Two Weeks in Ecuador: Andes, Amazon & Galápagos
From Cloud Forests to Volcanic Islands
Trip Overview
This comprehensive 14-day journey through Ecuador showcases the country's incredible biodiversity and cultural richness. Begin in colonial Quito, perched high in the Andes, before venturing to the cloud forests of Baños and the indigenous markets of the central highlands. Experience the dramatic Devil's Nose train ride, explore the cultural capital of Cuenca, and discover coastal biodiversity at Machalilla National Park. The adventure culminates with five unforgettable days in the Galápagos Islands, where you'll encounter wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. This itinerary balances cultural immersion, adventure activities, and natural wonders, with time built in for acclimatization to high altitude and relaxation between more intense travel days.
Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day (excluding Galápagos)
Best Seasons
June to September (dry season in highlands and coast), December to May (warm Galápagos)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Ecuador, Nature and wildlife enthusiasts, Adventure seekers, Photography lovers, Couples and solo travelers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival in the Capital of the Equator
Arrive in Quito, settle into the historic center, and take it easy to acclimatize to the 2,850-meter altitude while exploring the colonial streets.
Morning
Airport transfer and hotel check-in
Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Quito's historic center. Take the morning slowly to adjust to the high altitude. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals or alcohol. Stroll gently around Plaza Grande to see the Presidential Palace and Cathedral from the outside.
Pre-arrange airport pickup through your accommodation for safety and convenience
Lunch
A traditional restaurant near Plaza Grande serving locro de papas (potato soup) and empanadas
Afternoon
Walk through the UNESCO-listed colonial center at a leisurely pace. Visit La Compañía de Jesús church with its stunning gold-leaf interior, and explore the San Francisco monastery complex. Browse local artisan shops along Calle La Ronda, a beautifully restored colonial street with traditional workshops and cafes.
Evening
Sunset from El Panecillo hill
Where to Stay Tonight
Quito Historic Center (Colonial-style boutique hotel or guesthouse)
Central location allows easy exploration on foot while acclimatizing, with numerous dining options nearby
Altitude sickness is real at 2,850 meters. Drink coca tea (mate de coca), walk slowly, and avoid alcohol on your first day
Day 1 Budget: $80-120
2
Straddling the Equator & Sky-High Views
Visit the famous equatorial monument and experience Quito from above via cable car, with breathtaking views of surrounding volcanoes.
Morning
Middle of the World
Visit the famous Middle of the World monument complex located 26 kilometers north of Quito. Stand with one foot in each hemisphere at latitude 0°0'0". Explore the ethnographic museum inside the monument showcasing Ecuador's diverse indigenous cultures. The complex includes interactive exhibits about the equator and its significance to ancient civilizations.
Take a taxi or organized tour; public buses are possible but complicated for first-time visitors
Lunch
A restaurant in the La Mariscal neighborhood serving ceviche and fresh coastal seafood
Afternoon
TelefériQo Cable Car
Ride the TelefériQo cable car from 2,950 meters to Cruz Loma at 4,050 meters for spectacular panoramic views of Quito and surrounding volcanoes including Cotopaxi on clear days. At the top, explore the viewing platforms and consider a short hike along marked trails. The thin air at this altitude provides excellent preparation for higher elevation activities later in your trip.
Go on a clear morning or early afternoon for best visibility; clouds often roll in later
Evening
Dinner in La Floresta neighborhood
Explore the bohemian La Floresta district with its tree-lined streets, art galleries, and diverse dining options from traditional Ecuadorian to international fusion cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Quito Historic Center (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Staying put saves time and allows deeper exploration of different neighborhoods
The TelefériQo operates until 8pm on weekends; sunset rides offer magical views of the city lights below
Day 2 Budget: $70-100
3
Journey to the Adventure Capital
Baños de Agua Santa
Travel south through the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Baños, a charming town nestled in cloud forest at the gateway to the Amazon basin.
Morning
Scenic bus journey to Baños
Take a comfortable three-hour bus ride south from Quito to Baños, traveling through the stunning Avenue of the Volcanoes. Watch for views of snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano weather permitting. The landscape transitions from high páramo grasslands to lush cloud forest as you descend. Arrive in Baños, check into your accommodation, and explore the compact town center with its basilica and artisan markets.
Buses depart regularly from Quito's Quitumbe terminal; arrive early to choose your seat
Lunch
A café along Calle Ambato serving fresh trout from local rivers and melcocha (sugar cane taffy)
Afternoon
La Casa del Arbol
Visit the famous treehouse with its iconic swing at the end of the world perched on a cliff edge. Swing out over a dramatic valley with views of the active Tungurahua volcano. The seismic monitoring station here watches the volcano that looms over Baños. Take photos, enjoy the adrenaline rush, and explore the surrounding trails with spectacular viewpoints across the Pastaza River valley.
Visit late afternoon to avoid tour group crowds and catch golden hour light for photos
Evening
Thermal baths and town exploration
Soak in the natural thermal pools fed by volcanic hot springs, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Pastaza River gorge
Where to Stay Tonight
Baños town center (Comfortable hostel or small hotel with mountain views)
Central location provides easy access to restaurants, tour operators, and activities
Baños means 'baths' in Spanish—the thermal pools are best enjoyed in the evening when they're less crowded and the cool mountain air makes the hot water more inviting
Day 3 Budget: $60-90
4
Waterfalls & Adrenaline
Explore the spectacular waterfall route and experience adventure activities in Ecuador's outdoor capital.
Morning
El Pailón del Diablo
Take the Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route) east toward the Amazon. Visit El Pailón del Diablo, one of Ecuador's most impressive waterfalls. Descend steep stairs through lush vegetation to multiple viewing platforms where you can feel the thundering power of water plunging into a narrow gorge. Wear waterproof clothing as the mist is intense. The trail system offers several vantage points including one behind the falls.
Rent a bicycle to ride the Waterfall Route if you're adventurous, or hire a taxi for the day
Lunch
A roadside restaurant in Río Verde serving fresh trucha (trout) and patacones (fried plantains)
Afternoon
Adventure activities in Baños
Choose from Baños's many adventure offerings: zip-lining across river canyons, canyoning down waterfalls, white-water rafting on the Pastaza River, or mountain biking. The town is Ecuador's adventure sports hub with professional operators and spectacular natural settings. Alternatively, take a more relaxed option with a cable car ride across the Pastaza gorge for stunning views.
Book adventure activities through reputable operators in town; compare prices and check safety equipment
Evening
Explore Baños nightlife
Stroll the lively streets, sample melcocha being made in shop windows, and enjoy dinner at a pizzeria or international restaurant popular with travelers
Where to Stay Tonight
Baños town center (Same accommodation as Day 3)
Convenient base for exploring the area's attractions
The Waterfall Route continues all the way to Puyo in the Amazon basin—if you have extra time, the journey offers increasingly tropical scenery and more waterfalls
Day 4 Budget: $70-110
5
Highland Markets & Volcanic Landscapes
Travel to Riobamba through indigenous highland communities, stopping at colorful markets and volcanic viewpoints.
Morning
Journey to Riobamba via highland communities
Take a morning bus to Riobamba, the gateway to Chimborazo volcano. Stop en route at indigenous communities where you can observe traditional highland life. If it's Thursday or Saturday, detour to the famous Guamote market where indigenous people in traditional dress trade livestock, produce, and textiles in an authentic setting little changed for centuries.
Time your visit for Thursday or Saturday to experience Guamote market
Lunch
A simple eatery in Riobamba's market area serving hornado (roasted pork) with mote (hominy corn)
Afternoon
Chimborazo Volcano Reserve exploration
Take an afternoon excursion to Chimborazo Volcano Reserve. Ecuador's highest peak at 6,263 meters is technically the closest point on Earth to the sun due to the equatorial bulge. Drive to the first refuge at 4,800 meters for incredible high-altitude páramo landscapes and possible vicuña sightings. The thin air and stark beauty create an otherworldly experience.
Book a half-day tour through your accommodation; going independently requires a 4x4 vehicle
Evening
Riobamba town exploration
Walk around Riobamba's central plaza and cathedral, then enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant serving locro de papas and cuy (guinea pig) if you're adventurous
Where to Stay Tonight
Riobamba city center (Mid-range hotel near the main plaza)
Central location for early morning train departure and evening exploration
Riobamba sits at 2,754 meters—lower than Quito—making it easier to breathe, but Chimborazo's altitude can cause headaches; take it slow and drink plenty of water
Day 5 Budget: $75-105
Experience one of the world's most dramatic train rides, then continue to the cultural heart of Ecuador's southern highlands.
Morning
La Nariz del Diablo
Board the famous Devil's Nose train from Alausi (transfer from Riobamba by bus). This engineering marvel descends a near-vertical cliff face through a series of switchbacks, dropping 500 meters in just 12 kilometers. The train zigzags down the mountain face, alternating between forward and reverse directions. Views of the Chanchán River valley below are breathtaking. The journey includes a stop at a community museum showcasing indigenous Puruhá culture.
Book train tickets online in advance, especially during high season; departures are typically mid-morning
Lunch
A restaurant in Alausi serving traditional highland dishes before continuing your journey
Afternoon
Travel to Cuenca
Continue south by bus to Cuenca, Ecuador's most beautiful colonial city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The four-hour journey passes through stunning highland scenery with patchwork agricultural valleys and distant mountain peaks. Arrive in Cuenca in late afternoon, check into your accommodation in the historic center, and take an evening stroll along the Tomebamba River.
Evening
First evening in Cuenca
Walk across the flower market to Parque Calderón, admire the illuminated New Cathedral, and dine at a restaurant in a restored colonial building
Where to Stay Tonight
Cuenca Historic Center (Colonial-style boutique hotel or restored guesthouse)
The historic center is compact and walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and artisan shops within easy reach
The Devil's Nose train no longer allows passengers to ride on the roof as in the past, but window seats still offer spectacular views
Day 6 Budget: $90-130
7
Colonial Cuenca & Andean Culture
Explore Ecuador's most charming city with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and renowned artisan traditions.
Morning
Cuenca historic center walking tour
Explore Cuenca's beautifully preserved colonial center. Visit the New Cathedral with its distinctive blue domes, wander through the flower market, and cross the Tomebamba River on historic bridges. Tour a Panama hat factory to learn how these famous hats (actually from Ecuador) are woven from toquilla palm fibers. Browse artisan workshops where skilled craftspeople create jewelry, ceramics, and textiles using traditional techniques.
Lunch
A restaurant near Parque Calderón serving mote pillo (hominy with eggs) and traditional Cuencan specialties
Afternoon
Turi Viewpoint
Take a taxi or local bus to Turi Viewpoint on a hillside overlooking Cuenca. This elevated vantage point offers panoramic views across the entire city with its red-tiled roofs, white buildings, and blue cathedral domes set against surrounding mountains. The small church at the viewpoint is a popular pilgrimage site. Time your visit for late afternoon when the light is ideal for photography.
Visit in late afternoon for the best light and clearest views
Evening
Riverside dining and cultural exploration
Stroll along the Barranco (riverside walkway) lined with hanging balconies, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of the illuminated river and historic buildings
Where to Stay Tonight
Cuenca Historic Center (Same accommodation as Day 6)
Staying multiple nights allows deeper exploration without repacking
Cuenca is famous for its Panama hats—buy directly from workshops for the best quality and prices, and learn about the intricate weaving process
Day 7 Budget: $65-95
8
Inca Ruins & Highland Villages
Cuenca region
Venture into the countryside to explore Ecuador's most significant Inca ruins and experience traditional highland communities.
Morning
Ingapirca Archaeological Complex
Take a day trip to Ingapirca Archaeological Complex, Ecuador's most important Inca ruins located two hours north of Cuenca. This ceremonial center combines Inca and Cañari architecture, with the Temple of the Sun as its centerpiece. Walk among stone walls built with precision Inca masonry, explore the elliptical temple, and learn about the site's astronomical significance. The highland setting at 3,160 meters offers sweeping views of surrounding valleys.
Join a guided tour from Cuenca for historical context and easier logistics
Lunch
A simple restaurant near Ingapirca serving caldo de gallina (chicken soup) and fresh highland produce
Afternoon
Return to Cuenca via Cañari communities
Return to Cuenca through traditional Cañari indigenous communities. Stop at villages where locals maintain traditional lifestyles, farming techniques, and textile production. If visiting on the right day, experience a small rural market. The journey offers insights into highland agriculture with terraced fields and grazing sheep and llamas.
Evening
Final evening in Cuenca
Visit the artisan neighborhood of San Joaquín to watch ceramicists at work, then enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant serving innovative takes on traditional Ecuadorian cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Cuenca Historic Center (Same accommodation as previous nights)
Final night in Cuenca before heading to the coast
Ingapirca is less crowded than Peru's famous Inca sites but equally fascinating—the blend of Inca and Cañari architecture is unique
Day 8 Budget: $70-100
9
Coast-Bound: Highlands to Ocean
Guayaquil to Puerto López
Travel from the Andes to the Pacific coast, transitioning from colonial highlands to tropical coastal landscapes.
Morning
Journey to Guayaquil
Take a morning bus from Cuenca to Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city and main port. The four-hour journey descends dramatically from 2,500 meters to sea level, passing through changing ecosystems from páramo to cloud forest to tropical lowlands. Arrive in hot, humid Guayaquil and have a brief city tour including the Malecón 2000 riverfront promenade and Las Peñas, the colorful historic neighborhood on Santa Ana hill.
Lunch
A restaurant along Malecón 2000 serving encebollado (fish soup) and fresh coastal seafood
Afternoon
Continue to Puerto López
Take an afternoon bus north along the coast to Puerto López, a laid-back fishing village and gateway to Machalilla National Park. The three-hour journey follows the Pacific coastline through dry tropical forest. Arrive in the early evening, check into beachfront accommodation, and enjoy your first Pacific sunset. The town has a relaxed atmosphere with seafood restaurants lining the malecón.
Evening
Beachfront dinner
Dine at a casual restaurant right on the beach, choosing from the day's fresh catch while watching fishing boats return with the evening tide
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto López beachfront (Small beachside hotel or eco-lodge)
Beach location provides easy access to morning boat departures and evening ocean views
Puerto López is Ecuador's whale watching capital—from June to September, humpback whales migrate here to breed, offering spectacular sightings
Day 9 Budget: $75-110
10
Coastal Paradise & Marine Life
Puerto López
Explore Machalilla National Park's stunning coastline and rich marine biodiversity.
Morning
Machalilla National Park
Take a boat tour to Isla de la Plata, often called 'Poor Man's Galápagos' for its remarkable wildlife. The island hosts blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and sea lions. Hike marked trails to bird colonies and dramatic coastal cliffs. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters with sea turtles, tropical fish, and rays. The marine biodiversity rivals the Galápagos at a fraction of the cost. During whale season, you'll likely spot humpback whales during the boat journey.
Book the day before through tour operators on the malecón; tours depart early morning
Lunch
Box lunch provided on the tour, typically including fresh fruit and sandwiches
Afternoon
Continued island exploration and snorkeling
Continue exploring Isla de la Plata's trails and underwater world. The afternoon snorkeling session often offers calmer waters and excellent visibility. Watch for manta rays gliding through the water and schools of colorful tropical fish. The return boat journey provides opportunities for dolphin sightings and, during whale season, close encounters with humpback whales breaching and tail-slapping.
Evening
Relaxed evening in Puerto López
Rest after a full day on the water, enjoy a seafood dinner, and stroll the quiet beach under the stars
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto López beachfront (Same accommodation as Day 9)
Convenient for early morning departure and beach relaxation
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, seasickness medication if prone, and a waterproof bag for electronics—the boat ride can be bouncy
Day 10 Budget: $80-110
11
Galápagos Arrival: Welcome to the Enchanted Isles
Santa Cruz, Galápagos
Fly to the legendary Galápagos Islands and begin your wildlife adventure on Santa Cruz Island.
Morning
Flight to Galápagos
Return to Guayaquil by early morning bus and catch a flight to Baltra Airport in the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival, pay the Galápagos National Park entrance fee, pass through biosecurity inspection, and transfer by bus and ferry to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The journey itself is exciting, crossing the Itabaca Channel where sea lions often swim alongside the ferry.
Book Galápagos flights well in advance for better prices; morning flights are most reliable
Lunch
A restaurant in Puerto Ayora serving fresh tuna and local lobster when in season
Afternoon
Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts protecting the islands' unique species. See giant tortoises of different subspecies, including breeding programs working to save endangered populations. Learn about the islands' geology, evolution, and ongoing scientific research. Walk through native plant gardens showcasing endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.
Evening
Puerto Ayora waterfront exploration
Watch sea lions lounging on benches at the fish market, observe marine iguanas on the rocks, and dine at a restaurant overlooking Academy Bay where sharks and rays swim in the shallows
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ayora (Mid-range hotel in town)
Central location provides easy access to tour operators, restaurants, and day trip departures
Everything in Galápagos is more expensive than mainland Ecuador—bring enough cash as ATMs can be unreliable and many places don't accept cards
Day 11 Budget: $150-200 (plus flight and park fee)
12
Galápagos Wonders: Tortoises & Beaches
Santa Cruz, Galápagos
Experience giant tortoises in their natural habitat and snorkel at one of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Morning
Highland tortoise reserves
Journey to the Santa Cruz highlands to see giant Galápagos tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. Walk through misty forests and grasslands where these ancient creatures, some over 100 years old, graze peacefully. Visit lava tunnels formed by flowing magma, creating underground passages you can walk through. The highlands offer a completely different ecosystem from the coast, with lush vegetation and endemic birds.
Book through Puerto Ayora tour operators; tours typically include lava tunnels and lunch
Lunch
A highland ranch restaurant serving traditional Ecuadorian food with views of grazing tortoises
Afternoon
Tortuga Bay Beach
Hike the 2.5-kilometer paved trail through cactus forest to Tortuga Bay Beach, one of the world's most pristine white-sand beaches. The main beach stretches for a kilometer with powerful surf where marine iguanas sun themselves on black lava rocks. Walk to the sheltered cove beyond for calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling with sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks. Marine iguanas feed on algae in the shallow waters.
Bring plenty of water, snorkel gear, and sun protection; the trail is exposed with no shade
Evening
Sunset and dinner in Puerto Ayora
Return to town for sunset at the pier where sea lions perform acrobatics, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in locally caught fish prepared with Ecuadorian spices
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ayora (Same accommodation as Day 11)
Staying put saves time and allows early morning departures for day trips
Tortuga Bay is a nesting site for marine turtles—if you see tracks or nesting turtles, observe from a distance and never use flash photography
Day 12 Budget: $120-160
13
Island Hopping Adventure
Galápagos day trip
Take a day cruise to nearby islands for world-class snorkeling and wildlife encounters.
Morning
Parque Nacional Galápagos day cruise
Join a day cruise to uninhabited islands within Parque Nacional Galápagos. Popular destinations include Bartolomé with its iconic Pinnacle Rock and penguin sightings, North Seymour with its blue-footed booby colonies and frigate birds, or Santa Fe with its endemic land iguanas. Each island offers unique landscapes and wildlife. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters swimming alongside sea lions, sea turtles, rays, and countless tropical fish in underwater lava formations.
Book at least one day in advance; different islands operate on different days, so check schedules
Lunch
Lunch provided on the cruise, typically including fresh fish, salads, and fruit
Afternoon
Continued island exploration and snorkeling
After lunch, visit a second site for more wildlife viewing and snorkeling. The afternoon session often includes deeper water snorkeling where you might encounter white-tipped reef sharks, eagle rays, and large schools of fish. Walk designated trails with a naturalist guide who explains the islands' unique ecology and evolutionary significance. Every moment brings new wildlife encounters—sea lions may join you in the water, curious and playful.
Evening
Final evening in Galápagos
Celebrate your last night in the islands with dinner at a restaurant serving creative fusion cuisine, then walk the waterfront one last time to say goodbye to the sea lions
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ayora (Same accommodation as previous nights)
Final night before returning to mainland Ecuador
The Galápagos experience is about quality over quantity—even a few days reveals why Darwin called these islands enchanted
Day 13 Budget: $220-280
14
Return to the Mainland
Galápagos to Guayaquil
Depart the Galápagos Islands and return to mainland Ecuador, concluding your two-week adventure.
Morning
Final morning in Puerto Ayora and departure
Enjoy a final morning walk along the waterfront, perhaps seeing penguins at Las Grietas if time permits. Purchase last-minute souvenirs at artisan shops, being careful to buy only legal items that don't contain protected species. Transfer to Baltra Airport via bus and ferry, savoring final views of the turquoise waters and volcanic landscapes that make the Galápagos unforgettable.
Arrange airport transfer the evening before; allow plenty of time for the ferry and bus connections
Lunch
Airport café or meal on your flight back to Guayaquil
Afternoon
Return flight and Guayaquil
Fly back to Guayaquil in the early afternoon. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have time to explore more of Guayaquil, visit the Parque Histórico showcasing Ecuador's coastal heritage, or simply relax in a café reflecting on your incredible journey through Ecuador's diverse ecosystems. Most international flights depart in the evening or late night.
Same ticket as your outbound Galápagos flight
Evening
International departure or overnight in Guayaquil
If time permits before your international flight, enjoy a final Ecuadorian meal in Guayaquil's Urdesa neighborhood, known for its restaurants and nightlife
Where to Stay Tonight
Guayaquil airport area or none (Airport hotel if needed for early morning flight)
Convenient for international departures
Keep your Galápagos boarding passes and receipts—you'll need them to get the departure tax refund at Baltra Airport
Day 14 Budget: $100-150 (plus return flight)
Practical Information
Getting Around
Ecuador's bus system is extensive, comfortable, and affordable, connecting all mainland destinations in this itinerary. Buses range from basic to luxury with reclining seats and movies. For Galápagos, flights from Guayaquil or Quito are the only option. Within the islands, water taxis and public speedboats connect inhabited islands, though most visitors base themselves on Santa Cruz for day trips. Taxis in cities are inexpensive but insist on using the meter or agree on a price beforehand. The TelefériQo cable car and La Nariz del Diablo train require advance booking during high season.
Book Ahead
Book Galápagos flights 2-3 months ahead for best prices. Reserve La Nariz del Diablo train tickets online at least one week in advance. Galápagos day cruises should be booked 1-2 days ahead in Puerto Ayora. All other activities can be arranged upon arrival, though booking accommodations in advance is recommended during peak season (June-August, December-January).
Packing Essentials
Layers for varying altitudes and climates, rain jacket, sturdy walking shoes, sandals, swimsuit, snorkel gear (or rent in Galápagos), sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen), insect repellent, water bottle, altitude sickness medication, basic first aid kit, waterproof phone case, power adapter (Ecuador uses Type A/B plugs, 120V), and Spanish phrasebook or translation app.
Total Budget
$2,200-3,200 per person (including $1,400-1,800 for Galápagos flights and park fees)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Skip the Galápagos entirely and spend more time on the mainland, exploring the Amazon basin around Tena or extending your time in the highlands. Stay in hostels, take local buses everywhere, and eat at markets and simple restaurants. Visit free attractions like Tortuga Bay if you do go to Galápagos, and book last-minute day tours in Puerto López and Puerto Ayora for discounts. Cook some meals if your accommodation has kitchen facilities. This can reduce daily costs to $50-80 on the mainland.
Luxury Upgrade
Fly between major destinations to save time and stay in boutique haciendas and luxury eco-lodges. In Galápagos, book a 5-7 day liveaboard cruise visiting remote islands inaccessible as day trips, with naturalist guides, gourmet meals, and premium cabins. Hire private guides for mainland attractions, stay at Casa Gangotena in Quito or Mansion Alcazar in Cuenca, and dine at top restaurants. Add a luxury Amazon lodge experience. Budget $400-600 daily plus $4,000-8,000 for a Galápagos cruise.
Family-Friendly
Base yourselves in fewer locations to minimize packing and unpacking with kids. Spend extra days in Baños for adventure activities suitable for older children, and extend time at the beach in Puerto López. In Galápagos, choose day tours with calm water snorkeling and shorter hiking distances. Many hotels offer family rooms or suites. The Charles Darwin Research Station, tortoise reserves, and beaches are perfect for children. Bring snacks, entertainment for bus rides, and consider staying in apartments with kitchens for familiar meals. Most Ecuadorian restaurants welcome families warmly.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Ecuador