Ecuadorian Andes Overland Adventure - Double Occupancy
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Port
Callao (Lima), Peru
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All,68
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$4650
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
4 Days/3 Nights
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1: (L, D)
Begin your journey by meeting your local representative at Callao Port. Once we have clearance, we'll embark on a coach ride directly to Lima Airport, a scenic 45-minute transfer. Here, you'll board your international flight to the enchanting city of Quito.
Nestled at the foot of the majestic 15,696-foot Volcán Pichincha, Quito boasts a delightful, spring-like climate year-round. This city, with its rich history and stunning colonial architecture, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Originally settled by the Quitu tribe and later integrated into the Inca Empire, Quito was re-founded in 1534 by Spanish Conquistador Sebastian de Benalcázar. The city's historic center, with its beautifully restored colonial buildings and cobbled streets, reflects centuries of artistic and intellectual flourishing under Spanish rule. Recognized as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, Quito is a city where history comes alive.
Upon arrival in Quito, our tour escort will take you to the Middle of the World, where you can stand in both hemispheres at once. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to see the traditional costumes of Ecuador's indigenous groups or the Inti Ñan Museum, located right on the equator. Here, you'll learn about pre-Columbian life and the unique geography, astrology, and natural sciences of the region.
Next, we'll visit El Panecillo, an iconic hill offering panoramic views of the city. Admire the statue of Quito's "Winged Virgin," visible from almost anywhere in the city. Stroll past the magnificent Iglesia de la Compañía, adorned with seven tons of gilded gold, and marvel at the historic Plaza de la Independencia, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, and the Quito Cathedral. The picturesque cobblestone streets and flowery balconies of the historic center capture the soul of Quito, where time seems to stand still.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a delightful dessert featuring a tasting of Ecuadorian chocolate. Finally, we'll arrive at your hotel for an assisted check-in. Dinner will be at the hotel.
Hotel: Sheraton Hotel - Quito, Ecuador
Day 2: (B, L, D)
Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel. Your guide will meet you in the lobby to begin our exciting journey.
We'll head north from Quito, traveling through breathtaking mountain landscapes and charming villages to reach Cochasqui. This ceremonial site, nestled at the foot of Mojanda Mountain, was built by the Cara-Quitus people. As the most significant archaeological site in Ecuador’s northern Andes, Cochasqui boasts fifteen pyramids and twenty-one mounds made from local volcanic material called cangahua. These pre-Inca structures offer a fascinating glimpse into the religious ceremonies of the Caranqui natives.
Next, we'll continue to the Cayambe area to visit the stunning Hacienda La Compañia. Originally owned by the Jesuit order, this beautiful property is now managed by Francisco and María Gloria. Here, you'll tour the spectacular rose plantation, renowned for producing the world's finest roses. Learn about the entire process, from growing and harvesting to packing and shipping. The estate is committed to responsible social practices and partners with UNICEF and the Flowers for Kids educational initiative.
A short drive will take us to the estate's home and chapel. Built in 1919 in a French Republican style, the house is lavishly decorated with antiques and stunning rose displays. Next door, you'll find the original 16th-century chapel. Explore the home and enjoy a delicious homemade lunch in this enchanting setting.
Our final stop is the charming Hacienda Cusin. Upon arrival, their friendly staff will assist with check-in. Spend the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the beautiful gardens and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Dinner will be at the hotel.
Hotel: Hacienda Cusin - Otavalo, Ecuador
Day 3: (B, L, D)
Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel. Your guide will meet you in the lobby to begin our exciting journey.
Begin your day with a visit to the enchanting town of Otavalo, home to 130,000 friendly locals. Famous for its vibrant market, Otavalo has been a gathering place since pre-Incan times. The Otavaleños, known for their prosperity, create stunning weavings, carpets, colorful ponchos, Indian jewelry, and intricate needlework.
Explore Plaza del Poncho, where the textile market bursts with color. The traditional attire of the market vendors showcases the evolution of their garments while preserving their cultural identity. Don't miss the authentic produce market, where you can marvel at Ecuador’s unique fruits and vegetables.
Next, visit the charming village of Peguche, where a local family will welcome you into their workshop. Here, you'll learn how to craft traditional Andean musical instruments, including the pan-flute. Enjoy a delightful performance of highland music and even try playing the instruments yourself—though it’s trickier than it looks!
Our next stop is the Arte Nayia Gallery, where a talented family specializes in creating beautiful dreamcatchers. Discover the origins of this tradition and create your own unique piece to take home. Infuse your dreamcatcher with your wishes and hopes for the future while enjoying quality time with the family.
Lunch will be at a charming local venue, where you can enjoy the flavors of the region.
After lunch, journey to the breathtaking Cuicocha Lake, nestled in the Western Cordillera of the Andes, just 25 kilometers (15 miles) west of Otavalo. The name "Cuicocha," meaning "guinea pig lake" in Quichua, is inspired by the shape of the large islands at the lake's center. Formed 3,100 years ago by a massive volcanic eruption, this stunning crater lake stretches three kilometers (two miles) long and boasts mesmerizing azure waters.
Take in the natural beauty as you hike along the ridge surrounding Cuicocha Lake. Whether you prefer a short 30-minute trek or a more extended six-hour adventure, the trails offer spectacular views and an immersive experience in this unique landscape.
After a day of exploration and wonder, we'll return to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day's unforgettable experiences. Dinner will be at your hotel.
Hotel: Hacienda Cusin - Otavalo, Ecuador
Day 4: (B, L)
Start your day with a early breakfast. This morning, take some time to explore the hacienda's five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. With a stunning array of plants and flowers—bougainvillaea, jasmine, agapanthus, hydrangeas, begonias, poppies, geraniums, dahlias, primroses, orchids, magnolia, and Aztec lilies—the gardens are a year-round paradise, thanks to the equatorial climate and rich soils. Set against the backdrop of the majestic 15,000-foot-high Imbabura, the gardens are a true sanctuary with trees, cobblestone paths, ponds, patios, and cozy chairs perfect for relaxation.
For an additional cost: take a horseback ride around the mountains and valleys surrounding the hacienda. Experience the romance and drama of the scenery astride one of our handsome palfrey horses. With over six trails to explore, guided rides start at just an hour long, using comfortable Western-style saddles.
For lunch, participate in an interactive cooking class that offers a hands-on experience in traditional Ecuadorian Andes cuisine. Under the guidance of skilled local chefs, you'll learn to prepare local dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include cheese empanadas, an Andean delight made with corn or wheat flour dough and fresh grated cheese, and paila ice cream, crafted with a unique technique involving a copper pan over ice and salt. This ice cream, made with fresh milk, cream, sugar, and local fruits, offers a smooth and creamy texture with vibrant regional flavors, providing a sweet and refreshing end to your culinary journey.
After lunch, enjoy more activities at the hacienda or simply relax in its beautiful gardens.
After your leisurely afternoon, an representative will meet you in the hotel lobby for your transfer from Hacienda Cusin to Quito airport. Board your flight to Manta. Upon arrival in Manta, you will be greeted by our escort and transferred to the pier to board your cruise ship.
Cancellation Policy:
90 Days prior to arrival in the excursion port. This excursion is non-refundable within 90 days of arrival into the excursion port. Any cancellations made after this deadline will be subject to full payment of the tour. This will include if a guest cancels their voyage within 90 days of arrival into the excursion port.
Passport information:
30 days prior departure. This excursion requires your passport information to secure. You must have your passport details uploaded into your booking portal 30 days prior to departure. Late submission of passports will be subject to late fees.
Notes:
You must book this tour PRIOR to sailing. A minimum number of participants are required to operate this tour. Final hotel/flight manifests must be provided well in advance of the tour, therefore we recommend booking no later than 90 days prior to your voyage. This unusually long Overland Adventure requires your patience, stamina and understanding to make enjoyable and meaningful. While the journey itself is taxing, the memories of the experiences it offers make it entirely worthwhile. Participants are most welcome (and encouraged) to relax and/or nap on the flights and on the train rides; bringing earplugs and/or an eye mask may make this easier. The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group. All meals are included unless specifically noted otherwise. Bring sturdy non-skid walking shoes. The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour. Additional activities not included on this tour include biking, horseback riding, and bird watching. These activities will be at an additional charge paid directly to the operator and not through the ship.
Special notes: Guests with a heart condition and/or known respiratory difficulties should consult their physician prior to booking this tour. There are two paths at the ruins from which guests may choose; both are fully guided. One requires moderate walking and the other requires considerable walking. If you feel more comfortable touring the site independently at your own pace, you will be given directions regarding where and when to meet back up with the guide. Wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing in breathable fabrics. Temperatures will vary as elevations and time of day change, so it's best to bring shorts as well as long pants, and clothing you can layer. A sweater or lightweight jacket will be needed for the cooler evening temperatures common in upland regions. Heavy, unpredictable, seasonal rainfall can change some operational aspects of this tour. Should this occur, Holland America Line will notify guests in advance of any significant changes and participants will be given the opportunity to cancel their reservation without penalty. All meals are included unless specifically noted otherwise. The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group.
Important: Visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise. It is solely each guest's responsibility to obtain (before traveling) any visas, vaccinations or tourist cards that are required for participating in Overland Adventures or Overnights, unless noted otherwise in the description. Please be aware that you may need a visa for any and/or all countries that you will depart from and travel through as part of your Overland Adventure or Overnight, and for the country in which you will re-join the ship. Holland America cannot assist guests with obtaining visas. If you require further assistance, Holland America Line's preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. You must advise CIBTvisas of your Overland Adventures or Overnights, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise. For CIBTvisas contact information, please visit https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/us/faq/cruise-planning/identification-passports-visa
Breathing devices:
There are stringent regulations regarding the transportation of breathing/respiratory devices for any purpose during tours or overland trips. Guests intending to bring such a device must notify the home office or shore excursion staff at least 30 days before the start of the tour. They are required to fill out the necessary FAA documentation, furnish a physician's authorized letter detailing the device's particular use, and provide information about the device. It is imperative to understand that each airline will conduct an inspection of the device before boarding to ensure compliance, which may result in delays at the airport.