Ultimate 5-Day Quito, Ecuador Itinerary: Volcanoes, Culture and Adventure

The first breath of Quito’s high-altitude air fills your lungs as you step onto the cobblestone streets. At 9,350 feet, the city invites a slower pace, perfect for wandering through Plaza Grande, where street markets and local artists bring the historic square to life.

When afternoon cravings strike, indulge in one of Ecuador’s greatest treasures: chocolate. Head to Yumbos Chocolate (Calle Sebastián de Benalcázar N2-26, Segundo Piso, across from Iglesia de San Francisco), where the air is rich with the aroma of dark chocolate. A skilled chocolatier will guide you through a tasting, revealing flavors rooted in Ecuador’s lush cacao farms.

Yumbos sources its cacao from ethical, sustainable farms that prioritize fair wages and eco-friendly practices. Learn about the craft, sample different varieties and savor fresh hot chocolate.

Pro Tip: End your visit with one of their house-made brownies.

Start your day with a ride on the TelefériQo, a cable car that lifts you high above Quito to Cruz Loma. From this vantage point, the city stretches out like a colorful mosaic below. If you're up for adventure, hike along Rucu Pichincha for an unforgettable high-altitude experience.

By midday, explore Quito’s historic churches. San Francisco Church stands as a testament to the city’s colonial past, part of one of the best-preserved historic centers in the Americas. Then, climb the Basilica of the National Vow, where steep, rickety ladders reward you with breathtaking rooftop views.

Pro Tip: Mornings usually offer clearer skies, making it the best time for the TelefériQo. If clouds roll in, save the churches for the afternoon but stay flexible based on the weather forecast.

Set out for Cotopaxi National Park, a scenic drive from Quito (add drive time). As you journey through Volcano Alley, take in the breathtaking landscapes, where wild horses roam freely, and the crisp scent of damp earth fills the air.

Hike to the José Rivas Refuge, a challenging ascent through rugged terrain. The towering Cotopaxi Volcano, vast Andean peaks and howling winds make for an unforgettable experience. If you're lucky, you might even see a light dusting of snow.

Pro Tip: Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Bring plenty of water and snacks…especially if you travel with teens!

After a busy previous day, take a restful break and visit Mitad del Mundo. Stand between two hemispheres and explore the wonders of the Intiñan Museum. Watch as water swirls in opposite directions on either side of the equator. On the southern hemisphere, the water spins the other way. Learn about Ecuador’s people, their history and how the sun rises and sets at the same time every day, no matter the time of year.

Spend as much time as you like between the two sites, with plenty to see and interactive experiences to enjoy.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring sunblock or a hat! Even if the weather doesn’t feel overly hot, the sun at this altitude can be intense and harsh on your skin, so it’s best to protect yourself from its strong rays.

Venture deep into the Andean highlands to discover Quilotoa Crater Lake, a stunning gem surrounded by the jagged edges of an ancient volcanic crater. The lake’s turquoise waters shimmer in the sun. Hike the rim for panoramic views or descend to the water’s edge for a tranquil experience. Be mindful of the altitude, as it can lead to quicker exhaustion.

Visitors can kayak across the beautiful lake. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian meal before heading back to Quito. Our son even dared to try guinea pig.

Pro Tip: Ride a mule on your way back up to save energy.

Note: The road to Quilotoa is known as "dog highway," where hundreds of stray dogs, abandoned in the area, rely on travelers for food. If you’re an animal lover like us, be prepared to witness this heart-breaking sight.