OVERVIEW:
Experience the breathtaking diversity of Ecuador in just 11 unforgettable days.
Follow the rhythm of Ecuador as it dances from sea to sky. In just 11 days, trace a path through quiet fishing villages, sunlit beaches, emerald forests, and high Andean peaks. From ocean breezes to volcanic whispers, this journey invites you to live many worlds in one—each rich with beauty, heart, and wonder.
Day- by-Day Itinerary
Day 1. Arrival in Guayaquil & Malecón 2000
Day 2. Salinas: Sun, Sea & Relaxation
Day 3. Montañita: Surf & Bohemian Vibes
Day 4. Los Frailes: Pristine Nature
Day 5. Puerto López & Flight to Quito
Day 6. Quito: Historic Center
Day 7. Quilotoa Lagoon: Highland Beauty
Day 8. Baños: Adventure & Waterfalls
Day 9. Baños: Swing at the End of the World
Day 10. Cotopaxi National Park
Day 11. Return Home
DETAILED ITINERARY
Arrival in Guayaquil & Malecón 2000
Arrive in the vibrant coastal city of Guayaquil. Wander the Malecón’s breezy boardwalk and climb through Las Peñas’ bright alleys to reach Santa Ana Hill, where the city stretches out before you like a warm invitation.
Max Altitude
Sea level (0 m)
Meals
-
Accomodation
Comfortable city hotel near the Malecón
Duration
Airport transfer ~20min
Salinas: Sun, Sea & Relaxation
Journey to the sun-drenched Santa Elena Peninsula and unwind in Salinas, a lively beach town where ocean breezes and golden sand invite you to relax. Visit La Chocolatera, where the land ends and the Pacific roars—a breathtaking meeting of earth and sea
Max Altitude
Sea Level
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
Beachside hotel in Salinas
Duration
~2.5 hours by car
Montañita: Surf & Bohemian Vibes
Follow the Ruta del Sol north to Montañita, where the days roll with ocean waves and the nights pulse with music and color. This coastal village blends surf culture, bohemian spirit,and tropical charm.
Max Altitude
Sea level
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel in Montañita
Duration
~1.5 hours by car
Los Frailes: Pristine Nature
Discover Los Frailes, a serene beach with white sands and turquoise waters. Explore quiet trails alive with birds, iguanas, and sea turtles. A perfect place to unwind and embrace nature’s calm.
Max Altitude
Sea level
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel in Puerto Lopez
Duration
~1 hour drive from Puerto López
Puerto López & Flight to Quito
Morning in charming Puerto López, where humpback whales visit June–September. Gateway to Isla de la Plata, the “poor man’s Galápagos. Afternoon flight to Quito,Ecuador’s highland capital and UNESCO site.
Max Altitude
Sea level / ~2,850 m
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel in Quito
Duration
~4 hours + flight
Quito: Historic Center & Middle of the World
Explore Quito’s stunning colonial center with cobblestone streets and iconic churches like San Francisco and La Compañía. Visit the Middle of the World Monument to stand between two hemispheres and discover Ecuador´s unique culture.
Max Altitude
~2,850 m
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel in Quito
Duration
Half-day tour
Quilotoa Lagoon: Highland Beauty
Day trip to the breathtaking Quilotoa volcanic crater lake. Hike the rim or kayak its stunning turquoise waters. Taste traditional Andean dishes in local villages, experiencing ancestral flavors.
Max Altitude
~3,914 m
Meals
Breakfast, local lunch
Accomodation
Hotel in Quito
Duration
Full Day
Baños: Adventure & Waterfalls
After breakfast,arrive in Baños, the adventure capital. Visit the roaring Pailón del Diablo waterfall, cross hanging bridges, and enjoy thrilling activities like zip-lining, rafting, canyoning, or biking.
Max Altitude
~1,820 m
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel in Baños
Duration
Half day
Baños: Swing at the End of the World
Enjoy a free day in Baños. Swing at the End of the World for epic volcano views, soak in hot springs, sip coffee at cozy cafés, or keep the adrenaline going with more outdoor adventures.
Max Altitude
~1,820 mm
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
Hotel in Baños
Duration
Full day
Cotopaxi National Park: Volcano & Highland Landscapes
Discover the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano. Hike through windswept páramo, spot llamas and condors, and reach the José Rivas Refuge at 4,800 m. A day of thin air and unforgettable views.
Max Altitude
Up to 4,800 m
Meals
Breakfast, Box Lunch,
Accomodation
José Ribas Refuge
Duration
Full day
Return Home
Transfer to the airport for your international flight. End of an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Ecuador!
Max Altitude
~2,850 m
Meals
Breakfast
Accomodation
.
Distance
-
Duration
~2 hours (transfer)
Maps
SERVICES
Include
- All private transfers, including airport pick-up and drop-of
- All transportation during the program
- Accommodation in hotels, mountain lodges, refuges, and tents as described
- All meals as described in the itinerary
- Certified ASEGUIM/UIAGM mountain guide for all climbs
- Additional trekking guide for Quilotoa Loop
- Park entrance fees (Cotopaxi National Park, Chimborazo Reserve, Quilotoa)
- Climbing permits for Cotopaxi and Chimborazo
- Group technical climbing equipment (helmet, harness, crampons, ice axe, rope)
- Support vehicle and logistical support throughout
- Pre-expedition preparation support via email and WhatsApp
Not include
- International airfare to/from Ecuador
- Personal travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- Personal climbing gear (boots, down jacket, backpack, gloves — available for rental if
needed) - Sleeping bag for high camps (available for rental)
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips for guides, drivers, and support staff
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
EQUIPMENT
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time of year to climb in Ecuador?
Our tours typically include certified guides, transportation, accommodation, meals, and any necessary equipment for your activities. Specific inclusions vary depending on the tour, so be sure to check the detailed itinerary.
2. Do I need previous mountaineering experience?
Not necessarily.
- For Cotopaxi: Beginners with good fitness can join a summit program if they complete acclimatization hikes and receive basic glacier training.
- For Chimborazo and Cayambe: Prior glacier experience is highly recommended due to higher altitudes and longer summit pushes.
3. How important is acclimatization?
Acclimatization is critical. To prevent altitude sickness and improve summit chances, we recommend spending 3 to 5 days hiking at altitudes above 3,000 meters before attempting any summit over 5,000 m. Our acclimatization programs are designed to help your body adjust progressively.
4. Is a certified guide required
Yes. For safety and legal reasons, glaciated peaks like Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, Cayambe, and Antisana require an ASEGUIM/UIAGM certified mountain guide. All our guides meet this standard and have extensive experience in the Andes.
5. What gear do I need?
For glacier climbs, you need:
- Double insulated mountaineering boots
- Crampons
- Ice axe
- Climbing harness
- Helmet
- Headlamp
- Warm base layers, down jacket, and waterproof outer layers
- Gloves, hat, sunglasses, backpack
We offer rental equipment if you don’t
6.What is the weather like during this trip?
Expect a mix of cool mountain weather (5–15°C / 41–59°F) in Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, and mild to warm weather (15–25°C / 59–77°F) in Baños. Rain is possible year-round, especially in the afternoons, so bring waterproof layers.
7.Can I customize or extend the itinerary?
Absolutely! You can add an extra day in Quito, continue to the Amazon or Galápagos, or upgrade accommodations. Contact us directly to customize your experience.
8. Is this tour family-friendly or suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. This tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, families with older children (12+), and small groups. You’ll meet like-minded adventurers and be accompanied by local experts every step of the way.
9.How do I book this trip and what’s the cancellation policy?
You can book directly through our website or by contacting us via email at info@cotopaxi-travel.com or WhatsApp +593 981 333 483.
Our cancellation policy offers flexibility — free cancellation up to 15 days before departure. For full terms, visit our booking conditions.
