Discover the beauty of Ecuador in 5 days

• Day 1: Explore the historic center of Quito. Visit the stunning La Compania de Jesus church, the colorful street of La Ronda, and learn about traditional crafts at the Museo del Pasillo.
• Day 2: Take a trip to the Otavalo market, one of the largest and most famous markets in South America. Stroll through the stalls, chat with locals, and pick up some unique souvenirs. Stop by the Peguche waterfall and visit a traditional Andean music workshop.
• Day 3: Journey to Baños, a picturesque town famous for its hot springs and outdoor adventure activities. Experience the excitement of canyoning or rafting, and relax in the thermal baths.
• Day 4: From Baños, take a trek to the stunning Tungurahua volcano. Hike through the National Park, and get a glimpse of the incredible landscapes of Ecuador. In the evening, experience some of the nightlife that Baños has to offer.
• Day 5: Spend the day exploring the lovely Cuenca, known for its enchanting colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and craft markets. Visit the awe-inspiring cathedral, the Museum of Modern Art, and the famous flower market.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• La Compania de Jesus church (1 hr, $7)
• La Ronda (1 hr, free)
• Museo del Pasillo (2 hrs, $5)
• Otavalo Market (3 hrs, $10)
• Peguche waterfall (1 hr, $1)
• Andean music workshop (2 hrs, $20)
• Canyoning or rafting (4 hrs, $50)
• Thermal Baths (3 hrs, $20)
• Tungurahua volcano trek (6 hrs, $30)
• Cathedral (1 hr, $2)
• Museum of Modern Art (2 hrs, $5)
• Flower market (1 hr, free)
Total Estimated Costs: $150

Transportation

Transportation in Ecuador is easy and inexpensive. Taxis are widely available in most cities and towns. Public transportation such as buses and trains are also available, and they offer low-fare options for long-distance travel. Travel costs for a private taxi will range from $10 to $30 depending on the distance, and public transportation costs range from $0.50 to $5.00.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Galapagos Islands or the Amazon rainforest. For those with less time, skip Baños and head straight to Cuenca for a more relaxed and scenic trip. Also, don't forget to try the traditional Ecuadorian dish of "ceviche" while you're there.