Discover Ecuador with our carefully planned 8-day itineraries for travelers with different interests. For those who want to enjoy panoramic Andean views, urban exploration, and kayaking on Quilotoa's crater lagoon, an itinerary like this Quito, Quilotoa, Baños, Cuenca, and Guayaquil adventure might be a fun choice. If you're seeking an adrenaline rush, consider something similar to this epic Ecuador multi-sport trip, where you can mountain bike through cloud forests, raft in the Amazon rainforest, go canyoning, and relax in hot spring. You might also enjoy an active adventure like this Avenue of the Volcanoes trek, perfect for avid hikers wanting to discover Ecuador's dramatic volcanic landscape on foot.
See our itineraries below or read our guide to the best 8-day trips in Ecuador.
See contrasting sides of Ecuador on this eight-day islands-and-city adventure. Discover the astonishing biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands, where you'll meet playful sea lions, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises during stays on San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz. The country's capital, Quito, sandwiches your island time—your springboard to discover Indigenous and colonial culture and the surrounding volcanic Andes.
This eight-day trekking adventure delivers the highlights of the Ecuadorian Andes as you explore stunning landscapes, secluded villages, and the famous peaks along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Hike along narrow mountain trails in the heart of the Andes as you make your way up the Quilotoa and Chimborazo volcanoes. Swim in the icy waters of Lake Quilotoa, then relax in the natural hot springs at Baños.
Experience the incredible Andes mountain range on this eight-day tour of Ecuador. Ride the Devil's Nose vertiginous train track, hike up volcanoes, kayak on a crater lake, and see Inca ruins. You'll also explore several high-altitude cities, including the capital, Quito, and colonial Cuenca. With plentiful guided activities, private transfers, and four to five-star hotels with breakfasts, this trip is the perfect mix of adventure and comfort.
Experience Ecuador's natural wonders beyond the lively capital city Quito on this eight-day discovery tour. Before heading into the wilderness, you'll base yourself mostly in Quito, exploring its museums, architecture, and cuisine. Take a day trip to the sapphire waters of Cuicocha Lagoon, shop for handicrafts in Otavalo Market, and hike amid the cloud forests of Mindo. Transfer to Cotopaxi National Park, sleep in a traditional hacienda, and have fun in Baños—Ecuador's adventure capital.
This active tour of the Ecuadorian mainland is sure to get the adrenaline pumping. In just over a week you'll enjoy adventures on both land and water. Brave the rapids of the Río Jatunyacu, cycle down the slopes of the Andes, hike through virgin rainforest to secluded waterfalls, trek to the shores of Cuicocha Lagoon, and soak in Papallacta's volcanic springs.
Staying in a hacienda has become a must for any trip to the Ecuadorian Andes. On this eight-day adventure, you'll discover historic farmhouses dating back to the 16th century, lovingly restored into first-class hotels. Start in Quito and uncover its colonial past, then hike along Cucicocha Lagoon before pampering your body at Papallacta Spa. Explore Cotopaxi National Park and take a horseback ride at sunset. Finally, it's water galore as you enjoy hot springs, thermal baths, and waterfalls in Baños.
Explore Ecuador's diverse beauty during this eight-day adventure from mountains to islands. Start among the Andes in Quito, where you'll learn about its traditional food and colonial Old Town. Head into nature to hike in Cotopaxi National Park and see its active volcano, then hop over to the Galápagos Islands. Get up close to the giant tortoises on Isla Santa Cruz, spot rare marine life as you kayak along Tortuga Bay, then spend some downtime swimming, snorkeling, or just lazing on the beach.
Visit Ecuador's capital and its scenic coastline on this eight-day trip. Begin in Quito and soak in the local culture with a city tour, a cooking class, and a visit to the equator. Take a day trip for a lakeside hike and some shopping at traditional markets, then bathe in the hot springs at Papallacta. Next, fly to Manta and enjoy a boat tour of the bay, transferring a few hours south to Puerto López to spot wildlife on a sailing excursion and night dive, and finish the trip with a kite surfing lesson.
Explore Ecuador's cultural highlights and outdoor landscapes on this action-packed eight-day itinerary. Begin in Quito with a city tour and a cooking class, then bargain for traditional crafts in the famed Otavalo Market. Discover the Amazonian rainforest, including an Indigenous community, when you arrive at a jungle lodge by boat. Finish with a hike near Baños and a quick visit to Cotopaxi National Park.
Spend eight days sampling Ecuadorian gastronomy and immersing yourself in the country's rich culture. Take a craft beer tour in Quito, then learn traditional recipes in a cooking class. Visit markets and crater lakes near Otavalo, climb volcanoes and make empanadas around Cotopaxi National Park, sample local cheeses and ride horses in Isinliví, then end your trip on a sweet note back in Quito with a chocolate tasting.
