Quito Ecuador 7 Day Itinerary

Here is a 7-day itinerary for traveling in Quito, Ecuador:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). Take a taxi or bus (the official airport transfer) to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel, then head out to explore the historic center of Quito, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Visit Iglesia de la Compañía, a stunning Baroque-style church built by Jesuits in the 17th century.
    • Explore the surrounding streets and plazas. The area’s well-preserved architecture and picturesque atmosphere will transport you back in time.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants. Try some traditional Ecuadorian cuisine such as Seco de pollo (a chicken dish) or Locro (a hearty potato soup).

Day 2: Ancient Ruins

  • Morning: Visit the ancient Inca ruins of Ciudad Perdida, located just outside Quito in a beautiful natural setting. The ruins offer a glimpse into Ecuador’s Inca past.
  • Afternoon: Explore El Pambamarca, another archaeological site that showcases Ecuador’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Evening: Have dinner at one of the many restaurants within walking distance of your hotel.

Day 3: Mindo Adventure

  • Morning: Head to Mindo, a small town known for its cloud forest. It takes about an hour and a half by bus from Quito’s centre.
  • Activity: Go on a cloud forest hike or try zip-lining for some adrenaline-pumping fun.
  • Evening: Enjoy the sunset in Mindo before heading back to Quito.

Day 4: Relaxation

  • Morning: Treat yourself to a massage or other spa treatment at your hotel. Many hotels have spas offering a range of treatments.
  • Afternoon: Take some time out and relax in the city. You could visit one of the many museums, like the Museo de la Ciudad, which offers insights into Quito’s history.
  • Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant you’ve been wanting to try.

Day 5: El Quinde

  • Morning: Head out to El Quinde. This is an area where some of the old town has been repurposed into modern shops and restaurants, offering a great blend of history and modern living.
  • Activity: Try shopping for souvenirs or enjoy some local cuisine.
  • Evening: Enjoy your final dinner in Quito.

Day 6: Papallacta Hot Springs

  • Morning: Head to the hot springs at Papallacta. This is a great way to unwind and enjoy natural beauty.
  • Activity: Relax in the hot springs, or try some of the other activities available like horseback riding or hiking.
  • Evening: Return to Quito for your last night.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Check out of your hotel. If you have a late flight, consider visiting any last-minute attractions in the historic center.
  • Afternoon/Evening: Head back to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) for your return journey home.

Tips and Recommendations

  • Quito is high up on a mountain, so it can get cold at night. Pack accordingly.
  • Try local cuisine; you won’t regret it.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Use official airport transfers or taxis for your safety.
  • Take time to explore beyond the historic center; there’s much more to discover.

Transportation

The best way to move around Quito is by taxi or bus. Official airport transfers and taxis are recommended for their reliability and safety. Within the city, buses can be a cost-effective option but might not run as frequently as you’d like.

Where to Stay

Quito has a wide range of accommodations from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Consider staying in the historic center for easy access to most attractions.

Places to Eat

  • Restaurante La Estación: Known for its traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
  • El Quinde: A great place for local food and shopping.

This itinerary provides a good balance of culture, nature, and relaxation, making it suitable for a variety of travelers. Enjoy your trip!