If you don’t want to leave Ecuador without seeing as much as you can but with some time to chill, we don’t blame you — where better to get centred than the lateral centre of Earth? With nearly three weeks to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to do it all. Learn about traditional Quichua culture in the Amazon, wander the streets of cities like Quito and Cuenca, then enjoy the chill vibes in the surf town of Montañita.
◆Arrive at any time.
◆Travel to Baños and be spoiled over the next few days by the abundance of optional outdoor activities in the area like hiking, ziplining, and canyoning. Today, choose to take it easy and relax in local hot springs.
◆Enjoy a free day to take full advantage of all the activities in this adventurous town.
◆Travel by bus into the Amazon Jungle. Spend two nights in rustic jungle huts in a local Quichua community. Enjoy nature walks and learn about local culture.
◆Enjoy a full day in the Amazon learning about local life in the jungle. Spend the night in rustic jungle huts in a Quichua community.
◆Cycle to the nearby community of Shandia and discover the beauty of the Amazon with a member of the community as your guide. Later, take a local bus to Papallacta and relax in the natural mineral hot pools with volcanic views.
◆Enjoy a relaxing morning at the hot springs before travelling back to Quito for free time to explore.
◆Explore the largest handicraft market in South America, Otavalo market. Villagers from the surrounding countryside come every week to sell handmade goods as well as livestock, fruits, and vegetables.
◆Travel by bus to Cotopaxi National Park. In the afternoon, opt to explore the area or mountain bike with views of Cotopaxi Volcano. Spend the night in a mountain lodge near the national park.
◆In the morning, visit Cotopaxi National Park before continuing on to Alausi.
◆Board the train for an included excursion bound for the Devil's Nose. After, head to Cuenca and marvel at its colonial architecture.
◆Enjoy a free day to explore. Opt for a city tour or go hiking in Cajas National Park.
◆Head to the coastal laid-back surf town of Montañita. En route, stop at a traditional cacao hacienda.
◆Head to the beach town of Puerto Lopez and the beautiful Machalilla National Park that surrounds it. There are tons of activities in the area to take part in over the next few days.
◆Enjoy free time to explore. Optional activities include hiking in Machalilla National Park, relaxing on white-sand beaches, or whale- watching (when in season). Or, opt for the popular day-trip to Isla del Plata, home to a variety of seabirds including blue-footed boobies and fantastic snorkelling that rivals the Galápagos.
◆Fly Back to Quito and enjoy free time. Opt to take a city tour, ride the cable car up the nearby volcano, or relax in one of the city's many cafés and restaurants.
◆Depart at any time.