Ecuador-5-day-itinerary

Ecuador 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Quito

  • Arrival: Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the historic center of Quito
  • Activity: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Town, including the Plaza Grande and Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús
  • Thing to know: Quito is 2,800 meters above sea level, so be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential altitude sickness

Visa requirement: No visa required for US citizens (visa-free stay up to 90 days)

Day 2: Quito to Baños

  • Transportation: Take a bus or shuttle from Quito to Baños ( approx. 3 hours)
  • Activity: Explore the town of Baños, known for its hot springs and outdoor activities
  • Thing to know: Baños is a popular destination for adventure sports like rafting and hiking
  • Place to go: Visit the nearby Tungurahua volcano and enjoy stunning views

Day 3: Baños

  • Activity: Hike to the waterfalls of Pailón del Diablo, a scenic hike through the cloud forest
  • Thing to know: Be prepared for rain and possible slippery trails
  • Place to go: Relax in one of the many hot springs or spas in Baños

Day 4: Baños to Cuenca

  • Transportation: Take a bus or shuttle from Baños to Cuenca (approx. 5 hours)
  • Activity: Explore the historic center of Cuenca, including the New Cathedral and El Centro Historico
  • Thing to know: Cuenca is known for its stunning architecture and vibrant arts scene

Visa requirement: No visa required for US citizens (visa-free stay up to 90 days)

Day 5: Cuenca

  • Activity: Visit the nearby Ingapirca ruins, a pre-Inca archaeological site
  • Thing to know: Be prepared for crowds and potential heat during peak season
  • Place to go: Enjoy the scenic views of the Andean highlands from Mirador del Turi

Other tips:

  • Ecuador is generally safe for tourists, but take normal precautions against petty theft and scams.
  • The official currency is the US dollar (USD), and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Try local cuisine like llapingachos and seco de pollo.

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted to fit your interests and preferences. Be sure to check for any travel advisories or restrictions before traveling to Ecuador.