Embark on a Ecuador 10 day itinerary and be amazed by the splendid places of the Andes. Furthermore, admire the culture, traditions, landscapes, mountains and the kindness of its people.
Hirng a private driver in Ecuador allows you to tailor your trip according to your needs. This way, you avoid being bound to set schedules and visiting places that are not on your itinerary.
This itinerary is the most popular and recommended by travelers in recent months.
DAY 1. Quito – Otavalo
Explore Otavalo and the largest market in South America as part of your Ecuador 10 day itinerary. Look into the animal market, visit the village of Peguche and its waterfall, and see the famous weavers of the village of Agato. After, visit Cotacachi (leather shop) Cuicocha (Crater Lake). Overnigh n Otvavalo
DAY 2. Otavalo – Cotopaxi
Embarking on a journey south from Otavalo, one is treated to the captivating sight of the Imbabura volcanoes, accompanied by the picturesque San Pablo lagoon nestled at the foot of this majestic volcano. Continuing the adventure, the impressive silhouette of the Cayambe volcano comes into view. Similarly, when traveling from the southern outskirts of Quito, travelers will be astonished by the alluring vistas of the Antisana and Cotopaxi volcanoes.
Additionally, between these two volcanoes lies the remarkable fertile valley of Machachi. Beyond this town, you will pass through picturesque villages such as Pujili and Saquisili, highly appealing for their artisanal markets.
Next, you enter the Cotopaxi National Park. Travelers can hike around the Limpiopungo lagoon with a spectacular view of the Cotopaxi volcano.
DAY 3. Cotopaxi – Quilotoa – Baños
Departing from Cotopaxi we head towards one of the most incredible lakes in the Andes of Ecuador. Above all, during the tour you can get the best views of the area and the surroundings before reaching the lake. The Quilotoa is an ancient crater of a large volcano. Certainly, it’s still active. This impressive emerald green lake is located in a typical indigenous community. After visiting Quilotoa, we head to Baños. Overnight in Baños.
DAY 4. Baños and the lovely waterfalls avenue
On this Ecuador 10 day itinerary with your private driver, leading you to the breathtaking «Avenue of the Waterfalls.» The journey commences with a visit to the Agoyan Hydroelectric Dam, offering a captivating start to the exploration. Subsequently, we’ll pause to traverse the Pastaza River Canyon on a cable car, covering a distance of 500 meters, to reach the enchanting «Manto de la Novia» waterfall. Here, delve into the local lifestyle through immersive experiences and a hike down to the river.
Afterward, we’ll make a stop at the scenic viewpoint of the «San Jorge» waterfall. Ultimately, our journey will lead us to the Rio Verde community, where we’ll embark on a hike to the renowned Devil’s Cauldron, also known as the «Pailón del Diablo» waterfall. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the distinctive Amazon vegetation in all its splendor.
If you love birds, this is a hot spot to record many species of them. Specially, the colorful Andean-cook-of-the Rock and some species of hummingbirds. On the way back to Baños city, ask your private driver to visit La Casa del Arbol (treehouse).
«The Treehouse», is the most famous viewpoint in Baños with an impressive view of the Tungurahua Volcano. It is a wooden house built on a tree at the edge of the mountain. From here, hang two swings that sway over the mountain abyss, providing a thrilling adrenaline rush.
DAY 5. Baños – Alausi – Nariz del Diablo
On this 10 day itinerary through Ecuador, enjoy a journey that promises breathtaking landscapes. Choosing the most direct route through Penipe, Riobamba, and Alausí guarantees a picturesque trip. It is worth noting that one of the most captivating views on this route can be enjoyed from Cotaló to Penipe.
Above all, from Cotaló, you can behold the spectacular Baños Valley, the Pastaza River, with the imposing presence of the Tungurahua Volcano in the foreground. Descending through a fertile valley, the journey continues to Peinipe and Riobamba passsing close to the magestic mountain Chimborazo. And, the final destination of Alausi is reached.
Once we arrive in Alausí, we will head to the train station. This is where the adventure toward the Devil’s Nose begins. Overnight in Alausi.
DAY 6. Alausi – Ingapirca
We will continue our adventure, first visiting the Archeological Complex. This tour takes about 2 hours. Certainly, this is the best-preserved Inca architectural complex in the country. It is undoubtedly the most important pre-Columbian archaeological site in Ecuador.
DAY 7. Ingapirca – Cuenca
This archaeological complex concentrated the Cañari culture (500 A.D.) and was an important ceremonial zone. In addition, this civilization united diverse cultures throughout the Tahuantinsuyo and became, like Macchu Picchu in Cuzco (Peru), symbols of the power of the Inca civilization.
After the conquest of the Incas, they turned the castle into an important religious, political, scientific, military, and administrative center. Drive to Cuenca
DAY 8- Cuenca
This lovely city is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in southern Ecuador. Its colonial architecture is the most representative. Thus, visitors can take a walking tour through the historic center to admire the colonial houses with ornate balconies. In addition, the churches are the main attraction. The city has so many churches that it would take the visitor a month to visit a church every day. Overnight in Cuenca.
Cuenca offers fascinating attractions beyond the city limits. Consider a visit to the exclusive location where the most exotic orchids are cultivated. Just a short distance away is the village of Sigsig, where you can observe the intricate process of crafting toquilla straw hats. Overnight in Cuenca
DAY 9. Cajas National Park-Guayaquil
Most travelers have taken Guayaquil as their base. From this city it is more convenient to take flights to or from Galapagos. Also, it is more convenient to take flights back to your country.
The main and shortest route to Guayaquil is driving by Molleturo highway. In the same way, this road also leads to the Cajas National Park. So, the Cajas is a perfect stop to admire the landscape and the lagoons found in this area.
DAY 10. Transfer to the Airport in Guayaquil
Don’t miss this great adventure to travel to Ecuador and be amazed by the majestic Andes. Most importantly, your private driver will introduce you to the most exquisite places with warmth and safety!
In case you already have your own planned trip, please let me know. Most importantly, this itinerary is flexible, therefore, you can change it according to your needs.
If you want more in-depth information, please don’t hesitate to contact me.