7-Day Family Friendly Relaxation Itinerary in Ecuador

Day 1: Explore Quito's Charm

Quito, Ecuador

8:00AM

Visit the Historic Center

Begin your day exploring Quito's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colonial architecture and charming streets.
Take a walking tour starting from Plaza Grande and visit landmarks like the Cathedral and the Presidential Palace.
$10, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hasta La Vuelta Señor

Indulge in traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at Hasta La Vuelta Señor, known for its delicious empanadas and ceviche.
Head to the restaurant on Juan de Dios Martinez N24-181.
$20, 1 hour

2:00PM

TelefériQo Cable Car

Take a ride on the TelefériQo cable car for magnificent views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Drive to the base of the TelefériQo at the edge of the city.
$8, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Theatrum

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Theatrum, a restaurant with fantastic views of Quito's skyline and delicious fusion cuisine.
Head to Calle Rios N12-55 inside Casa Gangotena.
$40, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature in Mindo

Mindo, Ecuador

9:00AM

Mindo Cloud Forest

Spend the day exploring the Mindo Cloud Forest, known for its lush biodiversity and adventurous activities like zip-lining and hiking.
Drive from Quito to Mindo, approximately 2 hours.
$25, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Quetzal

Dine at El Quetzal, a popular spot in Mindo known for its chocolate-making and tasty dishes.
Located on Calle 9 de Octubre.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Butterfly Garden

Visit the Butterfly Garden to witness a variety of colorful butterflies up close in their natural habitat.
Just a short walk from the town center.
$5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Yuca's Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Yuca's Restaurant, specializing in traditional Ecuadorian dishes with a modern twist.
Located on Calle Luis Sanango.
$30, 2 hours
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Day 3: Artisan Markets in Otavalo

Otavalo, Ecuador

9:00AM

Otavalo Market

Explore the vibrant Otavalo Market, known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, and artwork created by indigenous artisans.
Drive from Mindo to Otavalo, approximately 2 hours.
$0 (for exploring), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Hacienda

Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch at La Hacienda, a restaurant offering delicious Andean cuisine.
Located near Plaza de Ponchos.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Peguche Waterfall

Visit the beautiful Peguche Waterfall, a serene spot for relaxation and connection with nature.
Short drive or hike from Otavalo.
$3 (entrance fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Casa del Canela

Indulge in dinner at La Casa del Canela, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious Ecuadorian dishes.
Located on Calle Sucre.
$25, 2 hours
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Day 4: Leather Goods in Cotacachi

Cotacachi, Ecuador

9:00AM

Cotacachi Town

Explore Cotacachi, a town known for its high-quality leather goods and artisan shops.
Drive from Otavalo to Cotacachi, approximately 30 minutes.
$0 (for exploring), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Mirage

Have lunch at La Mirage, a luxury hotel with a renowned restaurant serving gourmet dishes.
Located on Camino a Las Peñas.
$35, 2 hours

3:00PM

Artisan Workshops

Visit artisan workshops in Cotacachi to see the intricate process of crafting leather goods.
Stroll through the town and ask for recommendations from locals.
$10 (optional souvenirs), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tony's Pizzeria

Enjoy a casual dinner at Tony's Pizzeria, a local favorite known for its delicious pizzas.
Located on Calle 10 de Agosto.
$15, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Adventure in Baños

Banos, Ecuador

9:00AM

Casa del Árbol

Start your day with a visit to Casa del Árbol, where you can swing at the edge of the world on the Treehouse Swing.
Drive from Cotacachi to Baños, approximately 3 hours.
$5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Hood

Have a relaxed lunch at Café Hood, offering a variety of healthy and delicious options for all dietary preferences.
Located on Calle Martínez Mera.
$15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Pailón del Diablo Waterfall

Visit the impressive Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, located a short drive from Baños, and take a refreshing dip in its natural pools.
Take a taxi or guided tour to the waterfall.
$2 (entrance fee), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Tasca de las Brujas

Enjoy a cozy dinner at La Tasca de las Brujas, a charming restaurant with a magical ambiance and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine.
Located on Maldonado and Luis A. Martínez.
$30, 2 hours
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Day 6: Scenic Train to Devil's Nose

Riobamba, Ecuador

9:00AM

Devil's Nose Train Ride

Embark on the thrilling Devil's Nose Train Ride, a zigzagging journey through the stunning Andes mountains.
Take a scenic train tour from Riobamba.
$35, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafetería La Estación

Have lunch at Cafetería La Estación, a quaint restaurant providing hearty Ecuadorian meals and a warm atmosphere.
Located near the train station in Riobamba.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Riobamba Plaza

Stroll around Riobamba Plaza to admire the colonial architecture, bustling markets, and take in the local culture.
Located in the city center of Riobamba.
$0 (for exploring), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hacienda Abraspungo

Indulge in a luxurious dinner at Hacienda Abraspungo, a beautiful hacienda offering gourmet cuisine and stunning views.
Drive to Km. 3.5 vía a Guano.
$50, 2 hours
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Day 7: Cultural Delights in Cuenca

Cuenca, Ecuador

9:00AM

Cajas National Park

Explore the beautiful Cajas National Park, known for its stunning high-altitude landscapes, lakes, and hiking trails.
Drive from Riobamba to Cuenca, approximately 4 hours.
$10, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tiestos Café Restaurante

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Tiestos Café Restaurante, a cozy eatery serving up traditional Ecuadorian dishes with a twist.
Located near Plaza San Blas.
$25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cuenca's Old Town

Wander through Cuenca's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with picturesque streets, historic buildings, and charming cafes.
Start at Parque Calderon and explore the surrounding areas.
$0 (for exploring), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tres Estrellas

Finish your day with a delightful dinner at Tres Estrellas, known for its farm-to-table concept and delectable dishes.
Located on Calle Larga.
$35, 2 hours
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