Best of Isinliví

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Isinliví
Set in Ecuador’s central highlands, the small settlement of Isinliví is a key stop for travelers making the multi-day hike along the Quilotoa Loop. Lush mountain peaks surround the town, and there are several guesthouses where you can stay overnight while taking in the rhythms of Andean village life.

It’s well worth planning a trip around one of the big market days in nearby indigenous villages: Sigchos on Sunday, Zumbahua on Saturday and, best of all, Saquisilí on Thursday. All have an authentic vibe, and feature clothing, textiles, ceramics, livestock and loads of other wares. The clean air is ideal of outdoor activities, and you can go mountain-biking around Quilotoa Lake, hike through Andean valleys or go rock-climbing at Tangán and Zumbahua.
Plan your trip to Ecuador
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Climb to El Panecillo for views across Quito
Map of Explore Quito & the Central Andes - 5 Days
Explore Quito & the Central Andes - 5 Days

This quick, five-day getaway to Ecuador showcases Quito and the surrounding central Andes. Start with a local's-eye view of the capital's historic center, then set off into Cotopaxi National Park to explore its sweeping páramo landscapes and famous volcano. Settle into the charming Andean village of Isinliví for mountain horseback rides and hiking, grab a photo op at the turquoise crater lake of Quilotoa, and end back in Quito with a bike tour past colorful neighborhoods and street art.

Taste your way through the Ecuadorian Andes on this eight-day tour
Map of Cuisine & Culture in the Ecuadorian Andes - 8 Days
Cuisine & Culture in the Ecuadorian Andes - 8 Days

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.

Hike to volcanoes and lakes in the high alpine areas of the Ecuadorian Andes
Map of Hiking in the Ecuadorian Andes - 11 Days
Hiking in the Ecuadorian Andes - 11 Days

Kick off the 11-day hiking adventure with two days in sophisticated Quito, a UNESCO-listed city high in the mountains. Then set off to visit a range of trails toward stunning volcanoes, lakes, and national parks—plus a memorable waterfall—while staying in unique villages and towns along the way. Return to Quito to enjoy one more night in Ecuador's capital before departing.

The road leading to Cotopaxi
Map of Trekking Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes - 8 Days
Trekking Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes - 8 Days

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.

Spend a day hiking around the base of Ecuador's highest volcano: Chimborazo
Map of Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes: Quito to Guayaquil - 9 Days
Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes: Quito to Guayaquil - 9 Days

This active adventure covers some of Ecuador's most famous peaks and staggering volcanoes, rising to 20,702 feet (6,310 m). Starting in Quito, one of the world's highest cities, you'll drive south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to hike in national parks, visit archaeology ruins, and explore charming towns and cities dating to the 16th century. Head west to the Pacific Ocean and take a sunset stroll along Guayaquil's boardwalk to finish the adventure.

Other popular travel destinations in Ecuador
Quito · Baños · Cotopaxi · Otavalo · Guayaquil · Cuenca · The Amazon · Riobamba · Yasuni National Park · Papallacta · Tena · Archidona · Mindo · Quilotoa · Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve · Cacha · Lago Agrio