Ecuador remains one of the best countries I have ever visited. The country is incredibly unique by having four distinct ecosystems in a relatively small area, making it a blast to travel. I backpacked Ecuador for a full month in 2019 and honestly wish I could’ve stayed even longer. If you’re looking to backpack Ecuador as well, here’s an Ecuador itinerary for a full month!
Stop 1: Quito
I fell in love with Quito!
When flying into Ecuador, you will most likely land in the capital city of Quito where the largest airport resides. Quito is an absolutely stunning old city with endless things to experience. It was even the second-ever UNESCO Heritage site!
Recommended time in Quito : 3-5 days
Tips for Quito
If you’re from a lowland area, be prepared for mild elevation sickness. Quito has an elevation of 9,350 feet (2,850 meters) which was MUCH higher than I was used to when I visited. Take it slow: you will probably get winded and lightheaded easily and alcohol will affect you much more.
Be wary of fake taxis in Quito. Every licensed taxi will have registration papers inside, an orange license plate, and a registration number sticker on the windshield.
Stop 2: The Galápagos Islands
You HAVE to see the El Chato tortoise reserve!
Yes, the Galápagos Islands are a part of Ecuador! You can fly directly to the islands from the Quito airport.
The amount of time you want to spend on the islands really depends on how many islands you want to see. It can take the majority of the day to travel from one island to the other as they are more spread out than most people realize. I visited only two islands as I was pressed for time, but I encourage you to spend longer!
Recommended time: 1-2 weeks
Tips for the Galápagos
Bring plenty of cash with you. You will need to purchase a visa at the airport to gain entry to the islands, as well as pay $100USD per person for an entrance fee. These MUST be paid in cash. Many vendors, taxis, and restaurants do not take credit or debit cards on the islands and ATMs can be difficult to find, depending on where you are.
Because the islands are so protected, be sure to brush up on the rules and regulations before you visit. You can read about them here. Be VERY careful to follow these rules as they are strictly enforced.
Stop 3: Baños
The Swing at the Edge of the World is Insta famous!
Baños is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise! The small city is chock full of adventure-packed activities and is considered “The Gateway to the Amazon”. It’s the perfect place to do some adventurous activities before heading into the jungle.
Recommended time: 3-5 days
Tips for Baños
Be picky about group tours and excursions. The tourism boards in Baños know that many of the travelers coming through are adventure seekers and will try to lure you in. Inspect gear, vehicles, and read reviews before committing to something potentially dangerous.
Stop 4: The Amazon Rainforest (Tena or Baños)
Photo by David Riaño Cortés
From Baños, you can catch a public bus or hire a taxi to drive you four hours to Tena. You can stay the night in Tena if you’d like (it’s a beautiful town!) or head straight into the jungle. I highly recommend visiting AmiZOOnico, a wildlife rehabilitation center in the Amazon jungle. You can reach it from Tena!
If you’re short on time, there are plenty of Amazon tours leaving from Baños as well. The best way to find deals is to talk to your hostel staff!
Recommended time: 5-7 days and sleeping in the jungle overnight!
Tips for the Amazon Jungle
I highly recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket, rain boots, and as much bug repellent as you can get your hands on (I prefer these wipes). The Amazon Jungle is no joke and these few items can keep you a lot safer and more comfortable, even for a day trip.
Remember the 6 feet rule with wildlife. It’s super exciting to see Ecuadorian wildlife (I mean that’s WHY we go to the Amazon!) but keep your distance, don’t offer food, and report any tour groups who break these rules. It is HIGHLY illegal in Ecuador.
Stop 5: Otavalo
The perfect view from Rose Cottage Hostel in Otavalo
Otavalo is one of those small cities that is often overlooked by new visitors to Ecuador. However, it is home to the largest outdoor market in South America and some of the best food and sights I experienced in Ecuador. I originally planned to stay here only 3 days, but kept extending my stay until I was there for almost a week!
The market is best on Saturdays but is available every day of the week. I also suggest checking out local waterfalls and hikes, as well as the Condor sanctuary.
Recommended time: 4-7 days, one being a Saturday
Tips for Otavalo
Bring plenty of cash! Most vendors at the market only accept cash and you can quickly rack up ATM fees in town. You will also most likely be frequently traveling by taxi in Otavalo due to how spread out everything is. However, they are extremely affordable, friendlier, and less likely to scam you than in Quito.
If you want a relaxing hostel to stay in with stunning views, I highly recommend the Rose Cottage Hostel. It’s a bit out of the way and not in the center of the city, but the hostel itself completely makes up for it. In fact, it remains my favorite hostel I have ever stayed at!
Final Ecuador Tips
Ecuador is much more friendly and safer than I imagined before visiting. Bring plenty of USD in cash, but stash them in different places (your bag, pockets, shoes, etc) JUST in case. Definitely brush up on your Spanish as well, as most of the country outside Quito does not speak English (or any other languages).
Where in Ecuador would you like to visit? Let me know!
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