Introduction to Ecuador's Andean Highlands: Quito, Otavalo & Cotopaxi - 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Colonial City Tour & Cooking Class

Welcome to Ecuador! A private driver will be waiting to greet you when you touch down in Quito. Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," this high-altitude capital sits at a lofty 9,350 feet (2,850 m) in elevation. You'll start exploring the city right away with a local guide. The historic Old Town is your meeting spot, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's known for its Baroque architecture. Stroll storied streets and squares to uncover the towering cathedrals of La Compañía and La Basílica del Voto Nacional, the central Plaza Grande, and La Ronda, the oldest street in the city that was once an ancient Inca trail.

You'll work up an appetite on your city tour, so next, it's time to roll up your sleeves and learn how to make some classic Ecuadorian dishes. Bolon de verde (fried plantains and cheese or meat) are a specialty here, but you'll get to sample several tasty treats in this cooking class. After you're satiated, head for the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) with your guide. Ecuador gets its name from its geographic location, sitting right on the equator, and you'll have the opportunity to straddle the line with one foot in each hemisphere.

Day 2: Transfer to Otavalo, Visit Laguna San Pablo & Parque Cóndor

Rise and shine early this morning—your guide will be waiting to whisk you off on a road trip. The drive from Quito to Otavalo takes just under two hours, and you'll have enchanting landscapes to keep you busy along the way. Traveling deeper into the Imbabura Province in northern Ecuador, you'll make a pit stop at Laguna San Pablo. Situated in the shadow of Cerro Imbabura, a dormant stratovolcano, the lake provides plenty of photo opportunities, with the imposing volcano reflected in its serene surface. Settle in for a traditional lakefront lunch, admiring the many bird species that call the body of water home.

You'll get up close and personal with more avian friends at Parque Cóndor next. Situated just west of the lake, this wildlife conservation park is dedicated to rehabilitating Andean condors, the world's largest bird of prey, alongside hawks, eagles, and owls. Take the opportunity to connect with the trainers as you more about these rare and endangered creatures. Afterward, you'll settle into your accommodation in Otavalo, and have some free time to take to the streets in search of handmade Kichwa souvenirs from its renowned Indigenous craft market. 

Day 3: Transfer to Cotopaxi, Laguna de Limpiopungo & Rose Farm Excursion

Today is another daybreak departure, as you make your way three hours south with a private driver to Cotopaxi, a region and national park known for its striking, snowcapped volcano by the same name. One of the world's highest active volcanoes at 19,347 feet (5896 m), this Ecuadorian landmark towers over the park's páramo landscapes of windswept grasslands and high-altitude plains. You'll spend the rest of the day touring some of the park's highlights with a private guide, including a stop at Laguna de Limpiopungo, which sits at the base of Cotopaxi.

Set out on an easy hike around the lagoon for remarkable views of the volcano and prime bird-watching opportunities in its protected wetlands—keeping your eyes peeled for Andean teals, ducks, and condors. Herds of wild horses also call the area home, and there's a good chance you'll spot them along the way. Your grand finale of the day is stopping by a local rose farm to see how these beautiful blossoms are cultivated and harvested (Ecuador is one of the largest rose exporters in the world!). As evening approaches, you'll settle into your accommodations for the next two nights.

Day 4: Hiking & Kayaking at the Crater Lake of Quilotoa 

The penultimate day of your Ecuadorian explorations takes you on a day trip to Quilotoa, a turquoise crater lake nestled in the remnants of a collapsed volcano that spans an impressive 2 miles (1.6 km) in width. Luckily, the volcano that slumbers beneath the surface of the water hasn't erupted in over 800 years, but it did give the lake its striking color through a mixture of volcanic minerals.

Enjoy the sweeping Andean scenery en route as your driver stops at local villages and traditional markets to break up the journey. Upon arrival at the lake (which sits at a soaring 12,723 ft/ 3,878 m), you can choose to hike around the crater's rim or down to the lakeshore, where you can hop in a kayak for a paddle around the glassy waters. The return climb is steep, so if you're feeling tired you'll also have the option of renting a mule for the ascent. Afterward, your driver will take you back to Cotopaxi for your final evening in Ecuador. 

Day 5: Visit the Papallacta Hot Springs, Transfer to Quito, Depart 

It's your last day in Ecuador and time to make your way back to the capital—but not before stopping for a relaxing spa experience. Along the way you'll visit the Papallacta Hot Springs for a soak in their geothermal waters. Tucked away in the tiny village of Papallacta, make your way inside the resort to discover several heated pools, known for their healing properties and sneak peeks of the Antisana volcano in the distance. You'll also have the opportunity for one last Ecuadorian meal. The mountain trout is a local favorite!

A driver will ensure you get to the airport in Quito with plenty of time to spare. Whether you're headed for another South American destination or home, safe travels!

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