What are the main highlights visited in the first few days starting from Quito?

Most tours begin in Quito's historic district with visits to the architectural gems of San Francisco Church La Compañía Church and the Basilica. The itinerary typically continues to the Equatorial Monument at Mitad del Mundo and Inti Ñan Museum followed by excursions to the vibrant Otavalo Market and scenic Cuicocha Lake. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "Starting in Quito's historic center was perfect - the guide showed us the city's incredible colonial architecture before we ventured into the Andes. The Basilica's views were breathtaking."

What accommodation options are available for tours starting in Quito?

Quito and its surroundings offer accommodations for every preference and budget. In the city center visitors can stay at international chains like the Sheraton while the outskirts feature historic properties such as Hacienda Pinsaqui. Nature enthusiasts often choose mountain lodges near Cotopaxi National Park while heritage seekers prefer boutique options like Hotel San Andres Guesthouse in the Old Town. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "The accommodations were almost all higher class. The Hacienda Andalusia was one standout - it was the nicest room I have ever had with beautiful gardens llamas and rabbits you can feed."

What is the best time of year to start an Andes Mountains tour from Quito?

The dry season from June to September provides ideal conditions for Andes Mountains tours with minimal rainfall and clear views of peaks like Cotopaxi and Chimborazo. December through February also offers favorable weather despite occasional afternoon showers. Starting in Quito at 2850 meters helps travelers adjust before ascending to higher altitudes. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "We had perfect weather in July for hiking in Cotopaxi National Park and amazing visibility of the snow-capped peaks from La Casa Mojanda and Hotel Cuello de Luna."

How do tours handle transportation from Quito to other Andean destinations?

Tour operators provide private modern vehicles for transfers between destinations. Trips from Quito to Otavalo take about 2 hours while Cotopaxi National Park is roughly 2.5 hours away. Some itineraries include scenic train journeys such as the famous Devil's Nose route. As one TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The transportation was excellent - comfortable vans with regular stops at scenic points between Quito and each Andean destination."

What are the common routes from Quito into the Andes Mountains?

The classic route follows the Avenue of Volcanoes southward from Quito beginning with Cotopaxi National Park then proceeding to Quilotoa Lagoon and Baños. Travelers often stay at properties like Hotel La Hacienda near Cotopaxi or Selina in Baños. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The journey from Quito along the Avenue of Volcanoes was spectacular with each stop offering unique experiences - from hiking Cotopaxi to relaxing in Baños' hot springs at Luna Runtun Adventure Spa."

What is the best transportation from Quito airport to tour starting points?

Most tour packages include airport transfers to Quito hotels taking 45-60 minutes to reach the historic center properties like the Sheraton or Hotel Boutique Plaza Sucre. Hotels in Tumbaco are about 20 minutes away. Private transfers cost approximately USD 35-40. As a TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The tour operator arranged seamless pickup from Mariscal Sucre International Airport to our hotel in the historic center making arrival day stress-free."

What cultural experiences are included in tours starting from Quito?

Tours blend colonial history with indigenous culture starting in Quito and extending to surrounding communities. Key experiences include shopping at Otavalo Market visiting craft workshops in Cotacachi and meeting local Quichua communities. A TourRadar traveler noted: "From our base at the Dann Carlton in Quito we experienced incredible cultural immersion - the local markets indigenous communities and historic sites were all fascinating."

Andes Mountains Tours from Quito

Around Quito, the old town is filled with churches and steep streets. The equatorial line at the Intiñan Museum sits just outside the city, while Otavalo’s market and nearby Peguche waterfalls draw visitors north. From there, the land drops toward the Amazon, with rivers, forest trails, and places like Yasuní National Park waiting deeper in the jungle. It’s a true adventure!

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10 best Andes Mountains tours from Quito

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City & Culture
Premium Ecuador (5 destinations)
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Banos, Papallacta
Age Range
Ages 15+
Mountain
Andes MountainsAvenue of the Volcanoes+1 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Premium
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US$3,800per person
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Adventure & Adrenaline
Ecuador Multisport
4.6 (16 reviews)
"well everything was perfect we didnt need to take care of anything, just enjoy the ride and have a great time."
David, traveled in September
Duration
9 days
Destinations
Quito, Tena, Banos, Llanganates National Park,Cotopaxi Volcano,Cotopaxi National Park+2 more
Age Range
Ages 12+
Physical Rating
Active
Regions
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the VolcanoesAmazonian Basin+3 more
Operated in
English
Operator
G Adventures
25% off
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US$974per person
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$15 Days Exploring Ecuador\'s Wonders Tour$
$15 Days Exploring Ecuador\'s Wonders - 16 destinations$
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City & Culture
15 Days Exploring Ecuador's Wonders
5.0 (3 reviews)
"They paid good attention to our needs and looked after us all the way."
Gisele, traveled in April
Duration
15 days
Destinations
Quito, Otavalo, Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa, Banos,Alausi,Cuenca,Gualaceo,Chordeleg,Montanita,Plata Island,Manta+7 more
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Mountain
Andes Mountains
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
25% off
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US$3,440per person
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Nature & Wildlife
13 Days Exploring Ecuador: Cloud Forest, Highlands & Amazon Rainforest
5.0 (2 reviews)
"Responsible Travel South America provided a wonderful tour to Ecuador and the Galapagos. The private family tour was well executed, enjoyable and fun."
Molly, traveled in June
Duration
13 days
Destinations
Quito, Mindo Valley, Otavalo, Cuicocha Lake, Cotacachi,Cotopaxi National Park,Machachi,Hacienda Tigua,Quilotoa,Banos,Cuyabeno Wildlife Preserve+6 more
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Regions
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean HighlandsAmazonian Basin+2 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
25% off
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US$1,800per person
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Nature & Wildlife
7 Days Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve Group Tour for Gay Travelers
5.0 (1 review)
"If you want a travel experience that supports local communities while making you feel like family, Responsible Travel Latin America is the choice for you."
Igal, traveled in February
Duration
7 days
Destinations
Quito, Cuyabeno Wildlife Preserve
Age Range
Ages 18+
Regions
Andes MountainsAmazonian BasinAmazonian Region EcuadorRainforestAmazon Rainforest+4 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
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US$900per person
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Nature & Wildlife
Classic Ecuador: Quito, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa & Mindo – 8 Days
4.8 (4 reviews)
"We were fortunate to have a private tour with Matteo, who was an absolutely outstanding guide."
Neil, traveled in November
Duration
8 days
Destinations
Quito, Papallacta, Cayambe, Otavalo, Cotacachi,Cuicocha Lake,Machachi,Cotopaxi National Park,Cotopaxi Volcano,Saquisili,Quilotoa,Calacali,Mindo Valley+8 more
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Mountain
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the Volcanoes+2 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
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US$1,160per person
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Hiking & Trekking
3 Days Expedition: Chimborazo Summit Adventure
Duration
3 days
Destinations
Quito, Ilinizas National Park, Riobamba,Chimborazo Volcano+1 more
Age Range
Ages 18+
Mountain
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the Volcanoes+2 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
25% off
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US$970per person
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Hiking & Trekking
3-Day Andean in Ecuador | Iliniza Norte Summit
Duration
3 days
Destinations
Quito, Latacunga, Ilinizas National Park
Age Range
Ages 18+
Mountain
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the Volcanoes+2 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
25% off
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US$890per person
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Nature & Wildlife
6 Days Escape Sale - Enchanting Amazon Adventure
Duration
6 days
Destinations
Quito, Cuyabeno Wildlife Preserve
Age Range
Ages 8+
Regions
Andes MountainsAmazonian BasinAmazonian Region EcuadorRainforestAmazon Rainforest+4 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
25% off
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US$940per person
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- Booking needs min. 2 travelers
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Ancient Wonders
Ecuador & Peru Classic: The Magic of the Andes in 10 Days
5.0 (1 review)
"The travel agency planned an outstanding stress-free, fun, exciting, and educational trip for us."
RobSnyder, traveled in September
Duration
10 days
Destinations
Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Cotopaxi Volcano, Riobamba,Ingapirca,Cuenca,Guayaquil,Lima,Cusco,Sacred Valley,Pisac,Urubamba,Ollantaytambo,Aguas Calientes,Machu Picchu,Callao+12 more
Age Range
Ages 12+
Mountain
Andes Mountains
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
GUIDEcuador Travel
25% off
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US$4,136per person
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Nature & Wildlife
8-Day Ecuador Mountains & Hot Springs Tour
4.6 (12 reviews)
"The stops they picked were great. We liked the hotels; they were clean and comfortable."
Ruth, traveled in July
Duration
8 days
Destinations
Quito, Otavalo, Cotopaxi National Park, Banos, Quilotoa,Chimborazo Volcano,Papallacta+2 more
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Mountain
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the Volcanoes+2 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
25% off
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US$1,236per person
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Hiking & Trekking
Hiking & Trekking in the Heart of the Ecuadorian Andes - 7 Days
5.0 (2 reviews)
"They handled everything and booked us in beautiful and charming places. I would highly recommend this company."
Leslie, traveled in August
Duration
7 days
Destinations
Quito, Pasochoa Volcano, Cotopaxi National Park, Isinliví,Quilotoa,Ilinizas National Park,Chimborazo Volcano+3 more
Age Range
Ages 7+
Mountain
Andes MountainsMount CotopaxiEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the Volcanoes+3 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Authentic Ecuador
10% off
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US$1,773per person
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Hiking & Trekking
Rumiñahui Acclimatization 3-Day Trek
Duration
3 days
Destinations
Quito, Latacunga, Ilinizas National Park,Ruminahui Volcano+1 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the VolcanoesCotopaxi National Park+3 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
Responsible Travel South America
10% off
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US$600per person
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Hiking & Trekking
Ecuador Trekking The Avenue of Volcanoes
4.9 (8 reviews)
"We saw the tree by volcanoes, Fatima set a good pass for hiking days and the packed lunches were more than enough food."
Katherine, traveled in September
Duration
8 days
Destinations
Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Isinliví, Chugchilan,Quilotoa,Chimborazo Volcano,Llanganates National Park,Banos+4 more
Age Range
Ages 10+
Mountain
Andes MountainsMount CotopaxiEcuador Andean HighlandsAvenue of the Volcanoes+3 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Adventure Journeys
10% off
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US$1,484per person
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Hiking & Trekking
Ecuador Cloud Forest: Pululahua to Maquipucuna Trek
Duration
5 days
Destinations
Quito, Calacali, Hacienda Yunguilla, Nanegalito
Age Range
Ages 18+
Mountain
Andes MountainsEcuador Andean Highlands+1 more
Operated in
English, Spanish
Operator
GUIDEcuador Travel
10% off
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US$1,599per person
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Price based on Private Double Room
- Booking needs min. 2 travelers
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