Footsteps of the Incas (3 days)

3 days / 2 nights from Guayaquil, daily departures

In Ingapirca, where you find the biggest Inca ruins of Ecuador, you learn a lot about the culture of these fascinating people. You visit the Old Town of Cuenca, which has been put under preservation order by the UNESCO, and hike through the marvellous landscape of the nature reserve of El Cajas.


First of all, our tour passes the tropical lowlands. Afterwards, our drive continues through various forms of vegetation and ever-changing scenery to the picturesque Andean uplands. The miniscule village Ingapirca situated in the province of Cañar, features the largest Inca ruins in Ecuador. An extensive tour of the temple and fortress ruins of Ingapirca provides you with detailed information about the Incas and their predecessors, the Cañaris. In the afternoon, you will drive to Cuenca, one of the most beautiful cities in Ecuador. Overnight accommodations for two nights at Hotel Santa Lucía (Superior).


The Old Town of Cuenca was recently declared a "Heritage of Mankind" city by UNESCO and features buildings and monuments from the colonial period. The most interesting parts of the guided tour are the promenade along the Tomebamba River, the daily market, the flower market, and the main square with the old and new cathedrals. Furthermore, the Turi viewpoint offers an incredible panorama view of the city. You will also visit a panama hat factory to observe how these finely woven hats are made. In the afternoon you have plenty of time to walk around this beautiful town. Hotel Santa Lucia (****)


Less than an hour from Cuenca lies the nature reserve of El Cajas, a humid, hilly region (3,500 – 4,400 m) with more than two hundred small lakes. As you hike through this amazing landscape, you will be captivated by its beauty. Afterwards, you will descend to the tropical plains of the Pacific Coast. Through endless banana plantations, you will make your way back to Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city and its most important seaport.