Ecuador 4 Day Itinerary

Ecuador 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Quito Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its cobblestone streets, historic plazas, and colorful buildings.
  • 12:00 PM: Stop for lunch at a traditional Ecuadorian restaurant, try the famous Locro de Papas (potato soup).
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the La Compañía de Jesús Church, one of the most beautiful churches in Quito.
  • 5:00 PM: Explore the El Panecillo viewpoint, offering stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Otavalo and Surroundings

  • 8:00 AM: Take a day trip to Otavalo, known for its vibrant market selling traditional handicrafts (approximately 2 hours from Quito).
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Otavalo Market, try some local fruits and drinks.
  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a local restaurant, try the Cuy (guinea pig) if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • 3:00 PM: Explore the nearby Peguche Waterfall, a beautiful spot for hiking and relaxation.

Day 3: Baños and the Amazon Rainforest

  • 8:00 AM: Take a bus or taxi to Baños (approximately 3.5 hours from Quito), a charming town at the foot of the Tungurahua Volcano.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Baños Waterfall, a stunning spot for hiking and swimming.
  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a local restaurant, try some Ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juices).
  • 3:00 PM: Take a guided tour to the Amazon Rainforest, explore its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife.

Day 4: Cotopaxi National Park

  • 8:00 AM: Take a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park (approximately 1.5 hours from Quito), home to the highest active volcano in the world.
  • 10:00 AM: Hike to the Jose Rivas Refuge, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • 1:00 PM: Have a picnic lunch at the park, or return to Quito for some last-minute shopping or exploration.

Things to Know

  • Ecuador uses the US dollar as its official currency.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Be prepared for high altitudes and varying weather conditions.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Ecuador for tourism or business stays up to 90 days.
  • Check with the Ecuadorian embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

Transportation

  • Flights: Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) is well-connected to major cities in South America and beyond.
  • Buses: Frequent bus services connect Quito to other cities, including Otavalo and Baños.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Quito and other towns.

Other Tips

  • Try some local fruits like Tomate de Árbol (tree tomato) or Guayabas (guavas).
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and markets.
  • Ecuador is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, rafting, and more.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Ecuador!