14 days in Ecuador - 5 travel itineraries

Picture yourself traversing the vibrant streets of Quito's UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, basking in the glory of the Andean peaks, and immersing in the Amazon's lush rainforest. A trip to Ecuador is a coveted experience on many travel wish lists. Explore our guide for crafting the perfect 14-day itinerary in Ecuador.

Is 14 days enough for Ecuador?

Yes, a 14 days itinerary to Ecuador can be sufficient. Some may prefer to add a few days if possible, but depending on your interests and planned activities, 14 days can be enough.  You’ll want to plan your trip very carefully — although a lot can be done in two weeks, you do want to try to factor in seasonal weather, the altitude in certain destinations, and the need to rest. 

Want to make the most of your 14 days in Ecuador? Consider working with a travel expert to design your itinerary. Our Ecuador travel experts can create the perfect plan for you, whether you’re looking at a 7-day highlights tour, a 10-day deep dive, or a full 14-day adventure. From the Galápagos Islands to the Amazon rainforest, they’ll tailor each day to fit your schedule and interests, ensuring you experience both the must-sees and the hidden gems.

Itinerary #1: Classic Ecuador

On this trip, you'll get a comprehensive take on all of the classic sites of Ecuador. On the first day, your journey starts in Quito, where you'll delve into its Colonial Center and iconic churches. 

The third day entails a day trip to the Middle of the World, the monument dedicated to the equator. Moving forward to the fourth day, your expedition leads to Otavalo, famed for its Indigenous Market, while the fifth day is dedicated to exploring Peguche Waterfall and the vibrant Peguche community.

Venturing into days six to eight, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon. On the ninth day, you'll present yourself with a thrilling drive to Baños, offering adrenaline-fueled adventure sports. The tenth day unfolds with your exploration of waterfalls and relaxing in thermal springs.

Days eleven to thirteen bring the focus to Cuenca, unveiling its historical sites, and a captivating journey to Guayaquil. Your journey on the fourteenth day concludes with a flight to the Galapagos Islands, where unique wildlife and landscapes await your exploration. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 2 weeks itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Arrive in Quito at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Transfer to accommodation in Quito.

Day 2

• Explore the Colonial Center, Plaza Grande, and La Ronda.
• Visit iconic churches like La Compañía and La Basílica.

Day 3

• Day trip to the Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo).
• Overnight stays in Quito.

Day 4

• Drive or take a bus to Otavalo.
• Explore Otavalo's famous Indigenous Market.

Day 5

• Visit Peguche Waterfall and Peguche community.
• Overnight stay in Otavalo.

Day 6

• Drive to Cotopaxi National Park.
• Hike around Lake Limpiopungo with Cotopaxi Volcano views.

Day 7

• Hike to the refuge Jose Ribas.
• Explore the park's high-altitude flora and fauna.
• Overnight stay near Cotopaxi National Park.

Day 8

• Drive to Quilotoa Lagoon.
• Hike around the crater or take a boat ride.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes.
• Overnight stay near Quilotoa.

Day 9

• Drive to Baños.
• Explore Baños, known for adventure sports.
• Choose from activities like rafting, ziplining, or biking.

Day 10

• Visit Pailon del Diablo and Agoyan waterfalls.
• Relax in thermal springs.
• Overnight stays in Baños.

Day 11

• Drive or take a bus to Cuenca.
• Explore the historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit landmarks like New Cathedral and Parque Calderon.

Day 12

• Explore museums such as Pumapungo Museum.
• Stroll through the charming streets of Cuenca.
• Overnight stays in Cuenca.

Day 13

• Drive or take a bus to Guayaquil.
• Explore Malecón 2000 and Seminario Park.
• Visit Las Peñas historic neighborhood.
• Enjoy local cuisine along the riverfront.
• Overnight stay in Guayaquil.

Day 14

• Fly to the Galapagos Islands.
• Explore the chosen island's unique wildlife and landscapes.
• Participate in guided tours or water activities.
• Overnight stay on the Galapagos Islands.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

Want to be prepared for your upcoming trip to Ecuador? Start by exploring our tips for traveling in Ecuador. You might also find it helpful to read about what you need to know before traveling to Ecuador.

Itinerary #2: adventure and nature

Explore Ecuador's reputation for thrilling activities and unparalleled natural beauty on this 14 day Ecuador itinerary, where you'll encounter the best of both worlds.

On the first day, your journey commences in Quito. On the second day, you’ll explore Quito's Colonial Center and iconic churches. Day three features a trip to the Middle of the World, followed by overnight stays in Quito. On the fourth day, you embark on a drive or bus journey to Mindo for exploration of the Cloud Forest.

The fifth day takes you to the Mindo Butterfly Farm and Orchid Garden, engaging in activities like birdwatching. Days six and seven guide you through an Amazon Rainforest excursion. Day eight involves a drive to Puyo, exploring the Waterfall Route, and enjoying a scenic drive.

Day nine leads you to Baños for adventure sports, such as mountain biking and white-water rafting. On the tenth day, you visit the hot springs in Baños. Day eleven involves a drive to Chimborazo Volcano for high-altitude landscapes and wildlife reserve exploration.

Day twelve brings you to Cuenca, where you explore the historical center and museums. The thirteenth day includes a hike in El Cajas National Park and leisurely strolls in Cuenca. The fourteenth day concludes with a departure transfer from Cuenca. Book this trip. 

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 14 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Arrive in Quito at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Transfer to accommodation in Quito.

Day 2

• Explore the Colonial Center, Plaza Grande, and La Ronda.
• Visit iconic churches like La Compañía and La Basílica.

Day 3

• Day trip to the Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo).
• Overnight stays in Quito.

Day 4

• Drive or take a bus to Mindo.
• Explore the Cloud Forest, known for its biodiversity.

Day 5

• Visit Mindo Butterfly Farm and Orchid Garden.
• Enjoy activities like birdwatching and zip-lining.
• Overnight stays in Mindo.

Day 6

• Drive or take a bus to Tena in the Amazon Rainforest.
• Arrive at the lodge in Tena.
• Explore the rainforest surroundings.

Day 7

• Guided Amazon Rainforest excursion with local naturalist.
• Participate in cultural activities with indigenous communities.
• Overnight stays in Tena.

Day 8

• Drive to Puyo.
• Explore the Waterfall Route.
• Visit Pailón del Diablo waterfall and El Pailón del Diablo Park.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the lush landscapes.
• Overnight stay in Puyo.

Day 9

• Drive to Baños.
• Explore Baños, known for adventure sports.
• Mountain biking adventure along the famous Avenue of Waterfalls.
• White-water rafting on the Pastaza River.

Day 10

• Visit hot springs like Termas de la Virgen.
• Overnight stays in Baños.

Day 11

• Drive to Chimborazo Volcano.
• Explore the high-altitude landscapes.
• Visit the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve.
• Enjoy panoramic views from the Chimborazo Base Camp.
• Overnight stay near Chimborazo.

Day 12

• Drive or take a bus to Cuenca.
• Explore the historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit landmarks like New Cathedral and Parque Calderon.
• Explore museums such as Pumapungo Museum.

Day 13

• Hike in El Cajas National Park.
• Stroll through the charming streets of Cuenca.
• Overnight stays in Cuenca.

Day 14

• Transfer to the airport for departure.

Inspired? Don't waste any time and book this trip now.

Itinerary #3: luxury and the Galapagos

Over the course of two weeks, this itinerary commences in Quito with a leisurely first day adjusting to the altitude at Hacienda Rumiloma. The second day immerses you in exploring Quito's historic center, while the third day involves a private transfer to Otavalo and an evening at Hacienda Zuleta. 

Day four unfolds with an exploration of Otavalo Market and Cotacachi's leather artisans. On the fifth day, you transition from Otavalo to Papallacta, indulging in relaxation in hot springs. Day six includes invigorating horseback riding near Cotopaxi, followed by a drive to Baños on the seventh day, where you explore the town and its natural attractions.

Day eight offers leisure in Baños, followed by a return to Quito in the afternoon. Day nine you’ll spend an evening at Galapagos Safari Camp. The tenth day is dedicated to exploring lava tunnels and a tortoise reserve.

 Day eleven includes a captivating coffee plantation tour, birdwatching, and biking to Garrapatero Beach. On the twelfth day, a thrilling day trip takes you to uninhabited islands, and day thirteen unfolds with an exploration of the highlands, Charles Darwin Research Station, and Puerto Ayora. 

The fourteenth day concludes with a morning of leisure, a ferry to Itabaca Channel, and a transfer to the airport in Quito for your departure. Book this trip. 

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 14 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Transfer to Hacienda Rumiloma.
• Explore leisurely, adjust to the altitude.
• Overnight stay in Quito.

Day 2

• Guided tour of Quito's historic center.
• Visit La Ronda, Plaza de la Independencia, and the Presidential Residence.
• Lunch with a view at Vista Hermosa or other scenic spots.
• Afternoon visit to the Equator Monument and Museo Intiñan.
• Overnight stay in Quito.

Day 3

• Private transfer from Quito to Otavalo.
• Check into Hacienda Zuleta.
• Evening at leisure.
• Overnight stay in Otavalo.

Day 4

• Visit the famous Otavalo Market.
• Explore stands with diverse products.
• Lunch at Cuicocha Crater Lake.
• Visit leather artisans in Cotacachi.
• Overnight stay in Otavalo.

Day 5

• Drive to Papallacta.
• Relax and enjoy the hot springs.
• Evening at leisure.
• Overnight stay at Termas Papallacta.

Day 6

• Transfer to Cotopaxi National Park.
• Explore Lake Limpiopungo.
• Optional hike to the Refugio José Rivas.
• Horseback riding around Hacienda El Porvenir.
• Overnight stay near Cotopaxi.

Day 7

• Visit Saquisilí market.
• Drive through Ambato to Baños.
• Explore Baños de Agua Santa.
• Visit hot springs and waterfalls.
• Overnight stay in Baños.

Day 8

• Choose from various activities in Baños.
• Optional adventure sports or a visit to the Pailón del Diablo.
• Afternoon drive back to Quito.
• Overnight stay in Hacienda Rumiloma.

Day 9

• Transfer to the airport.
• Flight to Santa Cruz Island.
• Arrive at Galapagos Safari Camp.
• Evening at leisure.
• Overnight stay on Santa Cruz Island.

Day 10

• Walk to lava tunnels and tortoise reserve.
• Observation of giant Galápagos tortoises.
• Relaxation in the camp's grounds.
• Sunset views and dinner at the camp.
• Overnight stay on Santa Cruz Island.

Day 11

• Tour of an organic coffee plantation.
• Visit Cerro Mesa reserve for birdwatching.
• Downhill biking to Garrapatero Beach.
• Enjoy the beach and wildlife.
• Evening at the camp with dinner.
• Overnight stay on Santa Cruz Island.

Day 12

• Yacht trip to Santa Fé, South Plazas, Bartolomé, or North Seymour.
• Exploration of unique landscapes and wildlife.
• Return to Puerto Ayora for free time.
• Overnight stay on Santa Cruz Island.

Day 13

• Visit the highlands and Charles Darwin Research Station.
• Explore Puerto Ayora, the largest community in the Galápagos.
• Relax at Tortuga Bay or engage in water activities.
• Farewell dinner at the camp.
• Overnight stay on Santa Cruz Island.

Day 14

• Morning at leisure for final activities.
• Transfer to Itabaca Channel via ferry.
• Transfer to the airport for departure.

Looking for a new experience? Book your trip now.

Considering the Galapagos as a destination for your Ecuador trip? Find ideas in our Galapagos itineraries and read about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands to get the best traveling experience.

Itinerary #4: Galapagos and mainland highlights

On this trip, you’ll get to experience the beauty of Ecuador from the comfort of a super yacht. Over fourteen days, your journey unfolds in Quito. The second day whisks you to Santa Cruz, where you board the Aqua Mar Luxury Yacht, and explore Bahia Borrero. 

Day three immerses you in the wonders of Genovesa Island, earning an Equator crossing certification, exploring El Barranco, lava fields, and Bahía Darwin's coralline beach.

On the fourth day, choose between a workout or guided meditation, embark on an excursion to Bahía Sullivan, and visit Sombrero Chino Island. Day five sees you climbing Bartolomé Island, visiting Cerro Dragón, and sailing towards Santa Cruz Island. 

The sixth day unfolds with an exploration of El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve and Puerto Ayora. Day seven involves a morning excursion in Punta Suárez and a visit to Bahía Gardner.

On the eighth day, you'll visit Santa Fé Island and sail to Plaza Sur Island. Day nine marks the transition from Santa Cruz to Guayaquil, with a short excursion to Los Gemelos. 

The tenth day explores Las Cajas National Park and day eleven involves a Cuenca city tour and a journey to the Ingapirca Ruins.

Day twelve includes a visit to Chimborazo volcano and continues to Baños for adventure and relaxation at Samari Spa Resort. Day thirteen takes you through the "Avenue of Waterfalls," visits El Pailon del Diablo waterfall, and returns to Quito.

The fourteenth day includes a morning exploration of Cuicocha Lagoon, a visit to the Otavalo market, lunch at Cuicocha, and an exploration of leather artisans in Cotacachi. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 14 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Welcome to Quito - Transfer & Welcome Dinner.
• Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Private transfer to accommodation in Quito city center.
• Explore the colonial center of Quito.
• Visit Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica.

Day 2

• From Quito to Santa Cruz (flight).
• Transfer to the airport.
• Flight to Santa Cruz.
• Board the Aqua Mar Luxury Yacht.
• Nikkei-inspired lunch and snorkeling kit distribution.
• Excursion to Bahia Borrero, Santa Cruz.
• Dinner onboard the yacht.

Day 3

• El Barranco - Bahia Darwin - Genovesa Island.
• Explore Genovesa Island.
• Equator crossing certificate ceremony.
• Visit El Barranco and the lava fields.
• Snorkeling session.
• Visit Bahía Darwin's coralline beach.
• Private movie screening at Beach Club.

Day 4

• Bahia Sullivan - Santiago Island - Sombrero Chino.
• Morning workout or guided meditation.
• Excursion to Bahía Sullivan on Santiago Island.
• Lecture on the geology of the Galapagos.
• Visit Sombrero Chino Island, snorkeling, and water activities.
• Evening sundowners and barbecue dinner on the upper deck.

Day 5

• Bartolome Island - Cerro Dragon - Santa Cruz.
• Climb to the summit of Bartolomé Island.
• Snorkeling session.
• Sail towards Santa Cruz Island.
• Visit Cerro Dragón and Flamingo Lagoon.
• Al fresco dinner onboard the yacht.

Day 6

• El Chato Giant Tortoise - Fausto Llerena Breeding Center - Santa Cruz.
• Explore El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve.
• Lecture on the evolution of Darwin’s finches.
• Tender ride to Darwin Station and Fausto Llerena Breeding Center.
• Free time in Puerto Ayora.
• Superfruit juices at the Beach Club.

Day 7

• Punta Suarez - Bahia Gardner - Osborn Islet - Española Island.
• Guided meditation and morning excursion in Punta Suárez.
• Afternoon tender ride to islets for snorkeling.
• Visit Bahía Gardner with the sea lion colony.
• Happy Hour at the bar onboard.

Day 8

• Visit Santa Fé Island.
• Snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding.
• Lunch onboard.
• Sail to Plaza Sur Island for a hiking excursion.

Day 9

• From Santa Cruz to Guayaquil (flight).
• Short excursion to Los Gemelos on Santa Cruz.
• Transfer to hotel (Oro Verde).

Day 10

• From Guayaquil to Las Cajas and Cuenca.
• Breakfast and pick-up by guide/driver.
• Visit Cajas National Park.
• Continue to Cuenca and overnight at Mansion Alcazar.

Day 11

• Cuenca City Tour.
• Morning city tour in Cuenca.
• Afternoon journey to Ingapirca Ruins.
• Overnight in Riobamba at Hosteria La Andaluza.

Day 12

• Visit Chimborazo volcano.
• Continue to Baños for adventure and relaxation.
• Overnight at Samari Spa Resort.

Day 13

• Drive along the "Avenue of Waterfalls".
• Visit El Pailon del Diablo waterfall.
• Return to Quito via Baños.
• Walking city tour in Quito.
• Visit Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica.
• Equatorial monument Mitad del Mundo.

Day 14

• Morning exploration of Cuicocha Lagoon.
• Visit Otavalo market.
• Lunch at Cuicocha.
• Explore leather artisans in Cotacachi.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

In addition to all the other advantages, Galapagos is also great for a family trip. To prepare for such a trip, read our Ecuador with kids guide.

Itinerary #5: best of the Amazon and Galapagos

On this itinerary, you’ll explore three dream destinations in Ecuador: Quito and Otavalo, followed by the Amazon with guided boat tours, and then to the Galapagos Islands.

The first day welcomes you to Quiton, allowing leisurely exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The second day unfolds with a walking city tour, visiting Plaza Grande, La Compañía, La Basílica, and La Ronda, followed by a cooking class in Old Town Quito and a visit to the Mitad del Mundo monument. 

Day three commences with a transfer to the Yasuni Biosphere Reserve in the Amazon. On the fourth day, you’ll explore the Napo Cultural Center. Here you can take an afternoon hike, kayak, and visit the Kuri Muyu and Canopy Tower. Enjoy a traditional dinner, and a Wayusa Ritual, and then with a return to Quito.

Day five involves a day tour of Otavalo and Cuicocha Lagoon, exploring the Otavalo market. The sixth day features a hike around Cuicocha Lagoon and a return to Quito. 

On day seven you’ll arrive in Puerto Ayora and visit the Highlands, Charles Darwin Station, and Tortuga Bay. Day eight offers leisure on Santa Cruz and a day trip to an uninhabited island. 

The ninth day includes a visit to Floreana Island and a return to Puerto Ayora. Day ten involves a transfer to Quito with arrival and leisure time. The eleventh day explores Isla Floreana, followed by leisure time in Puerto Ayora. 

Day twelve allows exploration of Quito at your own pace, enjoying the vibrant culinary and nightlife scene, and preparing for international departure. Day fourteen bids farewell to Ecuador. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 14 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Welcome to Quito - Transfer and day at leisure.
• Arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Transfer to accommodation.
• Explore Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 2

• City Tour, Cooking Class at Lunch & Mitad del Mundo.
• Walking city tour of Quito.
• Visit Plaza Grande, La Compañía, La Basílica, and La Ronda.
• Cooking class in Old Town Quito.
• Visit Mitad del Mundo monument.

Day 3

• 30-minute flight to Coca.
• Transfer to the port.
• Departure for Yasuni Biosphere Reserve, Amazon.

Day 4

• Yasuni Biosphere Reserve, Amazon.
• Arrival at Napo Cultural Center.
• Afternoon hike and kayaking.
• Visit to Kuri Muyu and Canopy Tower.
• Traditional dinner.
• Wayusa Ritual.
• Return to Coca and flight to Quito.

Day 5

• Quito.
• Day Tour to Otavalo and Cuicocha Lagoon.
• Visit Otavalo market.

Day 6

• Hike around Cuicocha Lagoon.
• Return to Quito.

Day 7

• From Quito to Santa Cruz (flight).
• Transfer to the airport.
• Flight to Santa Cruz.
• Arrival at Puerto Ayora.
• Visit Highlands & Charles Darwin Station.
• Visit Tortuga Bay.

Day 8

• Santa Cruz Island.
• Day at leisure on Santa Cruz.
• Day trip to an uninhabited island.

Day 9

• Visit Floreana Island.
• Return to Puerto Ayora.

Day 10

• Transfer to Quito.
• Arrival and leisure time.

Day 11

• Visit Isla Floreana.
• Leisure time in Puerto Ayora.
• Transfer to the airport.
• Return flight to Quito.
• Arrival and leisure time.

Day 12

• Explore Quito at your own pace.
• Enjoy the vibrant culinary and nightlife scene.

Day 13

• Rest and prepare for international departure.

Day 14

• Goodbye Ecuador - Transfer to the airport.

Prepare your Ecuador itinerary

Allow our team of local Ecuador travel experts to curate your dream trip to Ecuador. When you're ready to embark on your adventure, reach out to us, and we'll craft a personalized itinerary just for you.

Feel free to browse our pre-designed Ecuador itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs. For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in Ecuador.