7 Days Self Drive
Get ready for an exhilarating 7-day self-drive odyssey through Ecuador
$1,250
/ Person
Customizable private tour with flexible start date
7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS
Traversing diverse landscapes and captivating destinations
Overview
Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of Papallacta, renowned for its natural hot springs nestled amidst the Andean highlands. Take a dip in the rejuvenating thermal baths, surrounded by mist-covered mountains and lush vegetation, offering a serene start to your adventure.
Continue your exploration as you drive towards Otavalo, a charming town famed for its vibrant indigenous market, one of the largest in South America. Lose yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors and cultural experiences as you browse through traditional textiles, handicrafts, and artisanal treasures crafted by local Quechua artisans.
Next, venture to the historic heart of Ecuador, Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where colonial splendor meets modern vitality. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with architectural marvels, visit ornate churches adorned with golden altars, and soak in panoramic views of the city from the dizzying heights of El Panecillo hill.
Your journey then leads you to the majestic Parque Nacional Cotopaxi, home to the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and sprawling high-altitude landscapes. Embark on thrilling hikes or horseback rides amidst rugged terrain, marveling at the sheer magnitude of snow-capped peaks and expansive Andean vistas.
Conclude your adventure in the picturesque town of Baños de Agua Santa, nestled beneath the shadow of the Tungurahua volcano. Dive into a world of adrenaline-pumping activities, from zip-lining through lush rainforests to soaking in soothing thermal baths fed by natural hot springs. Indulge in the local cuisine, savoring traditional delicacies infused with Andean flavors, before bidding farewell to Ecuador with memories of a lifetime.
Highlights
Drive along the Andes breath taking landscapes
Stay at a Traditional Hacienda in Cotopaxi National Park
Self guided journey through Ecuador
Papallacta Thermal Springs Retreat
Otavalo Indigenous Market Exploration
Outdoor Adventures in Nature
Days
Arrival in Quito
You will arrive at Quito International Airport; rental car reservations will be properly made and the counter agent will have your information prior to your arrival at the rental car counter located a few steps next to Local Arrivals.
The car rental agent will ask for your passport, driver’s license, and credit card for a deposit in case there are any traffic speed tickets or damages to the vehicle that will not be covered by the insurance.
From there you will take a ride for approximately 2 hrs to your hotel in Papallacta Hotsprings.
Papallacta Hot Springs – Otavalo Hacienda
After a delicious breakfast, take a dip in the warm water and let any stress from your travels melt away as you admire the views of polylepis trees and the Antisana Volcano in the distance.
Papallacta Hotsprings is a popular tourist destination in Ecuador. The hotsprings, which are located in a mountain valley near the Andes, boast of therapeutic and healing powers due to their high mineral content. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities including soaking in the hot pools, steam baths and Jacuzzis, as well as a variety of treatments such as massages and mud baths. The resort also offers a number of other amenities such as a spa, restaurants, a pool, and a variety of lodging options. Papallacta Hotsprings is a great destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. In the afternoon, you will head to Otavalo Hacienda.
Otavalo Market & Cuicocha Lagoon – Quito
In the morning, head to Otavalo. The city is the home of the well-known indigenous market where artisans come to sell colorful textiles and other traditional goods. Snack on fruits and other snacks while you browse the stalls for paintings, carvings, hand-painted bowls, and much more. Enjoy some street food (try the salted mango or fritada con mote—fried pork with cooked corn, then continue to the nearby town of Cotacachi for some free time and more shopping (the town is famous for its leather products). In the afternoon, stroll along the shores of the volcanic crater lake of Cuicocha. You can even take a boat ride around the two islands. Then, you will go ahead Quito.
Free day in Quito – Cotopaxi Hacienda
Spend today exploring Quito at your own pace. Visit the historic Old Town to discover the colonial churches of San Fransisco, La Compañia, and other historical landmarks, or head to the fascinating Equator Monument, which also houses the Ethnographical Museum. If you’re feeling adventurous, ride a cable car up the slopes of nearby Volcán Pichincha for dizzying views over the city from 12,942 feet (3,944 m). In the afternoon, you will head south to Cotopaxi National Park. You can visit Lake Limpiopungo as well as the El Salitre Inca ruins, located in the highlands of the park. Here, you will have a spectacular view of Cotopaxi Volcano’s gigantic cone. Lake Limpiopungo offers a variety of birds, and occasionally even wild horses. A short walk around the lake will allow you to admire the Andean plant and animal life along the way.
Cotopaxi Hacienda – Baños
After a delicious breakfast, You may choose to go for a scenic horseback excursion at the foothills of the Rumiñahui volcano, explore the surroundings of the Hacienda on a mountain bike, or just relax in your cozy room. In the afternoon, you will leave your hacienda in Cotopaxi National Park and head to the town of Baños (approx. 3 hours), famous as one of Ecuador’s outdoor capitals. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and rest a little bit.
Cotopaxi Hacienda – Pailon del Diablo – Baños
Driving south from Baños in the afternoon, following the «Avenue of waterfalls», you will follow the Pastaza River on its way through the valley of the same name. Passing a number of waterfalls, you will reach the village of Rio Verde, where you will stop to visit the well-known El Pailon del Diablo (The Devil’s Cauldron) waterfall. You may also rent a bike and ride to the waterfall. Finally, in the afternoon you will return to Quito.
Departure from Quito
Make your way towards Quito’s Airport, and drop off your car rental to return back home. Make sure to return de vehicle in the same conditions, if you had any mishappen with the rental car make sure to let us know in advance.
Extra details
Countries
Ecuador
Rivers and Seas
Cuyabeno River
Flight and Transportation
All airport transfer from/to the Airport with a private English speaking Driver
Assistance during transfer in/out from and to the airport
Car Rental for mainland Ecuador, unlimited kilometers, GPS, and LDW Coverage
Meals Included
Start in Quito
End in Quito
This Trip
Included
Excluded
Places to Visit
7 Day - Self Drive
Summary
| Day | Activity | Accomodation | Meals | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Arrival at Quito Airport and Transfer to your hotel |
Papallacta |
-/-/- |
||
|
2 |
Papallacta Hot Springs – Otavalo Hacienda |
Otavalo |
B/-/- |
||
|
3 |
Otavalo Market & Cuicocha Lagoon – Quito |
Quito |
B/-/- |
||
|
4 |
Free Day in Quito – Cotopaxi Hacienda |
Cotopaxi National Park |
B/-/- |
||
|
5 |
Cotopaxi Hacienda – Baños |
Baños de Agua Santa |
B/-/- |
||
|
6 |
Baños – Pailón del Diablo – Quito |
Quito |
B/-/- |
||
|
7 |
Departure from Quito |
– |
B/-/- |
||
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