Top Ecuador How to Get Around in 2026

From the high Andes to the heart of the Amazon, this journey offers a rich variety of landscapes, wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural experiences—all in one seamless itinerary. Unlike standard tours, this route takes you beyond the usual stops. You'll relax in volcanic hot springs in Papallacta, craft dreamcatchers with Otavalo’s indigenous artisans, explore wildlife rescue centers and rainforest trails in the Amazon, and witness the natural power of waterfalls and volcanoes in Baños and Cotopaxi. You'll also trek the rim of the stunning Quilotoa crater lake and enjoy personalized guidance every step of the way. ✔️ Small group experience or private options ✔️ Locally led, bilingual guides ✔️ Authentic community interactions ✔️ Comfortable accommodations and private transport included ✔️ Perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers Route: Quito – Otavalo – Papallacta – Tena (Amazon) – Baños – Quilotoa – Cotopaxi – Quito

Experience Quito like a local on this private, tailor-made walking tour. Enjoy the freedom to choose only the attractions that capture your interest, as you wander through the historic landmarks of Quito Old Town. With the option to share your specific interests ahead of time, your guide can craft the ideal itinerary, ensuring a personalized exploration of Ecuador's capital.

Save tired legs when exploring the vast outdoor landscape of Banos by opting for a small-group horseback riding adventure. This quicker and easier mode of transport lets you navigate uphill tracks and access some of the area’s most stunning natural attractions. Along the way, see iconic sites such as Casa del Arbol (entrance fee not included) and the majestic Tungurahua volcano.

In this tour, we will visit the spectacular Cotopaxi volcano, the second highest volcano in Ecuador. You will have a chance to see the beautiful lagoon of Limpiopungo. We will go downhill with bicycles as part of this tour, and the bicycles are included, or if you prefer, you can go with our car. Highly recommended! * CURRNTLY FOR SAFETY REASONS, full‑day visits inside Cotopaxi National Park are only permitted up to the José Ribas Refuge.

This full-day adventure of the Waterfall route offers a rich blend of nature, culture, and adrenaline. Travelers will explore 8 unique waterfalls including La Virgen, Agoyán, Manto de la Novia, and the majestic Pailón del Diablo each with its own geological charm and scenic backdrop. Hikes through lush trails like Puerta del Cielo and Machay reveal panoramic views of the Pastaza River and Tungurahua volcano. At Río Blanco Park, guests choose their thrill: canopy zipline, Tarzan swing, glass bridge, or Tibetan bridge. Cultural depth is added with a visit to a traditional melcocha factory, where guava-based sweets are handcrafted. A locally sourced lunch provides a taste of Ecuadorian cuisine. The itinerary is designed for balance alternating high energy moments with serene nature immersion making it ideal for travelers seeking both excitement and connection. Every stop is curated for visual impact, storytelling, and authentic engagement with the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

The Galapagos Islands are home to distinct species and populations of animals, including penguins, iguanas, sea lions, turtles, and more. Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands are uniquely unafraid of humans. This program is a more economic way to explore the Galapagos Islands, a land based tour. Activities in this program include swimming, snorkeling, with marine animals, hiking, bird watching, and walking among giant Galapagos tortoises.

The Galapagos Islands are home to distinct species and populations of animals, including penguins, iguanas, sea lions, turtles, and more. Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands are uniquely unafraid of humans. This program is a more economic way to explore the Galapagos Islands, a land based tour. Activities in this program include swimming, snorkeling, with marine animals, hiking, bird watching, and walking among giant Galapagos tortoises.

The Galapagos Islands are home to distinct species and populations of animals, including penguins, iguanas, sea lions, turtles, and more. Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands are uniquely unafraid of humans. This program is a more economical way to explore the Galapagos Islands, on a land-based tour. Activities in this program include swimming, snorkeling, with marine animals, hiking, bird watching, and walking among giant Galapagos tortoises.

Enjoy a full-day tour in the Otavalo Area. We will visit the largest indigenous market in Latin America and browse stalls for colorful, artisan souvenirs and delicious flavors. We will visit Lago San Pablo, where you will be able to admire its breathtaking beauty. We will also visit a Bizchochos Artesanal factory, the spectacular Cuicocha lagoon, Cotacachi leather town, and more.

In this trip we will stop at the best of what Mindo has to offer. Spend a day immersed in the beauty of Ecuador’s Mindo Cloud Forest when you embark on this full day tour from Quito. Hike into the forest with a our guide and visit a butterfly farm, or an Hummingbird Garden, do a breath taking canopy, see beautiful waterfalls, visit a chocolate factory, and more.

We'll come get you from the hotel. We will ascend in the direction of the eastern Andes and then descend a short distance to arrive at an ancient volcanic caldera. Depending on the weather, our first stop will be at 13,123 feet, or 4,000 meters above sea level, to view Ecuador's fourth-highest volcano. The range of temperatures is 3° to 17° C (37° to 62° F). We are going to hike along the Andean paramo paths as we enter the Cayambe-Coca National Park. A few birds, like the flat-capped ground tyrant, tawny antbird, and rufous-bellied seedsnipe, could be seen in this stunning setting. In the high Andes, we shall savor a unique experience. Later on, you'll have the chance to unwind, rest, and enjoy the Papallacta Hot Springs.

Located downstream on the Cuyabeno River, Tucan Eco Lodge is one of the reserve's newest lodges. Depending on the season, it can be reached by canoe around 30 kilometers from the park entrance. The Lodge has two guest huts, each with three or four cabins, can sleep up to 24 guests. Every hut can accommodate two to four individuals with its own private bathroom and shower, and double or triple bedrooms if needed. Our resort features a hammock-lined relaxation area with a platform where guests may view the river and, depending on the season, see pink river dolphins. An authorized canoe driver and certified naturalist guide accompany each and every one of our customers since we know that a good guide above all is crucial for a good tour. * On some days there might not be a tourist bus, in that case you'll travel by public bus,(approx 20$ per way per person)

The Galapagos Islands are home to distinct species and populations of animals, including penguins, iguanas, sea lions, turtles, and more. Wildlife in the Galapagos Islands are uniquely unafraid of humans. This program is a more economic way to explore the Galapagos Islands, a land based tour. Activities in this program include swimming, snorkeling, with marine animals, hiking, bird watching, and walking among giant Galapagos tortoises.

Discover the beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes on this 2-day adventure tour to Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa. Hike to Cotopaxi where you can see snow-capped mountains, a beautiful lagoon, and local wildlife. The next day, hike to the turquoise waters of the Quilotoa Lagoon to see even more beautiful landscapes. Mules are available to ascend to the top for those who are not in good physical condition.

Step into Guayaquil's past on this unique tour that combines the city’s main attractions with a guided walk through the city’s General Cemetery. Admire the artistic mausoleums and hear fascinating stories of historical figures buried there. A cultural and slightly mysterious twist to your classic city tour.

See Guayaquil from a whole new perspective! This tour includes all the iconic spots—Cathedral, Iguana Park, Malecón 2000, Las Peñas steps, and Puerto Santa Ana—plus a scenic ride on the city’s cable car. Glide above the Guayas River for panoramic views and capture unforgettable photos of the skyline.

Explore the Enchanting Amazon Basin: A Dream Come True for Nature Lovers Spending more time exploring the Amazon Basin is truly a dream come true for nature enthusiasts. The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve provides the perfect site for those seeking to unwind from the hustle and bustle of civilization while immersing themselves in the tropical rainforest. This excursion features additional hikes that offer a deeper understanding of the rich flora and fauna, highlighting the delicate balance of incredible ecosystems. Enjoy paddling activities along the blackwater rivers, where the tranquil setting invites peaceful exploration and allows you to fully experience the magic of nature.

Approximately 1000 kilometers west of the Ecuadorian mainland coast is the Galapagos archipelago. Over the centuries, changing ocean currents and airstreams have made it difficult for sailors to locate the islands; as a result they have become known as “the enchanted islands”. Due to their remote location, the islands have been able to maintain their unique flora and fauna despite human interference and are today considered a unique paradise on earth where we can relax and share the company of diverse wildlife. In 1835, after visiting four of the 11 islands, Charles Darwin was so profoundly inspired he developed his “Theory of Evolution”.

For those pressed for time yet unwilling to compromise on experiences, this 5-day island hopping excursion to the Galapagos is tailored for you. Depart from Quito and fly to San Cristobal, renowned for its iconic sea lion colony and the impressive Kicker Rock. From there, journey by speedboat to Santa Cruz, where you'll encounter giant tortoises and explore an uninhabited island.

The Galápagos Islands are home to one of the most unique wildlife habitats on Earth, where giant tortoises roam wild, marine iguanas bask on volcanic rocks, and sea lions swim right alongside you. This 8-day island-hopping tour takes you across Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristóbal, blending top-rated guided excursions with the freedom to explore at your own pace. From hiking the vast rim of Sierra Negra Volcano and kayaking the turquoise waters of Tortuga Bay to world-class snorkeling with hammerhead sharks at Kicker Rock, this action-packed itinerary delivers the ultimate Galápagos highlight package. Perfect for adventure travelers, couples, and small groups looking for a seamless multi-island experience, this expertly curated tour ensures an unforgettable eco-adventure through Ecuador’s iconic archipelago.

Experience the natural beauty and wildlife of San Cristobal on a 5 day fully guided adventure through the Galapagos Islands. Explore peaceful landscapes where giant tortoises roam and sea lions gather along the coast, while discovering the island both on land and underwater. Snorkel at Kicker Rock, explore Española Island, visit the freshwater lagoon of El Junco, and discover the nesting colonies of Punta Suárez. Combining guided excursions with remarkable wildlife encounters, this experience offers an immersive way to discover San Cristobal.

Your dream Amazon adventure is now more Budget-friendly than ever. Take advantage of our biggest savings and embark on an unforgettable 6-day journey through Ecuador's spectacular Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Travel by motorized canoe along winding blackwater rivers, explore pristine rainforest trails, encounter extraordinary wildlife, visit Indigenous communities, and discover one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems alongside expert naturalist guides. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to experience the Amazon for less—book now before this offer ends.

JUNGLE PACKAGE ALL-INCLUSIVE | DEPARTURE FROM QUITO Beginning from the moment you arrive at Suchipakari Jungle Lodge, our all-inclusive packages allow you make the most of the Napo River and all the natural joys and adventures it offers. All you have to do is choose how long you want the fun to last! All tours are accompanied by professional native guides. At Suchipakari you are able to design your own Jungle tours day by day. An expert local guide will assist you choosing the excursions according to your wishes and interests. Most itineraries in our Amazon Tours include; hikes in the rain forest, canoe trips, night walks, cascade visits, river tubing, visits to the local communities, animal rescue center. For those who are in search for more adrenaline we offer great adventure activities (An extra charge applies.) Cave tours, rafting, kayaking trips up to level V, an Canyoning Waterfall After your Amazon adventure, come back to enjoy tranquillity at your comfortable lodge.

Embark on a tour crafted for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Our daily departures from Quito ensure accessibility. Following the tour's conclusion in Tena, you'll have the choice to extend your stay in this captivating region or journey onward to Baños de Agua Santa. At the lodge, we're dedicated to assisting you in organizing your next destination or facilitating your return to Quito. During the exhilarating rafting excursion, rest assured, our safety kayaker will capture stunning photos and videos for you. On the first day, enjoy the convenience of a private transfer from Quito; simply inform us of your preferred pickup time and location. Along the way, feel free to ask our driver to make stops for additional activities—it's your transport, and you're in control. Upon arrival at the ecolodge, prepare for a thrilling itinerary featuring a jungle hike, river tubing, and a night walk. Yes, it's a jam-packed two days, but that's the essence of living in Ecuador.