8 day itinerary for Ecuador

Itinerary

Ecuador is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Here’s an 8-day itinerary that will immerse you in the rich history of this beautiful country while allowing you to experience its diverse regions. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Quito

Morning: Arrive in Quito, the capital city, and check into your hotel. Take a moment to relax and acclimate to the altitude.

Afternoon: Head to the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Plaza Grande, where you can see the Presidential Palace and the Archbishop’s Palace. Don’t miss the La Compañía de Jesús, a stunning baroque church with an incredible gold-leaf interior.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try some traditional Ecuadorian dishes like locro de papa (potato soup) or ceviche.

## Day 2: Quito and Mitad del Mundo

Morning: Visit the Equatorial Monument at Mitad del Mundo. Here, you can stand on the equator and learn about the indigenous cultures and the history of the area.

Afternoon: Return to Quito and visit the Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum) to learn about Quito’s history from pre-Columbian times to the present.

Evening: Stroll through the La Ronda neighborhood, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Grab a bite at one of the local eateries.

## Day 3: Otavalo Market and Surroundings

Morning: Take a day trip to Otavalo, famous for its indigenous market. Explore the stalls filled with colorful textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.

Afternoon: Visit the nearby Peguche Waterfall and the Kichwa community to learn about indigenous traditions and crafts.

Evening: Return to Quito and enjoy a quiet evening, perhaps with a glass of pilsner beer or a local cocktail.

## Day 4: Cotopaxi National Park

Morning: Depart for Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the park’s history and ecology.

Afternoon: Hike around the Limpiopungo Lagoon for stunning views of the volcano and the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife!

Evening: Head back to Quito for dinner and rest up for the next adventure.

## Day 5: Cuenca

Morning: Travel to Cuenca, a charming colonial city known for its well-preserved architecture. Check into your hotel and get settled.

Afternoon: Explore the Old Town, visiting the Catedral Nueva and the Catedral Vieja. Don’t miss the Museum of Modern Art and the Pumapungo Museum, which showcases the history of the Cañari and Inca cultures.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling cuencano specialties like hornado (roast pork).

## Day 6: Ingapirca and Cañar

Morning: Take a trip to Ingapirca, the largest Inca archaeological site in Ecuador. Explore the ruins and learn about the Inca civilization and their connection to the Cañari people.

Afternoon: Visit the nearby town of Cañar to see traditional weaving and crafts. You can also visit the Cañari Museum to delve deeper into the local history.

Evening: Return to Cuenca for a relaxing evening. Perhaps enjoy a stroll along the Tomebamba River.

## Day 7: Baños

Morning: Travel to Baños, known for its hot springs and adventure activities. Check into your hotel and get ready for a day of exploration.

Afternoon: Visit the Bañoss de Agua Santa and soak in the thermal baths. You can also explore the Pailón del Diablo waterfall, one of the most impressive in the area.

Evening: Enjoy a lively dinner in Baños, where you can try local dishes and perhaps catch some live music.

## Day 8: Return to Quito

Morning: Head back to Quito. If time allows, visit the TelefériQo for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Afternoon: Spend your last few hours shopping for souvenirs or visiting any sites you may have missed, like the Basilica del Voto Nacional.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Quito, reflecting on your incredible journey through Ecuador’s rich history and culture.

Tips:

• Make sure to try local delicacies throughout your trip!
• Keep hydrated, especially in high-altitude areas like Quito and Cotopaxi.
• Don’t forget your camera; the landscapes and architecture are stunning!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 8 days in Ecuador! Enjoy your adventure! 🌎✈️