Itinerary
Day 1:
From Quito, we travel by private bus through the Avenue of the
Volcanoes, passing such snow-capped giants as Cotopaxi (5.897m),
Illinizas (5.263m) and the tallest peak in Ecuador, Chimborazo (6.310m).
On the way to Alausi, a small steep mountain road leads us to Achupallas
(3.400m), passing through a number of communities where the biggest and
most colorful Indian markets in the country are held on specific days
each week: Saquisili (Thursdays), Latacunga (Tuesdays / Saturdays) and
Ambato (Mondays). Lunch is provided during the trip South and dinner
prepared at the overnight campsite near Achupallas.
Day 2:
We awake in an area which has not changed much in the last five
centuries, from which we begin the trek to Ingapirca. The Inca road
follows Rio Cadrul through hilly country on the way to Laguna de Las
Tres Cruces, passing Cerro Callana Pucara on the West and the pyramidal
Cerro Mapaihuana (4.365m) to the East. To reach the lagoon, we make our
way, through a natural rock arch and cross the river before climbing to
4.000m. From this point, it is only a few kilometers to the lagoon and
our campsite. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared by our staff.
Day 3:
After breakfast, we continue Southward through a mountainous pass,
with fantastic views of Laguna Sanshavin and Cerro Quilloloma. We follow
the ancient road to Laguna Culebrillas and the nearby Inca ruins at
Paredones, arriving two hours later. We pitch camp and have our last
dinner under the stars near the quarry from which the Incas mined
Diorite, the igneous stone used in the construction of Ingapirca.
Day 4:
This morning is devoted to the trek to Ingapirca along a portion of the
Inca road which is 7 meters wide. After lunch, we have the opportunity
to explore the ruins, visit the on-site museum and question the local
guides about the Incan culture. Our charter bus then takes us to the
charming colonial city of Cuenca, for dinner and hotel accommodation.
Day 5. In the morning we take a city tour of Cuenca. Following lunch, we
are transported to the airport for our flight to Quito.
|
