Arrive in Quito, and spend the day acclimating to the altitude. Take a stroll to the vibrant Mariscal neighborhood for lunch and then head to "El Panecillo" to get a panoramic view of the city and visit the gigantic Virgin of Quito Statue.
Visit the Mashpi Reserve, a nearly untouched cloud forest, and a prime spot for wildlife watching. Take a guided tour through trails amidst waterfalls, exotic birds, and other unique species, and visit the life-saving research and conservation station.
Travel to Visiting Cotopaxi National Park, the highest active volcano in the world, where you can go on a trek and get close to its glaciers. Stay in the summer camps for the night and stargaze after dinner, then get back to your hotel for a night's rest.
Visit Baños, a town filled with hot springs, and a great stop for adventure activities. Take a scenic bike ride through the valley, then a unique white-water rafting experience in the Pastaza River.
Take a morning flight to San Cristobal Island and spend two days discovering the fascinating wildlife in the Galápagos Islands. Embark on a guided tour of Espanola Island, with stops to see the Galápagos Albatross, unique bird species and seals. Enjoy a sunset walk along the beach, and explore the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. On the second day, visit "Leon Dormido," an iconic rock formation, visible from afar, which is home to sea lions and various fishes.
Head to Mindo, a peaceful cloud forest, northwest of Quito, filled with exotic birds such as the hummingbird or the Golden-headed Quetzal. Visit the Butterfly and Bird Congregation Center, where you can spot different kinds of hummingbirds eat nectar while surrounded by beautiful, green lush.
Visit Otavalo, a beautiful town famous for hosting the biggest indigenous market in South America. Browse through beautiful weaving textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs while enjoying Ecuadorian gastronomy, and then return to Quito for the night.
Transportation in Ecuador is often by taxi, cabs, or buses. It's best to rent a car for a more comfortable trip. However, different modes of transportation will be used depending on the location. Domestic flights are necessary to reach distant locations such as the Galápagos Islands. Flights generally cost around $300. Travel between locations is long and winding, so it is better to overestimate travel time from place to place.
If you have more time, visit Latacunga and explore Quilotoa crater. In Baños, they have excellent thermal spas to relax and enjoy. Visit the Anakena hot springs in Santa Rosa de Cabal for a more comprehensive hot spring experience. If you have less time, eliminate Mashpi Reserve and Otavalo Market.
You will arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), the busiest airport in Ecuador, which is located 18 kilometers(11 mi) east of Quito, and it's a 30-45minutes drive depending on road traffic. The airport is equipped with duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants. There are other airports in Guayaquil and Cuenca for connections around the country.