Inland, Islands & Amazon
The Sharma's explored Ecuador’s diverse landscapes on a 15‑day adventure that blended high‑altitude cities, cloud forests, and island wonders. From Quito’s historic center and Papallacta hot springs to Baños’s volcanic highlands and the Galápagos’ lava tunnels, the itinerary mixed tours, hikes, and boat trips. Friendly guides and locals shared traditions, cuisine, and conservation insights and offering a clear sense of Ecuador’s cultural depth and its distinctive natural heritage.
Places you'll stay
Quito
Set an elevation of 9,350 ft (2,850 m), Quito is the highest capital city in the world. The population of this bustling city is a contrasting mix of Ecuadorians sporting sleek business suits and colorful indigenous clothing. These contrasts exemplify the mix of politics, history and culture that define Quito. Founded in the 16th century atop the ruins of an Inca city, Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a premier destination for those visiting Ecuador.
Destination
Tena
Nestled between lush hillsides and snaking rivers is the town of Tena, the whitewater capital of Ecuador. Many travelers come here just to raft or kayak on the many rivers that come raging down from the Sierras. For those looking for a drier experience, the surrounding wildlife and indigenous communities also offer a great way to spend your time.
Destination
Riobamba
Located in the heart of the Central Sierra, Riobambo is a city with vibrant commercial and historic districts and close proximity to the Chimborazo Ecological Reserve.
Destination
Cuenca
Cuenca is a colonial marvel and one of the most attractive cities in Ecuador. Nestled in the highlands, its charming streets, grand plazas and churches span multiple levels of the mountainside, making the city more than postcard-worthy.
Destination
Guayaquil
As the largest city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is the commercial heart of the country. Its crowded streets contain a vast number of impressive hotels, restaurants and plazas.
Destination
San Cristóbal
San Cristóbal is the fifth largest island in the Galápagos. This islands offers easy access to snorkeling and beach sites, and is also home to some of the best surfing in the Galápagos. Geologically, San Cristóbal is one of the oldest islands in the Galápagos. The main town here is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
Destination
Santa Cruz
The island of Santa Cruz is the visitor hub of the Galápagos. As the second-largest island in the Galápagos, Santa Cruz is characterized by its moist highlands region, the bustling town of Puerto Ayora, and several pristine beaches.
Destination
Isabela
As the largest island in the Galápagos, Isabela offers the widest range of terrain and visitor sites in the archipelago. Isabela hosts impressive wildlife, white-sand beaches, and barren lava fields. This island has the largest population of wild tortoises, which can be seen roaming in the highlands near the rims of craters. Isabela is the closest island to the Galápagos volcanic hotspot and is thus the most volcanically active island in the archipelago. It has six shield volcanos dispersed across its 1,790 square mile (4,640 square km) landscape.
Destination
Moments to look forward to
Cajas National Park
The countless lakes, alpine hillsides and curious herds of alpacas make the Cajas National Park an impressive wilderness destination.
Attraction
Tour
Tour
Cuenca
Cuenca City Tour
Tour
Cuenca
El Cajas National Park
Tour
San Cristobal
San Cristobal Highlands Tour
Tour
Tour
Santa Cruz
El Chato Ranch
Tour
Santa Cruz
Bay Tour
Tour
Tour
Isabela
Lava Tunnels
Tour
Isabela
Flight Inter Islands
Tour
Incredible Stays
Hotel Recommendation #1
A hand-picked stay in Quito.
Hotel Recommendation #2
A hand-picked stay in Tena.
Hotel Recommendation #3
A hand-picked stay in Riobamba.
Hotel Recommendation #4
A hand-picked stay in Cuenca.
Hotel Recommendation #5
A hand-picked stay in Guayaquil.
Hotel Recommendation #6
A hand-picked stay in San Cristobal.
Hotel Recommendation #7
A hand-picked stay in Santa Cruz.
Hotel Recommendation #8
A hand-picked stay in Isabela.
Curated to you
Insider-led Ecuador Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
