12 Days Ecuador’s Greatest Hits: A Bucket-List Adventure

Welcome to Quito, Ecuador’s captivating capital nestled high in the Andes! Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your private driver, who will take you directly to your hotel, allowing you to settle in and relax after your journey. Quito’s charm lies in its unique blend of colonial elegance and vibrant culture, all set against a stunning mountainous backdrop. This UNESCO World Heritage city is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colorful facades, historic churches, and lively plazas.

Quito’s high altitude may take a little adjustment, so take it easy and enjoy a leisurely evening sampling Ecuadorian cuisine at a local restaurant, easing into the rhythm of your Ecuadorian adventure.

Departing from Quito, this one-day tour to Otavalo is a journey through Ecuador’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. Traveling north along the Pan-American Highway, the first stop is the Quitsato solar clock in Cayambe, a unique pre-Hispanic site located on the equator line that served as an ancient time-keeping tool. Here, you’ll learn about equinoxes and solstices with panoramic views of the Cayambe snow-capped mountain while savoring local treats like Ecuadorian coffee, chocolate, and oven-baked bizcochos. (Note: The entrance fee to Quitsato is not included.) Next, you’ll stop at a scenic viewpoint to admire San Pablo Lake with the majestic Imbabura Volcano as a backdrop, capturing the essence of the Andes. Upon arriving in Otavalo, you’ll explore South America’s largest indigenous handicraft market at La Plaza de los Ponchos, where artisans display vibrant textiles, jewelry, and crafts. Afterward, visit Cotacachi, a town renowned for its leather craftsmanship, for a brief shopping stop. The final destination is the breathtaking Cuicocha Lagoon, an active volcanic crater lake at over 10,000 feet, with lush vegetation and islets that offer excellent plant observation.

Embark on a breathtaking journey from Quito, traveling south along the Pan-American Highway into the heart of the Andes, where dramatic landscapes and fascinating wildlife await. After an hour and a half, pass through the town of Machachi, set against the rugged slopes of Pasochoa and Rumiñahui mountains, with the twin Ilinizas peaks in the distance. Stop for acclimatization at 2,945 meters (9,662 feet), where you’ll enjoy breakfast and stunning views. Continuing to Cotopaxi National Park, situated at 3,200 meters (10,499 feet), you'll encounter local artisans offering handmade crafts and mountain gear at the park’s entrance. The park itself is a wonder, crowned by the Cotopaxi Volcano—the world’s highest active volcano at 5,987 meters (19,347 feet). This iconic volcano draws adventurers from around the globe, eager to hike, climb, or bike amidst its striking scenery. Begin with a trek to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 meters (15,748 feet), where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas without needing special equipment or experience, thanks to accessible transportation. After descending, enjoy an exhilarating downhill bike ride (optional) from the volcano's upper slopes to the Limpiopungo Lagoon, a serene highland lake at 3,850 meters (12,631 feet), surrounded by open landscapes teeming with native wildlife, including Andean foxes and condors. Finish the day with a peaceful retreat at a local hotel in Machachi.

On this breathtaking day trip, you'll experience stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture. Starting from Machachi, you'll explore two indigenous markets in Latacunga, where tropical and Andean products are exchanged. After visiting Saquisilí market, you'll ascend to the highest point of the highlands at 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), where you'll visit an indigenous hut to learn about daily life in the mountains. Descending to the community of Tigua, known for its colorful wooden sculptures and sheepskin paintings, you'll also take in the spectacular views of the Toachi River Canyon. Your final stop is the mesmerizing Quilotoa Lagoon, nestled inside a volcanic crater with emerald waters. The tranquil environment makes it a popular spot for yoga, meditation, and even weddings. Adventurers can kayak or swim in the lagoon's cool waters before heading back to Quito.

Embark on a captivating day trip from Quito to Mindo, a lush cloud forest located at the junction of the Andes and Ecuadorian coast, known for its rich biodiversity. As you venture through this humid, verdant landscape, you'll encounter an array of wildlife, especially vibrant bird species. Your first stop is the Butterfly and Orchidarium (entrance fee not included), followed by an exhilarating canopy ride through the treetops (additional cost), where you may spot birds soaring nearby. After crossing the Tarabita, a cable car that takes you over the river, you'll hike a trail to swim in the refreshing waters. The adventure concludes with a visit to a local artisan chocolate factory (additional cost), where you’ll learn about the production process of one of Ecuador’s finest exports. Finally, you'll return to Quito, enriched by the day’s breathtaking natural wonders.

Set out from Quito early in the morning at 6:00 AM, beginning your journey through Ecuador's incredible landscapes, from misty cloud forests to towering waterfalls. Your first stop is the Tree House and Swings at the End of the World (entrance fee not included), perched on the edge of a cliff with sweeping views of lush valleys and deep green forests. Here, you can swing high above the abyss, feeling the cool mountain breeze as you take in the expansive views of the Andes. From there, you’ll head to Manto de la Novia Waterfall (entrance fee not included), a spectacular cascade surrounded by dense cloud forest, where the mist rising from the falls creates a mystical atmosphere. The surrounding area is teeming with vibrant plant life and a variety of bird species, offering a true glimpse into the biodiversity of Ecuador. Continuing on, you’ll reach Pailón del Diablo Waterfall (entrance fee not included), one of the most powerful and impressive waterfalls in the region, where the rushing water crashes through rocky cliffs, creating thunderous sounds and sprays of water. As you explore the area, keep an eye out for local wildlife, from colorful butterflies to hummingbirds flitting between flowers. The day concludes with a visit to the Melcocha Factory, where you can relax with the sweet treat of traditional Ecuadorian candy, before returning to Quito at 5:00 PM, filled with unforgettable memories of Ecuador’s breathtaking natural wonders.

Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Termas de Papallacta, a serene resort surrounded by the towering Andean mountains. Relax in its thermal pools, heated by volcanic hot springs, while enjoying breathtaking views of Antisana Volcano, its snow-capped peak looming at 5,758 meters. The resort’s lush, high-altitude setting offers a unique opportunity to unwind amidst verdant forests and pristine landscapes. As you soak in the mineral-rich waters, the surrounding wildlife, including native birds and vibrant plant life, adds to the sense of tranquility. The clear mountain air and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks make this experience a perfect blend of relaxation and awe-inspiring nature. In the evening, you will take an overnight shuttle bus to Puente de Cuyabeno, where your next adventure in the heart of the Amazon rainforest awaits. The journey through Ecuador's diverse landscapes will set the stage for a thrilling exploration of the jungle's rich wildlife and natural wonders.

Your adventure begins at El Puente del Cuyabeno, the gateway to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, where you embark on a 2.5-hour motorized canoe journey along the winding Cuyabeno River. As you navigate through the river, surrounded by lush jungle, you’ll encounter a rich diversity of wildlife, including monkeys swinging through the trees, colorful birds soaring overhead, and the occasional sighting of sloths or caimans. The river’s calm waters reflect the vibrant green canopy of the forest, creating an almost surreal landscape. Upon reaching Nicky Amazon Lodge, nestled in the heart of the reserve, you’re welcomed with a refreshing cocktail, then assigned your rooms and treated to a hearty lunch. In the afternoon, you head to Laguna Grande, a serene waterway about 45 minutes from the lodge, where you’ll explore the dense vegetation and the unique ‘Igapó’ ecosystem, a flooded forest teeming with life. Here, you can take a refreshing swim in the calm waters and enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the lagoon, where the sky turns fiery orange, mirrored in the water. As night falls, you embark on a night excursion to spot bats and caimans under the moonlit sky. The jungle comes alive at night, with sounds of insects and nocturnal creatures filling the air. After an exciting day of exploration, you return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, where your guide will brief you on the next day’s activities.

­At dawn, we’ll set out by canoe to glide quietly through the water, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking landscapes as we watch a vibrant array of bird species in their natural habitat. The stillness of the morning amplifies the beauty of the local fauna all around us. Returning to the lodge, we’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to the Siona indigenous community. Here, we’ll experience the cultural richness of the Amazon firsthand—joining in the cassava harvest and learning to prepare “Cassave,” the region’s traditional bread, all while engaging with the community’s customs and traditions. After sharing lunch with our hosts, we’ll return to the lodge for a short rest. In the afternoon, a guided walk through the jungle reveals an enchanting world of intricate insects, spiders, and colorful tree frogs among the lush vegetation. The day concludes with a relaxing dinner back at the lodge.

As the morning sun rises, we’ll begin our day with a visit to the Observation Tower, offering sweeping views of the lush jungle canopy and the breathtaking landscapes beyond. After a short hike through the vibrant forest, we’ll return to the lodge for a nourishing breakfast. Later, we’ll set off by canoe or on foot to dive deeper into the heart of the jungle, where we’ll uncover the fascinating world of medicinal plants and learn how native cultures have used them for centuries.

Following lunch and a restful pause, we’ll embark on an afternoon paddle along the tranquil Cuyabeno River. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Amazon, we’ll keep our eyes open for glimpses of exotic wildlife—perhaps a flash of vibrant feathers, the curious gaze of a river dolphin, or the stealthy movement of a caiman. As night falls, we’ll return to the lodge for a well-earned dinner, with the sights and sounds of the Amazon vivid in our minds.

At first light, we’ll set out on a final canoe excursion, gliding through the misty waters as the jungle awakens around us. This serene journey offers a last chance to soak in the breathtaking landscapes and spot some of the Amazon’s captivating wildlife—perhaps colorful birds perched overhead, playful river otters, or a shy caiman along the riverbank.

After a hearty breakfast back at the lodge, we’ll pack up and check out at 8:00 am. With a boxed lunch in hand, we’ll start our journey back to El Puente de Cuyabeno, surrounded by the unforgettable sights and sounds of the Amazon one last time. Arriving around 10:30 am, we’ll board a private bus and begin our scenic route back to Quito, carrying memories of the stunning wilderness with us.

At the designated time, a transfer will arrive to escort you through the scenic landscapes on the way to the airport. This final drive offers a last glimpse of the breathtaking surroundings and, perhaps, a farewell sighting of local wildlife—colorful birds fluttering in the treetops or peaceful rivers winding through the forest. This smooth, comfortable journey ensures a timely arrival at the airport, allowing you to savor the beauty of the landscape one last time before catching your flight home.

For those wishing to extend their adventure, you can join one of our incredible trips to the Galapagos Islands. Explore the extraordinary wildlife and pristine landscapes of this unique archipelago, adding even more unforgettable memories to your journey.