(Lunch, Dinner & Accommodations, Alausi)
The second day begins with an inspiring trip aboard a train which dates from the early twentieth century, this time descending through the fearsome Nariz del Diablo, or Devil's Nose pass; an intricate switch-back track that allows the train to descend 511 meters (1,6756 ft.) in just 12 kilometers of railway. Considered an engineering marvel in its day, this train ride is still spectacular. In Alausi will have time to take pictures and visit the local market, where the quiet city that the night before was lost in the mists of time, has now becomes the scene of one of the most colorful markets in the area, serving more than a dozen surrounding communities. Lunch is served on board after a short bus ride. We now move on towards the town of Colta where the "Black Monster", an impressive and carefully refurbished Baldwin steam locomotive, is ready to take us on the final leg of our journey. Fields of quinoa, potatoes, onions, corn and other products provided by these fertile soils, dot the picturesque landscape as we head towards the capital city of Chimborazo province, Riobamba. On the way we will pass by the majestic Mt. Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest mountain, at 20,549 ft. In Riobamba, we will find an enchanting historic city where Ecuador's first constitution was written. Here we will walk through cobbled streets and squares where every step tells the history of the country.
(All Meals & Accommodations, Riobamba)
In the morning, we travel to La Moya, where the inhabitants of the community will give us a glimpse of what life is like in the Andes. We will be able to meet and talk to the local people and see one of the best examples of what is known as a ‘Minga', a cooperative form of work that is organized by the community and is part of an indigenous tradition passed down through the generations. The tour continues on to the Urbina railway station. Baltazar Ushca, the last ice cutter on Mt. Chimborazo, will tell us his story and explain the motives behind his work, which continues to this day despite the now universal use of refrigerators. Our train will then pass through a valley close to the spectacular snow-capped Mt. Cotopaxi, but on the way, a group of 'devils' will board the train when the Diablada de Pillaro ('Pillaro Devils') is celebrated on the train itself. This is a fascinating, extremely colorful parade, whose music and joyful spirit give us a glimpse of the soul of the Andean communities and their understanding of the world. The final stop of the day will be the Latacunga railway station from where we will transfer to our hotel.
(All Meals & Accommodations, Latacunga)
Have your cameras ready as today we travel to Cotopaxi National Park. We'll start with a moderate walk around the Limpiopungo Lagoon. If conditions are right, the lake can afford an incredible view of Mt. Cotopaxi. You'll also be able to view a large variety of plants and several species of birds that have adapted to the lofty altitude. After returning to the train, the tour will then cross the foothills of Mt. Cotopaxi on the way to our next stop: a typical Andean hacienda where we will be part of its daily activities. On our arrival, we will be welcomed by Andean cowboys, or "Chagras", who will show us their skills as riders and teach us about their culture and traditions. Our final day ends at the Eloy Alfaro station in Quito. Afterwards you'll have a transfer to your selected hotel*.
*Dinner will be on your own this evening and your hotel can offer several suggestions.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Accommodations, Quito)
After breakfast, you'll have a transfer to the airport, returning home or continuing on to your next Avanti Destination!
(Breakfast, Quito)