5-Day Ecuador Adventure Itinerary: Nature, Culture, and Cuisine

Day 1: Arrival in Quito

Quito, Ecuador

9:00AM

Breakfast at Casa Gangotena

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Casa Gangotena, a charming hotel in the heart of the historic centre serving traditional Ecuadorian dishes.
Walk from your accommodation if you're staying nearby, or take a taxi to the hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Historic Centre

Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Centre of Quito, admiring the stunning colonial architecture and visiting the iconic La Compañía de Jesús.
Walking tour through the area, visiting spots at your leisure.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Rincon de la Abuela

Indulge in a comforting lunch at El Rincon de la Abuela, known for serving hearty Ecuadorian stews and fresh juices.
Short walk from the Historic Centre.
USD12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Teleférico

Take the Teleférico cable car up to the Pichincha Volcano for spectacular views of Quito below.
Taxi to Teleférico entrance, then ride the cable car.
USD8, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Ronda

Dine at La Ronda, a lovely restaurant that offers a mix of traditional Ecuadorian and contemporary dishes in a beautiful atmosphere.
Taxi back to the city centre.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before setting off on your exciting day.
Eating at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Cotopaxi National Park

Depart for Cotopaxi National Park and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the high Andes.
Private transport for about 1 hour.
USD50 (shared cost), 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike to Limpiopungo Lagoon

Experience a scenic hike to Limpiopungo Lagoon, surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes and wildlife.
Guided hike starting at the park entrance.
USD25 (including guide), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Cienaga Restaurant

Savour local flavours while enjoying breathtaking views at La Cienaga, a restaurant that offers traditional Ecuadorian dishes.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Cotopaxi Museum

Learn about the natural history, biodiversity, and culture of the Cotopaxi region at the park’s museum.
Short drive from lunch.
USD5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Quito

Head back to Quito and relax at your hotel after an adventure-filled day.
1-hour drive back to Quito.
USD50 (shared cost), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Casa de los Abuelos

Enjoy dinner at Casa de los Abuelos, known for its cozy atmosphere and a variety of Ecuadorian dishes.
Taxi to the restaurant.
USD18, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventures in Baños

Baños, Ecuador

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel, fuel for the adventures ahead.
Dining at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Baños

Take a scenic drive to Baños, known for its hot springs and beautiful waterfalls.
Private transport for about 3 hours.
USD50 (shared cost), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Hood

Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch at Café Hood, famous for its fresh ingredients and healthy options.
Short walk from the bus drop-off.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Pailón del Diablo Waterfall

Discover the breathtaking Pailón del Diablo, an impressive waterfall that boasts a picturesque trail leading to its base.
Short taxi ride to the site.
USD5, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax in Hot Springs

Unwind in one of Baños' many thermal hot springs, an ideal way to relax after a busy day.
Taxi to the hot springs location.
USD15, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Centro de Baños

End your day with a delightful dinner at Centro de Baños, serving a variety of Ecuadorian and international dishes.
Short walk from the hot springs.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Cultural Day in Cuenca

Cuenca, Ecuador

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel before heading to Cuenca for a day immersed in culture.
Dining at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Cuenca

Travel to Cuenca by private transport, marveling at the scenic landscapes along the way.
Drive for approximately 5 hours.
USD100 (shared cost), 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tiestos

Indulge in a traditional lunch at Tiestos, known for their delicious grilled meats and authentic flavours.
Walking distance from the bus drop-off.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Cuenca's Historic Centre

Wander around the beautiful Historic Centre of Cuenca, home to impressive cathedrals and quaint streets.
Walking tour through the centre.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Panama Hat Museum

Learn about the history of the famous Panama hat and its cultural significance in Ecuador.
Short walk from the Historic Centre.
USD3, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at La Cuchara

Savor Ecuadorian cuisine at La Cuchara, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious offerings.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
USD18, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Discover the Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

5:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before your flight to the breathtaking Galápagos Islands.
Dining at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

6:00AM

Fly to Galápagos Islands

Take an early flight to the Galápagos Islands, your final destination teeming with unique wildlife.
Flight from Cuenca to Baltra Island.
USD200 (flight), 2 hours (including check-in)

9:00AM

Transfer to Santa Cruz Island

Upon arrival, transfer to Santa Cruz Island and check into your accommodation.
Bus and ferry connections.
USD30 (transfer), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Charles Darwin Research Station

Explore the Charles Darwin Research Station, learning about conservation efforts and observing giant tortoises.
Short taxi ride from your accommodation.
USD5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Galapagos Deli

Satisfy your palate with delicious sandwiches and salads at Galapagos Deli, a local favourite.
Walking distance from the research station.
USD12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Tortuga Bay

Take a leisurely stroll to Tortuga Bay, a stunning beach known for its clear waters and beautiful scenery.
Taxi to the trailhead, then a 30-minute walk.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Blue Marlin

Indulge in a seafood dinner at The Blue Marlin, offering fresh catch and stunning ocean views.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability