IBARRA & AFRO-ECUADORIAN CULTURE EXPERIENCE + SCENIC TRAIN RIDE

Travel north into Ecuador’s Afro-descendant heartland and experience a day of vibrant culture, history, and breathtaking Andean landscapes. Ride the famous Ibarra–Salinas train, enjoy live Afro-Ecuadorian music and dance, and discover the craftsmanship of women-led textile cooperatives in Atuntaqui. A powerful journey combining scenic beauty with meaningful community connections

Sustainable Impact: This tour is designed to directly benefit Afro-Ecuadorian and indigenous communities through community-based tourism. It supports women’s artisan cooperatives and promotes cultural preservation through responsible travel.

Departure: Daily from Quito (Train operates specific days – check availability)
Duration: Full-day tour (Approx. 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM)
Focus: Afro-Ecuadorian heritage, cultural preservation, community tourism

What to Bring:

• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Light jacket (highland weather)
• Camera and reusable water bottle
• Some cash for artisan purchase

Price: From $115 USD per person
(based on 2+ people; final price may vary depending on train operation days)

07:30 AM – Hotel Pick-up in Quito
Begin your day with a scenic drive through the Andes toward Ibarra, crossing beautiful highland valleys and volcano views.

10:30 AM – Arrival in Ibarra & City Tour
Explore the charming colonial center of Ibarra: whitewashed buildings, lively plazas, and a taste of the famous local ice cream “helado de paila.”

11:30 AM – Scenic Train Ride: Ibarra to Salinas
Board the restored train for a 1.5-hour ride through tunnels, bridges, and Andean farmland. Enjoy panoramic views, traditional music on board, and historical narration from a local guide.

01:00 PM – Cultural Experience in Salinas
Arrive in Salinas, an Afro-Ecuadorian town known for its rich culture. You’ll be welcomed by the community with:

Traditional music or dance performance

Lunch at a community-run restaurant, featuring local Afro-Ecuadorian flavors

02:30 PM – Visit to Atuntaqui Artisan Town
After the return drive, stop in Atuntaqui, famous for its textiles. Meet women-run cooperatives and explore handmade products rooted in indigenous and Afro traditions.

04:30 PM – Return Journey to Quito
Relax on the drive back through the Andes, taking in golden hour views of the highlands.

06:30 PM – Drop-off at your hotel in Quito

• Private transportation (round trip from Quito)
• Certified bilingual guide (English–Spanish)
• Train ticket (Ibarra to Salinas or round-trip depending on schedule)
• Afro-Ecuadorian lunch
• Cultural performance
• Visit to textile cooperatives in Atuntaqui
• All entrance and community fees