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Introducing Ecuador

Ecuador has it all. Between the Andean peaks, the Amazon rainforest, and the beautiful white sand beaches, travelers have a myriad of experiences to pick and choose from to suit their level of adventure and comfort.

When is the best time to visit?
Ecuador is a year-round destination. There’s no real summer or winter season, and with its varied geography, weather patterns are more dependent on location than the time of year. In the mountains, don’t be surprised to experience four seasons in one day. The Andes are a little drier from June through September. The best time to visit the beaches of Ecuador is, surprisingly, during the rainy season from December to May, when the weather is pleasantly warm, with rains usually limited to afternoon showers. Learn more

Where to go in Ecuador?
Ecuador offers a compelling mix of outdoor experiences and culture. Experience one of the most amazing national parks in the world at the remarkable Galapagos Islands, soak in the scenery and rural way of life in the Andes Mountains, tour the Amazon Rainforest with local guides, and enjoy the photographic colonial plazas of Quito and Cuenca.

How many days do I need?
Spend as few as 3 days and as many as 16 days in Ecuador. With as much as there is to see and do in this adventurer’s paradise, really the answer to this question is as many days as possible. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Ecuador Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Tiny tortoises of the Santa Cruz breeding center
Map of Quito & the Galápagos Islands - 8 Days
Quito & the Galápagos Islands - 8 Days

See contrasting sides of Ecuador on this eight-day islands-and-city adventure. Discover the astonishing biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands, where you'll meet playful sea lions, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises during stays on San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz. The country's capital, Quito, sandwiches your island time—your springboard to discover Indigenous and colonial culture and the surrounding volcanic Andes.

Countryside near Riobamba
Map of Best of the Ecuadorian Highlands - 7 Days
Best of the Ecuadorian Highlands - 7 Days

Traverse the very best of the Ecuadorian highlands on this 7-day itinerary. Starting and finishing in the capital, Quito, you will encounter bustling markets, awe-inspiring volcanoes, centuries-old colonial towns and Inca ruins. There's great hiking along the way in terrain ranging from glaciers and high-level plateau through to forests and waterfalls.

Enjoy the beaches of Ecuador
Map of The Real Ecuador: Quito, Otavalo, Amazon & Galapagos - 14 Days
The Real Ecuador: Quito, Otavalo, Amazon & Galapagos - 14 Days

Experience the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Ecuador over the course of two weeks. From the urban sprawl of Quito to the serene shores of the Galapagos and everything in between, this tour will span several diverse regions and truly open your eyes to one of South America's most fascinating countries.

Cordillera Occidental Andes Central Ecuador
Map of Ecuador: Amazon, Andes, and the Coast - 16 Days
Ecuador: Amazon, Andes, and the Coast - 16 Days

Explore the best of Ecuador in this 16-day tour through the Amazon, Andes, and Coastal regions. You'll visit beautiful colonial towns, indigenous communities, and experience ways of life both ancient and modern in this diverse country.

Ziplining toward a waterfall near the town of Baños
Map of Ecuador Highlands & Amazon - 7 Days
Ecuador Highlands & Amazon - 7 Days

This action-packed seven-day tour of Ecuador is perfect for travelers searching for adventure, culture and spectacular scenery all within a few hours' drive from the capital Quito. The trip begins with a thrilling bike ride down an active volcano and continues with hikes in the cloud forest, a climb up a waterfall and visits to an indigenous community. There will be plenty of opportunities to unwind too, with stops at hot springs and a quiet, mountainside hacienda.

The road leading to Cotopaxi
Map of Trekking Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes - 8 Days
Trekking Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes - 8 Days

This eight-day trekking adventure delivers the highlights of the Ecuadorian Andes as you explore stunning landscapes, secluded villages, and the famous peaks along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Hike along narrow mountain trails in the heart of the Andes as you make your way up the Quilotoa and Chimborazo volcanoes. Swim in the icy waters of Lake Quilotoa, then relax in the natural hot springs at Baños.

Make the Most of Your Time in Ecuador

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Quito in the foreground with an erupting Cotopaxi volcano in the distance
How Many Days to Spend In Ecuador

Ecuador is a country that packs enormous diversity into a small area, so it's ideal to visit for a short trip. You can spend a long weekend exploring Quito and the mountains,...

Highly active marmoset monkeys can be spotted on trips into the Ecuadorian Amazon
Map of 1 Week in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Spend a week in Ecuador exploring the country's diversity, from volcanoes to the rainforest. Each trip starts in Quito, with tours of the UNESCO-designated historic city and a...

Marine Iguana, Galápagos Islands
Map of 2 Weeks in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Ecuador gives plenty of time to enjoy all three of the country's main ecosystems—Amazon, Highlands, and Galápagos—or focus on one to fully immerse yourself in the...

Ecuador Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Cotopaxi
Best Time of Year to Visit Ecuador

On the northwestern side of South America, straddling the equator, Ecuador contains a remarkably diverse range of landscapes, altitudes, and climates. Despite their great...

Trekking along the Quilotoa Loop is an Ecuador highlight
Best Things to Do in Ecuador

Ecuador boasts a remarkable range of landscapes, cultures, and ecosystems from the Amazon to the Andes and straddling the southern and northern hemispheres. From raucous...

The mountains surrounding Guaranda, an off-the-beaten-path town in Ecuador well worth visiting
Going Off-The-Beaten-Path in Ecuador

Even with the tourism boom in Ecuador, there are still plenty of enticing destinations that remain under the radar, offering travelers the chance to explore architectural gems,...

One of the Ecuador's dramatic train rides, the Naríz del Diablo
Options for Touring Ecuador

By South American standards, Ecuador is a fairly small country. Most major destinations — with the exception of the Galápagos Islands — are within a day's drive of each other....

Ecuador Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Ecuador Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Photo courtesy of Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito
Wyndham Quito Airport
4.9
(18)
· Comfort
Wyndham Quito Airport is a convenient hotel for travelers arriving and departing from the Mariscal Sucre International Airport. You'll be almost within the airport, so it's especially ideal for early departures or late arrivals. And though you're very close to the terminal, there's a free 24/7...
Photo courtesy of Termas de Papallacta
Quito
Termas de Papallacta
5.0
(10)
· Comfort
Termas Papallacta is a resort spa nestled in the Andean highlands, offering the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You'll stay within a national park and a stone's throw away from the Papallacta Church and the Antisana Ecological Reserve. From the resort, you can easily...
Archidona
Kuyana Amazon Lodge
4.9
(12)
· Comfort
Kuyana Amazon Lodge is situated in a privileged area, surrounded by nature and offering a unique experience in San Pablo de Ushpayacu. Its location on a river provides easy access to nearby attractions such as Jumandy Caverns, Jumandy Monument, Latas Waterfall, and Sanctuary of the Virgin of...

Our Latest Ecuador Content

Learn how the Cañari and Inca people coexisted peacefully at Ingapirca
16 Days in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

More than two weeks in Ecuador is enough time to see much of the country, from the Andean highlands and the Amazon rainforest to the Pacific coast. A cities and highlands tour takes you to the Amazon in Archidona. Or, to see the coast, go surfing and whale watching in Puerto Lopez. Wildlife enthusiasts can add jungle trekking in Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, while hikers can be among lakes and volcanoes in the highland Cotopaxi region. Active travelers should visit Baños to go canyoning and cycling.

Soak in the views of Baños from your private terrace on an active luxury tour of Ecuador's mountains and coast (photo courtesy of Luna Volcán
2 Weeks in Ecuador - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Ecuador to spend in luxury, you can experience wildlife and one-of-a-kind nature-immersed accommodations. First-time visitors seeking a well-rounded trip should include time in the highlands, cloud forests, and the Galápagos Islands. Or, if you're eager for more off-the-beaten-path experiences, hop between lavish haciendas while making your way from Quito south to Guayaquil. Another superb, more leisurely option is a multiday cruise along the Pacific coast featuring world-class snorkeling.

Overnight deep in the Amazon within Yasuni National Park (photo courtesy of Napo Wildlife Center)
10 Days in Ecuador - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Ecuador on a luxury itinerary is ideal for an in-depth exploration of the country's varied landscapes and remote lodges. For those drawn to the distant Galápagos Islands, choose between a land-based or a more leisurely water-based stay. Similarly, Yasuni National Park in the Amazon is best explored while tucked into a luxurious ecolodge or onboard a first-class riverboat. On the other hand, Hiking enthusiasts should consider overnights in Cotopaxi National Park and Mashpi Cloud Forest Reserve.

Ecuador Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 10 Days in Ecuador: 5 Suggested Itineraries
10 Days in Ecuador: 5 Suggested Itineraries
View article
Map 7 Days in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 2 Weeks in Ecuador - 4 Unique Itineraries
2 Weeks in Ecuador - 4 Unique Itineraries
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Ecuador
Travel specialist Alvaro Pereira
active 10 mins ago

Alvaro Pereira

Born and raised in the vibrant country of Ecuador, I am the ideal person to craft a unique and unforgettable trip within my homeland. My passion for travel and exploring new and exciting places...

read more...
Travel specialist Tamer Obeid
active 3 mins ago

Tamer Obeid

A traveler myself since 1997, blessed to have had unforgettable experiences in different parts of this world that haven’t ceased to amaze me! Originally from the middle east, I have lived in the...

read more...
Travel specialist Mathias Onisseit
active 2 hours ago

Mathias Onisseit

Originally from Germany, in 2010 I set out to explore South America and soon fell in love with the super-diverse country named Ecuador (and its neat little attachment Galapagos). What fascinates me...

read more...
Travel specialist Linda Schulz
active 2 days ago

Linda Schulz

Originally from Germany, I have traveled around the world and lived in Australia, Bangladesh, and finally Ecuador. Ecuador is such a diverse and beautiful country, so I soon fell deeply in love...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

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Trip Reviews for Ecuador

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

A Fulfilling Week in Ecuador
Ecuador | Jun 28 - Jul 5, 2024

Lorraine
Lorraine N.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jul 13, 2024
After spending a week in the Amazon jungle with friends & family on a service project, I wanted to spend another week in Ecuador, but had some hesitations as a solo traveler. Tamer understood my concerns and gave me assurances that allowed me to relax and move forward with the trip. He put together a nicely balanced itinerary that covered a few days in Quito followed by whale watching in Puerto Lopez. Tamer researched the conditions in Puerto Lopez to ensure that portion of the trip would be... Read more

After spending a week in the Amazon jungle with friends & family on a service project, I wanted to spend another week in Ecuador, but had some hesitations as a solo traveler. Tamer understood my concerns and gave me assurances that allowed me to relax and move forward with the trip. He put together a nicely balanced itinerary that covered a few days in Quito followed by whale watching in Puerto Lopez. Tamer researched the conditions in Puerto Lopez to ensure that portion of the trip would be safe and worthwhile. Everything went smoothly including plenty of whale sightings! For the Quito activities, Tamer arranged for an excellent private guide, Sebastian, who was accommodating, extremely knowledgeable, and courteous.

Tamer was in touch every morning and evening for a quick chat and reminders. It was nice to know he had my back and was available should anything come up. He was great with details, made timely responses to my many questions, and handled with grace & efficiency some late-in-the-game changes to my plans.

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jul 13, 2024

Dear Lorraine :)
I'm so thankful for the opportunity you granted me to work with you on this trip! I promised a safe and enjoyable solo experience and I'm happy to see that I was able to deliver, thanks to our brilliant guides and providers. Seeing the videos you sent me about Whale sightings just warmed my heart :) Couldn't be more marvelous! I hope we cross paths again in the near future, as we in Kimkim will always be happy to plan more adventures for you and your loved ones :)
Yours,
Tamer

Trip of a lifetime!
Ecuador | Jun 14 - Jun 25, 2024

Claudia
Claudia d.
Canada | Reviewed on Jul 03, 2024
Tamer was our overall trip coordinator and he was very attentive and responsive particularly given that he coordinated the trip from Quito.
Special mention to Darwin our guide for Los Tunales and to Hulio for our trek up to the Negra caldera.
Read more

Tamer was our overall trip coordinator and he was very attentive and responsive particularly given that he coordinated the trip from Quito.
Special mention to Darwin our guide for Los Tunales and to Hulio for our trek up to the Negra caldera.

Hotel Reviews
Casa Opuntia Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

We were on the top floor do a bit of extra exercise but it was a nice hotel and the view was great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil

Amazing beach for walking in the morning and the staff were very helpful (even walked us to a restaurant)!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Solymar
Galápagos

Beautiful vista and very helpful staff

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure
Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure
Isla San Cristóbal

The trip to the beach was beautiful. Unfortunately there was not a lot to see at Kicker Tock on this particular visit but it was still a great experience to snorkel around it

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hiking the Sierra Negra  Volcano
Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano
Galapagos Islands

Another great trip and Hulio was an excellent guide. Beautiful vistas and worth the 16 km. hike’

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)
Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)
Galapagos Islands

One of the highlights of our trip. Darwin was an amazing guide and even provided underwater photos to each of us.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The boat driver was unbelievable navigating between the lava rocks so we could see the flora and fauna.
Discover the Wonders of Tintoreras Islet: A Journey into Breathtaking Biodiversity
Discover the Wonders of Tintoreras Islet: A Journey into Breathtaking Biodiversity
Puerto Villamil

Great experience!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
History and Nature: Full Day to Floreana Island
History and Nature: Full Day to Floreana Island
Puerto Ayora

There was a delay in the arrival of our guide/driver which turned out to be due to an unexpected cancellation. There was limited communication and when we finally got on a boat we were still not sure if it was the right excursion. The trip over was with heavy seas so it was a challenging voyage. The sites were interesting but much of the content shared by the guide was already new.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Puerto Ayora

Stunning vistas and sea animals. The snorkelling with the sea lions was such a special experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island:  Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

The tortoises’s were very memorable and the guide was very good. The food at the restaurant was excellent!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jul 03, 2024

Dear Claudia,
Many thanks for your review :) It really means a lot to me to learn how much you enjoyed this trip. I'll convey your positive comments to our guides, and we'll be looking forward to planning future adventures for you in the near future.
Yous,
Tamer

This was probably my best vacation. The Galap...
Ecuador | Jun 14 - Jun 25, 2024

Z
Zuzana J.
Canada | Reviewed on Jul 02, 2024
This was probably my best vacation. The Galapagos islands are breathtaking. Kimkim Team took a care of all arrangements for us including accommodations, all required permissions, transportation from island to island and daily trip activities with professional guides.
Tamer stayed in contact with us every day and answer any question we had. His assistance also helped us to enjoy our entire trip.
I highly recommend Kimkim Team service to every tourist who is planning to visit... Read more

This was probably my best vacation. The Galapagos islands are breathtaking.

Kimkim Team took a care of all arrangements for us including accommodations, all required permissions, transportation from island to island and daily trip activities with professional guides.
Tamer stayed in contact with us every day and answer any question we had. His assistance also helped us to enjoy our entire trip.

I highly recommend Kimkim Team service to every tourist who is planning to visit unforgeable Galapagos Islands.

Best Regards,
Zuzana Janosova Den Boer
June 2024

Hotel Reviews
Casa Opuntia Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Excellent and reliable service, clean rooms and friendly personal.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very easy access to all amenities.
Staff
Excellent and reliable service, clean rooms and friendly personal.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil

Excellent and reliable service, clean rooms and friendly personal.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very easy access to all amenities.
Staff
Excellent and reliable service, clean rooms and friendly personal.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Solymar
Galápagos

Excellent and reliable service, clean rooms and friendly personal. Highly recommended.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very easy access to all amenities
Staff
Excellent and reliable service and friendly personal.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jul 02, 2024

Dear Zuzana,
Thank you so much for your valuable feedback :) It is of great help for us to keep offering fantastic experiences in this beautiful country, Ecuador, and its fabulous Galapagos Islands. I will make sure to convey your positive comments to all our providers. I am absolutely thrilled to know you, Lennert, and Claudia have enjoyed this special trip.
Until the next adventure :)
Yours,
Tamer