2 day itinerary for Quito,cotopaxi, Riobamba, Alausí, Ingapirca Y Cuenca

Itinerary

It sounds like you’re in for an exciting adventure through some of Ecuador's most beautiful regions. With a relaxed pace in mind, let’s create a delightful 2-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of each destination.

## Day 1: Quito to Cotopaxi and Riobamba

Morning: Quito to Cotopaxi

• Start your day early with a hearty breakfast in Quito. Try some local favorites like empanadas or bolón de verde.
• Travel to Cotopaxi National Park (about 1.5 hours from Quito). The drive is scenic, so keep your camera handy!
• Once you arrive, take a leisurely hike around the park. The views of the Cotopaxi volcano are breathtaking, and you can enjoy the unique flora and fauna. Don’t forget to take a few photos!

Lunch:

• Pack a picnic or stop at a local eatery near the park. Enjoy some traditional Ecuadorian dishes like locro de papa (potato soup) or fritada (fried pork).

Afternoon: Cotopaxi to Riobamba

• After lunch, continue your journey to Riobamba (about 1.5 hours).
• Once in Riobamba, take a stroll around the city center. Visit the Plaza de la Independencia and the beautiful Cathedral of Riobamba. The architecture is stunning!

Evening:

• For dinner, indulge in some local cuisine at a cozy restaurant. Try cuy (guinea pig) if you’re feeling adventurous, or stick to something like aji de gallina (chicken in a spicy sauce).
• Spend the night in Riobamba, perhaps at a charming hotel or guesthouse.

## Day 2: Riobamba to Alausí, Ingapirca, and Cuenca

Morning: Riobamba to Alausí

• After breakfast, head to Alausí (about 1 hour). This small town is famous for the Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose) train ride.
• If time allows, take a short hike to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch in Alausí. There are several quaint cafes where you can try local dishes. A warm bowl of sopa de mote (barley soup) is perfect for the cool mountain air.

Afternoon: Alausí to Ingapirca

• After lunch, make your way to Ingapirca (about 1 hour). This is the largest Incan archaeological site in Ecuador, and it’s a must-see!
• Spend some time exploring the ruins and learning about the fascinating history of the Inca civilization. The site is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, so take your time to soak it all in.

Evening: Ingapirca to Cuenca

• Head to Cuenca (about 1 hour). Once you arrive, take a leisurely evening stroll through the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at one of Cuenca’s many delightful restaurants. Try hornado (roast pork) or pato al horno (oven-roasted duck) for a true taste of the region.

Night:

• Spend the night in Cuenca, where you can enjoy the charming atmosphere of this beautiful city. Perhaps grab a drink at a local bar or café to unwind after your busy day.

Tips for Your Journey:

• Transportation: Consider hiring a private driver or joining a small group tour for a more relaxed experience.
• Altitude: Remember that both Quito and Cotopaxi are at high altitudes, so stay hydrated and take it easy.
• Local Culture: Engage with locals when you can; they often have the best recommendations for food and sights!

This itinerary allows you to experience the highlights of each location while keeping a relaxed pace. Enjoy your travels through Ecuador! 🌄✨