Weekend Wonders of Ecuador
From Quito's Heights to Coastal Adventures
Trip Overview
This weekend escape showcases Ecuador's incredible diversity, from the Andean highlands to thrilling natural wonders. Begin in Quito, where you'll soar above the city via cable car and stand at the equatorial monument that gives Ecuador its name. Day two takes you to adventure-filled landscapes featuring breathtaking waterfalls and unique natural formations. This itinerary balances iconic attractions with authentic experiences, offering stunning viewpoints, cultural insights, and adrenaline-pumping activities. The pace is active but manageable, with strategic rest breaks and scenic lunch spots. You'll experience Ecuador's remarkable geography, from volcanic peaks to lush cloud forests, all within a compact timeframe perfect for weekend travelers seeking maximum impact.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Quito's Heights & Equatorial Wonders
Where to Stay Tonight
La Mariscal or Historic Center, Quito (Boutique hotel or comfortable guesthouse)
Central location provides easy access to both day's attractions and positions you well for the next day's adventure departure
Waterfalls & Natural Marvels
Where to Stay Tonight
Baños de Agua Santa or return to Quito (Adventure hostel or eco-lodge if staying, or return to Quito accommodation)
Baños offers a relaxed evening atmosphere and thermal baths for recovery; alternatively, return to Quito for early departure flights
Practical Information
Getting Around
From Quito, use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps for city attractions. The TelefériQo has dedicated parking if renting a car. For Baños (3 hours from Quito), take a comfortable bus from Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe ($3-5 each way) or arrange a private transfer ($80-120 round trip). Within Baños, everything is walkable or accessible by local taxi ($1-3). Consider renting a bicycle for the waterfall route. If time is limited, organized tours from Quito include transportation and can cover multiple sites efficiently.
Book Ahead
TelefériQo tickets (book online 1-2 days ahead for weekend visits). Accommodation in Baños during peak season (June-September). If planning Galápagos or jungle extensions, book weeks in advance.
Packing Essentials
Layers for varying altitudes (warm jacket for TelefériQo, lighter clothes for Baños), waterproof jacket for waterfall mist, comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, sunscreen and hat for high altitude, reusable water bottle, camera with waterproof protection, altitude sickness medication
Total Budget
$160-240 for 2 days (excluding accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Take public buses exclusively ($10 total transportation), pack picnic lunches from local markets ($5-8 per day), stay in hostels ($15-25 per night), skip organized tours in favor of self-guided exploration, eat at local comedores (set menus for $2-4), and use the free walking trails. Total budget can drop to $50-70 per day including accommodation.
Luxury Upgrade
Hire a private bilingual guide with 4x4 vehicle for both days ($250-350), stay at a boutique spa hotel in Quito and luxury eco-lodge in Baños ($150-250 per night), book a private TelefériQo sunrise experience, enjoy gourmet farm-to-table dining, add a helicopter tour over Cotopaxi Volcano, and finish with a premium spa treatment at thermal springs. Budget $400-600 per day.
Family-Friendly
Focus on the Middle of the World's interactive exhibits and equator experiments that kids love. Replace the extreme swing at La Casa del Arbol with gentler activities at Vulqano Park, which offers family-friendly adventure activities. Choose the easier waterfall viewpoints at El Pailón del Diablo. Add time at thermal pools with family-appropriate temperatures. Book family rooms or connecting accommodations, and allow extra time for snack breaks and rest periods.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Ecuador