15 Days Exploring Ecuador's Wonders

15 days
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Small Group Tour
Explore the captivating diversity of Ecuador over 15 unforgettable days. Begin your journey in Quito, home to the best-preserved Historic Center in Latin America. From there, venture into the province of lagoons, where local gastronomy delights your taste buds. Admire the landscapes around the active volcano Cotopaxi and the stunning turquoise Quilotoa lagoon...
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Quito, Ecuador's capital.
    • Embark on a journey to Otavalo, famous for its indigenous market.
    • Explore the mesmerizing Quilotoa, a volcanic crater lake.
    • Discover the historical Ingapirca Ruins, showcasing Inca architecture.
    • Explore Cuenca's art scene, cultural attractions, and scenic landscapes.
    • Discover the beauty of Silver Island through sailing.
    • Discover the natural wonders of Mindo.

What's this trip about?

    Explore the captivating diversity of Ecuador over 15 unforgettable days. Begin your journey in Quito, home to the best-preserved Historic Center in Latin America. From there, venture into the province of lagoons, where local gastronomy delights your taste buds. Admire the landscapes around the active volcano Cotopaxi and the stunning turquoise Quilotoa lagoon. Baños, often called the gateway to the Amazon, offers a day filled with adventure and relaxation. Chimborazo, the closest point on Earth to the sun, provides a unique high-altitude experience. Engage with local communities, visit an archaeological complex along the Inca Trail, and discover the vibrant markets in Cuenca. Delve into the world of cacao at a local hacienda, sample exquisite chocolates, and explore Ecuador's Pacific Coast, including Silver Island (Isla de la Plata) and Machalilla National Park. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Tsachila people and observe endemic birdlife in a protected area while learning about high-altitude coffee production. This 15-day journey promises a rich tapestry of experiences in the heart of Ecuador.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range18 years and up
Flights and transportAll internal ground transport included
Start CityQuito
End CityQuito

Travel Themes

  • Hiking & Walking
  • Local Immersion & Homestays
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • South America
  • Ecuador

Attractions

  • Pacific Ocean

Activities

  • Culture
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Nature
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Independent

Trip includes

    • 14 nights of lodging
    • Entrances to all the activities listed on the itinerary

Itinerary

Travel Map
DAY 1: WELCOME TO ECUADOR! ARRIVAL IN QUITO

Passengers will be warmly welcomed as they arrive at the airport, right after their international flight. Our friendly team will be there to pick you up and ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel in the beautiful city of Quito. Your journey begins with ease and convenience.

Meals: - Accommodation: Quito

DAY 2: EXPLORING OTAVALO, CUICOCHA LAGOON, AND COTACACHI

This trip takes us north along the scenic Pan-American Highway, leading us to the fascinating Quitsato solar clock. This remarkable cultural site, originally constructed in pre-Hispanic times, was designed for tracking solstices and equinoxes. Located right on the equ...

DAY 3: DISCOVERING QUITO: A CITY TOUR THROUGH ECUADOR'S CAPITAL

Your day kicks off with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, setting you up for an adventure through Quito's enchanting Historic Center. This area is a captivating blend of cobbled streets, charming squares, and well-preserved colonial architecture dating back to the ...

DAY 4: COTOPAXI & QUILOTOA: VOLCANIC WONDERS AND ANDEAN TREASURES

Get ready for a scenic 2-hour drive along the central Pan-American Highway to reach the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park. Here, you'll have the chance to explore local handicrafts and immerse yourself in the Andean culture. A hike around the Limpiopungo lagoon on th...

DAY 5: FREE DAY IN BAÑOS: (OPTIONAL ACTIVITY) - BAÑOS: THE GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE AND AMAZON MYSTIQUE

Let's set out on an extraordinary journey to Baños, renowned as the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, nestled gracefully in the shadow of the active Tungurahua volcano. This charming town is blessed with the perfect climate, offering a haven for nature enthusiasts and...

DAY 6: FREE DAY IN BAÑOS: (OPTIONAL ACTIVITY) - CHIMBORAZO: A BREATHTAKING ASCENT TO THE CLOSEST POINT TO THE SUN

Join us on an extraordinary adventure to Chimborazo Mountain, where you'll encounter the unparalleled tranquility of standing at the Earth's nearest point to the sun, a moment that will render you speechless and quite possibly breathless. Hike to astounding altitudes ...

DAY 7: EXPLORING THE CULTURE AND NATURE OF GUAMOTE AND SANGAY NATIONAL PARK

Our adventure kicks off with an early morning departure, setting out on the Panamerican Highway. We head south towards the indigenous market of Guamote, one of the nation's most vibrant and colorful markets. Here, you'll gain profound insights into the local Kichua co...

DAY 8: DEVIL'S NOSE & INGAPIRCA RUINS

Venture into an entirely distinct realm with an invigorating hour-and-a-half drive. The journey unfolds with a visit to the awe-inspiring Devil's Nose viewpoint, offering breathtaking vistas, and the quaint Sibambe Train Station. Delight your taste buds with a traditi...

DAY 9: ART, CULTURE, AND SCENIC BEAUTY IN CUENCA

A captivating journey through the enchanting city of Cuenca right after a hearty breakfast. Our exploration begins at the Pumapungo Museum, a unique archaeological gem nestled on the former Inca site of Pumapungo. As you traverse the historic artisan neighborhoods wit...

DAY 10: FROM HIGHLAND MOORS TO CHOCOLATE DREAMS NATURE AND CULTURE

Start your day with a delightful breakfast, setting the tone for an adventure that awaits. After a 40- minute drive, we reach the breathtaking Cajas National Park, nestled in the scenic west of Cuenca. Our hike commences at the stunning Laguna "La Toreadora," offering...

DAY 11: SAIL TO SILVER ISLAND: NATURE, CULTURE, AND SNORKELING UNVEILED

The morning brings an exciting journey as we venture to the small port, the gateway to our Isla de la Plata (Silver Island) adventure. This secluded haven is a natural paradise, home to an array of seabirds like blue-footed boobies, red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, ...

DAY 12: MANTEÑO CULTURE UNVEILED: FOREST, BATHS, AND BEACH

A Day of Cultural Immersion Prepare to delve into the heritage of Ecuador's Manteño people. Our journey commences in the heart of the coastal dry forest at the Ancestral Community Agua Blanca. While wandering along the forest's winding paths, spot the resident iguanas...

DAY 13: UNVEILING ECUADOR'S TREASURES: CULTURE, WETLANDS, AND COMMUNITY

Our journey commences with an immersive visit to the community of Chorrillos, where the ancient art of cabuya-making still thrives. Delve into the intricacies of this fading craft while exploring the myriad of handcrafted treasures that adorn the village. From there, ...

DAY 14: MINDO'S NATURE AND GASTRONOMY

Begin your day with an authentic Tsáchila breakfast, lovingly prepared by the local community. Afterward, embark on a picturesque 2-hour drive to Mindo, a picturesque village nestled within the Choco Andino biosphere reserve, one of Ecuador's most biologically diverse...

DAY 15: UNTIL NEXT TIME DEAR TRAVELER!

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast served right at the hotel, ensuring you're all set for your upcoming adventures. Following this, we'll take care of your transportation to the airport for your international flight. It's our way of making your departure as ha...

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Dates & Availability

Price From $2,099
Price per day$140
Last Updated: 4/26/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Responsible Travel.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Responsible Travel Reviews & Ratings

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Other Responsible Travel Reviews

J

Jamie R.

Dec 2023

We just returned from a wonderful 3-week trip in Ecuador that included Quito, Amazon jungle, touring down the Andes to Cuenca, and Galapagos cruise.

We just returned from a wonderful 3-week trip in Ecuador that included Quito, Amazon jungle, touring down the Andes to Cuenca, and Galapagos cruise. Our travel agent...

J

Jessica S.

Sep 2023

Alvaro helped me and my husband plan our honeymoon trip to Ecuador and it was amazing!

Alvaro helped me and my husband plan our honeymoon trip to Ecuador and it was amazing! Our guides were very kind and knowledgeable. We learned not only about the are...

M

Mathew S.

Jul 2023

We had the most amazing trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We had the most amazing trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the initial interaction and Alvaro all the way through to o...

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Tour Operator

Responsible Travel

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We are a team full of travel enthusiasts with 13+ years of experience, ready to support and help you find the best out of your Trip.

We understand that travel is becoming an important part of people's desires and we are happy to help all travelers who want memories.

Alexander Humboldt admired and studied the diversity of nature along the equator during his American journey from 1799 to 1804. Subsequently, the world-famous Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835 and was inspired to write his theory of evolution by their unique nature, flora, and fauna.

By traveling to Ecuador with Ecuador Galapagos Travels, you will be inspired by the country’s unique landscapes and diverse civilizations. Discover the wonders of the animal and plant worlds evolving on the Galapagos archipelago; immerse yourself in extraordinary and ancient cultures that have survived the ages while traveling through the Amazon basin and the Andean highlands; enjoy trekking through pristine national parks and horseback riding in the shadow of glaciated mountain peaks; or make new friends during a Spanish language course in Quito.

To guarantee that your expectations of Ecuador are fulfilled, Ecuador and Galapagos Travel Team specialize in tailor-made travel services to fit your every need, whether in the Amazon, the Andes, the coast, or the Galapagos Islands. From hotels to jungle excursions, Andean peaks to Galapagos cruises, and palm-fringed beaches to paramo hikes, we will help you realize your goals, escape the mundane, and get great care for your tailored vacation on the equator.

We warmly welcome you to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • International flights
    • Meals not listed on the itinerary
    • Wetsuits
    • Tips & gratuities
    • Personal expenses
    • Travel insurance

Transportation & Flights

Transfers from and to the airport with a private English-speaking driver All transfers with private English-speaking drivers in Mainland,

Transportation & flights

Transfers from and to the airport with a private English-speaking driver All transfers with private English-speaking drivers in Mainland
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
  • 14 Breakfast
  • 1 Box Lunch
  • 1 Lunch
  • 0 Dinners
Age Requirements
18 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
respon-respon-ExEcWo

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