Ecuador Travel Insights

Hike to the many waterfalls around Baños, including the "Devil's Cauldron"

Ecuador Discovery Tour: Andes to the Amazon - 9 Days

Check off Ecuador's Andean highlands, ancient Inca ruins, and Amazonian rainforest with this nine-day itinerary filled with scenic journeys and spectacular hikes. After landing in the high-altitude capital of Quito, you'll jet off to Cuenca to explore the "Athens of Ecuador," then venture north to discover the country's most important Inca site at Ingapirca. Follow the "Route of Waterfalls" to Baños, and continue into the Amazon for rainforest treks and wildlife spotting at a secluded ecolodge.

Search for wildlife while staying at a luxury lodge in the Galápagos (photo courtesy of Galápagos Safari Camp)

Luxury Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands - 11 Days

Spend 11 days discovering Ecuador's diverse landscapes, from the Andean highlands to the Amazon rainforest and the Galápagos Islands. Start with a night in Quito, learning how to make cocktails before venturing into the pristine rainforest. Here, you'll stay at the luxurious Sacha Lodge to explore private jungle trails, observe wildlife, and take canopy walks. Next is the Galápagos, where you'll visit uninhabited islands, see giant tortoises, and marvel at the volcanic landscapes while staying in a safari tent.

See the bucket-list sites of Ecuador and Peru on this two-week tour, including blue-footed boobies in the Galápagos.

Best of Ecuador & Peru with the Galápagos & Machu Picchu - 14 Days

Cross multiple items off your bucket list during this two-week adventure through Ecuador and Peru. Start in the Galápagos for snorkeling, island-hopping, and a plethora of unique animal sightings. Back on the mainland, explore Quito, climb the Cotopaxi volcano, soak in hot springs, then head to Lima to sample ceviche and pisco sours. Fly to the ancient Inca city of Cusco, bike through the nearby Sacred Valley, and end your trip at the epic ruins of Machu Picchu.

Discover Ecuador's incredible natural diversity, from Andean volcanoes to the uninhabited islands of the Galápagos

Jewels of Ecuador: From the Andes to the Galápagos - 13 Days

Experience Ecuador's world-famous biodiversity during this far-reaching 13-day adventure. Start high in the Andes in the capital of Quito, then head down to Cuenca for ancient Inca ruins. Hike along the Chimborazo volcano, swim in waterfalls and hot springs in Baños, make chocolate in the Amazon rainforest, and spot exotic birds in the cloud forests of Mindo. End your trip in the incredible Galápagos archipelago, following in the footsteps of Darwin and other intrepid explorers (and travelers!).

See diverse wildlife, like colorful parrots, during this seven-day excursion in Ecuador

Discover Ecuador's Biodiversity: Andes, Amazon & Pacific Coast - 7 Days

Spend a week exploring the small but mighty Ecuador, from mountains to rainforest to coast. Climb above Quito for sweeping views of the capital and the surrounding Andes, then head deep into the Amazon rainforest for a two-night stay in an ecolodge. Canoe on the river, discover ancient medicinal plants, and visit a local Indigenous village before returning to Quito to catch a flight to the Pacific coast. Here you'll take a boat tour of Isla de la Plata near Puerto López before departing from colorful Guayaquil.

Explore the Ecuadorian Amazon on foot and by boat

Discover the Ecuadorian Amazon: Quito & Archidona - 5 Days

This five-day trip to Ecuador combines a glimpse of the capital with a whirlwind Amazonian adventure. Begin with a spin around Quito's UNESCO-listed colonial center before venturing to the edge of the Amazon rainforest. You'll base yourself at an ecolodge in Archidona for waterfall hikes, cooking classes, night safaris, and tree planting. Head back to Quito via the Papallacta Hot Springs, then ride the cable car up the Pichincha volcano for a grand finale.

Spot aracari birds in the Mindo cloud forest

Ecuadorian Culture & Biodiversity in Quito & Mindo's Cloud Forest - 5 Days

Short on time? This five-day trip reveals Ecuador's colonial heart and biodiverse cloud forests in less than a week. Kick things off in Quito with a walking tour of the historic center and a visit to the equator, then continue to Mindo, where you'll explore the cloud forest and take part in fun activities like chocolate making, butterfly spotting, and waterfall hikes. Finish back in Quito with a cable car ride up the Pichincha volcano.

Get a unique view of the Andes in Baños during this 10-day tour

Ecuador Discovery Tour: Andes to the Amazon - 10 Days

Marvel at giant volcanoes, trek through the rainforest, and spot rare birds in cloud forests with this far-reaching 10-day Ecuador adventure. Start by straddling the equator in Quito, then walk the colonial streets of Cuenca, explore pre-Inca ruins at Ingapurca, and hike the slopes of the Chimborazo volcano. Follow the "Route of Waterfalls" in Baños, venture into the Amazon for two nights at a jungle lodge, then wrap up back in the capital with a day trip to the misty forests of Mindo.

Discover the highlights of northern Ecuador, including a stop at the sacred Peguche Waterfall

Hidden Corners of Northern Ecuador - 5 Days

Spend five days discovering the best of northern Ecuador, from its well-known highlights to more off-the-beaten-path treasures. Walk the UNESCO-listed streets of central Quito, then head to Otavalo to shop for handicrafts in its famous market and hike around Laguna de Cuicocha. Venture northwest into the cloud forests and coffee farms of Valle de Intag for two nights in a quiet mountain village, and end your trip at the sacred Peguche Waterfall before returning to Quito.

Taste your way through the Ecuadorian Andes on this eight-day tour

Cuisine & Culture in the Ecuadorian Andes - 8 Days

Spend eight days sampling Ecuadorian gastronomy and immersing yourself in the country's rich culture. Take a craft beer tour in Quito, then learn traditional recipes in a cooking class. Visit markets and crater lakes near Otavalo, climb volcanoes and make empanadas around Cotopaxi National Park, sample local cheeses and ride horses in Isinliví, then end your trip on a sweet note back in Quito with a chocolate tasting.

See the Cotopaxi volcano (and some of the landscape's local furry residents) as you explore the Andean highlands of Ecuador

Introduction to Ecuador's Andean Highlands: Quito, Otavalo & Cotopaxi - 5 Days

Encompassing crater lakes, volcanic peaks, and colonial cityscapes, this five-day trip takes you on a quick spin around Ecuador's Andean highlands. Start in Quito with a hands-on cooking class, then continue to Otavalo, where you'll meet endangered condors and browse the local Indigenous markets. Turn south toward the snowcapped volcanoes and páramo grasslands of Cotopaxi National Park, then wrap things up with kayaking on the turquoise waters of Quilotoa and a soak in the Papallacta Hot Springs.

Climb to El Panecillo for views across Quito

Explore Quito & the Central Andes - 5 Days

This quick, five-day getaway to Ecuador showcases Quito and the surrounding central Andes. Start with a local's-eye view of the capital's historic center, then set off into Cotopaxi National Park to explore its sweeping páramo landscapes and famous volcano. Settle into the charming Andean village of Isinliví for mountain horseback rides and hiking, grab a photo op at the turquoise crater lake of Quilotoa, and end back in Quito with a bike tour past colorful neighborhoods and street art.

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.

Escape to Ecuador's cloud forest and thrill to jungle adventures (photo courtesy of Mashpi Lodge)

1 Week in Ecuador - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

One week in Ecuador is an excellent amount of time to experience the luxuries of Quito and one or two other regions. Travel by canoe to Sacha Lodge to immerse yourself in lush rainforest, or stay at the tranquil Hacienda Zuleta to connect with local Indigenous communities. For those seeking a thrill, Cotopaxi National Park offers exhilarating outdoor adventures. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the rich culture of southern Ecuador or relax in the tranquil setting of the Mashpi Cloud Forest Reserve.

A greeting committee awaits at your historic lodgings in Cotopaxi (photo courtesy of Hacienda San Agustín de Callo)

Luxury Getaway to Ecuador's Peaks, Plains & Rainforests - 14 Days

Spend two weeks in Ecuador walking amid history, hiking national parks, exploring the Amazon, taking cooking classes, and more. Explore Quito's colonial landmarks and snack on decadent Ecuadorian chocolate, followed by a trip to the famous Indigenous market in Otavalo and hikes around the snowcapped cone of Cotopaxi volcano. After the highlands, fly to the Amazon for a few days of rainforest adventures, then conclude with stops in Spanish colonial Cuenca and farm tours near the coast.

Escape to a luxury rainforest retreat on the edge of Yasuní National Park

Luxury Journey Through Ecuador & the Galápagos - 14 Days

Combine a luxury vacation with bucket-list adventures in one of the best places for it: Ecuador. First, walk amid fascinating colonial history in Quito and dine at some of the country's best restaurants before exploring the rugged volcanoes and frontiers outside the city. Next, spend a few days on rainforest hikes at an exclusive lodge in the Amazon before concluding the adventure in the famous Galápagos archipelago, where you'll embark on daily private yacht excursions around this biodiverse wonderland.

After an action-packed week of adventure in Ecuador, take to the seas and explore the country's coastline on your luxury cruiser

Luxury Tour of Ecuador's Mountains & Coast - 14 Days

A two-week trip to Ecuador is more than a vacation—it's an exploration of some of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in the Americas. The food is a highlight, too, as you'll taste Ecuador's rich history on a chocolate tour in Quito and learn to make empanadas in the shadow of Cotopaxi volcano. This luxury escape also includes many outdoor adventures—from horseback riding and snorkeling in marine reserves to waterfall hikes—as well as a multiday yacht cruise along the coast.

Explore the bays and beaches of Isla Isabela by luxury catamaran yacht

Ecuador's Luxe Trio: Andean Highlands, Cloud Forests & the Galápagos - 14 Days

Explore three of Ecuador's most wondrous ecosystems on this two-week jaunt across the country. First up are the Andean highlands, home to snowcapped volcanoes, crater lakes, Indigenous culture, and Spanish colonial history in the capital of Quito. Then venture into the misty cloud forests of the Mashpi Reserve, where you'll spend your days on nature hikes and bird-watching before hopping aboard a luxury cruiser for five days amid the beauty and wildlife of the Galápagos.

Spend your days exploring and evenings relaxing in the luxurious grounds of your hacienda (photo courtesy of Hacienda Zuleta)

Luxury Hacienda Hopping in Ecuador - 14 Days

Ranch-style living doesn't mean roughing it, as you'll see on this two-week Ecuador itinerary that combines scenic natural wonders and luxurious haciendas. You'll stroll the historic streets of Quito, learn to make flaky empanadas, and ride horse-drawn carriages in the highlands. More thrilling adventures are in store as you head toward the coast for horseback riding on the slopes of towering volcanoes and bird-watching in Ecuador's cloud forests

Stay in luxury accommodation nestled within the rainforest (photo courtesy of Mashpi Lodge)

Luxury Ecuador Adventure: Amazon, Cloud Forest & Highlands - 10 Days

The highlands, the Amazon, and the cloud forests—explore these natural wonders by day while staying in some of Ecuador's most scenic spots without skimping on luxury. You'll start by hitting the highlights of the capital city, Quito, then venture deep into the Amazon for three days of exotic nature excursions. Experience a different ecosystem altogether as you bird watch in the cloud forests of Mashpi, then wrap everything up with some luxury glamping near the volcanoes of Cotopaxi.

Explore Ecuador's natural wonders by day and return to your luxury hacienda in the evening (photo courtesy of Luna Volcán)

Luxury Hacienda Hop Around Ecuador's Mountains & Coast - 10 Days

Venture into the wilds of Ecuador on a journey that will take you from highland volcanoes to the Pacific coast, stopping at historic cities and ancient ruins in between. Stay in first-class haciendas as you visit the museums of Quito, followed by horseback rides near Cotopaxi volcano. Then stroll the cobbled streets of historic Cuenca and hike around the pre-Inca ruins of Ingapirca before lapping up ranch-style luxury living in Guayaquil.

Combine luxury accommodation and Ecuador's stunning natural wonders on your 10-day tour (photo courtesy of Luna Volcán Adventure Spa)

Luxury Voyage into Ecuador's Highlands & Rainforest - 10 Days

Cover two of Ecuador's most scenic and biodiverse regions on this 10-day tour suited for outdoor adventurers who like a touch of luxury. Stay in 5-star hotels in Quito as you explore the capital's Spanish colonial center before hitting the road through the highlands, stopping to hike around volcanoes and waterfalls. Then, travel deep into the Amazon, where, along with naturalist guides, you'll go on nature hikes to spot the rainforest's most famous residents, including parrots, monkeys, and jaguars.

Travel in style as you explore the Galápagos (photo courtesy of M/C Elite)

Luxury Cruising in the Galápagos & Ecuadorian Amazon - 10 Days

The Galápagos Islands and Amazon rainforest are two of South America's most biodiverse regions—and you'll see them in style over 10 packed days. It's a grand Ecuadorian adventure starting in the islands, where you'll alternate between excursions on land and time enjoying the scenery from the deck of your luxury cruiser. Then, trade the ocean for the jungle as you head into the Amazon for nature hikes, swimming with river dolphins, cooking classes with Indigenous communities, and more.

Get to know the "Athens of the Andes" in southern Ecuador's colonial gem of Cuenca

Luxury Southern Ecuador Exploration: Guayaquil to Cuenca - 7 Days

Journey from the Pacific to the Andes in luxury with this southern Ecuador trip that features 5-star hotels and grand haciendas. It starts on the coast in Guayaquil, where you'll visit historic parks, enjoy chocolate tours, and hike to waterfalls from your base at a sprawling countryside estate. Then, head inland to explore the prairies of Cajas National Park and the colonial charms of Cuenca, where you'll dive into local life with intimate cultural experiences and a visit to ancient Inca ruins.

Savor Ecuador's world famous chocolate on a cacao tasting

Luxury Trip Through Ecuador's Culture & Gastronomy: Quito & the Amazon - 7 Days

As exciting as it is to explore Ecuador's limitless natural wonders, its history and Indigenous culture are equally rewarding. That's exactly what you'll do over seven days, starting with luxury tours of Quito's Spanish-colonial Old Town, followed by an Ecuadorian chocolate-tasting experience. Then, you're off to the Amazon to visit native communities before sampling Ecuadorian fine dining and finishing the adventure with relaxing soaks in natural hot springs.

Escape to a traditional hacienda in the Andean highlands (photo courtesy of Hacienda Zuleta)

Luxury Ecuadorian Highlands Getaway: Culture, Adventure & Open Skies - 7 Days

Mix luxury travel, cultural immersion, and a dash of outdoor adventure on this relaxed weeklong escape to Ecuador. It starts in the capital of Quito with tours of its historic Old Town, private cooking classes, and fine dining at the best restaurants. Then, push north to the Indigenous markets and historic haciendas of Otavalo, where you'll visit artisan workshops, hike around volcanic crater lakes, try your hand at traditional embroidery, and soar over the Andean highlands in a hot-air balloon.

Experience life deep in the cloud forest at a luxury lodge/research station (photo courtesy of Mashpi Lodge)

Luxury Ecuador City & Cloud Forest Escape - 7 Days

Pamper yourself on a weeklong escape to Ecuador to see the best of the central highlands, from Quito to the cloud forests. Enjoy first-class hotels and dining as you stroll the cobbled streets of the capital's UNESCO-listed historic center and set foot on the equator that divides the hemispheres. Then, embark on rainforest adventures like birding and nature hikes at a remote luxury lodge in Mashpi before returning to Quito for a soothing day at the natural hot springs.

Experience life on a working Ecuadorian ranch in the shadow of Cotopaxi volcano (photo courtesy of Hacienda El Porvenir)

Outdoor Adventures & Luxury in Ecuador's Highlands: Quito, Cotopaxi & Baños - 7 Days

Pack a hefty dose of outdoor adventures in Ecuador into a mere seven days—all while traveling in the lap of luxury. The first-class treatment begins on arrival in Quito, where you'll enjoy pampering and spa treatments at your 5-star hotel before taking to the skies on a thrilling private helicopter tour. After a culinary workshop to discover Ecuador's ancient flavors, you'll head south to hike and horseback ride around volcanoes, crater lakes, waterfalls, and much more.

Venture into the Ecuadorian Amazon to reach your luxury lodge (photo courtesy of Sacha Lodge)

Luxury Cultural Immersion in Quito & the Amazon - 7 Days

Immerse yourself in Ecuador's cultural heritage over seven days, which will take you from the cobbled streets of highland cities to the rainforests and tribal communities of the Amazon. In Quito, you'll discover Ecuadorian heritage through its cuisine with private cooking classes and chocolate tours, plus visit Indigenous communities in nearby towns. Then, venture deep into the Amazon to an exclusive lodge near Yasuni National Park for jungle adventures like nature hikes and ancient purification rituals.

Climb the colorful Santa Anna Hill in Guayaquil

Adventure Through the Andes, Southern Ecuador & the Coast - 16 Days

Some of the deepest history in the Americas can be found in the Andes mountains—particularly in Ecuador. Experience this country's rich heritage and natural beauty over 16 days of adventures, starting on the cobbled streets of historic Quito with cultural excursions and cooking classes. After soaking in Ecuador's famous hot springs, you'll hit the highlands to hike extinct volcanoes and tour pre-Inca ruins before snorkeling and surfing the coast's prime spots.

Cuenca is full of colonial delights, including it's blue-domed Cathedral

Ecuador's Cities, Highlands & Cloud Forests - 16 Days

Waterfalls, beaches, exotic animals, and ancient ruins—these are just a few of the highlights you'll experience on this 16-day journey through Ecuador. Walk the cobbled streets of Quito's UNESCO-listed historic center, taking cooking classes and visiting nearby monuments and colorful textile markets. Then, venture into the wild highlands for cloud-forest expeditions, horseback riding around volcanoes, waterfall hikes, and touring ancient ruins before winding up on the sunny shores of the Pacific coast.

Pichincha volcano is just one of the three volcanoes you'll hike

Hiking & Culture in Ecuador: Volcanoes, Lakes & Ancient Ruins - 16 Days

Strike out on an adventure across Ecuador's most famous regions, from the highlands to the Amazon rainforest. It begins in Quito with a tour of the capital's UNESCO-listed colonial center and cultural monuments before hiking to waterfalls, lakes, and volcanoes in the highland Cotopaxi region. Then, explore awe-inspiring pre-Columbian ruins before rounding out the adventure with canoe rides and nature hikes in the pristine Amazon forests at Yasuní National Park.

Hiking through the Amazon rainforest is just one of the many adventures on this 16 day vacation

Active Ecuador Highlands Adventure: From the Amazon to the Beach - 16 Days

Get the most out of Ecuador's varied regions as you enjoy active adventures from the central highlands to the northern Amazon and down the ruggedly beautiful coast. In Quito, learn to cook Ecuadorian cuisine before touring the crater lakes and riding horses around idyllic mountain towns. Then, venture deep into the Amazon for rainforest hikes and river rafting before winding up on sandy beaches near Puerto López, a coastal hub for whale watching, snorkeling, and other aquatic adventures.

Culture, Nature & Wildlife in Ecuador: From the Pacific to the Highlands & Into the Amazon - 16 Days

Ecuador delivers massive doses of natural beauty and rich culture. Dive deep into both on this 16-day journey, starting on the coast, from the tree-lined waterfront in Guayaquil to the mangroves of ecological reserves. After exploring the coast, travel inland to see ruins, colonial landmarks, and national parks around Cuenca, then venture into the Amazon to visit native villages and enjoy rainforest adventures before winding up in Quito to browse the historic Otavalo Market.

Get up close to the vertiginous waterfalls in Baños

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

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

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.

Get plenty of time to explore Quito's well-preserved historic center

Quito: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Ecuador typically plan a trip for seven to eight days when combining Quito with another stop like Isla San Cristóbal, Puerto Ayora, or Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. If you're only headed to Quito, you can enjoy a comfortably paced trip in five to seven days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as four days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Quito and beyond.

Spend part of your trip in Puerto Villamil on Isla Isabela in the Galapagos

Quito, Puerto Ayora, Isla San Cristóbal & Puerto Villamil: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 10 to 13 days is perfect for a well-paced Ecuador trip with stops in Quito, Puerto Ayora, Isla San Cristóbal, and Puerto Villamil. It's also possible to hit the highlights in eight or nine days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Baños, Cotopaxi, and Yasuni National Park. See more ideas for Quito, Puerto Ayora, Isla San Cristóbal, and Puerto Villamil itineraries below.

Spend a night in the beautiful coastal city of Guayaquil before flying to the Galapagos

Guayaquil, Puerto Ayora, Isla San Cristóbal & Puerto Villamil: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 11 to 14 days is perfect for a well-paced Ecuador trip with stops in Guayaquil, Puerto Ayora, Isla San Cristóbal, and Puerto Villamil. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in nine or 10 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of Ecuador's mainland. Get inspired with our trip ideas below.

Sunbathe with sea lions and other local residents when you stay on Isla San Cristobal

Quito, Puerto Ayora, Yasuni National Park & Isla San Cristóbal: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 10 to 14 days is perfect for a well-paced Ecuador trip with stops in Quito, Puerto Ayora, Yasuni National Park, and Isla San Cristóbal. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—our favorite itinerary extension includes Puerto Villamil. See more ideas for Quito, Puerto Ayora, Yasuni National Park, and Isla San Cristóbal itineraries below.

Lace up your hiking boots when you visit Cotopaxi National Park

Quito, Otavalo & Cotopaxi: Best Itinerary Ideas

Seven to eight days is the most popular trip length for Ecuador travelers interested in visiting Quito, Otavalo, and Cotopaxi, especially when also including time in another region. If you're not interested in extending your itinerary, six to seven days is enough for your Quito, Otavalo, and Cotopaxi trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as four or five days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Quito, Otavalo, Cotopaxi, and beyond.

Split your time between Ecuador's buzzing capital and the Amazon rainforest

Quito & Yasuni National Park: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, six to eight days is the perfect amount of time for an Ecuador trip, with stops in both Quito and Yasuni National Park. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as five days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Puerto Ayora and Puerto Villamil. Keep reading for more inspiring Quito and Yasuni National Park itineraries.

Look for blue-footed boobies in Puerto Villamil

Quito, Puerto Ayora & Puerto Villamil: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that eight to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Ecuador trip with stops in Quito, Puerto Ayora, and Puerto Villamil. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six or seven days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region, like Isla San Cristóbal or Yasuni National Park. See more ideas for Quito, Puerto Ayora, and Puerto Villamil itineraries below.

Go swimming off the coast of Puerto Ayora on Isla Santa Cruz

Quito & Puerto Ayora: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting both Quito and Puerto Ayora spend about eight to nine days in Ecuador, which usually includes some time in Isla San Cristóbal and Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve as well. If you're not interested in extending your itinerary, seven to nine days is enough for your Quito and Puerto Ayora trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as five or six days. For the best itineraries, including Quito and Puerto Ayora, keep reading below.

Explore Ecuador's capital before jumping on a cruise in the Galápagos

Quito & a Galápagos Cruise: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that seven to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Ecuador trip that combines Quito and a Galápagos cruise. It's also possible to hit the highlights in five or six days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country. Get inspired with our trip ideas below.

Daredevils won't want to miss a ride on the Swing at the End of the World

10 Days in Ecuador - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Ecuador, you and your family can visit at least three regions. Families keen on wildlife and watersports should head for the Pacific coast or the Galápagos. Those that stick to mainland Ecuador can experience history and cuisine in Quito, nature and Indigenous culture in the Amazon, and outdoor adventures, such as horseback riding, in the Andes. Families that prefer a relaxed pace can make Quito their base and experience the city and surroundings, including bird-watching in Mindo Cloud Forest.

Take a family hike at Ecuador's Mindo Cloud Forest

2 Weeks in Ecuador - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

You can explore at least three regions with your family on a two-week vacation to Ecuador. Families visiting for the first time can enjoy adventure, culture, and wildlife in Quito, the Andes, and the Amazon. Those seeking a beach escape can spend time on the Pacific coast and try snorkeling at Isla de la Plata. Active families with a range of interests should head for Quito, Baños, Cuenca, and Guayaquil, where there's hiking in El Cajas National Park, biking the Avenue of Waterfalls, pottery workshops, and guided city tours.

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