14-Day Ultimate Ecuador Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Quito

Quito, Ecuador

10:00AM

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport and check into your hotel in the historic district.
Tax or shuttle service from airport to hotel.
USD150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at El Ventanal

Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch with a beautiful view of the city.
5-minute taxi ride from the hotel.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Historic Center

Visit Plaza Grande, La Compañía de Jesús, and see the stunning architecture.
Walking tour of approximately 1 hour.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Ronda

Savor dinner in one of the charming restaurants of La Ronda street.
Short walk from the historical center.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Relax and Adventure in Quito

Quito, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panaderia San Jorge

Start your day with fresh bread and coffee at this local bakery.
Walking distance from hotel.
USD5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Teleférico

Take the cable car for spectacular views of the city and surrounding mountains.
15-minute taxi ride to the base.
USD8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Casa Gangotena

Indulge in a gourmet meal in this luxurious restaurant inside a historic mansion.
Return tax ride to the historic district.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Mitad del Mundo

Visit the equator monument and learn about the significance of being in two hemispheres.
30-minute taxi ride from downtown.
USD5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Pizarra

Enjoy a fusion dinner with locals watching in an artsy vibe.
Taxi back to Quito City.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cotopaxi National Park Adventure

Cotopaxi, Ecuador

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Quick filling breakfast to fuel the day's adventure.
On site.
Free, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Cotopaxi National Park

Travel to the park for an exhilarating day of hiking and exploring.
Private transfer or bus, approximately 1.5 hours.
USD50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Hiking in the Park

Hike to the refuge and enjoy breath-taking views of the Cotopaxi Volcano.
Guided trekking.
USD15, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Salitre

Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by stunning Andean scenery.
Brought with you or organized by tour guide.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Hiking or Horseback Riding

Further explore the park with either more hiking or a horse riding session.
Organized through local guide.
USD25, 3 hours

6:00PM

Travel to Baños

Transfer to Baños to settle into your accommodation upon arrival.
Taxi transfer, approximately 1.5 hours.
USD40, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Cafe de la Virgen

Enjoy a cozy meal famous for its Ecuadorian comfort dishes.
Short walk to cafe.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Baños

Baños, Ecuador

7:30AM

Breakfast at Casa Hood

Start with an organic breakfast in this charming atmosphere.
Walking to the cafe.
USD7, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Pailón del Diablo

Marvel at one of the largest waterfalls in Ecuador, a must-see attraction.
20-minute taxi ride.
USD5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Casa del Árbol

Taste the local flavors while enjoying views of the mountains.
Return taxi ride to town.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Adventure Sports

Opt for zip-lining or canyoning for that adrenaline rush.
Organized through local adventure company.
USD50, 3 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Hot Springs

Unwind at one of the local thermal hot springs after a day of adventure.
Short taxi ride.
USD10, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Swiss Bistro

Enjoy fondue in a cozy ambiance, a perfect way to end the evening.
Walk from hot springs.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: More Adventure in Baños

Baños, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Opera

Delight in a coffee and fresh pastry before your activities.
Walking distance from hotel.
USD5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Rutas de las Cascadas

Cycle through the stunning waterfalls along the path; bikes can be rented locally.
15-minute taxi ride to route starting point.
USD15, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Cafe del Cielo

Enjoy a meal with a view after cycling.
Return to town.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Town Market

Experience local culture and shop for handmade crafts in Baños’ market.
Short walk from lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Las Tres Banderas

Dine on local dishes, including cuy (guinea pig).
Close walking distance.
USD18, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cuenca Discovery

Cuenca, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hotel breakfast buffet before travel.
On site.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Cuenca

Depart Baños for Cuenca, famous for its UNESCO heritage.
Taxi transfer, approximately 3.5 hours.
USD60, 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at San Sebas Café

Stop for a hearty lunch in the historical center.
Short walk from your hotel.
USD12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Cuenca’s City Center

Discover the beautiful architecture, cathedrals, and art galleries.
Walking tour throughout the city.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Cajas National Park

Take in stunning landscapes and unique flora in this national park.
Taxi, approximately 30 minutes.
USD5, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Guarida

Dine in a local restaurant renowned for its contemporary Ecuadorian cuisine.
Return taxi to restaurant.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Cultural Immersion in Cuenca

Cuenca, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Nucallacta

Indulge in locally sourced coffee and pastries to start your day.
Walking distance from hotel.
USD6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Panama Hat Factory

Learn about the famous Panama hat-making process in its hometown.
Walking distance from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Museum of Modern Art

Fascinate yourself with local and international art pieces.
Short walk from the factory.
USD3, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Austria

Experience European-inspired cuisine in a unique café setting.
Walking distance.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Flower Market

Wander through the vibrant flower market and take stunning photographs.
Short walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Los Tios

Finish the day with traditional dishes at this cozy family restaurant.
Walking distance.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Journey to Loja

Loja, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a morning breakfast to start your journey.
On site.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Loja

Head to Loja, famous for its cultural music scene.
Private transport, approximately 4 hours.
USD70, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Huerto

Indulge in farm-to-table dishes at this beloved spot.
Short walk from hotel.
USD12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Loja’s Cultural Scene

Visit local museums and experience traditional music events.
For walking or bike rental.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Jardín

Experience the diverse flavors of Ecuador at this upscale restaurant.
Short walk from the cultural locations.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Relaxing in Vilcabamba

Vilcabamba, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in your accommodation.
On site.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Vilcabamba

Move to Vilcabamba, known for its beautiful landscapes.
Private transport, approximately 1 hour.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Free Time to Explore or Hike

Choose to take a short hike or relax and take in the serene atmosphere.
Walking or onsite hiking directions.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cafe de Vilcabamba

Enjoy organic, home-cooked meals with a stunning view.
Short walk from your accommodation.
USD10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Rest and Relax at Spa

Take part in a rejuvenating spa treatment in this tranquil town.
Organized through your hotel or local spa.
USD40, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Llama Cafe

Dine on delicious vegan and vegetarian options at this local favorite.
Walking distance from spa.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Departure to Guayaquil

Guayaquil, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a bright breakfast to fuel your travels.
On site.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Guayaquil

Head to Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, for urban exploration.
Private transport, approximately 4 hours.
USD70, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Canoa

Experience great seafood right by the malecón.
Short walk down to the waterfront.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll the Malecón 2000

Walk along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the Guayas River.
On foot from restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Fortín

Dine on authentic Ecuadorian food while overlooking the river.
Short walk from the malecón.
USD25, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Galápagos Islands Part I

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast to catch your flight to the Galápagos.
On site.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fly to Baltra

Take an early flight to Baltra Island in the Galápagos.
Taxi to airport, then a flight.
USD200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch aboard your cruise

Begin your Galápagos adventure with lunch on your cruise ship.
Included in the cruise.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore North Seymour Island

A guided tour of wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
Included in the cruise.
Free, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner on Cruise

Enjoy dinner while taking in the sunset over the ocean.
Included in the cruise.
Free, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Galápagos Islands Part II

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

7:00AM

Breakfast on Cruise

Savor a hot breakfast before another adventurous day.
Included in the cruise.
Free, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Bartolomé Island

An excursion to one of the most iconic islands known for its unique volcanic landscapes.
Included in cruise itinerary.
Free, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy lunch while marveling at the views.
Included in the cruise.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Snorkeling at Sullivan Bay

Experience a unique underwater world with diverse marine life.
Included in cruise excursion.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner on Cruise

Enjoy a delicious meal while recounting the day's adventures.
Included in the cruise.
Free, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Galápagos Islands Part III

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

7:00AM

Breakfast on Cruise

Another delightful breakfast awaits before your last day of exploration.
Included in cruise.
Free, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Santa Cruz Island

Explore the wildlife and unique ecosystems found on Santa Cruz.
Included in cruise excursions.
Free, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy a delicious meal to refuel before your last activities.
Included in cruise.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Charles Darwin Research Station

Learn about conservation efforts and see Galápagos tortoises up close.
Included in cruise itinerary.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner on Cruise

Dine on the moonlit deck as your cruise comes to an end.
Included in cruise.
Free, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Return to Quito

Quito, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast on Cruise

Enjoy your last breakfast at sea before returning to the mainland.
Included in cruise.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Fly Back to Quito

Take your final flight back to Quito.
Transfer from boat to Baltra airport, then fly to Quito.
USD200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Ronda in Quito

Savor a farewell lunch at one of Quito's iconic restaurants.
Taxi from airport to restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Free Afternoon for Last-minute Exploration

Take some time to revisit your favorite spots in Quito or shop for souvenirs.
Walking or taxi based on location.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Zazu

Enjoy a fine dining experience with gourmet Ecuadorian cuisine to conclude your trip.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
USD50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability