Ecuador's Cities, Highlands & Cloud Forests - 16 Days

Highlights

• Explore colonial history and see exotic plants and animals in Quito
• Visit famous textile markets and learn how to prepare classic Ecuadorian cuisine
• Hike around cloud forests, waterfalls, and shimmering highland lagoons
• Tour the ancient Indigenous temples at the Ingapirca archaeological site

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Visit the Botanical Gardens

Welcome to Ecuador! This South American nation is famous for many things, not least its capital, Quito. The city's historic center is an open-air museum featuring landmarks, like whitewashed cathedrals and grand plazas, from the Spanish colonial era to the early 16th century. This entire section of Quito is so well-preserved that it earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1978.

Upon arrival at Quito's airport, a driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, you can stretch your legs with a walk around this bustling metropolis nestled high in the Andes at 9,350 feet 2,850 m) before meeting a guide for a private tour of the city's famous Jardín Botánico (Botanical Garden).

Located in the city center at Parque La Carolina, this botanical garden showcases a diverse collection of native and exotic plants from Ecuador and beyond. During a two-hour visit, you can stroll along pathways amid ponds and scenic viewpoints as you admire the lush greenery and colorful blooms. Highlights include a collection of orchids, bromeliads, ferns, other tropical plants, and native trees and shrubs. After the visit, you'll transfer back to your hotel.

Day 2: Quito City Tour, Cooking Class & Visit Mitad del Mundo

This morning, you're off to walk in the footsteps of history on a guided tour of Ecuador's historic center. Admire the intricate stone carvings of Iglesia La Compañía and wander the cloisters of the 16th-century Iglesia San Francisco. Wrap up the historical center leg of your tour with a walk down La Ronda, once a pre-Columbian walking trail, now a romantic pedestrian street lined with cafés, live music venues, and eclectic shops. 

Around midday, you'll meet a local chef for a dynamic cooking class. This is your chance to enjoy an authentic Quiteño culinary experience as you prepare Ecuadorian classics, such as empanadas de viento (savory pastries), seco de pollo (a rich chicken stew), and roast cuy (guinea pig). First, you and the chef will take a trip to a market to buy the ingredients needed for each dish. Then, learn the recipes and follow the steps to create a delicious lunch to share.

Later, head just north of Quito to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), a park dominated by the 98-foot (30 m) tall Monument to the Equator. It marks the precise location of the equator, the invisible line that divides the Earth into the northern and southern hemispheres. You can straddle the yellow line here, which means you'll have one foot in each hemisphere. You can also visit the Planetarium to see a small-scale model of Quito and various exhibitions. Afterward, you'll transfer back to your hotel where the evening is yours to spend as you wish.

Day 3: Day Trip to Otavalo, Lake Hike & Cooking Class

Meet your driver this morning for the two-hour ride north to the beautiful Laguna de Cuicocha, located at the foot of Cotacachi volcano. The lagoon was formed by a massive eruption approximately 3,100 years ago and contains two forested islands in the middle of the lake. Along with a guide, follow the trail along the crater rim to various viewpoints. Afterward, you'll drive about 30 minutes to Otavalo, a highland town known for its Indigenous history and traditional craft markets.

Speaking of which, you'll make a beeline for the market once you arrive in Otavalo. It's busiest on Saturdays, but you can find vendors, primarily Otavalos, the region's Indigenous people, throughout the week. The Otavalo are best known for their colorful, hand-woven textiles, and many market stalls offer tablecloths, blankets, scarves, and more. If you like, you can pick up some items to take home as souvenirs.

After browsing the market, there will be time for a lesson in traditional Andean cooking at Kawsaymi, a homey restaurant owned and operated by a Kichwa Indigenous family. Your friendly hosts will show you how to choose the best seasonal produce from the garden, and you'll cook them with the help of a local chef. It's an immersive experience as you grind your own corn flour by hand and use a tulpa (fireplace) to cook the ingredients and bring out the deep, rich flavors of the Andes in an authentic environment. After the meal, you'll return to Quito.

Day 4: Day Trip to Mindo, Coffee & Chocolate Tasting

Leave Quito once again this morning on a trip two hours west to Mindo. This town enjoys an ideal location on the slopes of the Andes, with mild temperatures and plenty of rainfall. These conditions have resulted in the region's famous cloud forest ecosystems, which feature some of the most biodiverse forests on Earth. It's also one of the world's best birding destinations, home to over 500 avian species. 

You're in for a real treat as you'll spend the day exploring this natural wonderland. During a guided excursion through the cloud forest, you'll visit a butterfly farm, trek to waterfalls, go river tubing, soar between the treetops on a zipline, and sample locally made chocolate and coffee. That's to say nothing of all the colorful birds you'll see, which include hummingbirds, toucans, tanagers, manakins, and more. You'll be dropped back at your hotel in time to enjoy your final evening in the city.

Day 5: Transfer to Cotopaxi, Hike & Horseback Ride

It's an early start as you hit the road with your driver on the 1.5-hour ride south of Quito to the province of Cotopaxi. On the way, you'll stop at Laguna de Limpiopungo for a short hike to enjoy the panoramic mountain views. In the park's highlands, you'll also see the El Salitre Inca ruins, dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. During the outing, keep an eye out for wildlife—Lake Limpiopungo is home to a variety of birds and a few wild horses.

Eventually, you'll arrive at Cotopaxi National Park, a pristine nature reserve covering 129 square miles (334 sq km) in the Andean highlands. After checking into your accommodation, you'll meet a guide, hop in the saddle, and explore this wild frontier on horseback. Gallop across windswept plains and through native forests, all with the snowcapped peak of Cotopaxi volcano looming overhead. As you ride, keep an eye out for native wildlife, which includes rabbits, deer, and even wild horses.

Day 6: Transfer to Baños, Hike Quilotoa Lagoon

It's time to move on to the next adventure today as you take a two-hour scenic drive west from Cotopaxi to Laguna Quilotoa. This 2-mile (3 km) wide crater lake sparkles with mineral-rich emerald waters. Upon arrival, you'll stretch your legs on a brisk three-hour hike around the lagoon. It covers a distance of about 2.5 miles (4 km), and much of it's uphill, so a decent level of physical fitness is required. That said, there's the option to hire a mule to ease some of the burden.

After the hike, you'll get back in the car and continue about three hours south to the charming town of Baños de Agua Santa. During the drive, you'll leave the highlands and arrive at the edge of the Amazon basin, a region known for its hot springs and waterfalls. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and can spend the rest of the day relaxing.

Day 7: Day Trip to Waterfalls & Hot Springs

You've hiked and cycled around highland volcanoes; now it's time to experience natural wonders a bit lower in altitude. This morning, your driver will take you for a ride along the scenic Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route) toward the village of Río Verde. When you arrive in town, take a one-hour hike to one of the area's famous waterfalls, El Pailón del Diablo (Devil's Cauldron). Here, the water cascades 265 feet (81 m) down through the cloud forest.

After marveling at the falls, you'll transfer back to Baños. On the way, stop just outside town at Casa del Arbol, where you can soar on a swing at the edge of a mountain. If you like, afterward, you can stop for a soak at nearby hot springs before returning to your hotel in town. 

Day 8: Transfer to Archidona, Rainforest Hike

Today, you'll meet your driver and transfer three hours west to Archidona. Known as the "Gateway to the Amazon," this colonial town remains a missionary outpost surrounded by Indigenous Kichwa communities. Once here, you'll check into a comfy jungle lodge (complete with outdoor pool and WiFi), and prepare for a couple of days of rainforest hikes.

The adventures begin right away, as you'll grab your day pack and set off with a local naturalist guide on an introductory hike. As you explore, your guide will point out rainforest features, like endemic wildlife and medicinal plants used by locals. Animals to look out for include howler monkeys, tapirs, sloths, toucans, and parrots. (Get lucky, and you might even spot the elusive jaguar.) After a break for a dip in a jungle waterfall, you'll return to the lodge.

Day 9: Jungle Trek & Kichwa Community Visit

Wake up to the sounds of the rainforest and fortify yourself with a delicious breakfast. Then, set off on a three-hour jungle trek through the forest. Part of this adventure involves exploring a 394-foot (120 m) long cave home to fruit bats. Then, move on to the Golondrinas waterfall, which cascades 46 feet (14 m) into a turquoise lagoon (perfect for a refreshing dip). Later, visit a guayusa (Amazonian holly tree) plantation and factory. Traditionally, guayusa leaves are used to make tea.

After a lunch break, you'll visit an Indigenous Kichwa community and experience their traditional dances and culture. You'll also learn how they prepare the famous chicha, a fermented beverage made from manioc (cassava). Later, back at the lodge, you'll sit for a dinner featuring regional specialties. Afterward, take a 40-minute walk around the gardens. Here, you can spot grasshoppers, insects, frogs, and—if you're lucky—bioluminous fungi.

Day 10: Day Trip to Papallacta Hot Springs, Transfer to Quito

After all that hiking, you could probably use a bit of relaxation. Luckily, today, you'll visit the region's Papallacta hot springs to soak in volcanic waters. Situated at 12,100 feet (3,700 m) in an evergreen páramo (Andean high grasslands) landscape, this area is renowned for its healing waters. If the weather is clear, you'll spot the giant Artisana volcano looming above.

You'll also spend time at the Termas de Papallacta Resort and Spa, which offers nine warm and three cold pools at various temperatures, plus an on-site spa with multiple health and beauty treatments, including hydromassage, a Turkish steam bath, and a mud wrap. It's also a great spot to have lunch with local dishes such as fresh-grilled trout. When the time comes, you'll get back on the road and return to Quito, where you'll check into your hotel.

Day 11: Tour the Vivarium de Quito, Free Afternoon

Animal lovers rejoice as you'll enjoy a special tour today—a visit to the Vivarium de Quito. Located within Parque La Carolina, it's a fascinating world of reptiles, amphibians, and other small creatures on public display. The habitats here have been impeccably created to mimic the natural environments of these creatures, which include snakes, lizards, frogs, turtles, and much more. During the two-hour visit, an expert at the Vivarium will reveal insight into the habitats and care of these animals.

The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore Quito one last time before flying south tomorrow. Head over to Plaza Foch, grab a shady spot, and people-watch with a cool drink, or hop on a cable car to the top of Cruz Loma—the sweeping views here give memorable views of the city's skyline framed by the mountains beyond.

Day 12: Fly to Cuenca, Historic City Tour

Say goodbye to Quito as you transfer to the airport and catch a one-hour flight to the south of Ecuador and Cuenca. This city is the capital of Azuay province and is known as the "Athens of Ecuador" due to its ancient landmarks and colonial history. Upon arrival, a driver will transfer you to your hotel, and after dropping off your bags, you'll head out on a guided walking tour.

It starts in Cuenca's historic center, where you'll visit the 16th-century Iglesia El Sagrario, known as the "Old Cathedral," and the 19th-century Catedral Metropolitana de la Inmaculada Concepción, aka the "New Cathedral." While the old cathedral has been converted into a museum, the new one, with its famous blue and white domes, is still a working church. 

Later, you'll visit Museo del Sombrero de Paja Toquilla—the Panama Hat Museum. Yes, those famous hats are made here in Ecuador from toquilla straw. During the visit, you'll learn the techniques weavers use to create these iconic (and often expensive) accessories. Afterward, you'll visit the El Barranco neighborhood in the historic center for a scenic stroll on the banks of the Río Tomebamba, which is lined with terraced houses. End the tour at the Mirador de Turi, a popular viewpoint where you can see the city and the mountains beyond. (It's also a great spot to watch the sunset).

Day 13: Cuenca Countryside Tour & Orchid Farm

You've toured the highlights of Cuenca; now it's time to travel outside the city to visit charming villages in the Azuay countryside. Your driver will pick you up in the morning to drive to your first destination, Chordeleg. This silversmith town is known for filigree, which uses fine wires to form delicate jewelry. Next, travel to Gualaceo and visit an orchid farm where over 6,000 are cultivated. Last up is Sígsig, famous for its traditional handicrafts and custom Panama hats. After a full afternoon exploring the province, you'll return to Cuenca.

Day 14: Ingapirca Ruins Day Tour

Leave Cuenca this morning on a 1.5-hour drive north to the Ingapirca ruins, which sit at 10,498 feet (3,200 m). Dating to the 15th century, the site was important to the Indigenous Cañari people and the Inca, as they coexisted peacefully for many years. Among the ruins, you'll find the Temple of the Sun, an oblong building featuring impressively precise stonework.

Your guide will also lead you to a complex network of ancient terraces cascading down the hillsides. These creative agricultural practices allowed the Cañari and Inca to cultivate crops in the challenging Andean environment. You'll also learn about the ancient rituals practiced here at the Tumba Cañari, a sacred burial site that's an example of how the Cañari honored their deceased. It offers much insight into the beliefs and customs that defined their view of the afterlife. At the end of the tour, you'll return to Cuenca.

Day 15: Hike El Cajas National Park, Transfer to Guayaquil

Embark on one last great road trip adventure as you travel to Ecuador's famous coast. Before you do, however, you'll set off on one more mountain hike. Your driver will pick you up in the morning for the hourlong drive west of Cuenca to El Cajas National Park. With its 200 glacial lakes and numerous hiking trails, this site is one of Ecuador's most spectacular.

Upon arrival, you'll set off on a half-day trek. As you go, you'll skirt small gorges and pass through native forests as your guide points out the distinctive moorland vegetation. Highlights you'll stop at include the Garden of the Virgin of Cajas and Tres Cruces Viewpoint. The latter sits at 13,648 feet (4160 m) and offers jaw-dropping panoramic views.

After a break for lunch, get back on the road for a four-hour drive with your guide, approaching one of the highest points in the Ecuadorian highlands before descending toward the coast. Rice plantations dot the landscape as you near the port city of Guayaquil, where you'll spend the night.

Day 16: Guayaquil City Tour, Depart 

No need to flee Ecuador just yet! In the morning, you'll enjoy one more fun outing on a guided tour of Guayaquil. It starts with a visit to Seminario Park, where you can spot iguanas scurrying about and relaxing in the sun. After visiting the park's neo-Gothic Metropolitan Cathedral, you'll stroll down the famous Malecón, a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) boardwalk along the river.

Then, continue north to Las Peñas, a colorful neighborhood dating to the 16th century, famous for its cobbled streets and pastel-colored hilltop homes. At the tour's end, you'll say goodbye to your new iguana friends as you hop in a car for the transfer to the airport, where your flight home awaits. Safe travels!

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