Ecuador 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Quito

  • Morning: Arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), Quito. You can take a taxi or pre-arrange for airport transfer. Yaguara is a reliable option.

  • Afternoon: Visit the historic center of Quito, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the stunning La Compañía de Jesús church and the Panecillo monument.

  • Evening: Explore La Ronda Street in the old town for local arts, crafts, and traditional Ecuadorian food.

Things to Know:

  • Quito is at a high altitude (2850 meters), so you may experience some shortness of breath or fatigue. Drink plenty of water and take it easy on your first day.
  • Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Day 2: Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo) & Otavalo

  • Morning: Visit Mitad del Mundo, where you can straddle the equator line and enjoy various interactive exhibits at the Inti Ñan Museum.

  • Afternoon: Head to Otavalo, famous for its indigenous market selling textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. Don’t forget to bargain!

  • Evening: Return to Quito and enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian meal at Zona Gastronómica La Mariscal.

Day 3: Galápagos Islands (optional)

  • Day Trip: Take an early morning flight from Quito or Guayaquil to the Galápagos Islands (Baltra Island). Book a day tour to explore the unique wildlife and landscapes, such as Charles Darwin Research Station, Tortuga Bay, and Kicker Rock. Return in the evening for your international departure the next day.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries do not require a visa to enter Ecuador for up to 90 days. However, it’s best to check Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most accurate information based on your nationality.

Transportation: Taxis and buses are common in urban areas, while renting a car is an option for those who prefer self-guided tours. For travel between cities and islands, domestic flights are convenient and affordable.