Ultimate Ecuador Travel Itinerary

Why Ecuador Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Ecuador is one of the most diverse countries in the world. Within a relatively small territory, travelers can experience snow-capped volcanoes, the Amazon Rainforest, colonial cities, Pacific beaches and the world-famous Galápagos Islands.

This guide combines Ecuador's most iconic destinations into one unforgettable journey.

Quito

Ecuador's Cultural Capital

Most international visitors begin their trip in Quito.

Must-see attractions:

Historic Center

Plaza Grande

Basilica del Voto Nacional

La Compañía Church

Quito Cable Car

El Panecillo

Middle of the World Monument

Quito offers the perfect introduction to Ecuadorian history and culture.

Otavalo and Cuicocha

Indigenous Culture and Andean Traditions

Highlights include:

Otavalo Market

Cuicocha Lagoon

Artisan workshops

Indigenous communities

Traditional cuisine

This region provides one of the best cultural experiences in Ecuador.

Cotopaxi National Park

Ecuador's Most Iconic Volcano

Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world.

Popular activities:

Scenic hiking

Limpiopungo Lagoon

Wildlife observation

Landscape photography

Private tours

Quilotoa Lagoon

Ecuador's Famous Crater Lake

One of South America's most spectacular natural attractions.

Activities:

Hiking

Photography

Scenic viewpoints

Cultural experiences

Community tourism

Baños de Agua Santa

Ecuador's Adventure Capital

Top attractions include:

Casa del Árbol

Swing at the End of the World

Waterfall Route

Thermal baths

Scenic viewpoints

Local gastronomy

Waterfall Route

Ecuador's Most Famous Scenic Drive

Highlights:

Agoyán Waterfall

Manto de la Novia

San Pedro Waterfall

Río Verde

Pailón del Diablo

Popular activities:

ATV Tours

Mountain biking

Ziplining

Suspension bridges

Photography

Ecuadorian Amazon

The Green Heart of Ecuador

Recommended experiences:

Guided jungle hikes

Birdwatching

Wildlife observation

Medicinal plants

Indigenous communities

River excursions

For the best experience, spend at least three days in the rainforest.

Chimborazo

The Closest Point to the Sun

Due to Earth's equatorial bulge, Chimborazo's summit is the farthest point on Earth's surface from the planet's center.

Activities:

Vicuña observation

High-altitude hiking

Photography

Scenic viewpoints

Cuenca

Ecuador's Most Beautiful City

Top attractions:

Historic Center

New Cathedral

Tomebamba River

Museums

Artisan markets

Local cuisine

Cajas National Park

Pacific Coast

Beaches and Nature

Recommended destinations:

Puerto López

Ayampe

Olón

Montañita

Machalilla National Park

Los Frailes Beach

Isla de la Plata

Galápagos Islands

Ecuador's Most Famous Destination

Highlights include:

Giant tortoises

Marine iguanas

Sea lions

Snorkeling

Diving

Hiking

White-sand beaches

Island-hopping tours

Galápagos is considered one of the world's greatest wildlife destinations.

How Many Days Do You Need?

Suggested trip lengths:

7 Days: Quito, Cotopaxi and Baños

10 Days: Andes, Amazon and Cuenca

14 Days: Andes, Amazon and Galápagos

21 Days: Complete Ecuador Circuit

Why Travel with Turismo Ecuador 24?

At Turismo Ecuador 24, we create personalized travel experiences throughout Ecuador.

We offer:

Private Tours

Shared Tours

Multi-Day Circuits

ATV Adventures

Amazon Packages

Galápagos Tours

Volcano Expeditions

Baños Adventures

Customized Travel Programs

Our local experts will help you build the perfect Ecuador itinerary and experience the very best the country has to offer.