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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
(16)
· 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...
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...
Photo courtesy of Termas de Papallacta
Quito
Termas de Papallacta
5.0
(9)
· 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...

Our Latest Ecuador Content

Get up close to the vertiginous waterfalls in Baños
Map of Quito, Baños, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Cotopaxi & Guamote: Best Itinerary Ideas
Quito, Baños, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Cotopaxi & Guamote: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Quito, Baños, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Cotopaxi, and Guamote spend about 15 days in Ecuador, which usually includes time for more stops as well. For travelers wanting to visit Quito, Baños, Cuenca, Guayaquil, Cotopaxi, and Guamote exclusively, plan eight to 10 days for a well-paced trip. Read on for the best itineraries.

 Look for rare bird species like the red-footed booby in Isla San Cristobal
Map of Quito & Isla San Cristóbal: Best Itinerary Ideas
Quito & Isla San Cristóbal: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to nine days is the most popular trip length for Ecuador travelers interested in visiting both Quito and Isla San Cristóbal, especially when also including Puerto Ayora. If you're not interested in Puerto Ayora, seven to 10 days is enough for your Quito and Isla San Cristóbal trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as five or six days. Check out our favorite Quito and Isla San Cristóbal trips below.

 Divide your time between the city of Quito and nearby volcanoes in Cotopaxi National Park
Map of Quito & Cotopaxi: Best Itinerary Ideas
Quito & Cotopaxi: Best Itinerary Ideas

Seven to eight days is the most popular trip length for Ecuador travelers interested in visiting both Quito and Cotopaxi, especially when also including Baños or Archidona. If you're not interested in Baños, five to seven days is enough for your Quito and Cotopaxi trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as four days. For the best itineraries, including Quito and Cotopaxi, keep reading below.

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
View article
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 Mathias Onisseit
active 1 day 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 Alvaro Pereira
active 6 hours 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 6 hours 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 Lucia Cazar
active 5 hours ago

Lucia Cazar

I started to travel, camp, and go on excursions (especially in natural environments) when I was 10 years old - since then I have never stopped. Before I started my studies in Tourism and...

read more...

Related Destinations

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Why travelers love kimkim

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Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
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Trip Reviews for Ecuador

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Well planned customized trip
Ecuador | Mar 4 - Mar 13, 2024

V
Victoria M.
Encinitas, CA | Reviewed on Mar 15, 2024
.Alejandra and Tamar planned an excellent adventure for us. We loved all the lodgings, giving us a taste of the local culture and not just another American style hotel . The hacienda , farm station and Amazon lodge . were wonderful. Sebastian was our guide and driver and we couldn't ask for anyone better. He was extremely knowledgeable in all areas and never got tired from my husband's endless questions. He went above and beyond the call of duty altering our plan as needed when my husband... Read more

.Alejandra and Tamar planned an excellent adventure for us. We loved all the lodgings, giving us a taste of the local culture and not just another American style hotel . The hacienda , farm station and Amazon lodge . were wonderful. Sebastian was our guide and driver and we couldn't ask for anyone better. He was extremely knowledgeable in all areas and never got tired from my husband's endless questions. He went above and beyond the call of duty altering our plan as needed when my husband had a foot problem and couldn't walk due to a foot injury. He and Alejandra stayed with us at the hospital until we insisted they go home after a very long day. It turned.out to be a not so serious condition and we were able to continue on our original plan. It was most comforting to know we had help when needed. Miguel at the Amazon lodge was terrific as well accomodationg our needs and still providing a wonderful Amaxon experience when plans had to change. Both these guides made us feel that nothing was too much to ask. Thankyou Kimkim for referring us to the excellent planners and exceptional guides. Thus is our 3rd Kimkim trip. Using Kimkim takes all the stress out of travel.

Activity Reviews
Baños -  Archidona (Huasquila Lodge)
Baños - Archidona (Huasquila Lodge)
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer to Baños via Quilotoa Lagoon
Transfer to Baños via Quilotoa Lagoon
Ecuador

Beautiful spot

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Otavalo - Cotopaxi National Park
Otavalo - Cotopaxi National Park
Ecuador

Weather was foggy but there is ni control of that. It cleared when we walked the lagoon and we could see the volcano.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Otavalo Market - Cuicocha Lagoon
Otavalo Market - Cuicocha Lagoon
Ecuador

We were at the market on a Wednesday which had handicrafts. I understand Saturdays have produce etc which would bring in the local people which is always interesting for us.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rainforest Adventure (Huasquila Lodge)
Rainforest Adventure (Huasquila Lodge)
Archidona
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 16, 2024
Dear Victoria,
It was quite a pleasure working with you on this trip, and it makes us incredibly happy to know we were a small part of your lovey experience and that you and Don have enjoyed the charm of Ecuador. Alejandra and I couldn't be more thankful for your positive feedback and kind words, I will also make sure to convey your much-appreciated comments to Sebastian and Miguel :)
Your review means a lot to us here at Kimkim, and it encourages us to master our services more and more. It...
Read more

Dear Victoria,
It was quite a pleasure working with you on this trip, and it makes us incredibly happy to know we were a small part of your lovey experience and that you and Don have enjoyed the charm of Ecuador. Alejandra and I couldn't be more thankful for your positive feedback and kind words, I will also make sure to convey your much-appreciated comments to Sebastian and Miguel :)
Your review means a lot to us here at Kimkim, and it encourages us to master our services more and more. It is also of great value to our future travelers, and thus we are really grateful.
We will always be here for you and Don to plan yet more adventures for you to enjoy.
Many thanks, Victoria.
Yours,
Tamer

Great trip.
Ecuador | Feb 16 - Feb 22, 2024

D
Dana D.
New Bedford, MA | Reviewed on Mar 01, 2024
We had a great trip. Alvaro and his team were great communicators, organized, offered helpful advice, and responded quickly to any inquires. Our tour was well-paced and interesting. We learned a lot about Ecuador, had some adventures, and saw many beautiful areas. Our lodgings were all very comfortable, the meals were good, and the tours were very enjoyable. Our tour guide, Edison, was knowledgeable about Ecuador and generously shared his insights and expertise. He only added to... Read more

We had a great trip. Alvaro and his team were great communicators, organized, offered helpful advice, and responded quickly to any inquires. Our tour was well-paced and interesting. We learned a lot about Ecuador, had some adventures, and saw many beautiful areas. Our lodgings were all very comfortable, the meals were good, and the tours were very enjoyable.

Our tour guide, Edison, was knowledgeable about Ecuador and generously shared his insights and expertise. He only added to the experience.

Hotel Reviews
Hosteria La Andaluza
Riobamba

Great hotel. Warm and welcoming staff. Beautiful location. Comfortable rooms. Amazing art. Delicious dinner. And the courtyard with the bunnies and peacocks made us laugh.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hacienda Santa Ana
Cotopaxi

Great hotel. Warm and welcoming host. Beautiful location. Comfortable rooms.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Journey to the Peak From the Center of the Earth: Chimborazo!
Journey to the Peak From the Center of the Earth: Chimborazo!
Ecuador

We were suffering with the altitude, so we weren't sure if we'd make it to the second refuge, but we did! It was snowing and foggy, so there was no view, but we were still thrilled to have made it.

Colonial City Tour, Cooking Class & the Middle of the World Monument
Colonial City Tour, Cooking Class & the Middle of the World Monument
Quito

The class was great. I didn't know what to expect, but it was very fun. Our host was welcoming and knowledgeable. The meal was delicious. And it was a great way to slow down a little and learn about Ecuadorean food.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 01, 2024

Dear Dana & Walter!

Thank you so much for your lovely review and kind words. We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip to Ecuador. We hope that on your next adventure, you will have the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Galapagos Islands.

Best wishes,
Alvaro & Team :)

We are a retired couple that likes relaxing vacations
Ecuador | Jan 13 - Jan 27, 2024

S
Steve C.
Middleton, WI | Reviewed on Jan 30, 2024
We are a retired couple that likes to have relaxing vacations while still seeing many of the sights. Most “pre-packaged” tours jam the trips full of activities every day. Lucia did a great job of tailoring the trip to our desires. We were in Ecuador for two weeks and had all private tours except for two small group excursions in the Galapagos. All of our guides were great, especially Genaro in Cuenca. We loved Cuenca - it has an easy to explore old town area. We felt like this trip... Read more

We are a retired couple that likes to have relaxing vacations while still seeing many of the sights. Most “pre-packaged” tours jam the trips full of activities every day. Lucia did a great job of tailoring the trip to our desires.

We were in Ecuador for two weeks and had all private tours except for two small group excursions in the Galapagos. All of our guides were great, especially Genaro in Cuenca. We loved Cuenca - it has an easy to explore old town area.

We felt like this trip was great value for the money, and have been recommending both Ecuador and KimKim to our friends and family. Thanks Lucia!

Hotel Reviews
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

This hotel was our favorite on the entire Ecuador trip. We had a suite and loved the space. The staff are amazing. It is located very near to ATMs and a supermarket. Plus many restaurants are very walkable. Lastly, the harbor where our excursions left from was a very short walk.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wyndham Guayaquil, Puerto Santa Ana
Guayaquil

This was a great stopover hotel enroute to the Galapagos. The hotel is great and it is near many restaurants.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Lucia Cazar
Lucia
Lucia Cazar
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Feb 01, 2024

Dear Steve & Joan,
Thank you for such a nice review! :) It makes me so happy to have passengers like you who appreciate what Ecuador has to offer to all people around the world, also thank you for the feedback regarding the guides, hotels, and staff, we learn a lot from you :) thanks.
I hope you can visit us again.
Best regards,
Lucía