Highlands of Ecuador

This seven-night escorted journey begins at Quito, where the bustle of the Otavalo Handicrafts Market offers a first taste of local life. From there, you travel to stay near Cotopaxi volcano, within sight of its near-perfect cone. The nearby national park provides fresh mountain air and views that reward an early start.

A city tour of Cuenca follows, touching on its colonial streets and the chance to learn about nearby archaeological sites or soak in mud baths and hot springs. Internal flights link the journey, cutting out lengthy travel stretches. As with many of G Adventures' small-group tours, the size allows moments where the pace slows, encouraging thoughtful appreciation rather than ticking boxes.

Travelling with a local guide throughout, you encounter Ecuador’s elevated landscapes and the interplay of indigenous culture with colonial history — evident in its markets and town squares. Expect days punctuated with early starts and a modest climbing of stairs at the lodges. Meals are mostly flexible, lending themselves to wandering with fellow travellers to nearby eateries.