7-Day Andes & Amazon Adventure: Day-by-Day Itinerary with Top Accommodations
Ready for an epic week exploring Ecuador’s Andes and Amazon? This 7-day adventure blends cultural immersion, thrilling activities, and stunning landscapes, from Quito’s colonial streets to the Amazon’s wild heart. Here’s your day-by-day guide, complete with the most-searched hotels to rest each night—book early to secure your spot!
Day 1: Quito – Colonial Charm & Heights
Kick off in Quito, Ecuador’s high-altitude capital (2,850m). Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center with a guided tour of landmarks like La Compañía Church and Plaza Grande. Then, ride the TelefériQo cable car for panoramic views of the Andes. Enjoy a welcome dinner in the vibrant La Mariscal district.
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Stay: Hotel Patio Andaluz – A colonial-style gem in Quito’s Old Town, loved for its charm and central location. (~$100–$150/night)
Day 2: Otavalo – Markets & Nature
Drive 2 hours north to Otavalo, home to one of South America’s largest indigenous markets. Shop for textiles and crafts, then visit the serene Peguche Waterfall (30-minute hike) and Condor Park to see rescued Andean condors. Return to Quito for the night.
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Stay: Hotel Ikala Quito – A modern, cozy favorite near La Mariscal, perfect for explorers. (~$70–$100/night)
Day 3: Amazon Rainforest – Tena Bound
Head east on a 4-hour scenic drive from Quito to Tena, your gateway to the Amazon. Check into an eco-lodge, then join a guided rainforest walk to spot monkeys and tropical birds. After dinner, brave a night hike to hear the jungle’s nocturnal chorus.
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Stay: Suchipakari Jungle Lodge – A top-searched eco-lodge near Misahuallí with rustic charm and river access. (~$80–$120/night, meals often included)
Day 4: Amazon Deep Dive
Wake to the jungle’s sounds and paddle a canoe along the Napo River, scanning for caimans and pink dolphins. Visit an indigenous Kichwa community to learn about their traditions, from crafting to tasting chicha (a local drink). Relax at the lodge in the afternoon.
Day 5: Baños – Waterfalls & Swings
Drive 3 hours to Baños, the “Gateway to the Amazon.” Visit the thundering Pailón del Diablo Waterfall (a 20-minute hike), then swing at the iconic Swing at the End of the World with epic valley views. Unwind in the town’s famous thermal baths at night.
Day 6: Cotopaxi National Park – Volcanic Wonders
Travel 2.5 hours to Cotopaxi National Park, home to the snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano (5,897m). Hike around Limpiopungo Lagoon, spotting Andean wildlife like wild horses and gulls. Opt for horseback riding or mountain biking for extra thrills. Return to a nearby hacienda.
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Stay: Hacienda El Porvenir – A rustic-chic hacienda near Cotopaxi, prized for its authenticity and proximity. (~$100–$160/night)
Day 7: Quito – Farewell with Flair
Drive back to Quito (1.5 hours) for a relaxed morning. Enjoy scenic views along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, then visit a rose plantation (optional) to see Ecuador’s floral fame up close. Spend your final hours souvenir shopping before departure.
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Stay: Hotel Patio Andaluz – Back in Quito, this top pick ensures a stylish send-off near the airport transfer point.
Travel Tips
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Packing: Layers for the Andes’ chill (46–75°F) and Amazon’s humidity (68–95°F), plus hiking boots and a swimsuit.
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Altitude: Acclimatize in Quito to ease into higher elevations like Cotopaxi.
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Booking: These hotels are among the most searched on platforms like Booking.com and TripAdvisor—reserve ahead, especially for Luna Volcan and Suchipakari!
This 7-day Andes & Amazon Adventure packs Ecuador’s best into one week. Which day are you most excited for? Share below and start planning your trip today!
