2 Weeks in Ecuador: A Complete Travel Guide (With Galápagos Options!)

When I first landed in Ecuador, I had no idea how much this tiny country would blow my mind. I ended up spending a whole month hopping between mountains, jungle towns, and beaches—riding long-distance buses, stuffing my face with $3 almuerzos, and somehow surviving way too many rounds of canelazo (hot alcoholic bliss).

But if you only have two weeks, don’t stress—I’ve got you. This 2 weeks in Ecuador itinerary is packed with all the best spots I explored: Quito, Cotopaxi Volcano, Baños, Cuenca, Montañita, and even Mompiche if you’re feeling adventurous. And if the Galápagos is calling your name, I’ve included an alternative route so you can swap mainland adventures for sea lions and volcanic islands.

Whether you’re here for the hikes, the beaches, or just the cheap empanadas, Ecuador is the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Just be warned—you might end up staying longer than planned. (Trust me, I know.)

Is Two Weeks Enough for Ecuador?

Short answer: Yes. Long answer: You’ll wish you had more time.

Ecuador looks small on a map, but it packs a ridiculous amount into its borders. In two weeks, you can go from hiking near snow-capped volcanoes to biking past waterfalls, then end your trip sipping a cocktail on the beach. And if you throw the Galápagos into the mix, expect even more jaw-dropping landscapes.

I managed to explore all these places in a month by bus, and while two weeks means moving a little faster, you can still see a ton without feeling like you’re in a constant travel sprint the entire trip. This itinerary balances adventure with chill time so you’re not collapsing from exhaustion by the end.

Would I have stayed longer? 100%. But if two weeks is all you’ve got, this plan will make sure you leave Ecuador completely obsessed—and probably already plotting your return.

Mainland vs. Galápagos: Which One Should You Choose?

Ecuador has way too many cool places for just two weeks, so you’ll have to make some choices. Here’s the breakdown:

• Pick Mainland Ecuador if you want a mix of adventure, culture, and nightlife on a budget. You’ll hike Cotopaxi, soak in hot springs, and party in Montañita—all without emptying your bank account.
• Pick Galápagos if you want insane wildlife encounters, remote beaches, and some of the best snorkeling on the planet. It’s pricier, but totally worth it.

Still can’t decide? This itinerary lets you mix and match. Week one is set, but in week two, you’ll choose between Galápagos or more of mainland Ecuador.

How to Get Around Ecuador

Ecuador is small but mighty, which means getting from place to place is relatively easy—but also comes with its quirks. Here’s what you need to know:

• Buses – The go-to for budget travelers. Buses run everywhere and are ridiculously cheap (think $1 per hour of travel). Just keep an eye on your stuff—petty theft happens A LOT. I recommend wrapping your bags around your ankles.
• Flights – If you’re heading to the Galápagos, you’ll need to fly from Quito or Guayaquil.
• Taxis & Ubers – Uber works in Quito and Guayaquil, but not everywhere. In smaller towns, taxis are the move—just agree on a price before hopping in.
• Boats – If you’re doing the Galapagos Islands, prepare for some rough ferry rides between islands. Dramamine is your new best friend.

No matter where you go, traveling Ecuador is part of the adventure. Just grab some snacks, embrace the chaos, and enjoy the ride.

The Ultimate 2-Week Ecuador Itinerary

So, you’ve got two weeks in Ecuador and want to see as much as possible without feeling like you need another vacation to recover? I got you.

This itinerary covers everything that makes Ecuador amazing—colonial cities, active volcanoes, waterfalls, beaches, and even the Galapagos Islands. It’s a mix of adventure and downtime, so you’re not just hopping from one bus to another in a sleep-deprived daze.

I spent a month in Ecuador doing this route by bus, stretching my budget, and finding all the best spots. In two weeks, you can still fit in the highlights—without sacrificing the fun.

How This Itinerary Works

• Week One is set: Quito, Cotopaxi, and Banos. You’ll experience Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and epic activities.
• Week Two is your choose-your-own-adventure:
• Stick to the mainland and explore Ecuador’s best beach towns.
  • Fly to the Galapagos Islands for wildlife and unreal landscapes.

No matter which route you take, you’re in for a wild ride. Let’s jump in.

Day 1-2 Quito – Ecuadors Capital

Day 1: Arrive in Quito & Take It Easy

Welcome to Quito, Ecuador’s high-altitude capital! Sitting at 2,850m (9,350ft), this city is a knockout—literally, if you’re not used to the altitude. So, your first day is all about taking it easy while still getting a feel for the place, you don’t want to get altitude sickness.

Here are some of the best things to do in Quito!

• Ride the Teleférico – The cable car ride takes you up to 4,000m (13,100ft) for ridiculous views over the city. It’s also the perfect way to test how your lungs are handling the altitude (spoiler: probably not great).
• Wander Calle La Ronda – This historic street is lined with cafes, quirky artisan shops, and plenty of spots to sit and just soak in the vibe.
• Explore Mercado Central – Quito’s food scene starts here. Fresh juice stands, massive plates of roast pork (hornado), and some of the best ceviche you’ll find inland.

After a day of getting a little bit lost and finding your feet in Quito, grab some dinner and head back to your accommodation for a good night’s rest.

Day 2: Free Walking Tour & The Best $1 Meal of Your Life

Start your morning with a free walking tour at 10 AM (Secret Garden Quito runs a fantastic one). You’ll hit all the main sights in the historic center which is also a UNESCO world heritage site, like Plaza Grande, La Compañía de Jesús (the famous gold church), and Plaza San Francisco Church.

💡 Heads up: Some of the stops, like the church, aren’t included for entry during the tour, but you can always come back later if you want to check them out in more detail.

But the real highlight? The food. Along the way, you’ll stop for some of the best tamales and empanadas you’ll ever eat, and they cost less than a dollar. The tamales are soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor, and the empanadas? Golden, crispy perfection. Honestly, I’d go back to Quito just for these.

Afternoon: Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)

After your walking tour, hop in a taxi, join a tour group or take the bus to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World). This monument marks the equator, and you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. It’s a bit touristy, but still pretty cool to experience.

🚨 Pro Tip: The actual equator line is a few hundred meters away from the monument, so if you want to be extra precise with your photos, make sure to visit both spots.

• Snap the classic equator photo at the main monument.
• Visit the Intiñan Museum for fun equator experiments.
• Question everything you know about physics when water drains in different directions on either side of the line.

After a packed day, grab dinner, relax, and rest up—tomorrow, we’re heading to Cotopaxi!

Where to Stay in Quito

$ Secret Garden Quito – For the best views in all of Quito, this hostel has it. I’m talking about a HUGE terrace where you can enjoy breakfast, drinks with hostel friends, or just relax while taking in the view. I highly recommend this stay!
Click here for information & booking

$$ Plaza Grande Hotel – 5 star Colonial-style elegance in the heart of Old Town. Perfect for walking around the city center and enjoying amazing views of Quito.
Click here for information & booking

Days 3-5: Secret Garden Cotopaxi—The Best Decision You’ll Make

This was, hands down, my favorite experience in Ecuador. Imagine waking up in a cozy mountain lodge, sipping coffee with Cotopaxi towering in front of you, and having zero distractions—no WiFi, no cell service, just you, new friends, and some of the most insane landscapes on the planet.

Day 3: Arrival & First Hike

Secret Garden Cotopaxi picks you up in Quito (even if you don’t stay at their hostel), and the drive out is already a treat—rolling hills, snowcapped peaks, and the feeling that you’re heading into the wild. When you arrive in Cotopaxi National Park, you’ll quickly realize this place is special.

The lodge has giant windows framing volcano views, a HUGE shared hammock out front, and a crackling fire to gather around at night.

After settling in, it’s time for a warm-up hike to shake off the bus ride and get used to the altitude. Dinner is a family-style feast, followed by drinks by the fire or a soak in the free jacuzzi under the stars.

Day 4: Pasochoa Trek or Total Relaxation

Morning rolls around, and you have two choices:

1. The Pasochoa Trek – A full day trip hike through cloud forests and Andean grasslands, with views so good they’ll make you forget how out of breath you are.
2. Absolute relaxation – Stay back, snuggle up with a book, hang in the hammocks, soak in the sunroom, and make friends with the resident llamas. Yes, you can actually feed them. Yes, they are incredibly photogenic.

The night will end the same as before with WAY too much wine and a family-style dinner.

If you’re traveling solo this really is one of the best ways to meet other travelers. After staying at this hostel, I spent the rest of my time in Ecuador with the people I met at the Secret Garden.

Day 5: Cotopaxi Glacier Hike & Departure

Your last day is the big one: hiking up Cotopaxi to the glacier. At 5,000 meters (16,400 ft), this is no joke—the wind is brutal, the air is thin, and you’ll be questioning all your life choices. Proper winter gear is a must. That said, I somehow did this in Reeboks, so let’s just say anything is possible.

You’ll enjoy lunch at the top of the volcano in a little restaurant before trekking back down. Afterward, you’ll return to the hostel, grab your bags, and hop on the bus to Baños. Chances are, a bunch of other travelers from the hostel are heading there too, so you’ll all end up going together!

Where to Stay in Cotopaxi

Secret Garden Cotopaxi – A three-day, two-night all-inclusive retreat with hikes, food, and the best mountain views in Ecuador. The lack of WiFi makes it even better—this is the place to actually disconnect and make new travel friends.
Click here for information & booking

Days 6-8: Baños – Adventure, Hot Springs & Nightlife

Baños is where Ecuador slows down—until you throw yourself off a bridge. This town is the ultimate adventure meets relaxation spot, where you can spend your mornings chasing waterfalls and your afternoons soaking in hot springs under the surrounding mountains (or nursing a well-earned beer after a wild night out).

Day 6: Travel & Take It Easy

After a long travel day, you’ll roll into Baños just as the sun is setting. Drop your bags, grab some food, and keep it low-key. A quick wander around town is enough to get your bearings, and if you’re feeling up for it, hit the thermal baths at Termas de la Virgen—nothing says “I’m on vacation” like a hot soak with a view of a waterfall.

Day 7: Adventure in Ecuador’s Outdoor Playground

Baños is Ecuador’s adventure capital, packed with adrenaline-fueled activities and incredible landscapes. Whether you’re mountain biking past waterfalls, zip-lining over canyons, or rafting down wild rivers, this is the place to get your heart racing.

Here are some of the best outdoor activities to do for day tour in Banos!

• Waterfall Biking (Ruta de las Cascadas) – Rent a bike and ride 20 km along the famous waterfall route. The road is mostly downhill, and the views are nonstop. Pailón del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) is the must-see stop, with a thundering cascade and a bridge that puts you right in the mist. If biking back sounds like a nightmare, trucks are available to bring you and your bike back to town.
  
  💡Most of the hostels/hotels will have bikes for you to rent and a map to follow or you can join a tour group in the city center.
• Zip-lining – Several spots along the waterfall route offer zip-lining across deep canyons. Some even let you go superman-style or ride in a cable car over the valley.
• Canyoning – Rappel down waterfalls with a guide, sliding and jumping into icy pools in the jungle.
• White-water rafting – The Pastaza River has world-class rapids ranging from beginner-friendly to full-on, hold-on-for-your-life routes.
• Swing at the End of the World – The Casa del Árbol swing sends you flying over the valley with Cotopaxi in the distance.

Nightlife in Baños

After an adventure filled day, Baños’ nightlife is the perfect way to keep the energy going. The town is full of backpacker-friendly bars, salsa clubs, and late-night spots where locals and travelers mix.

It’s easy to bar-hop through town, as everything is within walking distance. Whether you’re up for a wild night or just a few drinks, Baños delivers.

Day 8: Relax & Explore

After all the adrenaline, slow things down and explore the more laid-back side of Baños.

• Thermal Hot Springs – Start your morning at Termas de la Virgen, soaking in the natural famous hot springs with mountain views.
• Local Markets & Food – Baños has some incredible street food and small markets where you can grab fresh juice, local snacks, and cheap eats. If you want to try something really local, try some cuy (guinea pig) or chugchucaras.

By the afternoon, it’s time to move on to the next destination. Catch a bus or arrange transport to either Cuenca (7-9 hours) or Quito/Guayaquil for a flight to the Galápagos.

Book your bus a few days in advance—trust me, we had some friends who had trouble securing a seat on the day of!

Where to Stay in Baños

For my top recommendations, check out my guide to the best places to stay in Baños for budget-friendly hostels, cozy guesthouses, and scenic stays.

💡If you don’t have time to stay in Baños, this day tour from Quito is the perfect way to experience it all in just one day! From the stunning Pailón del Diablo waterfall to the adrenaline-pumping Columpio del Fin del Mundo, you’ll get to check off the highlights without missing a beat.

Now that you’ve experienced some of the best spots in Ecuador, it’s time to choose your next stops! You’ve got two exciting options for the next phase of your trip:

• Option 1: Stick to the Mainland, where you can explore more cities, national parks, and beautiful landscapes.
• Option 2: Take off to the Galápagos Islands, an out of this world destination for wildlife and island vibes.

Each option has its own vibe, so pick what excites you the most.

Let’s dive into the details of each choice!

Option 1: Mainland Ecuador

If you choose this option, you’ll get the perfect mix of colonial charm, stunning nature, and chill beach vibes. From the cobblestone streets of Cuenca to the laid-back surf culture of Montañita, this route offers a bit of everything, with plenty of chances to explore, relax, and enjoy the local scene.

Day 9-10: Cuenca – Ecuadors Colonial Gem

Day 9: Arrive in Cuenca

After your travel day, you’ll roll into Cuenca, Ecuador’s stunning colonial gem. This city reminded me a lot of Cusco in Peru—small, charming, and with that same colonial vibe.

• Wander the colonial streets: Take it easy and explore the old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll along the picturesque streets, admire the colorful buildings, and check out the Plaza Abdon Calderon.
• Sunset at Mirador de Turi: For epic views of the city, take a short taxi ride or hike up to Mirador de Turi, a hilltop lookout. The sunset here is incredible, so don’t forget your camera.

Tip: If you’re coming from Baños, consider taking the night bus. You’ll save a day of travel and arrive in Cuenca ready to explore first thing in the morning.

Day 10: Cajas National Park

On Day 10, get ready to hike in Cajas National Park, just outside Cuenca. This place is all about nature—think tons of lakes, mountains, and wide open spaces.

• Hike in Cajas National Park: The trails here range from easy to challenging, so you can pick what suits you. The Laguna Toreadora trail is a popular one, leading you past cool lakes and through some wild, beautiful scenery.

Where to stay in Cuenca

$ Nana’s Hostel – A budget-friendly, cozy stay in the heart of Cuenca, perfect for social travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
Click here for information & booking

$$ Hotel Posada del Angel – A charming boutique hotel set in a restored colonial house, offering warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Cuenca.
Click here for information & booking

$$$ Mansion Alcazar Boutique Hotel – A stunning colonial-style hotel with elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a touch of old-world charm in Cuenca’s historic center.
Click here for information & booking

Day 11-13: Montañita (or Mompiche for a Quieter Vibe)

After Cuenca, it’s time to head to Montañita—Ecuador’s beach party capital.

Now, let’s get real: Montañita isn’t exactly postcard material. It’s a little rough around the edges—kinda trashy, a bit chaotic—but that’s all part of the magic.

If you’re ready to party like there’s no tomorrow, this is where you need to be.

• The Party Never Ends: I stayed up until 6 AM three nights in a row here, and I have no regrets. Montañita’s nightlife is next-level. From beach clubs to the infamous cocktail alley—where little huts try to lure you in with cheap drinks and wild deals—you can literally bargain for your cocktails. I also did an all-you-can-drink night for $10. (Yes, you heard that right!)
• Lost Beach Club: If you’re into electronic music and dancing ‘til dawn, don’t miss Lost Beach Club—it’s one of the best clubs in the world for a reason. The vibe, the music, the crowd—it’s a whole experience. Just be ready to dance until the sun rises, because that’s what Montañita does best.
• Yoga & Relaxation: When you’re finally ready to take a breather from the nonstop action, Montañita also has a chill yoga scene. You can join classes right on the beach, stretch it out, and find your zen amidst the party madness. It’s the perfect way to recover and feel balanced, especially after a few too many cocktails the night before.
• Surf, Ceviche, & Beach Vibes: If the party scene isn’t your thing, the beach offers the perfect escape. Montañita’s surf is world-class, but even if you’re not into surfing, just kicking back, grabbing some fresh ceviche, or people-watching is enough to make you feel like you’re in paradise.

If all that noise gets to be too much, Mompiche up the coast offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe for those looking to unwind BUT it’s an insanely far journey—I only recommend it if you have more than 2 weeks.

Personally, I liked Mompiche way better, but it was me and two other tourists in town. So, when I say it’s quieter, I mean it’s MUCH quieter, but there are some excellent places to stayand amazing surf.

How to get to Montanita

Getting to Montañita is pretty straightforward, but expect long bus rides.

• From Cuenca: Catch a night bus from Cuenca to Guayaquil (about 4-5 hours). Then, grab another bus from Guayaquil to Montañita (about 2.5-3 hours). I recommend taking the night bus to maximize your time in Montañita.
• From Guayaquil: If you’re starting from Guayaquil, you can take a bus directly to Montañita (around 3 hours). It’s an easy and affordable trip, and buses run pretty frequently throughout the day.

Once you get to Montañita, you’ll be greeted by the town’s party vibe immediately, so buckle up for a wild time!

Where to stay in Montanita

$ Esperanto Bed & Breakfast Surf Hostel – A fun, laid-back spot for backpackers, offering budget-friendly rooms and a great vibe to meet other travelers. It’s super close to Montañita’s nightlife and beach, so you’re never far from the action while still having a chill place to crash. Just a heads up, it sells out fast during high season, so be sure to book ahead!
Click here for information & bookings

$$ Casa del Sol – A cozy, colorful hotel on the outskirts of Montañita, perfect for those looking to surf and chill away from the party scene. With yoga classes, a free healthy breakfast, and just a quick taxi ride or beach walk to town, it’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
Click here for information & bookings

$$$ Nativa Bambu Ecolodge – A chill eco-retreat in Montañita, tucked away in nature with cozy bungalows, ocean views, and a laid-back vibe perfect for anyone wanting to unplug and unwind.
Click here for information & bookings

Day 14: Return to Quito or Guayaquil

Your adventure is winding down, and it’s time to head back to Quito or Guayaquil for your flight home. It’s a travel day, so you can either catch a bus or grab a flight from Montañita to Guayaquil (about 2.5-3 hours) or Quito (around 9 hours by bus). If you’re flying, make sure to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to catch your flight.

• Arriving in Quito or Guayaquil: Once you get to the city, you can either chill for the day or head straight to the airport for your departure. If you’ve got time, grab some last-minute empanadas or just kick back and soak in the last of Ecuador’s vibes.

Option 2: The Galápagos Islands

If you’re craving something extra special, head to the Galápagos Islands. This is one one the most amazing places in South America.

Known for its unique wildlife, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes, this place is a dream come true for adventure lovers. Snorkel with sea lions, hike alongside giant tortoises, and soak in nature like never before.

Day 9: Travel to the Galápagos (Baños to Baltra)

Alright, it’s time to leave the mainland behind and head for the real adventure—the Galápagos Islands!

To make the most of your time, hop on the night bus from Baños to either Quito or Guayaquil (the bus ride is around 8-9 hours, so you can sleep through most of it). Once you arrive, it’s a quick 2-hour flight to Baltra Island—the gateway to the Galápagos.

When you land in Baltra, take a short bus ride to the Itabaca Channel, then catch a quick boat to Santa Cruz Island. From there, head to Puerto Ayora, the biggest town on the island. Depending on when you arrive, you might have time to explore a little. If not, grab some dinner and head to your accommodation to rest up for the next few days of adventure.

You’ve officially made it to one of the most unique places on Earth. Get ready for some serious wildlife sightings and tropical adventures!

Day 10-14: Exploring the Galápagos – Islands, Wildlife, and More!

Welcome to the Galápagos! Over the next few days, get ready for some serious exploration and unforgettable experiences. While you can definitely switch up your itinerary this guide will give you an idea of how you can spend your time on the islands.

Day 10: Isla Santa Cruz – Puerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Research Station

Welcome to Isla Santa Cruz! This island is your gateway to the Galápagos, and it’s a great place to kick off your exploration. Today, you’ll be hitting up Puerto Ayora, the liveliest town in the Galápagos, and then diving into some serious wildlife education at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station. You’ll get up close with the famous giant tortoises, and learn all about the cool conservation efforts happening to protect these unique creatures. It’s a great way to really appreciate how special the Galápagos are.
• Afternoon: After your tortoise fix, wander around Puerto Ayora. The town’s packed with little shops, cafes, and restaurants, so grab a bite (the seafood here is next level) and browse for souvenirs. It’s a chill spot to explore and people-watch, too.
• Evening: Wrap up your day at Tortuga Bay. It’s one of the most stunning beaches you’ll find on Santa Cruz. The sand is soft, the water is crystal-clear, and it’s the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of the islands. Maybe take a swim or just unwind and let the waves do their thing.
  
  Join a half day tour of the bay here!

Tip: Don’t leave Puerto Ayora without trying ceviche—it’s fresh, zesty, and totally addictive.

Day 11: Isla Floreana – Post Office Barrel and Black Sand Beaches

Today’s all about Isla Floreana, a gem of an island with a bit of history and a lot of beauty. It’s one of the quieter islands in the Galápagos, but that just means you get a more laid-back vibe and fewer crowds.

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Post Office Barrel, a quirky piece of Galápagos history. This wooden barrel, set up in the 18th century, was used by sailors to send mail to their loved ones.
  
  Now, it’s a tradition for travelers to leave postcards in the barrel—so drop off your own and maybe even pick up a letter from another explorer. It’s a fun, old-school experience that adds a little adventure to your trip.
• Afternoon: After you’ve sent your postcards, head over to the island’s black sand beaches. The beaches here aren’t just stunning—they’re practically deserted, so you’ll have plenty of space to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. You might even spot some sea turtles and rays!
• Evening: Spend the evening on the beach, just soaking in the peaceful vibes of this quiet island. Watch the sunset while sipping on a cold drink, and reflect on how unique this place is. There’s nothing quite like having such a beautiful spot all to yourself.

Day 12: Isla Española – Birthplace of New Species and Wildlife Galore

Get ready to be wowed by Isla Española—this island is a wildlife lover’s dream. Known for being the birthplace of some of the Galápagos’ most iconic species, it’s also home to some of the richest wildlife on the planet.

• Morning: Kick things off with a guided tour of the island. Española is home to the Waved Albatross, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see these majestic birds during their courtship rituals. You’ll also come across the famous marine iguanas basking in the sun, and the blue-footed boobies (yes, they really do have those striking blue feet). You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a nature documentary with all the wildlife around you.
• Afternoon: After your wildlife fix, head to Gardner Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galápagos. It’s a perfect place for a swim or to just chill out on the beach and watch the sea lions play in the surf. There’s also some excellent snorkeling here, so if you’ve got your gear, dive in and see what creatures are hanging out beneath the surface.
• Evening: As the sun starts to set, take some time to reflect on the incredible creatures you’ve encountered today. If you’re staying overnight, enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Day 13: Isla San Cristóbal – Gorgeous Beaches & Dramatic Cliffs

Welcome to Isla San Cristóbal, the easternmost island in the Galápagos, packed with stunning beaches, impressive cliffs, and plenty of wildlife. This is the place for breathtaking landscapes and easygoing vibes.

• Morning: Kick things off at La Lobería, where sea lions dominate the beach and the crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. You’ll find yourself swimming alongside sea lions and spotting colorful fish. If you’re lucky, you might even see some rays gliding through the water.
• Afternoon: After soaking up the natural beauty, head over to the Interpretation Center in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It’s a great spot to dive into the history of the islands, learn about conservation efforts, and gain insight into what makes this place so special. Plus, it’s a peaceful place to just chill for a bit.
• Evening: When the sun starts to dip, wander around the charming town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy some fresh seafood by the waterfront. Grab a drink, take in the views, and let the relaxed atmosphere of San Cristóbal sink in.

Day 14: Last Day in the Galápagos – A Relaxing Goodbye

On your last day, take it easy with a morning at Gardner Bay on Isla Española, soaking in the beauty of the beach and the ocean. If you have time, enjoy one last swim or snorkel.

Then, head back to Santa Cruz or San Cristóbal to catch your flight. If you’re not in a rush, spend a little time wandering Puerto Ayora or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, grab a souvenir, and enjoy one final ceviche before heading to the airport.

Pro Tip: If you’re flying out of Baltra, make sure you’ve got enough time to get back to the airport. There’s a bus and a quick boat transfer, and you don’t want to rush it or worse, miss your flight!

Where to stay in the Galapagos Islands

$ Casa de Hospedaje Alexita – A friendly guesthouse offering great value and a quiet atmosphere, just a short distance from the lively parts of the Galápagos. Perfect for a low-key stay with easy access to local attractions. The most budget-friendly option, ideal for backpackers or budget travelers, starting at $35 a night.
Click here for information & bookings

$$ Hostal Sandrita – Located just a 5-minute walk from Puerto Villamil Beach, this cozy inn offers air-conditioned rooms with all the essentials, including a private bathroom, TV, balcony, and free Wi-Fi. Plus, there’s a local restaurant to grab a bite. A great mid-range option for those looking for comfort and convenience.
Click here for information & bookings

$$$ Sandy Feet House – A beautiful luxury beachfront apartment, perfect for anyone craving a relaxed vibe, this beachfront villa sleeps 6 and offers a chill, laid-back atmosphere. With the beach literally right out the back door, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to fully unwind while enjoying the best of the Galapagos islands.
Click here for information & bookings

FAQ: Planning Your 2 Weeks in Ecuador

Is 2 weeks enough in Ecuador?
Yes! While you won’t see everything, two weeks is the perfect amount of time to experience Ecuador’s highlights. You can explore the Andes Mountains, the Amazon rainforest, and the coast or swap one of those for the Galápagos. If you want to do all four, you’ll need more time.

How long should you spend in Ecuador?
It depends on your travel style. If you love fast-paced adventures, two weeks is solid. But if you want to dive deeper, three to four weeks lets you explore more off-the-beaten-path spots without rushing.

How much should I budget for 2 weeks in Ecuador?

• Budget travelers: $700–$1,000 (staying in hostels, eating local, using buses)
• Mid-range travelers: $1,500–$2,500 (mix of hostels & hotels, some tours, occasional flights)
• Luxury travelers: $3,000+ (higher-end hotels, flights, guided experiences)
  Note: If you’re visiting the Galápagos, add at least $1,000+ for flights, park fees, and tours.

What is the best month to go to Ecuador?
Ecuador is a year-round destination, but:

• June–September = Dry season in the Andes (great for hiking)
• December–May = Warmer & less rainy in the Galápagos + best time for snorkeling/diving
• The Amazon is hot and humid year-round, but wildlife is easiest to spot in June–November.

Is it safe to travel to Ecuador right now?
Ecuador is generally safe, but like anywhere, you’ll need to stay aware. Cities like Quito and Guayaquil have petty theft, so keep an eye on your stuff. If you’re heading to the Galápagos or smaller towns like Baños and Cuenca, crime is much less of a concern. Just check for any current travel advisories before your trip.

Final Thoughts on Your 2 Weeks in Ecuador

I’ll be honest—Ecuador was never at the top of my list. Most people hype up Peru and Colombia, so I didn’t have huge expectations. But wow… this country completely blew me away. From the moment I landed, it was just one surprise after another—epic landscapes, the friendliest people, and some of the best travel experiences of my life.

Whether it was hiking to glaciers in Cotopaxi, partying in Baños, eating my weight in $1 street food, or waking up to sea lions lounging next to me in the Galápagos, every single day in Ecuador was unforgettable. If you’re debating whether to visit—do it. Two weeks is just enough to fall in love with this place, but trust me, you’ll be planning your next trip before you even leave.

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