Night 1-2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHostal Fuente de Piedra, Quito
Enjoy a comfortable stay with all the modern conveniences you would expect, including free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a cafe, and an outdoor terrace.
Experience the beauty of Ecuador's most famous landscapes on this 24-day guided tour
The Best of Ecuador Adventure tour is an unforgettable adventure through some of the most unique and breathtaking natural landscapes anywhere on earth. Visit the Amazon rainforest, the Ecuadorian Andes, the Galapagos Islands, and Ecuador’s ancient cities, all in one epic trip.
When traveling to Ecuador, why choose between all the special and unforgettable places this incredible country has to offer? Your tour includes canoe trips through the rainforest, where you’ll encounter both the wildlife and the local people who call this jungle home. You’ll witness remains of ancient cultures and historic colonial influences. Take a short hike in the Andes and view these impressive mountains up close. Finally, end your time in Ecuador with a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime cruise through the Galapagos Islands. This tour is life-changing, but beware: Ecuador will forever claim a piece of your heart.
Welcome to Quito, the capital of Ecuador! Arrive at the Quito Airport and meet your guide for transfer to your hotel.
Enjoy a private tour of Quito’s historic districts today. As you drive from your hotel in the newer section of the city, notice how your surroundings change in character. You’ll see architecture from Ecuador’s colonial period, including beautiful churches, such as La Basilica Church and La Compañia Church. Tour a variety of plazas and local shops, taking time to experience the wonderful atmosphere of this city. Then your tour continues to El Panecillo Hill, a hill located in central Quito that offers amazing views of the whole city and the surrounding snow-capped volcanoes. In the afternoon, visit the Equator at “Mitad del Mundo” – the middle of the world. Here you can walk on the equatorial line, place one foot in each hemisphere, or try some experiments for fun.
Return to the airport in Quito today for a flight to Lago Agrio. After you land in Lago Agrio, a bus from the Siona Lodge will pick you up for the 1.5-hour drive to the east to reach the Cuyabeno Reserve. Along the drive, notice how increased human habitation has affected this important tropical region, especially the oil industry. The bus brings you to the bridge (“el puente”), where you’ll stop for lunch, then enter the reserve by canoe. Soon after your canoe hits the water, all signs of civilization will disappear. In this exotic wilderness, watch for amazing and diverse wildlife all around you. You may see anacondas, a variety of monkeys, and many birds, including cormorants, herons, and kingfishers. When you reach the lodge, you’ll receive more information about your stay in the Cuyabeno Reserve.
Spend the whole day today exploring the rainforest! Slip on some rubber boots (supplied) and go for an exciting walk through the jungle. Then sail through picturesque lagoons to enjoy the amazing scenery and watch for many varieties of wildlife. In the afternoon there are opportunities to fish for piranhas or search the river for pink dolphins. Later take a sunset swim in the lagoon, then after dark take a walk to experience the jungle at night. Rest well at the Siona Lodge after a magical and memorable day.
Experience daily life and learn more about the indigenous people of the Amazon with a visit to a local Siona community. Ride in a canoe from the lodge to two local communities where people farm the land and fish in the river. You will be welcomed to the home of a family who will teach you more about their daily life and demonstrate how they make yuca bread. There may also be an opportunity to visit the local shaman. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the village then return to the lodge. Watch for parrots, dolphins, monkeys, and other wildlife along the river.
Travel by canoe today, leaving the Siona Lodge and heading to Lago Agrio. Fly back to Quito and spend the night in a hotel.
Today is a day full of experiences and new impressions that will delight all your senses. Leave Quito bound for Mindo, where you will visit a chocolate factory. The 1-hour tour explains how cacao is harvested and processed and gives you opportunities to taste and sample their products. While in the area, you can also tour a farm that breeds approximately 20 different butterfly species. Here at this butterfly reserve, you’ll experience the full life cycle of butterflies from birth to flight. Finally, end the day with a visit to an orchid farm, where nearly 200 species of orchids are on display. This is also a wonderful place for bird (and hummingbird) watching. Spend the night in Mindo.
Leave Mindo for a fascinating, 3-hour drive to Otavalo. Along the way you’ll see fascinating areas that are dry, in stark contrast with the tropical rainforest, due to the “rain shadow” caused by the volcanoes. You can also see great examples of the geology that helped form the Andes mountains. Cross the Equator into the Otavalo region. Here, the Otavalo Indians proudly continue their long-held traditions. This lush and beautiful valley is surrounded by lakes and smaller volcanoes. Explore the Otavalo market, shopping for souvenirs or simply observing the daily life of the local people. After Otavalo, continue driving to Cotacachi, which is a small village that’s well-known for handcrafted leather goods. End the day with a visit to the stunning Cuicocha Crater Lake, surrounded by vibrant green mountains. From here, travel to a hacienda for dinner and a comfortable night.
After breakfast, travel to the Antisana Ecological Reserve in an area north of Quito known as “Volcano Avenue.” Antisana is a stratovolcano (or composite volcano) that ranks as the fourth tallest mountain in Ecuador. This volcano regularly attracts climbers from around the world. Explore the characteristic tropical volcano landscape, including evergreen forests and grasslands. While in Antisana Park, stop to visit Mica Lake to take in the scenery and natural environment. After your tour, spend the night at the renowned Hacienda Cienaga.
Travel today from Volcano Avenue to Pujili. If you are lucky enough to pass on a Thursday, stop first at the Saquisili market along the way. Continue on to the town of Tigua (3,800 m / 12,467’), where you can visit a traditional house for indigenous people and their guinea pigs. You can also see local handicrafts in this town, as well as an optional visit with some local residents. Continue traveling to the town of Zumbagua, where the Zumbagua Indigenous Fair is held on Saturdays, full of fruits, vegetables, and animals. Drive another 20 minutes to a viewpoint overlooking the Quilotoa Crater. Hike from the viewpoint (3,900 m / 12,795’) down to the lake (3,500 m / 11,483’). Return to the viewpoint where you can choose a restaurant to eat lunch. After lunch, drive to the town of Baños.
Baños is famous for its waterfalls, and today you will visit some of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the area. Begin after breakfast with a visit to “Waterfalls Avenue” where you will cross the lovely Pastaza River by zip-line. Here you’ll find stunning views of the waterfall called “Manto de la Novia.” Once across the river, walk through orchards and gardens to reach a large waterfall called “Pailon del Diablo.” Return to the town and enjoy free time for the afternoon.
Drive today from Baños to Ambato City to visit the exciting “Mercado mayorista” market. After exploring the market and taking in all the incredible smells, flavors, and colors, continue driving to Guaranda. Stop here for beautiful views of the Ecuadorian Andes mountains, and be sure to notice the rich colors all around you. Continue driving as you climb higher into the mountains. In the Chimborazo lands you can see vicuñas, a distinctive mammal that resembles a camel or an alpaca. When you arrive at the Carriel Reserve (4,800 m / 15,748’), take a short hike up to the Whimper Refuge (5,000 m / 16,404’). Both the views and the altitude will take your breath away. Descend again in the afternoon and travel to Riobamba, where you will spend the night in a hacienda on the edge of the city.
Leave Riobamba and drive about 84 km (52 miles) south to Alausí. Many tourists are drawn to this city to take a train ride through a massive rock called the Devil’s Nose. This train tour is not included in your tour but can be added if requested with enough advance notice. It is an exciting ride, hugging the edges of the slopes then zigzagging and descending 100 m. From Alausí, your journey continues to visit the ruins of Ingapirca. Several architectural features remain here from the Cañari-Inca civilization, most notably the Temple of the Sun. This distinctive structure, elliptical in shape and 37 m long by 12 m wide, was used for rituals and ceremonies. Later, travel on to arrive in beautiful Cuenca.
Take a guided tour of the city of Cuenca today. Begin in the historic colonial section of the city and see the old houses that line the banks of the Tomebamba River, which runs through the downtown area. Explore the central plaza on foot, as well as Calderon Park. Near the park you can see both the new cathedral and the old cathedral. The new cathedral is very striking as it is built with pink marble and features lovely stained-glass windows. The old cathedral was last renovated for a papal visit in 1985. You’ll also visit other impressive churches in Cuenca, including the church of San José de la Merced and the Monastery of El Carmen and the Immaculate Conception. You’ll also see the “El Rollo del Vecino” monument. End your tour with a stop at the Turi viewpoint before returning to your hotel.
Take a magical journey to Guayaquil today. Along the drive from Cuenca, watch how the landscape changes with the climate in just those few hours. Visit the Cajas National Park and see how ancient glaciers carved out horseshoe-shaped valleys long ago. There are more than 200 lovely lakes in this park, which supplies most of Cuenca’s drinking water. In addition to these lakes, the other main attraction of this park is the polylepis forest. These trees, which have an unusual, paper-like bark, look like something out of the pages of a fairy tale. In the afternoon, travel to the southernmost point of Ecuador’s coast and see where cocoa, bananas, and other tropical fruits are grown. End your day at a hotel in Guayaquil.
In the morning, make your way to the Baltra Island Airport and transfer to your cruise ship for your Galapagos Island Cruise. Cruise itineraries vary depending on which tour you choose. Some cruises will explore Las Bachas on Santa Cruz Island in the afternoon.
(Sample itinerary) Visit Genovesa Island today, starting with Darwin Bay in the morning, then heading to the Barranco in the afternoon.
(Sample itinerary) Start the day with a visit to Bartolome Island. In the afternoon, stop at Sullivan Bay.
(Sample itinerary) Spend the morning at Black Turtle Cove on Daphne Island. In the afternoon, return to Santa Cruz Island.
(Sample itinerary) Explore Santa Cruz Island today. In the morning, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Venture to the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the afternoon.
(Sample itinerary) Start your day with a visit to Cormoran Point, then the Devil’s Crown. In the afternoon, head to Post Office Bay and the Baroness Lookout.
(Sample itinerary) Visit the lovely Suarez Point on Española Island in the morning today, then spend the afternoon at Gardner Bay, Gardner Islet, and Osborn Islet.
End your Galapagos cruise today with a visit to San Cristobal Island. Visit the Interpretation Center on the island, and also Kicker Rock, just off the coast. Then, from the airport at San Cristobal, fly back to Quito. Spend the night in Quito in preparation for your journey home.
Sadly, your Great Ecuador adventure has come to an end. Transfer to the airport is included. Have a pleasant journey!
Pricing for this guided tour of the Best of Ecuador depends on your group size and what level of Galapagos cruise you select (yacht vs. Catamaran and tourist class vs. First Class).
The prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room:
* Pricing for this tour depends on the size of your group and your travelling dates. Please click the Book Now button below to get the exact pricing for your trip dates.
This tour is based in 3- and 4-star hotels that offer modern conveniences to make your tour even more enjoyable. Rooms are double occupancy, and single travelers will pay a supplement. Seven nights of this tour will be spent onboard a yacht or catamaran touring the Galapagos islands.
In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement of $650USD to have a private room in a hotel. Private rooms on the 8-day cruise are priced based on availability. Contact us and we can try and match single travelers up, where possible.
Enjoy a comfortable stay with all the modern conveniences you would expect, including free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a cafe, and an outdoor terrace.
Experience the delights of the Cuyabeno reserve from this eco-hotel. Each room has a private bathroom and a private balcony. Enjoy fresh, local meals.
Enjoy a comfortable stay with all the modern conveniences you would expect, including free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a cafe, and an outdoor terrace.
A peaceful, remote eco lodge built on 14 acres of rainforest featuring trails to the river, waterfall views from the balcony, and many other amenities.
You’ll love the historical atmosphere and lovely gardens of this charming hacienda. Immerse yourself in Ecuadorian mountain culture during your stay here.
Visiting this 400-year-old hotel is like traveling back in time. It has been modernized for comfort but retains its colonial character and charm.
Tucked into the trees, this cute hotel and spa offers comfortable rooms, free WiFi, a delicious breakfast, and a convenient location.
A comfortable and charming hacienda in the colonial style surrounded by the magnificent Andes mountains. Each room is named for a local mountain.
A beautiful house from the 19th Century that has been renovated for use as a hotel. Enjoy a wonderful atmosphere in a convenient location.
Located beside an estuary, you can look for wildlife among the mangrove trees. Ask for a room on a higher floor for excellent river views.
Explore the breathtaking Galapagos in the best way possible: a catamaran or yacht. Every day includes two excursions of the best of the Galapagos.
Enjoy a comfortable stay with all the modern conveniences you would expect, including free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a cafe, and an outdoor terrace.
21 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 12 dinners are included in the tour.
Accommodations for 16 nights along the tour are included as described. Nights 16-22 are spent on a yacht or catamaran cruising the Galapagos islands.
How hard is the Best of Ecuador Tour?
We rate this tour as a 2 / 5. This incredible tour is active but not strenuous. There is a lot of flexibility in choosing activities that suit your abilities and interests.
Do I need a Visa to travel to Ecuador?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Best of Ecuador Tour?
21 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners are included in the tour.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Quito to start this tour?
Fly to the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito (UIO) and transfer to your hotel in Quito.
Where does the Best of Ecuador Tour end?
The tour ends where it begins, in Quito. Travel from the Quito Airport any time after breakfast.
Is the Best of Ecuador Tour in English?
Yes, the tour guide is English speaking.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Ecuador?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Ecuador?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Ecuador for this tour?
The best time to travel to Ecuador for this tour is from November 15 to March 15.
All tours on 10Adventures are operated by highly vetted local tour operators and guides.
Having local tour operators and guides means you get a more authentic experience, and your booking creates jobs in the local communities you visit.
Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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Google ReviewStephen L.
I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
Valeria R.
I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
Isabella N.
I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
We rate this tour as a 2 / 5. This incredible tour is active but not strenuous. There is a lot of flexibility in choosing activities that suit your abilities and interests.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
Cajica, Columbia
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