Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador. Sitting at an altitude of 2,850 metres, with stunning views of Volcan Pichincha, Quito is one of the most attractive cities in South America. You may even wish to arrive a day or two early and explore further beyond the city, visiting Otavalo, Cotopaxi or the Cloud Forest. Your adventure begins in Quito with a welcome meeting at 2 pm. Afterward, you'll join your local leader on a tour of the historic centre. Catch the metro to the Parque de la Alameda and visit sites such as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus – a famous neo-Gothic church known for its facade representing Galapagos tortoises, Andean condors and Amazon alligators. You'll also visit La Compania de Jesus, considered by many to be the most beautiful church in the Americas. The tour will finish at San Francisco Square, then you'll have free time to relax or head out for dinner in Quito's Old Town – your leader will have plenty of recommendations!