Self-drive Ecuador exploration & Galapagos island hopping

Quito

Day 1: Welcome to Ecuador!

Welcome to Ecuador! Upon your arrival at Quito airport, a driver will be ready to take you to your hotel. Enjoy the scenic views of this vibrant capital city during your drive. Today is yours to relax and acclimate—either unwind at your hotel or explore the charming streets of Quito at your own pace.

Quito

Day 2: A guided tour of Quito

After breakfast, join a walking tour through Quito's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the stunning colonial architecture and vibrant squares. Visit the iconic Plaza Grande, the beautiful La Compañía and La Basílica churches, and stroll along La Ronda, Quito's oldest street.

In the afternoon, head to Mitad del Mundo and stand with one foot in each hemisphere. The evening is free for you to explore further or relax at your hotel.

Quito

Day 3: Pick up your car & freedom awaits

Today is yours to explore! In the morning, a transfer will take you from your hotel to pick up your rental car for your self-drive adventure.

You can choose to enjoy a free day in Quito, exploring its attractions at your own pace, or drive to Otavalo to experience the famous Andean craft market. If nature calls, head to Cotopaxi National Park to discover its stunning volcanoes.

Return to Quito in the evening for your final night in the capital.

Quito - Papallacta - Ahuano

Day 4: Journey to the Amazon

After breakfast, your road trip begins. Start the day with a relaxing break in the thermal waters of Papallacta, bidding farewell to the Andes. As you leave the Sierra mountains, the landscape transforms from mountainous terrain to the lush, river-laden Amazon.

Following lunch, continue your journey to the Amazon. At Ahuano, board a motorized canoe to your lodge. Spend the rest of the day unwinding by the river, taking a refreshing dip in the pool, enjoying dinner, and savoring a cocktail on the terrace overlooking the sprawling forest.

Ahuano

Day 5: Immerse yourself in Amazon life

Today, immerse yourself in Amazon life. Your local guide, an expert in the region, will tailor activities to your group. Discover the Amazon's flora and fauna—bathe in rivers, walk trails, and explore reserves. After lunch, engage with locals to learn about their unique way of life. In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Ahuano - Banos - Riobamba

Day 6: Roaming around Riobamba

This morning, enjoy leisure time in the Amazon to explore as you wish. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Pailón del Diablo waterfall and take in its stunning views.

Continue to the town of Riobamba, known for its beautiful parks, churches, and breathtaking mountain vistas. The town's name combines the Spanish word for river ("río") and the Kichwa word for valley ("bamba"), reflecting the area's diverse landscape and culture. Once settled into your accommodation, explore local restaurants for some authentic cuisine.

Riobamba - Ingapirca - Cuenca

Day 7: Colonial marvels & Inca treasures

Start your day with a visit to the Church of Balbanera, Ecuador’s first Catholic church dating back to the colonial era.

Next, step back in time at Ingapirca, Ecuador’s premier Cañari-Inca archaeological site. Discover the grandeur of ancient patios, terraces, temples, and the remarkable Incan 'castle,' while delving into the region’s rich history at the on-site museum.

In the afternoon, travel to the charming city of Cuenca, where you’ll spend the night.

Cuenca

Day 8: The cultural charms of Cuenca

After breakfast, wander through Cuenca’s bohemian streets and its UNESCO World Heritage historic center. Admire cobblestone lanes and colorful houses with flower-filled balconies. Visit the lively Flower Market Square, a showcase of traditional crafts like ceramics, silverwork, and straw weaving.

In the afternoon, delve into pre-Columbian history at the Museum of Aboriginal Cultures. End your day with a relaxing dinner at one of Cuenca’s fine restaurants, reflecting on a day rich in culture and artistry.

Cuenca - Guayaquil

Day 9: From mountains to the pearl of the Pacific

Embark on a scenic journey from the Andes to the coastal plains. Marvel at El Cajas National Park's vistas and photograph the unique Andean páramo landscapes. Savour lunch at a traditional hacienda and delve into the art of cocoa-making.

In Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city, explore its rich history, commercial prominence and vibrant riverfront Malecón. 

It's now time to return your rental vehicle before you travel to the Galapagos tomorrow.

Guayaquil - Santa Cruz - Puerto Ayora

Day 10: Journey to the Galapagos

It’s time to board your flight to the Galapagos! Upon arrival, your guides will meet you at the airport and take you to Santa Cruz, the gateway to Galapagos adventures.

Explore Puerto Ayora, the lively main port with its shops and eateries, or venture into the island’s natural wonders, including free-roaming giant tortoises, volcanic craters, and serene natural pools.

Enjoy lunch on a local ranch, visit the iconic giant tortoises at the pozas, and explore a fascinating lava tunnel. Discover traditional practices like sugarcane juice extraction and coffee preparation, and savor cane juice, spirits, and organic coffee before heading to your hotel in Puerto Ayora for a relaxing evening.

Puerto Ayora - Bartolome - Puerto Ayora

Day 11: Bartolomé's volcanic wonders

After breakfast, embark on a visit to Bartolomé Island, where you'll experience its striking volcanic landscapes and vibrant marine life. Famous in the archipelago for its stunning views of Pinnacle Rock and Santiago Island, Bartolomé offers a wooden boardwalk that leads to an exceptional viewpoint atop this extinct volcano, showcasing a spectacular array of red, orange, black, and green formations.

Climb the 30-40 minute stairway to the summit for one of the best panoramas in the Galapagos. Discover a charming beach surrounded by unique island flora, perfect for snorkeling. Here, you might encounter Galapagos penguins, white-tip sharks, and playful sea lions.

Return to Santa Cruz in the evening for dinner and a restful night at your hotel.

Puerto Ayora

Day 12: A day exploring the Galapagos

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Relax at the hotel or explore the beach at your leisure.

For a memorable adventure, consider a full-day trip to Tortuga Bay. This stunning white sand beach, named for the sea turtles that visit its shores, is accessible via a picturesque 2.5 km trail through lush vegetation. As you walk, you'll encounter marine iguanas and a variety of colorful birds. Continue to Playa Mansa, a peaceful lagoon surrounded by mangroves, for a serene escape.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the shore and find a cozy restaurant where you can savor a meal while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Puerto Ayora - Santa Fe - Puerto Ayora

Day 13: Serenity, sealions & seabirds

After breakfast, head to the southeast of Santa Cruz and board a boat to Santa Fe Island. With its crystal-clear waters, cactus-fringed shores, and mangroves, the island offers a stunning setting.

Famous for its vibrant birdlife, you may spot pelicans, gulls, and blue-footed boobies. Look for Tintoreras sharks sunbathing on the shores. After a delightful lunch, you'll reach Playa Escondida, a serene bay with pristine white sands. Relax and enjoy the sun and sea before returning to your hotel for a restful evening.

Puerto Ayora

Day 14: Conservation in the Galapagos

Today is yours to explore as you wish. If you're eager to dive into both knowledge and natural beauty, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Discover their remarkable giant tortoise breeding program and explore the engaging interpretation center. Learn about the conservation efforts and the story of Lonesome George, the famed last Pinta tortoise.

Puerto Ayora

Day 15: Farewell, Ecuador

It's time to say goodbye! After breakfast, you'll be transferred from your hotel to Santa Cruz airport for your flight back to the mainland. From there, you'll wait for your international flight home.