The first half of this four-day voyage is along the Avenue of the Volcanoes from Quito to beautiful Cuenca in the south; among spectacular scenery, with segments aboard the Autoferro, 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 second half is dedicated to the cultural and natural experience of exploring the charms of Cuenca and the Valley of Gualaceo.

Day 1: Quito to Riobamba (Monday or Friday)
The adventure starts at the Station of Chimbacalle in southern Quito, which has been restored to its old glory, to commemorate the centenary of the arrival of the first steam train of the Guayaquil & Quito Railway Co. to Quito in 1908, an event that joined Ecuador’s main cities (Guayaquil and Quito) and became the backbone that would forever change the politics, economy and the lives of the Ecuadorians. Here awaits the “Autoferro”, a one coach train, like a bus on tracks, ready to take guests on a trip along the stunning Andean region of Ecuador. The first leg of the rail ride goes from Quito to the Station at El Boliche. A stop is made along the way at dairy Hacienda La Alegría, where guests are welcomed by the owner, observe the milking process, horses and llamas and enjoy a snack. Then its up the slopes of Cotopaxi Volcano to the El Boliche Station, up high, where guests are transferred to a bus to continue along the Pan American Highway, down into the fertile Valley of Latacunga for a visit to a rose plantation to observe the beautiful variety of Ecuadorian roses, ready for exportation, and a taste of the products of the land, specially broccoli and potatoes- harvested that same morning- with lima beans and fresh cheese. Continue by bus to Urbina Train Station, up high, at the foot of imposing Chimborazo Volcano, visit a Tagua workshop and warm up with a canelazo and cholas by the fireplace and, if the Chimborazo is clear, an amazing sunset. Then continue by bus to Riobamba for dinner and overnight. (D)

Day 2: Riobamba-Ride on the "Chiva Express"-Cuenca (Tuesday or Saturday)

After an early breakfast, transfer to the train station in Riobamba to board the “Autoferro”, chartered exclusively for Metropolitan Touring’s guests. Leisurely enjoy the ever-changing scenery along the ancient tracks in 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 to Alausí, 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, where a snack is served. From 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: Full Day in Cuenca (Wednesday or Sunday)

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. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Visit Santa Ana Vally and Countyside of Cuenca (Thursday or Monday)

The day starts with a ride along the Santa Ana valley and then high in the mountains, through very scenic landscapes, which change at every curb. Stops are made at the small towns that produce a variety of handcrafts, such as artistic handmade guitars at San Bartolo and alongside orchards and sugar cane plantations, on to Chordeleg, famous for gold and silver jewelry. Then past the village of Gualaceo, follow the road along the banks of the Santa Barbara River, lined with weeping willows, to Bulcay where shawl and scarves are woven with the ancient technique of Ikat (tie dyed warp to form specific designs, on ancient shuttle looms. Visit lovely orchid gardens with over 2500 species and then lunch at an attractive hostel, surrounded by flowery gardens, close to the Paute River. After lunch, return to Cuenca in time to catch the return flight. (B,L)

Trip length	4 days/3 nights
Departs	Monday or Friday
Per person cost	$899.00
Single rate	$993.00
MT-1820
Shared Basis Tours & Semi-private Tours will start and end only at the following Hotels In Quito: Hilton Colón Hotel, JW Marriott Hotel, Swissotel, Dann Carlton Hotel. Prices based on two people sharing in 3-star accommodations on a group departure. Accommodation in Cuenca at hotel Santa Lucía. Four and 5-star accommodations available on request. Departure from Quito Monday and Friday. Includes accommodations in Riobamba and Cuenca, ground transportation, tours and all meals included. Air ticket Cuenca/Quito or Cuenca/Guayaquil is NOT included. Entrance fees to National Parks and Natural Reserves are NOT included in our rates. 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.