Ecuador & Peru Discoverer - Lima nach Quito

1. Tag: Lima

There will be an important group meeting at 6:00pm at the joining hotel - please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting.

Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Lima before the start of your trip with us - please contact us if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Lima.

In Lima we will stay in a comfortable hotel in the city's historical centre.

About Lima:
Lima is Peru's buzzing and busy capital city, and the second-largest city in the Americas behind São Paulo! Despite its colossal size and chaotic areas, if you explore the capital's streets, parks and plazas you'lldiscover a real gem of a city. Lima was founded by the infamous Conquistador Francisco Pizarro in1535 and was originally the administrative centre for Spain’s Viceroyalty in South America, making it the continent’s most important city for nearly three centuries. It became a city of great wealth financed by the massive quantities of gold and silver that were mined in the area, and became the capital of independent Peru after its liberation from the Spanish in 1821.
There are many museums in Lima showcasing the finest artefacts from the country's many ancient civlisations, and you can visit the finely preserved catacombs at the Church of San Francisco. There are many excellent restaurants in the city and a thriving nightlife in the lively district of Miraflores.

Optional Activities:
- Visit the Gold Museum & Catacombs of Lima - PEN 40
- Enjoy a walking tour of Lima - USD 35
- Explore the bohemian areas of Barranco and Miraflores on a cycling tour of Lima - USD 50
- See the incredible 'Magic Water Circuit' in Lima's Parque de la Reserva, an astounding evening display of water, music, light, images, and laser effects across 13 huge water fountains - PEN 4
- Explore the Rafael Larco Herrera Museum in Lima, containing the largest private collection of pre-Colombian art in the world - PEN 30
- Take a cebiche and pisco sour class at one of the top restaurants in Miraflores, a lively district of Lima - USD 40

2-4. Tag: Huaraz

Today we will have a spectacular drive up the winding roads of the 'Paramonga Route' into the Cordillera Blanca section of the high Andes, reaching the mountain town of Huaraz.

We have two days in the spectacular area of the Cordillera Blanca for exploration and optional activities such as visiting the incredible pre-Inca ruins of Chavín de Huántar or trekking and climbing to the nearby lakes and glaciers.

In Huaraz we will stay in a local hostel in either dorm accommodation or private rooms depending on availability.

About Huaraz:
Huaraz is situated high up in the Andes, dominated by the highest tropical mountain range in the world - the Cordillera Blanca. Looming over the town is Peru's highest peak, the 6,768m mountain of Huascarán. Huaraz offers great opportunities for trekking, mountain biking, horseriding and rafting in the spectacular mountains, or even head out ice-climbing on the Pastoruri Glacier. There are some wonderful near by historical sites, such as the ancient ceremonial centre of Chavín de Huántar which dates from 1200-500 BCE, and the Wilcahuaín ruins, once an outpost of the Wari civilisation between 600-900 CE.

Optional Activities:
- Take a horse riding trip from Huaraz to the incredible viewpoints of the Cordillera Blanca - USD 27
- Enjoy a half-day rock climbing excursion followed by a rejuvenating dip in the nearby thermal springs - USD 30
- Go canyoning in the waterfalls and gorges of the Huaraz region - PEN 90
- Go downhill mountain biking through the stunning mountains of the Cordillera Blanca near Huaraz - USD 55
- Trek out to the phenomenal turquoise glacier lake of Laguna 69 in the shadow of Huascaran, Peru's highest mountain - USD 45

5-6. Tag: Huanchaco

Today we will have a full day's drive down the stunning 'Casma Route' to the Pacific coast and on to Huanchaco, near the city of Trujillo.
On our next day here we will have an included guided trip to explore the enormous adobe ruins of Chan Chan and the world-famous Moche archaeological site of Huaca de la Luna (Pyramid of the Moon).
In Huanchaco we will camp in the grounds of a local hotel.

About Huanchaco:
Huanchaco is a small town on the Peruvian coast that is rapidly acquiring a reputation for the quality of the surfing off its relaxed beaches. Wandering along the sea front you will come across the local fishermen's "caballitos de tortora" - curved reed boats left propped up in groups together on the sand.
Huanchaco is an ideal location from which to explore the numerous archaeological ruins that surround the nearby city of Trujillo. One of the most impressive sites is that of the enormous Pre-Colombian complex of Chan Chan, a vast adobe city constructed as the capital of the Chimú civilisation which thrived in the area between 900-1470 CE, when they were finally invaded by the Incas.
Another incredible site is the pyramid-shaped Huaca de la Luna, the impressive remains of the capital of the Moche civilsation that flourished between 100-800 CE - this site contains some phenomenal abode structures and well-preserved painted murals of the Moche deity Ai Apaec.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Guided tour of Moche Pyramids and the Chimu city of Chan Chan

7-8. Tag: Punta Sal

We will have a full day's drive along the coast of northern Peru. The following day we have a full day to relax on the beach and enjoy some activities in and around the stunning coastal area of Punta Sal.
We will stay at a friendly local campsite just outside of Punta Sal, on a beautiful and serene beach on the shore of the Pacific Ocean.

About Punta Sal:
Situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in a long, curved bay, Punta Sal is a haven of sun and sand. The warm and tranquil waters are a pleasure to swim in and there's also the opportunity to set out on boat trips along the coast line. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, horse riding along the beach and salsa lessons can be arranged, or justkick-back in a hammock and laze the day away, enjoying the peace and quiet of this beautiful spot.

Optional Activities:
- Try your hand at surfing in the ideal waters of the Pacific Ocean near Punta Sal or Mancora - USD 20
- Rent a mountain bike to explore the coast of Punta Sal and the beautiful nearby areas of Canoas and Plateritos - USD 20
- Explore the coastlines of Punta Sal by foot, or head out trekking through the nearby hills and farms of Canoas - Free
- Take a beginner's belly-dancing class with our hosts at the beaches of Punta Sal - USD 10
- Take a yoga session at our beach campsite in Punta Sal - USD 10

9-10. Tag: Cuenca

Today we will have a long drive day north, crossing the border into southern Ecuador and arriving at the beautiful colonial town of Cuenca.
Tomorrow we will have a free day to explore the colonial city of Cuenca. The town is the birthplace of the famous Panama Hat, and we will have the opportunity today to visit one of the factories to learn about the manufacturing process.

In Cuenca we will stay in a centrally-located hotel.

About Cuenca:
Cuenca is Ecuador's third-largest city and its small centre is home to some beautiful architecture. The city was founded in 1557 and named after the city of Cuenca in Spain, the birthplace of the Viceroy of Peru at the time. This small university town is a pleasure to explore, and you'll discover impressive churches that date back to the 16th and 17th Centuries, attractive colonial buildings, tranquil plazas and lively markets. The Ecuadorians consider it the finest city in the country, and many of its buildings are constructed from marble and decorated with stunning woodwork and ironwork. Cuenca is also the home of the Panama hat, and you can visit one of the famous hat factories and watch the skills of the craftsman on your travels here.

Optional Activities:
- Visit one of the many factories that produce the ever-stylish Panama Hats, Cuenca's most famous export! - Free
- Explore the historic city of Cuenca - Free
- Head out of Cuenca to explore the highlands and lagoons of the nearby Cajas National Park - USD 10

11-12. Tag: Chugchilan

Today we will drive to the remote village of Chugchilán, via the stunning landscape of the Cajas National Park en route and the spectacular highland scenery along the road of the 'Quilotoa Loop'.
The next day is a free day to enjoy optional activities such as mountain biking and horseback riding.

In Chugchilán we will stay in a fantastic local hostel where breakfast and dinner are included, giving you a chance to enjoy traditional Ecuadorian food.

About Chugchilán:
Set on the slopes of the Rio Toachi Canyon, the peaceful village of Chugchilán is our base to explore the stunning green landscapes of central Ecuador. Several day hikes are available in the area, the most famous being one from the volcanic Lake Quilotoa back to Chugchilán-this is without doubt one of the most beautiful day-treks to be found in South America, and takes you through the canyon and the lush fields of the area.

About Lake Quilotoa:
Lake Quilotoa is a beautiful volcanic crater lake located at 3,600m above sea level in the hills between the towns of Zumbahua and Chugchilán. Its emerald water spans a circle with a diameter of 2kms - Quilotoa is an active volcano, but the last major eruption was over 850 years ago. It is possible to hike down from the crater rim to the lakeside. The descent takes 30 minutes and climbing back up takes about an hour. The lake also lends its name to the Quilotoa Loop, given to the winding circuit of spectacular dirt roads that connect Lake Quilotoa to Latacunga and the Pan-American Highway. The roads that lead away from Latacunga are unpaved, winding and have spectacular views of the mountains, rivers and verdant landscape.
We will head to the town of Chugchilán on the northern section of the loop and head out on the southern section of the loop allowing you to see some of the more remote areas of the central Andes of Ecuador.

Optional Activities:
- Head out on a horse riding trip through the stunning hills of Chugchilan - USD 20 (half day)
- Hire mountain bikes to explore the area of Chugchilan and Quilotoa (possible alternative to trekking, when available) - USD 20

13-15. Tag: Rio Verde / Baños

Today we will drive along the remainder of the Quilotoa Loop and head north to the village of Rio Verde near the famous Tungurahua volcano.

We will have two full days of free time to take part in a range of optional activities in Rio Verde, such as white-water rafting, trekking, canyoning, cycling, and other options. We will also have the opportunity to visit the nearby town of Baños and its popular volcanic thermal springs.

In Rio Verde we will stay at a well-equipped campsite with great facilities.

About Rio Verde:
A few kilometres from the town of Baños is the small village of RioVerde, named after the clear green water of the river that flows through the town. A number of waterfalls are found along its course, the most spectacular being The Devil’s Cauldron (‘El Pailon del Diablo’), a 20 minute walk from our excellent campsite.
Whilst staying here, we will have the opportunity to take part in optional adventure activities like as horse-riding, canyoning, mountain biking and rafting, as well as making the short trip into Baños to visit the thermal springs.

About Baños:
Nestled in the shadow of the fiery Tungurahua volcano is the exquisite town of Baños. Tungurahua is one of Ecuador's largest active volcanoes, and provides an incredible backdrop to treks and explorations in the area. There are some beautiful waterfalls, excellent trekking and mountain biking opportunities, and some famous volcanic hot springs which give the town its name!

Optional Activities:
- Spend some time soaking in the hot springs - USD 3
- Go on an adrenaline-fuelled half-day rafting expedition on the Rio Pastaza near Banos, one of the best rafting experiences in South America - USD 25
- Head out for an exhilarating half-day canyoning trip through the gorges near Baños - USD 25
- Head out on a horse riding trip through the beautiful volcanic landscapes surrounding Baños - USD 40
- Go out on a half day rock climbing trip to the walls of natural lava rock just outside Baños, which have routes suitable for people of all levels - USD 30
- Explore the stunning gorges, forests, and landscapes of the Baños area by foot, possibly trekking the Machay River trail or visiting the nearby waterfalls of Pailon del Diablo and Machay - Free

16-18. Tag: Tena / Ecuadorian Amazon

Today our journey begins with a drive to a village on the edge of the Amazon basin, near the town of Tena, where we head to our lodge for an incredible 3-night stay.

Our lodge is a great example of eco-tourism, built and run by the local community and volunteers, who work to re-forest the reserve land at the lodge with native trees and medicinal plants. The lodge is set in secondary and primary rainsforest, an area at risk of deforestation.

Over the next two days we will head into the Amazon jungle, enjoying rainforest treks exploring the nearby waterfalls and caves, and trips down the Napo River in motorised dugout canoes, hopefully spotting plenty of wildlife on the way. We will also see some ancient fossils and petroglyphs, and visit a local Quichua community.

We will stay in a authentic ecolodge with meals included.

About Ecuadorian Amazon:
The eastern part of Ecuador consists largely of tropical moist broadleaf forests that cover the lower slopes of the Andes and spill down into the Amazon Basin. The upland rainforest is strikingly different to that which is found in the lower basin, and features steep, rugged ridges and cascading streams and waterfalls. From our lodge near the city of Tena, we will explore these upland forests on foot and by boat - we'll aim to find various waterfalls, caves and creeks in the forest, all the while keeping an eye out for the area's elusive wildlife. We'll also visit a local Quichua community during our stay in the forest lodge.

Enthaltene Aktivitäten:
Spend 3 nights at our fantastic Ecuadorian ecolodge, taking in many activities such as boat trips on the Napo River, visits to local communities and treks through the jungle to some spectacular waterfalls and bat caves!

19. Tag: Quito

Today we will drive back up into the highlands and arrive at the Ecuadorian capital, Quito.
In Quito we will stay in a friendly local hotel in the 'New Town'.

About Quito:
Quito is the capital of Ecuador, nestled in a hollow in the mountains in between the volcanos Cayambe, Pichincha and Cotopaxi -at 2,850m above sea level, it is the world's highest official capital city. Founded in 1534 by a group of settlers led by Sebastian de Benalcázar, the town slowly grew throughout the Spanish colonial era and after the region's independence from Spain in 1822.
The colonial old town is a maze of steep, cobbled streets with intricately carved, overhanging balconies, and some of the best examples of Spanish colonial art and churches anywhere in the Americas - along with Kraków, Quito was the first ever World Cultural Heritage Sites declared by UNESCO in 1978. The modern area of the town is lively and has some fantastic restaurants and bars. Quito's mix of European and Indian cultures make this a really fascinating city, and you will come across stalls displaying Indian textiles, colourful wall hangings, jewellery, pottery and woodcarvings. Quito has some incredible museums, galleries and parks in the city, and some excellent adventure activities and mountain treks nearby for those with extra time in the area.

20. Tag: Quito

Today is the end day for travellers finishing their trip in Quito.
Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight - please contact us if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.

Optional Activities:
- Visit one of the countless art galleries in Quito, such as the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana or the Museo Guayasamín - USD 6
- Take a trip on El Telerifiqo, the world's second highest cable car - USD 8.5
- Visit the Museo Nacional del Banco Central, showcasing the country’s largest collection of Ecuadorian art and housing an impressive gold collection - USD 2
- Visit the equator at Mitad del Mundo - USD 3
- Visit the Museo Mindalae, the extremely original project showcasing Ecuador's rich cultural diversity - USD 3