A three-day trip along the Avenue of the Volcanoes from Quito to beautiful Cuenca in the south; among spectacular scenery from the roof of the CHIVA EXPRESS with many stops along the way for a close contact with the indigenous cultures, haciendas, plantations and a taste of the products of the land.  The third day is dedicated to the cultural and natural experience of exploring the charms of Cuenca, with its cobblestone streets and flowering plazas.

Day 1: Quito to Cotopaxi to Riobamba
The adventure starts in Quito with a bus ride to the station of Tambillo, where the "Chiva Express", a colorful one coach train, like a bus on tracks, is ready to depart. A highlight of the trip is to 'ride the roof' with a panoramic view of the stunning Andean region of Ecuador.  You will leisurely enjoy the ever-changing scenery as the "Chiva Express" advances along the ancient tracks.  Stop for a snack at a dairy hacienda with cows, horses and llamas.  Then the Chiva advances up and down the slopes of  Cotopaxi volcano and the fertile Valley of Latacunga for a visit to a rose plantation and a taste of the products of the land (potatoes and broccoli picked that same morning).  Continue by bus to Riobamba, and at the foot of imposing Chimborazo volcano, visit a Tagua workshop and warm up with a canelazo by the fireplace. Dinner and overnight at Riobamba. (D)

Day 2: Riobamba-Alausi-Ingapirca-Cuenca

After an early breakfast, transfer to the train station to board the "Chiva Express" for an astonishing ride, twisting and turning over the Andes, along bridging ravines and river gorges.  Stop at Guamote, an Indian town, for a short visit to an Educational Center for Adults’ Development and Sustainability.  Continue aboard the Chiva to Alausí, where a snack is served, and prepare to go down the Devil’s Nose switch backs, one of the most impressive feats of rail engineering in the world, and back to Alausí.  Continue south along the Andes by motorcar to Cuenca, visiting the  Inca Ruins of Ingapirca to arrive at dusk, with a stop for lunch.  Accommodations and all meals at the hotel in Cuenca. (B, L, D)

Day 3: Cuenca
Today guests will enjoy a full day to discover, at a leisurely pace, the beauty and charm for which Cuenca has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site.  Its red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, flowery plazas and museums make it very special.  Lunch is served at a cozy restaurant.  Late afternoon transfer to the airport to take the flight to Quito.  Air ticket Cuenca/Quito is not included. ( B, L)

Pathway Through the Andes
Trip length	3 days/2 nights
Departs	Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Per person cost	$637.00
Single rate	$711.00
MT-3530
Prices based on two people sharing in 3-star accommodations. Accommodation in Cuenca at hotels Oro Verde, Santa Lucía or Carvalho Accommodations. Four and 5-star accommodations available on request. Accommodation in Riobamba and Cuenca, and all meals included. International and air ticket Cuenca/Quito or Cuenca/Guayaquil is not included. Pricing and itinerary are subject to change until booking is confirmed.

Staying on in Ecuador? Whether your interest is wildlife or culture, in a short extension tour you can experience more of the living heritage of this vibrant country. Day trips are also a great way to see Quito and the nearby sites. We can even arrange hotels and transportation.