Highlights:

 

• Explore the Devil's Nose Mountain, where the impressive railway project was built

• See amazing panoramic views of unforgettable Andean landscapes full of contrasts

• Visit the Ingapirca Ruins, Ecuador’s largest Pre-Columbian archeological site 

 

Description:

 

Experience two of the most interesting destinations in our country. After hotel pick-up, we will drive to the Alausi area, a little town considered a national heritage. Even though the Devil’s Nose Train is not operating at the moment, you will be able to enjoy the same views from a hike we will do in the area. In its day the railway project was considered one of the greatest feats of engineering that the world had seen.

 

This railway was built in 1899 with the intent of linking the coastal city of Guayaquil with the highlands capital of Quito. This amazing ride traverses and descends an almost perpendicular mountain face by using switchbacks. Many lives were lost in the construction of this extraordinary railway. 

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After the hike, we will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant in Alausi.

 

Our trip continues on the Pan-American Highway to Ingapirca, which is the major Inca archeological site in Ecuador. You will have the chance to appreciate one of the most important Inca structures, an elliptical platform known as the “Sun’s Temple”. Courtyards, terraces, and various other ruins are found here as well. After a full day of touring, we will return to Cuenca.

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