Planning a Two-Week Trip to Ecuador

To see the best of Ecuador in 14 days, split your time between the Andes mountains for culture and hiking, and the Pacific coast or Amazon for adventure. Use Quito as your central hub and rely on domestic flights or private shuttles to cover long distances quickly.

1. Secure your base in Quito. Spend your first 3 days acclimating to the altitude in Quito. Stay in the La Floresta or Mariscal neighborhoods for easy access to the Historic Center.
2. Choose your secondary hub. Pick one 'adventure' anchor: either the Amazon basin (near Tena or Coca) or the surf coast (near Montañita/Olón). Don't try to cram both into two weeks.
3. Book inter-city transport. Use domestic airlines like LATAM for long jumps (e.g., Quito to Cuenca). For shorter distances, book 'turismo' class buses or private door-to-door shuttles, which are safer and faster than public buses.
4. Plan your high-altitude logistics. If you plan to hike Cotopaxi or Quilotoa, hire a certified local guide. Do not attempt these high-altitude treks alone unless you are an experienced mountaineer.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Always use bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.

What currency should I bring?

Ecuador uses the US Dollar. Carry small bills; shops often struggle to provide change for $20s and $50s.