Itinerary Overview

Day 1–2: Quito → Day 3: Avenue of the Volcanoes → Days 4–5: Amazon Rainforest → Days 6–8: Galápagos Islands. Flights connect Quito to Guayaquil and the Galápagos, so allow time for transfers. A certified guide is required for all landings in the Galápagos.

Days 1–2: Quito — A World Heritage Colonial Old Town on the Equator

• Day 1: Arrive in Quito → Walking tour of the old town: Independence Square, Basilica del Voto Nacional, La Compañía Church, and San Francisco Monastery → Evening hike up Panecillo Hill for panoramic views of the city.
• Day 2: Drive to the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument and the Inti Ñan Solar Museum to stand with one foot in each hemisphere → Afternoon cable car ride up Cotopaxi Volcano for sightseeing and altitude acclimatization.

Day 3: Avenue of the Volcanoes

Head south along the Pan-American Highway into Cotopaxi National Park to admire snow-capped peaks. The route passes through Latacunga and Saquisilí before reaching Baños, where you can visit waterfalls, try zip-lining, and soak in hot springs. Overnight at a mountain lodge. This scenic drive connects a string of volcanoes and highland towns, offering some of Ecuador’s most classic landscapes.

Days 4–5: Amazon Rainforest

From Baños or Tena, travel up the Napo River into the rainforest and stay in an eco-lodge. Activities include jungle hikes, canoe trips, night wildlife spotting, and birdwatching — with opportunities to see macaws, monkeys, and caimans. The Cuyabeno Reserve is a more accessible option, while Yasuní is more remote and less developed.

Days 6–8: Galápagos Islands

• Day 6: Fly to the Galápagos (Baltra or San Cristóbal), take a boat tour around Santa Cruz Island, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and giant tortoises.
• Day 7: Island-hop or take a cruise to see marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Galápagos sea lions. Go snorkeling to spot tropical fish and turtles.
• Day 8: Enjoy free time in the morning, then fly back to Quito or Guayaquil for departure.

Tips

• A certified guide is required for all landings in the Galápagos, and national park fees apply. Book your trip well in advance.
• Quito sits at about 2,850 meters above sea level. Take it easy upon arrival, drink plenty of water, and watch for signs of altitude sickness.
• UV levels are high in the rainforest and on the islands, so bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Also pack a windproof and waterproof jacket.

This itinerary spans three environments — highlands, rainforest, and islands. It’s best to save the Galápagos for the latter part of your trip, so you can adjust to the altitude and pace beforehand and then relax fully on the islands. If time is tight, consider replacing the Amazon leg with a one-day cloud forest tour near Quito, which also offers rich birdlife and vegetation.