10 days in Ecuador - 5 travel itineraries

From the lush Amazon rainforest to the towering peaks of the Andes and the pristine beaches of the Pacific coast, Educador has something for everyone. Planning a 10-day itinerary allows you to sample the best of what this small yet captivating country has to offer. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your time in Ecuador.

Is 10 days enough for Ecuador?

Yes, 10 days can be enough for a meaningful trip to Ecuador, but it depends on your preferences. You’ll want to prioritize your key destinations, consider travel times between them, and consider the weather at the time of your visit. 

Ecuador would fit roughly 35 times in the US, so it's not a huge country. But keep in mind that it's almost twice the size of the UK and the roads are not always great. Especially if you visit remote places. Make sure to take travel times into account when planning your Ecuador itinerary.

Ecuador offers a lot, including the Amazon rainforest, the Galápagos Islands, the Andes mountains, and cultural cities like Quito and Guayaquil. With efficient planning, you can have a rewarding experience in Ecuador in a 10-day timeframe.

If 10 days doesn't fit your schedule, perhaps our 7-day itinerary, suits you better. Do you have more time to spend? Than check our 14-day Ecuador itinerary where you can visit all the highlights. From the Galápagos Islands to the Amazon rainforest.

Itinerary #1: classic Ecuador and Galapagos

On this 10-day trip, you’ll explore the classic Ecuador destinations, starting with an arrival to Quito and a leisurely exploration of the city. Day two features a guided walking city tour, visiting Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica, followed by a cooking class in Old Town Quito. Day three involves an Amazonian experience, transferring to Napo Cultural Center for an afternoon hike.

Day four includes a visit to the Kuri Muyu intercultural interpretation center, lunch at the community center, a hike to Canopy Tower for wildlife spotting, and a paddle canoe ride back to Napo Cultural Center, concluding with a traditional Amazonian dinner. Day five starts with a traditional Kichwa Wayusa ritual, followed by a canoe ride back to Coca.

Day six explores the Otavalo Market in the morning, and hike around Cuicocha Lagoon before returning to Quito. Day seven involves a transfer to the Galapagos, with visits to Highlands and Charles Darwin Station. 

Day eight offers a free day to explore the island at your own pace, and day nine includes a yacht ride to an uninhabited island, visiting Santa Fé, South Plazas, Bartolomé, or North Seymour, and returning to Puerto Ayora. Day ten explores Isla Floreana, learning about the island's history before returning to the hotel. Book this trip now.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 10 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Transfer to Ikala Quito accommodation.
• Explore the city at leisure.

Day 2

• Guided walking city tour.
• Visit Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica.
• Cooking class in Old Town Quito.
• Visit Mitad del Mundo equatorial monument.

Day 3

• Flight from Quito to Coca (Amazon).
• Transfer to Napo Cultural Center.
• Afternoon hike along the "Playas" trail.
• Optional kayaking on the Napo River.
• Evening at Napo Cultural Center.

Day 4

• Visit to Kuri Muyu Intercultural Interpretation Center.
• Lunch at the community center.
• Hike to Canopy Tower for wildlife spotting.
• Paddle canoe ride back to Napo Cultural Center.
• Traditional Amazonian dinner.
• Night walk around the lodge.

Day 5

• Traditional Kichwa Wayusa ritual in the morning.
• Return to Coca by canoe.
• Flight back to Quito.
• Transfer to Ikala Quito accommodation.

Day 6

• Visit Otavalo market in the morning.
• Explore the streets and try local street food.
• Hike around Cuicocha Lagoon or boat ride.
• Return to Quito.

Day 7

• Transfer to the airport.
• Flight from Quito to Santa Cruz.
• Transfer to Galapagos.
• Visit Highlands & Charles Darwin Station.

Day 8

• Free day to explore the island at your own pace.

Day 9

• Yacht ride to an uninhabited island.
• Visit Santa Fé, South Plazas, Bartolomé, or North Seymour.
• Return to Puerto Ayora.

Day 10

• Explore Isla Floreana.
• Learn about the island's history.
• Return to hotel.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

Considering the Galapagos as a destination for your Ecuador trip? Find ideas in our Galapagos itineraries and read about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands to get the best traveling experience.

Itinerary #2: Discovering Ecuador

This 10-day itinerary will take you through Ecuador's diverse landscapes. During the initial two days of the itinerary in Quito, explore the Colonial Center, wandering through iconic sites such as Plaza de la Independencia. 

Then visit the Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo), where you can straddle the equator and explore the Intiñan Museum. On the third day, venture to Otavalo, renowned for its Indigenous Markets.

Next, on day four, make your way to Quilotoa Lagoon for a day of hiking amid breathtaking scenery. Traverse the rim of the volcanic crater and absorb panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon. 

Days five and six are dedicated to exploring Baños, famed for its waterfalls and thermal springs. Highlights include visiting the Pailon del Diablo waterfall, experiencing the swing at the end of the world, and indulging in relaxation at the thermal springs.

Upon reaching Cuenca on days seven and eight, discover the UNESCO World Heritage site's colonial architecture. Stroll through Parque Calderon, visit Cuenca Cathedral, and meander through the historic streets, immersing yourself in the local culture and art scene. 

Concluding the journey in Guayaquil on days nine and ten, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere along the Malecón 2000 boardwalk, taking in river views. Explore parks such as Parque Seminario and Parque de las Iguanas, where iguanas freely roam, and delve into the city's cultural offerings and museums. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 10 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Days 1-2

• Explore the Colonial Center of Quito, including sites like Plaza de la Independencia, La Compañía Church, and San Francisco Square.
• Visit the Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo) to straddle the equator and explore the Intiñan Museum.

Day 3

• Head to Otavalo for the famous Indigenous Markets, known for their vibrant colors and traditional crafts.
• Spend the day exploring the market, interacting with locals, and appreciating the unique Andean culture.

Day 4

• Travel to Quilotoa Lagoon for a day of hiking and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
• Hike around the rim of the volcanic crater and take in panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon.

Days 5-6

• Explore Baños, known for its waterfalls and thermal springs.
• Visit Pailon del Diablo waterfall, swing at the end of the world, and relax in the thermal springs.

Days 7-8

• Discover the colonial architecture of Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Explore Parque Calderon, Cuenca Cathedral, and the historic streets of the city.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture and art scene.

Days 9-10

• Spend time along the boardwalk Malecón 2000, enjoying the river views and vibrant atmosphere.
• Visit parks like Parque Seminario and Parque de las Iguanas, where you can encounter iguanas freely roaming.
• Explore the city's cultural offerings and museums.

Why wait? Skip the planning and book this trip now.

Want to be prepared for your upcoming trip to Ecuador? Start by exploring our tips for traveling in Ecuador. You might also find it helpful to read about what you need to know before traveling to Ecuador.

Itinerary #3: Highlands & Amazon Jungle

On this 10 day itinerary you’ll get to explore the highlands and Amazon. You’ll start in Quito on the first day and explore Colonial Center and Plaza Grande. The second day starts with a morning visit to TeleferiQó for panoramic views, continuing with a walking city tour in the colonial center. 

The third day takes you on a tour of Otavalo and Cuicocha Lagoon, starting with a morning visit to Otavalo market, followed by a stroll through the streets, sampling local street food, and an afternoon hike around Cuicocha Lagoon. 

The fourth day involves a visit to  Lake Limpiopungoan and a  hike to the refuge Jose Ribas. The fifth day features a hike around Quilotoa Lagoon with breathtaking views. 

The sixth day takes you via the Devil's Cauldron back to Quito, driving along the "Avenue of Waterfalls," visiting El Pailon del Diablo waterfall. The seventh day takes you to the Amazon, joining the Napo Cultural Center on a 4-day program. 

The eighth day involves a boat trip to a parrot clay lick, a visit to the "Kuri Muyu" center to learn about Kichwa culture, and a catamaran ride on the Napo River. 

The ninth day unfolds with a visit to a community, a sunrise breakfast, a walk-in on Mama Cuna Road for wildlife spotting, and an afternoon paddle at Añangu Stream, concluding with a traditional dinner. 

The tenth day includes a flight from Coca airport to Quito at dawn, a "Wayusada" ritual, breakfast, and a farewell. A motor boat then transfers you to La Mision River port for your connecting flight back home. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 10 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Explore Colonial Center and Plaza Grande.
• Welcome dinner at the boutique hotel.

Day 2

• Morning visit to TeleferiQó for panoramic views.
• Walking city tour in the colonial center with a guide.
• Explore Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica.

Day 3

• Morning visit to Otavalo market.
• Stroll through the streets and try local street food.
• Afternoon hike around Cuicocha Lagoon.

Day 4

• Depart for Cotopaxi National Park.
• Visit Lake Limpiopungo for views of Cotopaxi Volcano.
• Optional hike to the refuge Jose Ribas.

Day 5

• Hike around Quilotoa Lagoon with stunning views.
• Private transfer to Baños.
• Explore Baños at leisure.

Day 6

• Drive along the "Avenue of Waterfalls".
• Visit El Pailon del Diablo waterfall.
• Return to Quito, possibly visit thermal pools or "Casa del Arbol".

Day 7

• Join Napo Cultural Center on the 4D/3N Program.
• Shuttle bus to Quito airport.
• Flight to Coca, then to La Mision river port.
• Board a comfortable motor boat to the Napo Cultural Center.
• Welcome by Kichwa Añangu community, hike, and dinner.
• Overnight at Napo Cultural Center.

Day 8

• Boat trip to the parrot clay lick.
• Visit the "Kuri Muyu" center to learn about Kichwa culture.
• Afternoon hike to the observation tower.
• Catamaran ride on Napo River.
• Overnight at Napo Cultural Center.

Day 9

• Sunrise breakfast and visit community projects.
• Walk in Mama Cuna Road for wildlife spotting.
• Afternoon paddle at Añangu Stream.
• Traditional dinner with local flavors.
• Night walk around the lodge.
• Overnight at Napo Cultural Center.

Day 10

• "Wayusada" ritual at dawn.
• Breakfast and farewell.
• Motorboat transfer to La Mision River port.
• Connect flight back home.
• End in Quito.

Inspired? Don't waste any time and book this trip now.

Itinerary #4: Amazon to Andes

On this 10-day journey, you’ll start with a transfer to Quito. The second day invites exploration of the Colonial Center, Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica, with a delightful stroll down La Ronda, the oldest street in Quito. 

The third day unfolds with a journey, either by drive, or to Tena in the Amazon Rainforest, where you arrive at a lodge to explore the lush rainforest surroundings. The fourth day features a guided Amazon Rainforest excursion with a local naturalist, cultural activities with indigenous communities, and a night walk in the jungle. 

The fifth day takes you to Papallacta for relaxation in the famous hot springs, and spa treatments. The sixth day involves a drive to Cotopaxi National Park, where you hike around Lake Limpiopungo, taking in views of Cotopaxi Volcano, and optionally hiking to the refuge Jose Ribas if altitude permits. 

The seventh day explores high-altitude flora and fauna, followed by a hike around Quilotoa Lagoon and a transfer to Baños for an overnight stay. 

The eighth day is dedicated to exploring Baños, renowned for adventure sports, offering activities like rafting, ziplining, and biking, and visiting waterfalls such as Pailon del Diablo and Agoyan. 

The ninth day allows for relaxation in thermal springs and leisurely exploration of the town. Finally, the tenth day involves a return to Quito, providing an opportunity for last-minute souvenir shopping or further exploration of the city. Book this trip. 

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 10 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Arrive in Quito at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).
• Transfer to accommodation in Quito.

Day 2

• Explore Colonial Center, Plaza Grande, La Compañía, and La Basílica.
• Walk down La Ronda, the oldest street in Quito.
• Welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3

• Drive or fly to Tena in the Amazon Rainforest.
• Arrive at the lodge in Tena.
• Explore the rainforest surroundings.

Day 4

• Guided Amazon Rainforest excursion with local naturalist.
• Participate in cultural activities with indigenous communities.
• Enjoy traditional Amazonian cuisine.
• Night walk in the jungle.

Day 5

• Travel to Papallacta.
• Relax in the famous Papallacta Hot Springs.
• Enjoy spa treatments and the natural beauty of the area.
• Overnight stay in Papallacta.

Day 6

• Drive to Cotopaxi National Park.
• Hike around Lake Limpiopungo with views of Cotopaxi Volcano.
• Optional hike to the refuge Jose Ribas (if altitude permits).

Day 7

• Explore the high-altitude flora and fauna.
• Hike around Quilotoa Lagoon.
• Transfer to Baños for an overnight stay.

Day 8

• Explore Baños, known for adventure sports.
• Choose from activities like rafting, ziplining, or biking.
• Visit waterfalls such as Pailon del Diablo and Agoyan.

Day 9

• Relax in thermal springs.
• Explore the town at leisure.
• Overnight stay in Baños.

Day 10

• Drive or fly back to Quito.
• Last-minute souvenir shopping or exploring the city.
• Departure from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).

Looking for a new experience? Book your trip now.

Itinerary #5: coastal wonders

This ten-day itinerary is a coastal getaway through Ecuador. The first two days commence with an arrival in Guayaquil and an exploration of the scenic Malecón 2000 riverfront boardwalk. From there visit Seminario Park, known as Iguana Park, and historic neighborhoods like Las Peñas.

The third day is spent in Montañita, a beach town renowned for its surfing scene. After a drive, the fourth day offers relaxation on Montañita Beach, the opportunity for surfing lessons, and exploration of the vibrant nightlife and beachside bars.

Day five involves a journey to Puerto López, exploring Machalilla National Park, and visiting Los Frailes Beach and the Agua Blanca community. The sixth day includes a seasonal whale-watching tour and relaxation on Puerto López Beach. 

The seventh day takes you to Salinas for the beach and exploration of the Salinas Malecón. The eighth and ninth days bring you to Cuenca, where you explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site's historical center. 

While here, visit landmarks like the New Cathedral and Parque Calderon, explore museums such as the Pumapungo Museum, and stroll through charming streets. The tenth day involves a return to Guayaquil by drive, before departing from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this 10 days itinerary in Ecuador:

Day 1

• Arrive in Guayaquil at José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE).
• Transfer to accommodation in Guayaquil.
• Explore Malecón 2000, a scenic riverfront boardwalk.

Day 2

• Visit Seminario Park, known as Iguana Park.
• Discover historic neighborhoods like Las Peñas.
• Enjoy local cuisine at Malecón 2000's restaurants.
• Overnight stay in Guayaquil.

Day 3

• Drive or take a bus to Montañita.
• Arrive at the beach town known for its surfing scene.
• Relax on Montañita Beach.

Day 4

• Try surfing lessons or enjoy beach activities.
• Explore the vibrant nightlife and beachside bars.
• Overnight stay in Montañita.

Day 5

• Drive to Puerto López.
• Explore Machalilla National Park.
• Visit Los Frailes Beach and Agua Blanca community.

Day 6

• Take a whale-watching tour (seasonal).
• Relax on Puerto López Beach.
• Overnight stay in Puerto López.

Day 7

• Drive to Salinas.
• Relax on Salinas Beach.
• Enjoy water activities or simply unwind.
• Explore the Salinas Malecón.
• Overnight stay in Salinas.

Day 8

• Drive or take a bus to Cuenca.
• Explore the historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit landmarks like New Cathedral and Parque Calderon.

Day 9

• Explore museums such as Pumapungo Museum.
• Stroll through the charming streets of Cuenca.
• Overnight stay in Cuenca.

Day 10

• Drive or fly back to Guayaquil.
• Last-minute exploration or souvenir shopping.
• Depart from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE).

Prepare your Ecuador itinerary

Allow our team of local Ecuador travel experts to curate your dream trip to Ecuador. When you're ready to embark on your adventure, reach out to us, and we'll craft a personalized itinerary just for you.

Check out our pre-designed Ecuador itinerary for ideas, and remember that it can be tailored to meet your specific needs. For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in Ecuador.