Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Quito, acclimatize to the altitude, and take a gentle stroll through the historic center.
Morning
Arrival & Hotel Check-in
Arrive at Mariscal
Sucre International Airport (UIO). Take a pre-booked taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the historic center (Centro Histórico). Spend the morning resting and hydrating to adjust to Quito's 2,850m (9,350ft) altitude.
3-4 hours
$25-40 (taxi)
Book airport transfer in advance for ease. Hotels often offer this service.
Lunch
Café Dios No Muere
Traditional Ecuadorian
Budget
Afternoon
Plaza Grande & La Compañía
Take a leisurely walk to the main Independence Plaza. Admire the Presidential Palace and Cathedral. Visit the impressive La Compañía de Jesús church, famous for its impressive gold-leaf interior.
2-3 hours
$5 (church entry)
Evening
Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a light dinner at a local 'hueca' (traditional eatery) like La Cueva del Oso near Plaza San Francisco. Try locro de papa (potato soup).
Where to Stay Tonight
Centro Histórico, Quito (Hotel Casa Gangotena or similar boutique hotel)
Spend time in the historic heart of the city, within walking distance of major sites, and experience Quito's colonial charm.
Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals/alcohol on your first day to combat altitude sickness. Coca tea is a great local remedy.
Day 1 Budget: $120
Stand on the Equator line and take a cable car up the slopes of Pichincha Volcano for panoramic city views.
Morning
Mitad del Mundo Complex
Take a taxi north of the city to the 'Middle of the World' monument. Visit the Intiñan Solar Museum for fun, interactive experiments that demonstrate the Coriolis effect right on the equatorial line.
3-4 hours
$25 (taxi round-trip) + $10 (museum entry)
Go to the Intiñan Museum, not just the main monument, for the real equatorial experience.
Lunch
Restaurant at the Mitad del Mundo complex
International/Ecuadorian
Mid-range
Afternoon
TelefériQo & Pichincha Hike
Return to Quito and take the TelefériQo cable car up the side of Volcán Pichincha to 4,100m. Enjoy commanding views of the city and Andes. For the active, hike further up the trails (acclimatization permitting).
3 hours
$9 (cable car)
Go on a clear afternoon for the best views. The weather can change rapidly.
Evening
Dinner in La Floresta
Head to the trendy La Floresta neighborhood. Dine at Urko Cocina Local for a modern tasting menu of Ecuadorian ingredients.
Where to Stay Tonight
Centro Histórico, Quito (Hotel Casa Gangotena)
Base for second night in Quito before early flight tomorrow.
At the Intiñan Museum, try to balance an egg on a nail on the equator line—it's supposedly easier there!
Day 2 Budget: $110
Fly from the Andes to the Amazon frontier town of Coca, then journey by motorized canoe to a jungle lodge.
Morning
Flight to Francisco de Orellana (Coca)
Early transfer to Quito airport for a 30-minute flight to Coca. Meet your lodge representative at the airport. This is the gateway to Yasuní National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
3 hours (including transfer & flight)
$100-150 (flight)
Book flights and lodge package together. Flights are often included in lodge packages.
Lunch
Lunch at the lodge or packed lunch
Lodge cuisine
Included
Afternoon
Motorized Canoe Journey to Lodge
Board a covered motorized canoe for a 2-3 hour journey down the Napo River, a major Amazon tributary. Arrive at your eco-lodge, settle into your cabin, and listen to the sounds of the rainforest.
3 hours
Included in lodge package
Evening
Night Walk
After a welcome dinner at the lodge, join a guided night walk around the lodge grounds with flashlights to spot insects, frogs, and nocturnal wildlife.
Where to Stay Tonight
Napo River, Yasuní Biosphere Reserve (Napo Wildlife Center or Sacha Lodge)
These award-winning eco-lodges offer incredible access to pristine rainforest, expert guides, and comfortable accommodations deep in the Amazon.
Pack a dry bag for the canoe ride. Rain can appear suddenly, and belongings need protection.
Day 3 Budget: $350 (lodge package dominates cost)
Explore the rainforest from a canopy tower and visit a parrot clay lick for a spectacular wildlife show.
Morning
Canopy Tower & Trail Hike
Early start for a hike through primary rainforest to a towering canopy walkway or observation tower. Climb to the top for a bird's-eye view of the forest, perfect for spotting toucans, monkeys, and hawks.
4 hours
Included
Lunch
Lunch at the lodge
Lodge cuisine
Included
Afternoon
Parrot Clay Lick Visit
Paddle in a dugout canoe to a riverbank where parrots and parakeets gather daily to ingest mineral-rich clay. Watch hundreds of colorful birds create a noisy, dazzling spectacle.
3 hours
Included
Morning is often the best time for clay licks, but schedules vary by lodge.
Evening
Cultural Exchange
Visit a nearby Kichwa community. Learn about their traditions, way of life, and relationship with the forest. Share a traditional chicha drink.
Where to Stay Tonight
Napo River, Yasuní Biosphere Reserve (Napo Wildlife Center or Sacha Lodge)
Continuation of immersive Amazon experience.
Use binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. Wildlife is often at a distance in the dense canopy.
Day 4 Budget: $350
Paddle through tranquil blackwater creeks in search of wildlife and visit an oxbow lake.
Morning
Paddle Canoe Exploration
Glide silently in a paddle canoe along a narrow, blackwater creek (tiputini or similar). The quiet approach increases chances of spotting river otters, hoatzin birds, caimans, and troops of monkeys coming to drink.
3 hours
Included
Lunch
Lunch at the lodge
Lodge cuisine
Included
Afternoon
Oxbow Lake & Giant Otters
Hike to a beautiful, secluded oxbow lake formed by a former bend in the river. Paddle across the lake on a catamaran, looking for the endangered giant river otter and anacondas sunning on branches.
3-4 hours
Included
Evening
Farewell to the Amazon
Enjoy a final dinner at the lodge, sharing stories with fellow travelers and guides.
Where to Stay Tonight
Napo River, Yasuní Biosphere Reserve (Napo Wildlife Center or Sacha Lodge)
Final night in the Amazon.
Blackwater creeks are stained by tannins from leaves, making them acidic and largely mosquito-free—perfect for peaceful exploration.
Day 5 Budget: $350
Travel back from the Amazon to Quito, then transfer north to the indigenous market town of Otavalo.
Morning
Return Journey to Coca & Flight
Early morning canoe ride back to Coca. Catch your return flight to Quito. Reclaim any luggage stored at your Quito hotel.
5 hours total
Included in lodge package / flight cost
Ensure your lodge coordinates the return flight timing.
Lunch
Quick lunch in Quito airport or nearby
Café food
Budget
Afternoon
Private Transfer to Otavalo
Meet your pre-booked driver for a 2-hour scenic drive north to Otavalo, located in Imbabura province. Check into your hacienda-style hotel.
2.5 hours
$60-80 (private transfer)
Book a transfer in advance. Buses are cheaper but slower.
Evening
Hacienda Relaxation
Unwind at your historic hacienda. Enjoy the gardens and mountain views. Dinner at the hacienda's restaurant.
Where to Stay Tonight
Otavalo (Hacienda Pinsaquí or La Mirage Garden Hotel & Spa)
Experience the charm of a historic estate close to the famous market. Offers tranquility and culture.
If you arrive in Otavalo by late afternoon, visit the 'Plaza de los Ponchos' for a preview of the market stalls being set up.
Day 6 Budget: $200
Spend time in
South America's most famous indigenous market, then visit a impressive volcanic crater lake.
Morning
Otavalo Animal Market & Main Market
Rise early (6-7 AM) to visit the unique livestock market on the outskirts of town. Then, dive into the main 'Plaza de los Ponchos' market, a riot of color with textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and more. Practice your bargaining skills.
3-4 hours
$0 (browsing), variable for purchases
The main market is biggest on Saturdays, but operates daily. Go early for the best selection and atmosphere.
Lunch
Café Plaza or restaurant near the market
Ecuadorian
Budget
Afternoon
Cuicocha Crater Lake
Drive 30 minutes to Cuicocha Lake, inside the caldera of a dormant volcano. Take a boat ride (when available) or walk part of the scenic trail around the rim, admiring the two forested islands in the turquoise water.
3 hours
$2 (park entry) + $5 (optional boat)
Check boat availability; it depends on weather and water levels.
Evening
Andean Cuisine
Dine at your hacienda or try 'Yambiro' restaurant in Otavalo for hearty local dishes like fritada (fried pork) and llapingachos (potato patties).
Where to Stay Tonight
Otavalo (Hacienda Pinsaquí or La Mirage Garden Hotel & Spa)
Second night to fully enjoy the hacienda experience and region.
When bargaining at the market, start at about 50-60% of the asking price and negotiate with a smile. Cash (small US dollar bills) is king.
Day 7 Budget: $150
Scenic drive south along the 'Avenue of Volcanoes,' stopping at Cotopaxi National Park, before arriving in the adventure hub of Baños.
Morning
Scenic Drive & Cotopaxi Visit
Private transfer south (approx. 4 hours). Stop at Cotopaxi National Park to view the perfect cone of the world's highest active volcano (5,897m). Visit the Limpiopungo lagoon and, if acclimatized, hike up to the Refugio José Rivas at 4,800m.
5 hours (including stops)
$80-100 (private transfer) + $15 (park guide fee if required)
Private transfer allows for flexible stops. Entrance to the park may require a local guide, often arranged by drivers.
Lunch
Picnic lunch at Limpiopungo lagoon or stop in Latacunga
Pack lunch or local
Budget
Afternoon
Arrival in Baños & Waterfall Route
Arrive in Baños, check into your hotel. In the late afternoon, rent a bicycle or take a 'chiva' (open-sided bus) to see the famous 'Pailón del Diablo' (Devil's Cauldron) waterfall on the 'Ruta de las Cascadas.'
3 hours
$5-10 (bike rental or chiva tour)
Biking the route is downhill from Baños; you can take a truck taxi back.
Evening
Town of Adventure
Explore the lively town center. Try 'melcocha' (pulled sugar candy) and enjoy dinner at a restaurant like Casa Vieja, known for its trout and steak.
Where to Stay Tonight
Baños de Agua Santa (Luna Runtun Adventure Spa or Sangay Hotel Spa)
These hotels offer impressive views over the town and Tungurahua volcano, plus relaxing thermal pools after a day of travel.
The weather on Cotopaxi is extremely unpredictable. Dress in layers (thermal, fleece, waterproof jacket) even for a short stop.
Day 8 Budget: $180
Get your adrenaline fix with a canyoning adventure, then soothe your muscles in Baños' famous thermal baths.
Morning
Canyoning Adventure
Join a half-day canyoning tour. With expert guides, rappel down powerful waterfalls, jump into natural pools, and slide down rock slides in the lush canyons surrounding Baños. All equipment and training provided.
4 hours
$45-60
Book with a reputable operator like GeoTours or Huella Verde. No prior experience needed.
Lunch
Lunch in town
Ecuadorian/International
Budget
Afternoon
Baños Thermal Baths
Relax and rejuvenate in the town's namesake thermal baths. The 'Piscinas de la Virgen' are the most popular, with hot pools fed by volcanic springs and a impressive waterfall backdrop.
2-3 hours
$4-5
Go later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. Rent a locker and bring your own towel.
Evening
Cable Car & Swing at the End of the World
Take the 'Tarabita' cable car across the Pastaza River gorge to the 'Casa del Árbol.' Enjoy the famous swing that swings out over the edge of a mountain with epic valley views, at sunset.
Where to Stay Tonight
Baños de Agua Santa (Luna Runtun Adventure Spa or Sangay Hotel Spa)
Perfect location to relax after an active day.
For the thermal baths, wear a dark-colored swimsuit as the mineral water can stain light fabrics.
Day 9 Budget: $130
Fly to the Galápagos Islands, transfer to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Morning
Flight to Baltra (Galápagos)
Early transfer from Baños to Quito airport (approx. 3.5 hours). Catch your flight to Baltra Airport (GPS) in the Galápagos. Pay the $100 Galápagos National Park entry fee and $20 transit control card upon arrival.
6 hours (including transfers & flight)
$300-400 (flight) + $120 (fees)
Book flights from Quito or Guayaquil to Galápagos well in advance. Pack essentials in carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed.
Lunch
Lunch in Puerto Ayora
Seafood/International
Mid-range
Afternoon
Transfer & Charles Darwin Station
Take the airport ferry to Santa Cruz Island, then a bus/ taxi to Puerto Ayora. Check into your hotel. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see giant tortoise breeding programs and learn about conservation efforts.
3 hours
$5 (ferry) + $25 (taxi)
Evening
Stroll & Seafood Dinner
Walk along the main pier to see pelicans and sea lions begging from fishermen. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at 'Los Kioskos' on Binford Street, an alley full of open-air grills.
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz (Hotel Silberstein or Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel)
Excellent location in the main town, close to amenities and the dock for daily tours.
Bring US dollars in small denominations ($1, $5, $10) for taxis, tips, and small purchases. Larger bills can be hard to break.
Day 10 Budget: $500 (high due to flight and fees)
Take a full-day yacht tour to Bartolomé Island, famous for its iconic Pinnacle Rock, and snorkel with penguins.
Morning
Boat Journey to Bartolomé
Early departure from Puerto Ayora on a comfortable touring yacht. Enjoy breakfast on board during the 2-hour cruise. Arrive at Bartolomé and hike up a wooden staircase to the summit for the archipelago's most photographed view.
3 hours
$180-220 (full-day tour)
Book this popular tour at least a few days in advance from Puerto Ayora. Choose a reputable operator.
Lunch
Lunch on board the yacht
Buffet lunch
Included
Afternoon
Snorkeling at Pinnacle Rock
After the hike, snorkel around the base of Pinnacle Rock. This is one of the best spots to see Galápagos penguins darting through the water, along with white-tipped reef sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish.
1.5 hours
Included
Wetsuits are often provided; confirm when booking if you feel the cold easily.
Evening
Return to Puerto Ayora
Return to port in the late afternoon. Enjoy a relaxed evening. Try a passion fruit ice cream at 'Heladería de la Bahía' on the waterfront.
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz (Hotel Silberstein or Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel)
Base for island-hopping day tours.
The hike up Bartolomé is steep and exposed. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The view is absolutely worth it.
Day 11 Budget: $250
Explore the lush highlands of Santa Cruz in search of wild giant tortoises and descend into a massive lava tunnel.
Morning
Wild Tortoise Reserve
Take a taxi or tour to the misty highlands. Walk through private reserves like 'El Chato' or 'Las Primicias.' See giant Galápagos tortoises in their natural habitat, grazing, wallowing in mud ponds, and moving with surprising grace.
3 hours
$50 (taxi round-trip & reserve entry)
A taxi for a half-day highlands tour can be negotiated at the port. It's often cheaper than a formal tour.
Lunch
Restaurant in the highlands
Local
Mid-range
Afternoon
Lava Tunnels & Twin Craters
Visit the fascinating lava tunnels—huge subterranean tubes formed by flowing lava. Walk through a lighted section. Stop at 'Los Gemelos' (Twin Craters), two massive sinkholes surrounded by Scalesia forest, home to the iconic Darwin's finches.
2-3 hours
$5-10 (tunnel entry)
Often combined with the tortoise reserve tour.
Evening
Free Evening in Puerto Ayora
Do some souvenir shopping, visit the fish market at dusk for a spectacle of sea lions and pelicans, or simply relax by the hotel pool.
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz (Hotel Silberstein or Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel)
Continuation of stay on Santa Cruz.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for the highlands—the trails can be muddy. A rain jacket is also advisable.
Day 12 Budget: $120
Another incredible day tour, this time to North Seymour Island, teeming with birdlife and playful sea lions.
Morning
Boat to North Seymour Island
Another early start for a yacht trip to North Seymour, a flat island formed by uplifted seabed. The trail is an easy loop, passing through large colonies of magnificent frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, often displaying their courtship rituals.
3 hours (cruise + walk)
$180-220 (full-day tour)
North Seymour is a must for birdwatchers. Book another day tour from Puerto Ayora.
Lunch
Lunch on board
Buffet lunch
Included
Afternoon
Snorkeling at Mosquera or Bachas Beach
After the walk, snorkel at a nearby site like Mosquera Islet or Las Bachas Beach. Expect to swim with large schools of fish, playful sea lions, and maybe even spotted eagle rays or marine turtles.
1.5 hours
Included
Evening
Farewell Galápagos Dinner
Celebrate your final night in the islands with a special dinner at 'Restaurant Angermeyer Point' (water taxi required), built into the lava rocks with beautiful bay views.
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz (Hotel Silberstein or Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel)
Final night in the Galápagos.
During frigatebird mating season (approx. March-May), the males' red throat pouches are fully inflated—an memorable sight.
Day 13 Budget: $250
Final moments in the Galápagos before flying back to the mainland and connecting to your international flight home.
Morning
Free Time & Transfer to Baltra
Enjoy a final breakfast, perhaps do some last-minute shopping. Take a taxi to the Itabaca Canal, ferry across, and bus to Baltra Airport for your flight back to Quito or Guayaquil.
3 hours
$25 (taxi & ferry)
Confirm flight times and allow at least 2.5 hours for the transfer from Puerto Ayora to the airport.
Lunch
Airport or in-flight lunch
Airport food
Budget
Afternoon
Flight to Mainland & Connections
Fly back to Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE). Depending on your international flight time, you may have a few hours to rest in an airport lounge or a day-use hotel room before your overnight flight home.
4-5 hours
$300-400 (flight)
Book a late afternoon/evening flight from Galápagos to connect smoothly to international departures.
Evening
International Departure
Check in for your international flight home, filled with memories of volcanoes, rainforests, and unique wildlife.
Where to Stay Tonight
In transit / Flight (N/A)
Departure day.
If you have a long layover in Quito (6+ hours), consider booking a day room at the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel inside the terminal for a shower and rest.
Day 14 Budget: $350