Quito, Ecuador 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Quito

Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito.

Proceed through immigration and customs, then transfer to your hotel. Take it easy on the first day to help acclimatize to Quito's high altitude (2,850 meters / 9,350 feet).

Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals or strenuous activity upon arrival to prevent altitude sickness.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your chosen hotel in Quito.

We recommend staying in areas like La Mariscal or the Historic Center for convenient access to attractions.

Confirm your check-in time and baggage assistance with your hotel in advance.

Gentle Dinner

Enjoy a light dinner at a local restaurant near your hotel.

Opt for traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and local juices. Avoid alcohol and overly rich foods.

Many restaurants in La Mariscal offer diverse culinary options. Ask your hotel for recommendations.

Quito Historic Center Walk

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Center of Quito.

Visit Plaza Grande (Independence Square), admire the Metropolitan Cathedral, and view the Presidential Palace.

Wear comfortable shoes. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights.

La Compañía de Jesús

Visit the stunning La Compañía de Jesús Church, renowned for its ornate Baroque interior covered in gold leaf.

One of the most beautiful churches in South America.

There is an entrance fee. Photography is often restricted inside.

Lunch in Old Town

Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant within the Historic Center, sampling local Ecuadorian dishes like 'locro de papa' (potato soup) or 'fritada'.

Basilica del Voto Nacional

Visit the Neo-Gothic Basilica del Voto Nacional.

Climb the towers for panoramic views of Quito, often likened to gargoyles but featuring native Ecuadorian animals.

The climb can be steep, but the views are rewarding. Entrance fee applies.

Relax & Freshen Up

Return to your hotel for some rest and to freshen up before dinner.

This helps manage altitude effects.

Dinner in La Mariscal

Dine in the modern La Mariscal district, known for its diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife. Choose from international or upscale Ecuadorian restaurants.

Depart for Otavalo

Begin a full-day excursion to Otavalo.

You can arrange a private driver, join a tour, or take a public bus. The drive offers scenic views of the Andean landscape.

Explore Otavalo Market

Immerse yourself in the famous Otavalo Indigenous Market, one of South America's largest.

Browse textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and local produce. Don't be afraid to bargain!

Saturdays are the main market day, but a smaller market operates daily. Bring small USD bills for purchases. Keep your valuables secure.

Lunch in Otavalo

Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian lunch in Otavalo.

Try 'fritada' (fried pork) or 'caldo de gallina' (chicken soup) at a local eatery.

Cuicocha Crater Lake

Visit the stunning Cuicocha (Kuykucha) Crater Lake, a deep blue lake with two small islands in its center, formed by a volcanic eruption.

Enjoy the panoramic views and perhaps a short walk along the rim.

You can take a short boat trip around the islands (additional cost) if time permits. The altitude here is higher, so move slowly.

Return to Quito

Begin your scenic drive back to Quito after a full day of cultural immersion and natural beauty.

TelefériQo Pichincha

Take the TelefériQo up the slopes of Volcán Pichincha.

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding Andes mountains. At the top, you can hike further or simply enjoy the vistas.

Dress in layers as it can be much colder at the top. The altitude is over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) – move slowly and drink water.

Mitad del Mundo (Equator)

Visit the 'Middle of the World' complex, marking the equatorial line.

Explore the monument, museums, and perhaps try some fun experiments demonstrating equatorial physics at the Intiñan Museum.

There are two sites: the official monument and the Intiñan Museum (often considered more accurate for 'equator experiments'). It's best to visit both. Take a taxi or ride-share from Quito.

Quito Food Tour

Embark on an evening food tour to sample a variety of Ecuadorian street food and traditional dishes.

A guided tour provides insight into local culinary culture.

Many companies offer evening food tours in different neighborhoods. This is a great way to experience local flavors beyond typical restaurants.

Pick Up Rental Car

Pick up your pre-booked rental car in Quito.

Ensure you have all necessary documentation, insurance, and understand the driving conditions for the journey to the Amazon.

It's advisable to rent a 4x4 if you plan to explore unpaved roads in the Amazon. Check the car thoroughly before departing.

Drive to Tena (Amazon)

Embark on a scenic drive from Quito through the Andean foothills and down into the Amazon basin, heading towards Tena.

The landscape will dramatically change from mountains to lush rainforest.

The road is generally well-maintained, but be prepared for winding roads and potential fog in the mountains. There are several stops along the way for viewpoints and refreshments.

Lunch in Tena

Arrive in Tena and have lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some Amazonian specialties like 'maito de pescado' (fish wrapped in plantain leaves).

Transfer to Jungle Lodge

After lunch, proceed to your pre-booked jungle lodge.

Depending on its location, this might involve a short drive, a canoe ride, or a combination.

Confirm transfer arrangements with your lodge in advance. Most lodges include transfers from Tena in their packages.

Lodge Check-in & Orientation

Check into your Amazonian lodge.

Settle into your cabin and attend an orientation session about your stay, safety guidelines, and planned activities for the coming days.

Expect rustic charm and an immersive experience. Electricity may be limited at certain times.

Dinner at the Lodge

Enjoy dinner at your jungle lodge, often featuring fresh, local ingredients.

This is a great opportunity to meet other guests and your guides.

Guided Jungle Walk

Embark on a guided trek through the primary and secondary forest trails near your lodge.

Learn about the rich biodiversity, medicinal plants, and observe various insects, birds, and monkeys in their natural habitat.

Wear long sleeves, pants, and insect repellent. Bring binoculars for bird watching.

Lodge Lunch

Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared with local ingredients at your Amazonian lodge.

Canoe & Wildlife Spotting

Take a traditional dugout canoe ride along a serene river, keeping an eye out for caimans, turtles, and various bird species.

This tranquil journey offers a different perspective of the rainforest.

Bring a waterproof bag for electronics.

Local Community Visit

Visit a local Kichwa community to learn about their traditions, way of life, and sustainable practices in the Amazon.

Opportunity to purchase local handicrafts.

Bring small bills if you wish to purchase souvenirs.

Dinner at Lodge

Savor another dinner at your Amazon rainforest lodge, possibly followed by a briefing for the next day or a night walk.

Morning Activity / Farewell

Enjoy a final Amazonian breakfast and perhaps a short, leisurely morning activity or simply relax and soak in the jungle atmosphere before preparing for departure.

Drive to Quito Airport

Begin your scenic drive from the Amazon rainforest, ascending back into the Andes towards Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO).

Check-in Quito Airport

Arrive at Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) for your domestic flight to Guayaquil.

Allow ample time for check-in and security.

Confirm baggage allowances for your domestic flight.

Flight to Guayaquil

Board your short domestic flight from Quito to Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city and main port.

Hotel Check-in Guayaquil

Upon arrival at José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), take a taxi to your hotel in Guayaquil.

Dinner in Guayaquil

Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants near your hotel, perhaps with views of the Guayas River.

Hotel Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel.

Wedding Preparations & Free Time

Spend the morning preparing for the wedding or enjoy some relaxed free time.

You might take a short stroll along the nearby Malecon 2000 (Simon Bolivar Palacios, Guayaquil) or visit Parque Seminario (Rocafuerte Chimborazo, Guayaquil) if time permits.

Malecon 2000 and Parque Seminario (Iguana Park) are nearby, offering gentle sightseeing options.

Wedding Ceremony & Reception

Attend the wedding ceremony and subsequent reception, celebrating with friends and family.

This will be the main event of your day in Guayaquil.

The location will be specified by the wedding invitation.

Leisure & Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.

If time permits, consider a quick visit to the nearby 'Estatua de Mafalda' (Avenida 9 de Octubre &, Guayaquil) or the 'Catedral Católica Metropolitana de Guayaquil' (e/ Ago y Ballén, Rocafuerte Chimborazo &, Guayaquil) before heading to the airport.

These Google Places attractions are great for a quick cultural glimpse if you have a spare hour.

Hotel Check-out & Airport Transfer

Check out from your hotel and take a taxi to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) for your flight to the Galápagos Islands.

Galápagos Airport Procedures

At GYE, you'll need to pay the INGALA Transit Control Card fee (USD 20 per person) and have your luggage inspected by SICGAL before checking in for your flight to Baltra (Galápagos).

This process is mandatory for all visitors to Galápagos. The Galápagos Islands are GMT-6, one hour behind mainland Ecuador.

Flight to Baltra (Galápagos)

Fly from Guayaquil to Baltra Island (GPS) in the Galápagos.

The flight itself is about 1.5 - 2 hours. Remember the time change: Galápagos is 1 hour behind mainland Ecuador.

Baltra to Puerto Ayora Transfer

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, take a free airport bus to the canal, then a short ferry across to Santa Cruz Island, followed by a taxi ride to Puerto Ayora, the main town.

Hotel Check-in & Dinner

Check into your hotel in Puerto Ayora.

Enjoy a relaxing dinner, perhaps at one of the 'kioskos' (street food stalls) on Charles Binford Street for fresh seafood.

Hotel Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Puerto Ayora.

Explore Tortuga Bay

Walk the scenic trail (approx.

45 mins - 1 hour each way) to Tortuga Bay, a stunning white-sand beach known for its marine iguanas, pelicans, and sea turtles. You can swim at Playa Mansa, a calmer area.

Bring water, sunscreen, hat, and swimwear. There are no facilities or vendors on the beach. Remember to sign in at the trail entrance.

Lunch in Puerto Ayora

Return to Puerto Ayora for lunch at a local restaurant.

Plenty of options along Charles Darwin Avenue or the 'kioskos' street.

Charles Darwin Research Station

Visit the world-renowned Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts in the Galápagos, including the Giant Tortoise breeding program.

Observe the different species of tortoises and land iguanas.

The station is easily walkable from Puerto Ayora's main pier. Don't forget your camera!

Sunset Dinner in Puerto Ayora

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of the harbor or explore more of Puerto Ayora's vibrant dining scene.

Reflect on your first full day in the Galápagos.

Bartolomé Island Tour

Embark on a full-day boat excursion to Bartolomé Island, famous for its iconic Pinnacle Rock and stunning panoramic views.

Enjoy a guided hike to the summit, offering breathtaking photo opportunities. The island is a nesting site for sea turtles and home to Galápagos penguins.

Tours typically include lunch on board and snorkeling opportunities. Booking in advance is highly recommended through local tour operators in Puerto Ayora. Alternative: North Seymour Island, known for blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds.

Snorkeling at Bartolomé

After exploring the island, cool off with a snorkeling session in the clear waters around Bartolomé.

Look out for Galápagos penguins, sea turtles, sharks, and various colorful fish.

Snorkeling gear is usually provided as part of the tour. Bring an underwater camera if you have one!

Dinner in Puerto Ayora

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a restaurant in Puerto Ayora, perhaps trying some fresh seafood after a day of adventure.

The 'Kioskos' street (Charles Binford street) offers a lively atmosphere with many local food stalls and restaurants in the evening.

Ferry to Isabela Island

Take an early morning speedboat ferry from Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) to Puerto Villamil (Isabela Island).

The journey offers scenic views of the ocean and potentially marine wildlife.

The sea can be choppy; motion sickness medication is advised. Book tickets in advance at travel agencies in Puerto Ayora.

Check-in & Settle in Isabela

Upon arrival in Puerto Villamil, transfer to your accommodation, check-in, and leave your luggage.

Take some time to freshen up and explore the charming town.

Taxis are available from the dock to most hotels in town, or some hotels offer transfers.

Visit the Wall of Tears

Rent bicycles and cycle to the historic Wall of Tears ('Muro de las Lágrimas').

This wall was built by prisoners of the penal colony, offering a somber historical insight and panoramic views from its highest point. Along the way, you'll pass various points of interest like beaches and lagoons.

The bike ride is mostly flat but can be hot. Bring water and sunscreen. Wear comfortable shoes for walking up to the viewpoint.

Dinner in Puerto Villamil

Enjoy dinner at one of the relaxed beachfront restaurants in Puerto Villamil, savoring local cuisine with the sound of the waves.

Many restaurants are located along the main beach road. Look for daily specials featuring fresh catch.

Sierra Negra Volcano Hike

Embark on a guided hike to Sierra Negra Volcano, home to the second-largest active volcanic crater in the world.

The hike offers incredible landscapes, including recent lava flows and opportunities to observe unique flora and fauna.

A guided tour is required. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The weather can change quickly at higher altitudes.

Snorkeling at Concha de Perla

Spend the afternoon snorkeling at Concha de Perla, a calm, shallow bay accessible via a boardwalk.

It's a fantastic spot to swim with sea lions, marine iguanas, and various fish in crystal-clear waters.

Entry is free. You can rent snorkel gear in Puerto Villamil. Watch your belongings, as sea lions are curious!

Sunset Beach Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beautiful white sand beaches of Puerto Villamil as the sun sets, casting vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.

A perfect way to relax and reflect on your Galápagos adventures.

Transfer to Baltra Airport

An early start to begin your journey back to the mainland.

This involves a speedboat ferry from Isabela to Santa Cruz (Puerto Ayora), followed by a bus and ferry ride to Baltra Airport.

Ensure you leave enough buffer time for transfers and airport check-in. This is a multi-modal journey.

Flight to Quito

Board your flight from Baltra Airport (GPS) to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito.

Enjoy aerial views as you leave the Galápagos behind.

Flight duration includes a stopover, usually in Guayaquil. Book domestic flights in advance, especially during peak season. Remember to pay the Galápagos entrance fee and transit control card fee upon arrival/departure from the islands.

Transfer to Quito Hotel

Upon arrival at Quito Airport, take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in the city.

Check in and settle down after your travel day.

The airport is located outside the city. A taxi ride to the city center can take 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Relaxed Quito Evening

After a long travel day, enjoy a relaxed evening in Quito.

Perhaps a simple dinner at a restaurant near your hotel.

Rest up for your international departure tomorrow.

Leisure or Souvenir Shopping

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a relaxed morning.

You could grab some last-minute souvenirs or simply enjoy a final Ecuadorian breakfast.

Ensure you keep an eye on your flight time and allow ample time for travel to the airport.

Transfer to Quito Airport

Transfer from your hotel to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) for your international flight back to Europe.

It's recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight.

International Flight Departure

Depart from Quito, marking the end of your incredible 15-day adventure in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.

Check your airline for baggage allowances and check-in procedures.