Ecuador 10 Days Trip: Fantastic Trip with a Private driver

Reminding our fantastic 10 days trip in Ecuador with a private driver. An absolutely amazing adventure! We spent 10 fascinating days. Above all, we were more interested in hiking and sightseeing. Our adventure started in Quito visiting the Rucu Pichincha mountain, then, Mojanda Lakes in Otavalo, Mindo, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Baños. In conclusion, we visited the most interesting places in Ecuador.

Day 1. Quito Teleférico and hiking Rucu Pichincha

Visit the teleferico in Quito during your trip in Ecuador for 10 days
Teleferico Quito

This fantastic 10 days trip started in Quito, Ecuador at the teléferico. In 20 minutes we covered a distance of 2.5 k flanked by the mountain inside. The view of Quito during the trip in the teleferico is beautiful, but nothing compared once we reached the top.

Trekking to Rucu Pichincha
Trekking to Rucu Pichincha

On a clear day you will be able to observe gorgeous volcanoes like Cayambe, Ilinizas, Cotopaxi, Pasochoa, Rumiñahui and Antisana. Further south, you can see Tungurahua and Chimborazo.

As soon as we arrive to the top, we started hiking to the peak of Rucu Pichcincha. It took us about 4 hours.

Day 2. Quito-Otavalo-Mojanda Lakes

Visit the beautiful Mojand lakes on your Ecuador 10 days trip
Mojanda Lakes

We drove from Quito to Otavalo about 2 hours and reached the lakes of Mojanda. There are three lakes, the main one is called Huarmicocha or big lake which is located at an altitude of 12.000 feet

View of Cerro Negro
Caricocha Mojanda Lakes

We walk around the Caricocha lagoon partially. There are also hiking trails between the lagoons of Mojanda. However, you should consider the altitude when planning your trip. The lack of oxigen due to the altitude can cause problems. Above all, you should bring sufficient water.

Caricocha Lake at beautiful Mojanda Lakes in Ecuador
Mojanda Lakes

Usually, Caricocha is under a constantly changing fog curtain that creates a mystical atmosphere. Undoubtedly this is a place of silence and peace surrounded by mountains.

Day 3. Otavalo-Mindo

Discober Mindo during your Ecuador 10 days trip
Mindo

This morning, we were excited to visit Mindo since we heard many great things abut this place. As soon as we left Quito, we started descending through a canyoning. Certainly, we were impressed about the immediate change of scenery, that was unbelievable. Once in Mindo, we went to Bamboo Lodge. It is a nice hotel in the forest.

Day 4. Hiking around Mindo

Cloud forest in Mindo
Cloud Forest Mindo

Our journey began by crossing the Nambillo River by cable car. Without a doubt, this experience offers an amazing view of the primary forest and also an alternative to see the valley.

There are some trails but we decide to hike the route 3 that passes by five Mindo waterfalls. Although many of these falls are smaller, the hiking trails here were interesting and fun to walk.

Mindo Nambillo waterfall
Mindo Nambillo Reserve

The first waterfall is Ondinas. Then, the path twists the nice landscapes and passes by Cascades of Guarumos, Colibries and Madre.

In the afternoon, we finish our journey, doing the chocolate tour at the factory El Quetzal de Mindo and then we headed to visit the garden of butterflies at Mariposas de Mindo.

Day 5. Mindo-Cotopaxi

See the best of Cotopaxi during a trip to Ecuador for 10 days
Cotopaxi

Our fantastic 10 days trip in Ecuador on the fifth day started heading from Mindo to the Cotopaxi National Park. This journey took about 3.5 hours.

This trip to the Cotopaxi through the Avenue of the Volcanoes is spectacular. Coming from Quito, we passed the peaks of Cayambe, Antisana and the Ilinizas. Even if they are hidden behind clouds, our eyes were open because I knew that a sudden gust of wind momentarily reveals the face of one of these giants. Late in the afternoon, we arrived to the Cotopaxi Rondador hostel.

Day 6. Limpiopungo lagoon-Cotopaxi refuge

View of Cotopaxi Volcano from Limpiopungo lagoon
Cotopaxi Volcano and Limpiopungo lake

Mandy was worried about the weather. In fact it was very cloudy and drizzling. While we were moving to the other side of the volcano the clouds were moving away. As soon as we arrive to Limpiopungo, we started hiking around the lagoon. Then, we drove to the parking lot in order to reach the Refuge José Rivas located at 16.000 feet. Nevertheles, this time the weather was wonderfull, in fact we have the best views of Cotopaxi.

Hoke to Cotopaxi refuge during your trip to Ecuador in 10 days
Cotopaxi refuge

In fact, It takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour to get to the refuge from the parking lot by foot. Finally, after a long and exited day we came back to El Rondador Cotopaxi hostel.

Day 7. Cotopaxi-Quilota-Baños

Ecuador 10 days trip offer you the best of Quilotoa
Quilotoa Lake

We left our hostel and headed to Quilotoa. The road up to Quilotoa goes through some of the most stunning Andean landscapes, including Tigua and Zumbahua, so picture breaks are essential.

Tigua is an enchanting village that you can visit in during your trip in Ecuador for 10 days
Tigua

As soon as we arrive at the lagoon, we begin our approximately 7.5-mile hike. Above all, we walk along a narrow trail that winds up and down through difficult terrain. Most importantly, we enjoyed spectacular views. The hike took us around 7 hours.

Hike around to Quilotoa Lake
Quilotoa trekk path

Even though the day was very strenuous, we were very satisfied and amazed with the scenery. Late in the afternoon, we headed to Baños.

Day 8. Baños and the surrounding areas

The waterfall of San Jorge, Baños, Ecuador
San Jorge waterfall Mindo

We started a new day of adventure. We rented bicycles to ride along the avenue of waterfalls.

Riding bike to the waterfall avenue in Baños, Ecuador
Biking in Mindo

Avobe all, during the ride we made some stops to admire waterfalls such as San Jorge, the Manto de la Novia.

You can visit el Pailon del Diablo in Ecuador in a trip of 10 days
Pailón del Diablo

Finally, we arrived at Pailon del Diablo, the most impressive of them all. Then, in the afternoon, we visit the famous Casa del Arbol. Without a doubt, this was an amazing day.

Day 9. Baños-Quito

Cotaló, Baños, Ecuador
Cotaló and Tungurahua Volcano view

This is our last day of travel. We wash up and head to Quito. However, this time we decided to go a different route, as we wanted to see for the last time the whole impressive valley of Baños and Patate.

View of Baños Valley
Valley of Baños

Therefore, we took the road to Penipe until we reached the viewpoint of Cotaló.

If you are interested in a trip similar to this one, do not hesitate to contact us. Above all, we will help you design your own trip.

Travel To Ecuador From The Andes To The Coast

Travel to Ecuador from the Andes to the Coast is a pleasant and relaxing journey. Indeed, it offers a delightful 14-day tour to admire Ecuador’s volcanoes, picturesque villages, and lush valleys of the Highlands. After that, you descend to the charming fishing villages along the coast.

Amazing sunset at the Pacific coat

Your private driver will make this trip an unforgettable experience. Additionally, throughout the journey, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the diverse natural and cultural beauty that characterizes this fascinating South American country.

DAY 1. Airport transfer

Transfer from the Mariscal Sucre Airport to the hotel

DAY 2. Quito-Mindo Cloud Forest

Mindo is one of the main highlights of the travel from the Andes to the Coast in Ecuador.

We will drive to the Mindo Cloud Forest, an enchanting place where we will visit various attractions such as the Nambillo waterfall. However, to reach the waterfall, we will have to cross by cable car to the other side of the river.

The exquisite artisan chocolate in Mindo
Mindo Chocolate

Additionally, we will enjoy exploring the butterfly farm, the orchid house, and, most outstandingly, the chocolate tour. After our adventures, we will return to Quito and spend the night there.

The visit to the historic center of Quito is one of the main attractions of the journey from the Andes to the Coast in Ecuador.
Quito and the Panecillo

On this travel to Ecuador from the Andes to the Coast, Quito is the city not to be missed. Thus, you will have the opportunity to visit the most beautiful preserved Historic Center. The tour start visiting La Basilica, the Independence Square, Government Palace and The Cathedral. After, we will visit La Compañia de Jesús that is covered in leaf gold and finally the San Francisco Square. Overnight in Quito.

DAY 4. Quito-Cotopax

Cotopaxi volcano view from the North entrance
Cotopaxi

On you travel to Ecuador from the Andes to the Coast, on the way you can see the Antisana volcano, its summit lies at 5620 m and is not far from the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, very attractive for its almost perfect cone. Similarly, between these two volcanoes, we can admire the fertile valley of Machachi. Beyond Machachi you pass through picturesque towns such as Pujili and Saquisili, very attractive for their handicraft markets.

Next, you enter the Cotopaxi National Park. Travelers can hike around the Limpiopungo lagoon with a spectacular view of the Cotopaxi volcano. Overnight at the Cotopaxi area.

DAY 5. Cotopaxi-Quiltoa

Travel fron the Andes to the Coast and admire the Quilotoa lake
Quilotoa Lake

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. Overnight at Cotopaxi area.

DAY 6. Chibuleo Market-Chimborazo Reserve

Travel from the Andes to the Coast and enjoy of the Chibuleo Market
Chibuleo Market

The indigenous market of Chimborazo starts very early in the morning. It attracts a lot of attention with its colorful ponchos and typical hats. In fact, many villagers from the community of Chibuleo gather at the market to sell their products. They sell what they produce, mostly vegetables and tubers. After visiting the market, we head to Chimborazo Lodge. Overnight.

DAY 7. Chimborazo-Alausí

A visit to the gorgeous Chimborazo volcano is a key highlight of the journey from the Andes to the Coast in Ecuador.
Chimborazo Reserve

This is the only lodge very close to the volcano. In fact, it is the only one around located inside the Reserve. It has an impressive view of the volcano. Even so, It is a challenge to keep the pass at this altitude, nevertheless, the views and the landscapes are the biggest attraction. Arrive to Alausí. Overnight

DAY8. Alausí-Ingapirca-Cuenca

Ingapirca arquelogical complex
Ingapirca Ruins

Head to Ingapirca. After we arrive to the ruins, we will make a tour to the Archeological Complex for 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. After, drive to Cuenca. Overnight in Cuenca.

DAY9. Cuenca

During the travel from the Andes to the coast in Ecuador, Cuenca should not be overlooked.
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.

DAY 10. Cuenca-Cajas National Park

The wonderful Cajas National Park in Cuenca
Cajas National Park

The National Park of Cajas is located 45 minutes from Cuenca. Undoubtedly, a wonderful place where we can enjoy short and long walks around the lagoons. Certainly, the lagoon called Toreadora is the most attractive and the largest. Overnight in Cuenca

DAY 11. Cuenca-Guayaquil-Olón beach

The peaceful beach of Olon
Olón Beach

On the travel to Ecuador from the Andes to the Coast, 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. However, in winter there are often landslides on the road. Therefore it is important to know in advance and take another route to Guayaquil. Driving from Guayaquil to Olon takes 3 hours. Olón is a small fishing town, very peaceful and quiet. A great place for relaxing. Overnight

DAY 12. Olón-Machalilla National Park

Travel from the Andes to the Coast and visit the Machalilla National Park
Machalilla National Park

The National Park is located 45 minutes from Olón. The main attraction is the Agua Blanca community. This site is home to an archeological museum with vestiges from ancient cultures of the coast!

DAY 13. Olón

Sunset at the peaceful Olon beach
Olón Beach

Relax day at the beach.

DAY 14. Olón-Quito

Drive back to Quito. It is also possible to take a plane from Manta airport to Quito. Driving from Olón to Manta takes about 2 hours and a half.

Don’t miss this great adventure to travel to Ecuador and enjoy the majestic Andes and the peaceful coast. 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.

Travel To Ecuador To The Colorful Andes In 5 Days

This short 5-day travel to Ecuador has been designed for visitors that have limited time to enjoy the country. However, in that short time, you can appreciate the colorful Andes with a private driver,

Travel to Ecuador in 5 days and see the spectacular Tungurahua volcanoe
Tungurahua Volcano

DAY 1. Travel to Ecuador in 5 days and explore Otavalo and the surrounding areas.

Otavalo

Travel to Ecuador in 5 days and see the largest market in South America. Look into the animal market. Visit the village of Peguche and its waterfall. See the famous weavers of the village of Agato. Enjoy the demonstration show flight of hawks and eagles at the Parque Condor. Overnight in Otavalo.

DAY 2. Otavalo-Quito old town, Mitad del Mundo-Mindo Cloud Forest

Private driver to Quito Old Town
Quito old town

Enjoy a leisurely walk around Quito’s Old Town and explore the Intiñan Museum situated along the Equator Line. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to the enchanting Mindo Cloud Forest. For your overnight stay in Mindo, there are numerous hotel options, but I highly recommend booking a room at Las Terrazas de Dana for a delightful experience.

DAY 3. Mindo and its surroundings

Travel to Ecuador in 5 days and visit mindo
Mindo

Explore the Mindo area, enjoy the waterfalls, chocolate tour, butterflies, and orchids garden. Back to Quito. Overnight in Quito.

DAY 4. Quito-Papallacta Hot Springs-Cotopaxi

Relax at the best hot springs in Papallacta nerby Quito. Later, drive to Cotopaxi National Park. Overnight in a mountain Lodge.

DAY 5. Quito-Cotopaxi

Travel to Ecuador in 5 days and see the majestic Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi

Explore the area of the Cotopaxi National Park, hike around the small Limpiopungo Lagoon and enjoy the magnificent views of the volcano. Return to Quito.

Don’t miss this great adventure to travel to Ecuador and enjoy the majestic Andes in 5 days. 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.

Quito: Many Reasons Why To Travel this city Can Make Joyful

Quito and the Independence Square
Independence Square-Quito

Are you looking for cultural things to do in Quito?

The best attractions of the city are in the colonial center. Quito is the capital of the Republic of Ecuador, considered one of the most important in Latin America. It’s been named a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site. It is surrounded by very showy mountains and valleys in addition to its colonial center surrounded by houses, parks, and ancient churches. Moreover, it is the capital of culture with many interesting museums, festivals, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Above all, Quito is the best central location for travelers, making it a perfect base from which to visit other regions of the country.

La Compañia de Jesua Church in Quito
San Francisco Square-Quito

Let me guide you around the colonial center, starting at Independence Square, the scene of the dramatic battles of the revolution within the story of Ecuador’s Republic. Within Independence Square is the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s place, and La Compania de Jesus, completely covered in gold. San Francisco church, located close to Independence Square, is also covered with gold.

 A few minutes from the center of the old town is located the Basilica. This Gothic Catholic Church is compared with the Nothredam Cathedral in Paris, France, for its multiple gargoyles and two magnificent towers. Visitors can climb the towers for spectacular views over the church and the city. The highest accessible part of these towers is only for the most daring, vertigo-free travelers! 

See more attractions around the city

Ecuatorial Line, Quito
Mitad del Mundo-Quito

Waiting for us to leave the old city is a ride on the Quito cable car that goes up to 12,000 feet. Upon the mountain, you will be able to overlook the city in all directions. On a clear day, you will see many volcanoes, among others the Cotopaxi. After that, we head to La Mitad del Mundo to visit the Intiñan Museum. Here you will find more interesting displays of Ecuadorian culture in addition to a few fun equator tricks.

This trip to Quito is strongly recommended to last at least three days. However, you can also choose one of my itineraries for a more complete experience. Don’t miss this incredible adventure! For more detailed information about hiring a private driver to accompany you throughout your trip, do not hesitate to contact me