Highlights
- Wander the indigenous market in Otavalo
- Dive into adventure sports and hikes in Baños de Agua Santa
- Hike along the magical Cuicocha Lagoon
- Enjoy beach time and nightlife in Montañita
Brief Itinerary
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrival in Quito | Quito |
Day 2 | Otavalo Market Visit and Cuicocha Lagoon | Quito |
Day 3 | Quilotoa Lagoon and Baños de Agua Santa | Baños |
Days 4-5 | Day at leisure in Baños | Baños |
Day 6 | Baños - Quito | Quito |
Day 7 | Flight to Guayaquil - Transfer to Montañita | Montañita |
Days 8-12 | Day at leisure in Montañita | Montañita |
Day 13 | Montañita - Guayaquil - Flight to Quito | Quito |
Day 14 | Day at leisure until departure |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Quito

On the descent to the Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you will immediately get a glimpse at the immense Andean capital of Quito. Upon arrival, your Spanish-speaking driver will be ready to take you to your hotel.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands at an altitude of 9,350 feet (2,850 m), welcoming you with its famous picturesque plazas, situated between mountain peaks. Immediately, you will get a sense of the warm and welcoming Ecuadorian Sierra Culture and experience the diversity of this beautiful city.
A city of duality, you will find modern apartment buildings and modest concrete homes. The city has an abundance of market stands, shamanistic healers, and fourth-generation hatmakers—all mixed with a vibrant and sophisticated culinary and nightlife scene.
Day 2: Visit the Otavalo Market and Cuicocha Lagoon

This morning, you will visit the famous market of Otavalo. Otavalo features one of the most important traditional markets of South America. Here, the indigenous people of the surrounding areas gather to trade anything from animals and handicrafts to fresh vegetables and fruits.
Day 3: See the Quilotoa Lagoon and Baños de Agua Santa

Today, you'll visit a picturesque caldera—Quilotoa Lake. The lake is a volcano's caldera filled with turquoise waters about 43 miles (70 km) southwest of Quito. Choose to walk along the crater’s rim for a splendid view or hike down a path to the crater lake. The hike requires three to five hours, but it is one of the most beautiful places to visit and hike in Ecuador.
Days 4-5: Day at leisure in Baños

It is time to explore Baños in-depth and enjoy a lot of exciting adventures. Enjoy your free by relaxing in the thermal pools, visiting the famous Casa del Arbol (treehouse), and hiking through the beautiful surroundings. During your two-day stay, you will have the opportunity to indulge in several activities to create memories for a lifetime.
Day 6: Baños - Quito

Enjoy a last morning in Baños and do whatever you haven't done yet! Relax in the thermal pools, visit the famous "Casa del Arbol" (treehouse) or - if you are looking for some adrenaline - do canyoning or rafting. In the afternoon, make your way back to Quito where you will spend the next night.
Day 7: Flight to Guayaquil - Transfer to Montañita

Take a morning flight from Quito to Guayaquil. At Guayaquil Airport, you will get picked up for your transfer to Montañita. You will head north along the coast for approx. 2 1/2 hours until you reach the small village at the Pacific Coast. Check into your hotel and relax for the rest of the day. Enjoy a delicious meal or some cocktails, take surf classes or go check out the vibrant nightlife. Overnight stay in Montañita.
Days 8-12: Day at leisure - Montañita

A free day at the beach. Spend the day sunbathing or rent a surfboard, it's up to you! Overnight stay in Montañita.
Day 13: Montañita - Transfer to Guayaquil - Flight to Quito

In the morning you will drive along the “Ruta del Sol” (The route of the Sun) along the coastal highway south to Guayaquil. Afterward, you will take your flight back to Quito.
Day 14: Day at leisure until departure

Today you are free to explore Quito on your own and shop for souvenirs before you get picked up for your transfer to the airport.