Quito Itinerary
Overview:
This two week Ecuador Travel Itinierary begins in Ecuador’s capital, Quito, is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its colonial charm, cultural landmarks, and its location high in the Andes.
How long to stay in Quito:
3 days
How to get to Quito:
Fly into Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). Taxis or shuttle buses take 45 minutes to the city center.
Best hotels to stay in Quito:
- Selina Quito (Hostel, $): Budget-friendly with a great social atmosphere. Booking Page.
- Casa Joaquin Boutique Hotel (Boutique, $$): Charming hotel in the heart of the Mariscal district. Booking Page.
- Hotel Plaza Grande (Luxury, $$$): Upscale colonial-style hotel overlooking Plaza de la Independencia. Booking Page.
What to do in Quito:
- Explore Old Town Quito (Centro Histórico), a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Free.
- Visit Basílica del Voto Nacional and climb its towers for panoramic views – $2.
- Take the TelefériQo cable car to Pichincha Volcano for breathtaking views – $8.50.
- Stand on the equator at Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World monument) – $5.
- Explore the artisanal market at La Mariscal for souvenirs – Free entry.
Where to eat in Quito:
- Cafeteria Modelo (Traditional Ecuadorian, $): 4.5 stars on Google.
- Vista Hermosa (Restaurant with city views, $$): 4.6 stars on Google.
- Zazu (Fine dining, $$$): 4.7 stars on Google.
Modes of transport in Quito:
Use taxis, Uber, or the city’s trolleybuses. Avoid public buses during peak hours for safety.
Quito digital nomad rating:
4/5 – Good WiFi and coworking spaces, but altitude (2,850m) can take some adjustment. Nomadlist Quito
Otavalo Itinerary
Overview
Otavalo is a charming Andean town best known for its indigenous culture and famous artisan market. It’s a must-visit for handmade crafts and breathtaking highland scenery.
How long to stay in Otavalo:
1-2 days
How to get from Quito to Otavalo:
- By bus: Buses depart frequently from Quito’s Carcelén Terminal (2 hours, $3).
Best hotels to stay in Otavalo:
- Hostal Otavalo Prince (Hostel, $): Basic, clean, and budget-friendly. Booking Page.
- Hacienda Pinsaquí (Boutique, $$): Stay in a historic 18th-century hacienda surrounded by lush gardens. Booking Page.
- Hotel Doña Esther (Mid-range, $$): Charming, rustic hotel with a lovely courtyard and excellent on-site restaurant. Booking Page.
What to do in Otavalo:
- Shop at the Plaza de Ponchos Market for handmade textiles, jewelry, and crafts – Free entry.
- Visit Laguna Cuicocha, a crater lake with scenic trails – Tours $25+.
- Explore Peguche Waterfall, a sacred site for locals – Free.
Where to eat in Otavalo:
- Daily Grind (Café, $): 4.6 stars on Google. Great coffee, sandwiches, and baked goods.
- Sisa Terrazza (Local dishes, $$): 4.5 stars on Google. Offers traditional Andean dishes and stunning terrace views.
- Restaurant La Cosecha (Ecuadorian & International, $$): 4.7 stars on Google. Popular spot for hearty meals and fresh juices.
Modes of transport in Otavalo:
Taxis and local buses.
Otavalo digital nomad rating:
3/5 – Scenic but limited infrastructure for remote work.
Baños Itinerary
Overview
Baños is Ecuador’s adventure capital, famous for waterfalls, thermal baths, and adrenaline-pumping activities.
How long to stay in Baños:
3 days
How to get from Otavalo to Baños:
- Return to Quito, then take a bus from Quito’s Quitumbe Terminal to Baños (3.5 hours, $5).
Best hotels to stay in Baños:
- Hostel Princesa Maria (Hostel, $): Highly-rated budget option with a welcoming atmosphere. Booking Page.
- La Floresta Hotel (Boutique, $$): Comfortable and centrally located with gardens and hammocks. Booking Page.
- Sangay Spa Hotel (Mid-range, $$): Offers spa services, a pool, and a great location near the hot springs. Booking Page.
What to do in Baños:
- Rent a bike and explore the Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route) – $10 for bike rentals.
- Visit Pailón del Diablo, the Devil’s Cauldron waterfall – $2 entry.
- Relax in the Termas de la Virgen hot springs – Entry $3.
- Swing “at the end of the world” at Casa del Árbol – Entry $2.
- Try whitewater rafting on the Pastaza River – Tours from $30.
Where to eat in Baños:
- Casa Hood (International & local, $$): 4.6 stars on Google. Relaxed spot for great food and vegetarian options.
- Mercado Central (Street food, $): 4.5 stars on Google. Sample hornado and fresh fruit juices.
- Alto Caribe (Caribbean & seafood, $$): 4.7 stars on Google. Flavorful dishes with a Caribbean twist.
Modes of transport in Baños:
Taxis, bicycles, and local tours.
Baños digital nomad rating:
4/5 – Great for nature lovers with decent internet and cafes to work from.
Cuenca Itinerary
Overview
Cuenca is a beautiful colonial city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its cobbled streets, historic churches, and cultural charm.
How long to stay in Cuenca:
3 days
How to get from Baños to Cuenca:
- By bus: 7-8 hours, $12 (overnight buses available).
- By plane: Fly from Quito to Cuenca (if returning to Quito) – 45 minutes.
Best hotels to stay in Cuenca:
- La Cigale (Hostel, $): Social and affordable option in the city center. Booking Page.
- Hotel Casa San Rafael (Boutique, $$): Lovely historic property with excellent service. Booking Page.
- Hotel Carvallo (Mid-range, $$): Elegant colonial-style hotel with modern amenities. Booking Page.
What to do in Cuenca:
- Visit the stunning New Cathedral of Cuenca – Free entry.
- Explore Cajas National Park for hikes and breathtaking views – $10 park entry.
- Stroll along the Tomebamba River and enjoy Cuenca’s scenic charm – Free.
- Shop for authentic Panama hats at local factories – Tours from $5.
Where to eat in Cuenca:
- Raymipampa (Traditional Ecuadorian, $$): 4.6 stars on Google. Classic Ecuadorian dishes in a cozy setting.
- El Mercado (Modern Ecuadorian, $$): 4.7 stars on Google. Combines great food with beautiful river views.
- Moliendo Café (Colombian, $): 4.8 stars on Google. Known for its hearty portions and welcoming vibe.
Modes of transport in Cuenca:
Walkable city center; taxis are cheap and reliable.
Cuenca digital nomad rating:
4.5/5 – Affordable, great WiFi, and excellent quality of life. Nomadlist Cuenca
Montañita Itinerary
Overview
The two week Ecuador travel itinerary continues in Montañita, Ecuador’s laid-back surf and party town, popular for its golden beaches, nightlife, and bohemian vibes.
How long to stay in Montañita:
3 days
How to get from Cuenca to Montañita:
- By bus: Direct buses from Cuenca to Montañita (6-7 hours, $10).
Best hotels to stay in Montañita:
- Selina Montañita (Hostel, $): Popular among backpackers and remote workers. Booking Page.
- Nativa Bambu Ecolodge (Boutique, $$): Comfortable with sea views and eco-friendly vibes. Booking Page.
- Hotel Kundalini (Mid-range, $$): Tranquil beachfront property with beautiful gardens. Booking Page.
What to do in Montañita:
- Surf or take lessons at Montañita Beach – Rentals $10/hour, lessons $20+.
- Relax on Olon Beach, a quieter stretch 10 minutes away – Free.
- Enjoy Montañita’s nightlife at beachside bars and clubs – Entry varies.
Where to eat in Montañita:
- Tambo Sabores (Seafood, $$): 4.6 stars on Google. Known for fresh ceviche and seafood dishes.
- Pigro (Italian, $$): 4.7 stars on Google. A local favorite for authentic pasta and pizza.
- Shankha Sushi & Asian Cuisine (Sushi, $$): 4.5 stars on Google. Great sushi and Asian-fusion dishes in a beachy setting.
Modes of transport in Montañita:
Walkable town; taxis for nearby trips.
Montañita digital nomad rating:
4/5 – Great for beach lovers with decent coworking spaces and a relaxed vibe. Nomadlist Montañita
Consider adding a 7 Day Galápagos Cruise to your two week Ecuador travel itinerary for the ultimate Ecuadorian experience.
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