Pilgrimage Route Package
“PILGRIMAGE PACKAGE ECUADOR”
Day 1: Transfer In
Our journey begins early in the morning as our guide picks you up from your hotel to head north. Our first stop will be La Gruta de la Paz, a breathtaking sanctuary of the Virgin Mary nestled within a cavern in the Apaquí River canyon. This natural wonder, shaped by water filtering through the mountain, showcases stunning stalactites and serves as a home for small birds and bats.
This sacred site is one of the most iconic locations in northern Ecuador and attracts countless visitors from around the world.
Next, we will visit the Cathedral of Tulcán, a remarkable architectural gem. Its exterior features a monumental doorway, three domes, and intricate frescoes, while its interior boasts classic-style altars and a magnificent gold-leaf altar. The cathedral’s restoration, completed in 2000, added modern touches while preserving its historical essence.
We will stay overnight in Tulcán, where the next phase of our adventure begins. (B/L/D)
Day 2: Visit to Las Lajas Church (Colombia) & Tulcán Cemetery (Ecuador)
After breakfast, we continue our journey north, crossing the border into Colombia to visit the renowned Sanctuary of Las Lajas. Known as “a miracle of God in the abyss,” this Gothic masterpiece stands majestically over the Guáitara River canyon near Ipiales. Built in the early 20th century on the site of a chapel from the 18th century, its three towers rest on an intricate scaffolding of arches spanning the canyon.
The sanctuary is 100 meters tall, with stunning ribbed vaults, fiberglass mosaics, and stained-glass windows that illuminate its interior with natural light. This iconic church is considered one of the most important in Colombia.
Reaching the sanctuary involves a scenic downhill walk (about 15 minutes), after which you can cross the bridge and ascend the opposite side for a breathtaking view of the church contrasting with the lush green canyon. The uphill return walk takes about 30 minutes, as the area sits at over 8,500 feet above sea level. Alternatively, a 15-minute cable car ride offers panoramic views of the church and canyon from above.
After visiting Las Lajas, we return to Ecuador to explore the Tulcán Cemetery, a marvel of modern art and beauty. Created in 1936 by Azael Franco, this unique cemetery features intricate sculptures carved from cypress trees, blending art and nature in a truly harmonious way.
We will spend the night in Tulcán. (B/L/D)
Day 3: Visit to San Antonio de Ibarra & Hacienda La Compañía – Return to Quito
After breakfast, we head back to Quito, making two enriching stops along the way.
Our first stop is San Antonio de Ibarra, a charming town renowned for its rich tradition of wood carving. This craft dates back to the late 19th century, when artisans, known as “Santeros,” specialized in creating religious sculptures, altarpieces, and church decorations. Today, the town’s artisans produce a wide variety of works, including animals, murals, abstract figures, and more.
Next, we visit the historic Hacienda La Compañía de Jesús, famous for its rose production. The hacienda’s unique climate, with consistent sunlight and mild temperatures, provides ideal conditions for cultivating world-class roses.
Here, we will enjoy a delicious lunch and explore the French neoclassical-style house, which remains the residence of the owners. You’ll also have the chance to learn about rose cultivation and admire an impressive exhibition of up to 70 rose varieties.
Additionally, we will visit the 17th-century chapel on the property, featuring sculptures by the Quito School of Arts, including an altar dedicated to Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus.
After this enriching visit, we return to Quito, where you’ll stay overnight at your hotel. (B/L/D)
Day 4: Transfer Out to Quito Airport
Depending on your flight schedule, we will transfer you to Quito Airport for your departure. (B/-/-)
“PILGRIMAGE PACKAGE ECUADOR”
Day 1: Transfer In
Day 2: “Tour of Santa Mariana de Jesús’ Life”
Stops: Carmen Alto Museum & Church – La Compañía Church – La Inmaculada Concepción Church – Catalinas Monastery
The day begins with a visit to the Carmelitas Descalzas Order Complex, where we will explore the Carmen Alto Church and Monastery (formerly known as Carmen de San José). Founded in 1653, it was the first convent of this order in Quito and is deeply significant to the city’s residents. This was once the home of Santa Mariana de Jesús(1618-1645), where she lived and passed away.
Next, we will visit the iconic La Compañía Church, built in 1605. Renowned for its gold-gilded altars, it is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque art in the Americas. The intricate designs of the red and gold columns and ceilings also display Moorish influences. Here lies the resting place of Santa Mariana de Jesús.
We will continue to La Inmaculada Concepción Church, founded in 1577. It is home to the patron saint Our Lady of Good Success, associated with numerous apparitions and miracles.
Finally, we visit the Catalinas Monastery, one of Quito’s most significant cloisters. This living museum showcases religious artifacts, over 100 Baroque art canvases, and a fascinating collection of traditional remedies, creams, and candles prepared by the nuns. The monastery also has intriguing local legends, such as the belief that sitting on a specific wooden bench on the second floor can lead to pregnancy.
We return to the hotel in the late afternoon. (B/L/D)
Day 3: El Quinche Sanctuary + Trip to Riobamba
After an early breakfast, we visit the El Quinche Sanctuary, one of Ecuador’s most important pilgrimage sites. Dedicated to the Virgin of Quinche, the sanctuary has survived multiple earthquakes and remains a prominent place of worship. Its limestone and brick structure can hold over 4,000 people. Thanks to contributions from devotees, additional spaces like the Campo Mariano and a new Sacristy have been added to accommodate more pilgrims.
Following this spiritual experience, we embark on a 4-hour journey to Riobamba, where we will spend the night in preparation for the next day’s adventure. (B/L/D)
Day 4: La Balbanera Church + Religious Museum of the Conceptas + Cotopaxi National Park (Panoramic Tour)
After breakfast, we travel to Colta, home to Ecuador’s first Catholic church, La Balbanera, built in 1534. The church’s stone façade reflects its colonial past, and the site offers stunning views of Chimborazo, Ecuador’s tallest peak. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary Nativity, the church remains a focal point for religious festivities and processions.
Next, we visit the Religious Museum of the Conceptas, located within the Convent of the Mothers Conceptas in Riobamba. Established in 1980, this museum preserves its original colonial architecture and houses an extensive collection of religious art. Among its treasures is the Custody of Riobamba, a 200-year-old masterpiece crafted in gold and silver and adorned with emeralds, pearls, and diamonds. Visitors will gain insight into the deep religious faith and cultural values of Ecuadorian society.
After lunch, we begin our return to Quito. Along the way, we will stop at a Cotopaxi National Park viewpoint to take photos and appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Overnight stay will be in a hotel in the scenic valleys near Quito. (B/L/D)
Day 5: Transfer Out
“PILGRIMAGE PACKAGE ECUADOR”
Day 1: Transfer In
Day 2: “Tour of Santa Mariana de Jesús’ Life”
Stops: Carmen Alto Museum & Church – La Compañía Church – La Inmaculada Concepción Church – Catalinas Monastery
The tour begins at the Carmelitas Descalzas Order Complex, where we will explore the Carmen Alto Church and Monastery (formerly Carmen de San José), established in 1653. This was the home of Santa Mariana de Jesús(1618–1645), an important religious figure for the city of Quito, where she lived and died.
We will continue to the La Compañía Church, built in 1605, a masterpiece of Baroque art in the Americas. Its spectacular gold-gilded altars and intricately carved red and gold columns showcase Moorish influences. This is also the final resting place of Santa Mariana de Jesús.
Next, we visit La Inmaculada Concepción Church, founded in 1577 and dedicated to Our Lady of Good Success, a figure associated with miraculous events and apparitions.
Finally, we will visit the Catalinas Monastery, a vibrant cloister and living museum. The monastery features over 100 Baroque art canvases and traditional remedies crafted by the nuns, including syrups, creams, and candles. Its second-floor wooden bench is said to hold a legend: those who sit on it will soon become pregnant! Late in the afternoon, we will return to the hotel. (B/L/D)
Day 3: El Quinche Sanctuary + Journey to Riobamba
After an early breakfast, we visit the El Quinche Sanctuary, one of Ecuador’s most visited pilgrimage sites. Dedicated to the Virgin of Quinche, the sanctuary boasts a limestone and brick structure that can hold over 4,000 people.
Renovations funded by pilgrims have expanded the site, including a 200 m² Sacristy and a 1,200 m² Campo Mariano, adorned with stonework and ornamental walls. After this spiritual visit, we will embark on a 4-hour drive to Riobamba for an overnight stay. (B/L/D)
Day 4: La Balbanera Church + Religious Museum of the Conceptas + Cotopaxi National Park (Panoramic Tour)
The day begins with a visit to La Balbanera Church, Ecuador’s first Catholic church, built in 1534. Situated near the Colta Lagoon, the church features a stone façade and offers stunning views of Chimborazo, Ecuador’s tallest volcano. It is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary Nativity.
Next, we visit the Religious Museum of the Conceptas in Riobamba, housed within the Convent of the Mothers Conceptas. This museum showcases colonial-era religious art, including the Custody of Riobamba, a 200-year-old masterpiece crafted in gold and silver, adorned with emeralds, pearls, and diamonds.
After lunch, we return to Quito with a stop at a Cotopaxi National Park viewpoint to capture breathtaking photographs. Overnight stay in a hotel near Quito’s valleys. (B/L/D)
Day 5: Peace Grotto + Cathedral of Tulcán
After breakfast, we head north to visit La Gruta de la Paz, a natural sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary, nestled in the Apaquí River canyon. This awe-inspiring site features stalactites, a serene atmosphere, and vibrant wildlife.
Next, we visit the Cathedral of Tulcán, a magnificent church with golden altars and modernist architectural elements. The church features artistic imagery, including paintings of Our Lady of Las Lajas and La Dolorosa. We will spend the night in Tulcán. (B/L/D)
Day 6: Las Lajas Church + Tulcán Cemetery
After breakfast, we cross the border into Colombia to visit the famous Las Lajas Church, a Gothic marvel built into the Guáitara River canyon. Known as “a miracle of God in the abyss,” the church’s architecture and stained-glass windows offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a hilly walk or opt for a scenic cable car ride over the canyon.
After visiting Las Lajas, we return to Ecuador to explore the Tulcán Cemetery, a unique marvel of cypress carvings. Designed by Azael Franco in 1936, the cemetery features sculptures of pre-Columbian figures, Ecuadorian wildlife, and intricate arches. Overnight stay near Ibarra. (B/L/D)
Day 7: San Antonio de Ibarra + Hacienda La Compañía + Return to Quito
In the morning, we visit San Antonio de Ibarra, renowned for its masterful woodcarving artisans. Originally focused on religious sculptures, today the town’s artists create a wide range of works, from animals to abstract figures.
Next, we visit Hacienda La Compañía de Jesús, known for its rose production. The hacienda features a French neoclassical-style residence, a 17th-century chapel, and a stunning showroom displaying over 70 varieties of roses.
After enjoying a delicious lunch, we return to Quito for an overnight stay. (B/L/D)