive Fortress of Ingapirca, a remarkable glimpse into Ecuador’s pre‑Columbian history.
Following this fascinating visit, your journey resumes toward Cuenca. Upon arrival at your hotel, proceed with check‑in and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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La Balbanera Church tour
One of Ecuador’s oldest churches. Set against the sweeping landscapes of the Andean highlands, this beautifully preserved sanctuary offers a quiet moment of reflection and a glimpse into the country’s rich past.
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Fortress of Ingapirca tour
The most important Inca archaeological site in Ecuador. Explore the Temple of the Sun, perfectly aligned with the sun’s rays, and discover a fascinating blend of Cañari and Inca architecture. Visit the onsite museum to admire ceramics, textiles and metalwork, and stroll through the ruins while learning about the daily life and cosmology of these remarkable pre-Hispanic cultures.
Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch
Day 8
Cuenca
After breakfast, you’ll meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set out on a fascinating half‑day walking city tour of Cuenca. This immersive experience offers the perfect introduction to one of Ecuador’s most charming and culturally rich cities, known for its elegant architecture, historic atmosphere and vibrant artistic spirit. As you explore, your guide will share insights that bring the city’s heritage to life, making this tour both engaging and enriching.
At the conclusion of your visit, you will be transferred back to your hotel to enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day walking city tour
Today’s journey begins with a charming walking experience through the heart of Cuenca, where elegant churches and beautifully preserved historic facades reflect the city’s rich architectural heritage. Along the way, visit traditional artisan centres that showcase the craftsmanship for which Cuenca is renowned. Here, you’ll gain insight into the creation of ceramic pieces, the famous Panama hat, gold and silver jewelry and intricate embroidery, offering a glimpse into the artistic traditions that continue to shape the city’s cultural identity.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 9
Cuenca – Quito
After breakfast, you will have the morning at leisure to continue enjoying Cuenca at your own pace.
After the check-out formalities are completed, you’ll meet your local tour guide in the lobby of your hotel, who will take you to Mariscal Lamar International Airport to catch your flight to Ecuador’s capital, Quito.
Upon arrival, you’ll collect your luggage and exit the baggage hall, where a local representative will welcome you and escort you to your transfer to take you to your hotel.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10
Quito – Canada
After breakfast and check out, your local representative will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel and take you to Mariscal Sucre International Airport to catch your flight back to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accommodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Bed size(s): 1 king or 2 twin beds. Rollaway beds available upon request (locally)
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 guests (2 Adults or 1 adult + 1 child)
Room details
Unless otherwise indicated, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Bed size(s): 1 king or 2 twin beds. Rollaway beds available upon request (locally)
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 guests (2 Adults or 1 adult + 1 child)
Important Information
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Dec 10/26 (Thursday), Dec 12/26 (Saturday)
Jan 07/26 & Jan 21/26 (Thursdays) and Jan 09/26 & Jan 23/26 (Saturdays)
Feb 11/26 & Feb 25/26 (Thursdays) and Feb 13/26 & Feb 27/26 (Saturdays)
Mar 11/26 (Thursdays) and Mar 13/26
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Not included:
- Gratuities
- Airport taxes (where applicable)
- Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Beverages during meals
- Porterage of luggage at hotels
- Additional hotel services (laundry, minibar, room service, etc.)
- Transfers for optional activities, or any additional transfers outside those listed in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities and excursions
- Visa fees (where applicable)
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- Car: For all airport-hotel-airport, sightseeing and intercity transfer services
- Plane: From Cuenca to Quito
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The type of accommodation used in Misahuallí (La Casa del Suizo Lodge) is not star-rated due to the nature of the property. This unique establishment offers guests an unforgettable experience, combining comfort, adventure and cultural immersion in a one-of-a-kind stay.