Scenic Andean Adventure from Cuenca to Quito via Inca Pica, Río Gamba, and Baños

Day 1: Cuenca to Inca Pica

Cuenca to Inca Pica, Ecuador on April 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Tostaduria y Café Gusto

Enjoy a delicious breakfast of fresh Ecuadorian coffee and traditional tostadas in Cuenca to start your journey energized.
USD5, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel from Cuenca to Inca Pica

Drive northwards through scenic Andean landscapes to reach Inca Pica village, approximately a 3-4 hour journey by road with stops for photos.
USD0 (transportation cost varies), 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local eatery in Inca Pica

Savor traditional Ecuadorian dishes like hornado (roast pork) in a local village restaurant, immersing in authentic flavors.
USD8, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Inca Pica Archaeological Site

Discover the fascinating ruins of Inca Pica, an archaeological site with Incan terraces, walls, and views over the Andean valley. Open from 9am to 5pm.
USD3, 2h0m

4:30pm

Check-in at guesthouse in Inca Pica

Relax and freshen up in a cozy guesthouse nestled in the mountains, preparing for the next day's travels.
USD25, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at guesthouse

Enjoy a hearty Andean dinner featuring trout and local vegetables served at the guesthouse restaurant.
USD12, 1h0m
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Day 2: Inca Pica to Río Gamba

Inca Pica to Río Gamba, Ecuador on April 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Start your day with fresh fruit, warm bread, and locally brewed coffee before heading to Río Gamba.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Río Gamba

Proceed northeast to Río Gamba, traveling through diverse Andean scenery and small villages. Estimated travel time is about 3 hours.
USD0 (transport costs vary), 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Río Gamba Nature Reserve

Explore this ecological reserve known for its rich biodiversity including hummingbirds and orchids. Open from 8am to 4pm.
USD5, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Río Gamba Eco Lodge

Enjoy a fresh, organic lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients at the eco lodge restaurant.
USD10, 1h0m

3:00pm

Free time for hiking or birdwatching

Take an afternoon hike along marked trails or participate in birdwatching tours offered by local guides.
USD7 (guided tour optional), 2h0m

6:00pm

Check-in and Dinner at Río Gamba Eco Lodge

Rest overnight at the eco lodge with dinner emphasizing local Andean cuisine and spectacular sunset views.
USD30, Overnight and dinner 1h0m
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Day 3: Río Gamba to Baños

Río Gamba to Baños, Ecuador on April 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Eco Lodge

Fuel up with a light breakfast made from fresh eggs, fruit, and local bread before departing.
Included, 45m

8:30am

Travel from Río Gamba to Baños

Drive eastward to Baños, a popular adventure and wellness town, approximately a 3-hour drive through mountain landscapes.
USD0 (transport varies), 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Casa Hood

Dine in a vibrant café serving international and Ecuadorian dishes, popular for its fresh salads and burgers.
USD10, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit the Thermal Baths

Relax in the famous hot springs of Baños, such as Termas de la Virgen, open daily for soothing thermal waters amid nature.
USD5, 2h0m

4:00pm

Explore Baños Town Center

Stroll the charming town streets full of artisan shops, cafes, and the iconic Basilica of the Virgin of the Holy Water.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Swiss Food

Experience Swiss-Ecuadorian fusion cuisine at this popular restaurant with cable car views; open till 9pm.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00pm

Overnight stay in Baños

Choose from a variety of charming guesthouses or hotels to rest after a day of adventure.
USD25, Overnight
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Day 4: Baños to Quito

Baños to Quito, Ecuador on April 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a substantial breakfast to prepare for the journey to Quito.
Included, 45m

8:00am

Drive from Baños to Quito

Travel northwest along the Pan-American Highway from Baños to Quito, approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour journey with scenic mountain views.
USD0 (transport cost varies), 4h0m

12:00pm

Lunch in Quito Old Town

Dine at Café Plaza Grande, renowned for its Ecuadorian cuisine in a historic colonial setting open from 11am-3pm.
USD12, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Quito Historic Center

Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Plaza de la Independencia, the Cathedral, and the Compañía Church. Most sites open 9am to 5pm.
USD5, 3h0m

5:00pm

Check-in Quito hotel

Rest up at a comfortable hotel in central Quito, ideal for exploring further the next day.
USD40, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Zazu

Enjoy upscale Ecuadorian fine dining at Zazu, featuring creative local ingredients; open daily till 10pm.
USD30, 1h30m
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