Discover the diverse beauty of Ecuador with our 5-day itineraries, each offering a different way to explore this beautiful country. For those wanting to stay in one place, opt for a trip similar to this Quito itinerary, where you'll explore the city's historic streets, hike on active volcanoes like Rucu Pichincha, and visit the middle of the world at the Equator Monument. If you'd like to check out the UNESCO heritage city of Quito, Mindo's cloud forests, and Otavalo's markets, consider something similar to this highlands of Ecuador trip. For those who prefer horseback riding through the highlands, with opportunities to visit ancient Inca fortresses and trek through native forests near the Cotopaxi volcano, choose a trip like this horseback expedition.
See our itineraries below or read our guide to the best 5-day trips in Ecuador.
Go deep into one of the most biodiverse spots on earth, the Yasuní National Park. Located in the heart of the Amazon, you'll explore pristine forests, rivers and lagoons while keeping an eye out for different species of monkeys and birds, as well as endemic insects and plants. You'll also have the opportunity get to do a cultural exchange with the native Kichua people to learn about their history and culture.
If you love horses and want to experience Ecuador in a unique way, consider this five-day journey to volcano country. On this trip, multiple days are spent in the saddle as you traverse the high plains, stopping off to take in the views or walk amid stands of native trees. Magical nights are spent in the Andes at haciendas, where you'll eat hearty meals and rest up for the next days' journey.
This short itinerary is perfect for travelers who want a mix of cosmopolitan fun in Quito and adventure in the nearby cloud forests. Start with a walking tour of Quito's most striking historical sites and neighborhoods before taking a short drive to the cloud forest of Mindo where you can visit a butterfly farm, see how chocolate is made at a cacao hacienda. Then, explore the charming town of Otavalo and see the Peguche waterfall where ancient rituals still take place.
This short but extensive itinerary brings you into the very heart of the Ecuadorian capital and its surroundings. You will tour Quito's beautifully preserved historic center to see fine examples of colonial architecture, learn about history and culture at the Ethnographic Museum, and enjoy the best panoramic view of the city. The adventure continues north of Quito in Otavalo and Cotacachi, renowned for their local crafts. Finally, take a day-trip to Cotopaxi National Park—its namesake volcano is one of Ecuador's most famous natural landmarks.
If you want to experience the best that Ecuador has to offer but don't have time to wander far, this 5-day trip is full of adventures. Explore Quito—the site of the equatorial line, historic downtown, and ethnographic museums—then head out of the city to stretch your legs on the hiking trails. You'll hike on two nearby volcanoes, look for rare wildlife, and breathe in the fresh Andes mountain air.
Canoe through the jungle, spot pink dolphins in the wild, visit an indigenous community, and sleep under the stars — this action-packed itinerary takes you deep into the Ecuadorian Amazon for five days of outdoor adventure! After a day of sightseeing in Quito, you'll travel to the rainforest, entering the jungle aboard a motorized canoe. You'll set up camp on the edge of Zancudococha Lake, your home base for the rest of the trip. Jungle hikes, wildlife spotting excursions, swimming, piranha fishing, and boating are all on the agenda, not to mention guided rainforest hikes after sunset. Keep your eyes open for frogs, spiders, caimans, and other nocturnal wildlife: the jungle comes alive after dark!
