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10 Days Exploring Ecuador's Colonial Gems

10 Days Exploring Ecuador's Colonial Gems Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Discovering Quito's Historic Heart

Morning
Start your day with a visit to Independence Plaza (Plaza de la Independencia). This central square is surrounded by some of the most important buildings in Quito, including the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. It's a great place to get a feel for the city's colonial architecture and history.
Afternoon
Head over to Quito Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the well-preserved colonial buildings, and visit some of its many churches and plazas. Don't miss San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco), one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Quito.
Evening
For dinner, enjoy a meal at Urko Cocina Local, known for its innovative take on traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes made with local ingredients.
Bedtime
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Visit Independence Plaza (Plaza de la Independencia) in Quito
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Independence Plaza (Plaza de la Independencia)

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Visit Quito Old Town in Quito
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Quito Old Town

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Art and Culture in Quito

Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Guayasamin Museum (Casa Museo Guayasamin). This museum is dedicated to the works of Oswaldo Guayasamín, one of Ecuador's most famous artists. The museum also offers stunning views of the city.
Afternoon
After exploring the museum, head to Capilla del Hombre (Guayasamín Museum), an additional part of the Guayasamín Museum complex. This cultural center is dedicated to preserving Latin American art and culture.
Evening
Dine at Zazu, one of Quito's top-rated restaurants. Known for its elegant ambiance and exquisite menu, Zazu offers a fine dining experience that showcases both local and international flavors.
Bedtime
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Visit Guayasamin Museum (Casa Museo Guayasamin) in Quito
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Guayasamin Museum (Casa Museo Guayasamin)

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Visit Capilla del Hombre (Guayasamín Museum) in Quito
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Capilla del Hombre (Guayasamín Museum)

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Markets and Views in Quito

Morning
Visit Iñaquito Market (Mercado Iñaquito) to experience local life in Quito. This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and traditional Ecuadorian foods. It's a great place to try some local snacks or buy souvenirs.
Afternoon
Take a ride on Telefériqo Quito, one of the highest aerial lifts in South America. The cable car takes you up Pichincha Volcano for breathtaking views over Quito and the surrounding mountains.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at Chez Jérôme, which offers French-Ecuadorian fusion cuisine in an elegant setting. The restaurant is known for its excellent service and delicious food.
Bedtime
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Visit Iñaquito Market (Mercado Iñaquito) in Quito
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Iñaquito Market (Mercado Iñaquito)

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Telefériqo Quito

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Exploring More of Quito's Heritage

Morning
Start your day with a visit to Basilica of the National Vow (La Basílica del Voto Nacional). This impressive neo-Gothic church is one of the largest in Latin America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.
Afternoon
Explore more colonial architecture at Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia La Compañía de Jesús). Known for its ornate Baroque style interior covered in gold leaf, it's considered one of the most beautiful churches in Ecuador.
Evening
For dinner, head to Octava de Corpus, which provides an intimate dining experience with gourmet dishes inspired by Ecuadorian flavors.
Bedtime
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Visit Basilica of the National Vow (La Basílica del Voto Nacional) in Quito
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Basilica of the National Vow (La Basílica del Voto Nacional)

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Visit Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia La Compañía de Jesús) in Quito
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Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia La Compañía de Jesús)

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Journey to Cuenca

Morning
Travel from Quito to Cuenca. Once you arrive, start your exploration with a visit to Cuenca City Tour. This tour will give you an overview of the city's beautiful colonial architecture and historic sites.
Afternoon
After the city tour, take some time to explore Cuenca Historic Sites and Landmarks Biking Tour. This guided biking tour will take you through some of Cuenca's most iconic landmarks, providing a unique perspective on the city's history and culture.
Evening
For dinner, head to El Mercado, a highly-rated restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine.
Bedtime
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Cuenca City Tour

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Cuenca Historic Sites and Landmarks Biking Tour

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Exploring Cuenca's Natural Beauty

Morning
Start your day with a visit to Cajas National Park Guided Day Hike. This national park is known for its stunning landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and unique flora and fauna. The guided hike will allow you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Afternoon
After your hike, return to Cuenca and enjoy lunch at Tiesto's Cafe Restaurant, which offers a variety of traditional Ecuadorian dishes in a cozy setting.
Evening
Spend your evening relaxing at Cuenca - Baños Relaxing Thermal Pools and Spa. These thermal pools are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Bedtime
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Visit Cajas National Park Guided Day Hike in Cuenca
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Cajas National Park Guided Day Hike

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Cuenca - Baños Relaxing Thermal Pools and Spa

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Cultural Immersion in Cuenca

Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Ingapirca Archaeological Site, Ecuador's largest and most significant Inca ruins. The site offers fascinating insights into the history and culture of the Inca civilization.
Afternoon
After exploring Ingapirca, return to Cuenca for lunch at La Caleta Cocina Ecuatoriana, which is known for its creative take on traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
Evening
In the evening, enjoy a meal at El Jardin Restaurant, which offers an elegant dining experience with beautiful views of the city.
Bedtime
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Visit Cuenca, Ecuador Day Trip to Ingapirca Archaeological Site in Cuenca
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Ingapirca Archaeological Site

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Artisanal Crafts and Local Markets in Cuenca

Morning
Start your day with an Azuay San Bartolomé, Gualaceo, and Chordeleg Artisanal Tour. This tour will take you through several towns known for their artisanal crafts, including jewelry making and weaving.
Afternoon
Return to Cuenca for lunch at Dos Sucres, which offers fresh, locally-sourced dishes in a charming setting.
Evening
Spend your evening dining at Le Petit Jardin, a restaurant known for its intimate atmosphere and delicious French-Ecuadorian fusion cuisine.
Bedtime
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Visit Azuay San Bartolomé, Gualaceo, and Chordeleg Artisanal Tour in Cuenca
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Azuay San Bartolomé, Gualaceo, and Chordeleg Artisanal Tour

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Arrival and Exploration in Guayaquil

Morning
Travel from Cuenca to Guayaquil. Upon arrival, start your day with a visit to Seminario Park (Parque de las Iguanas). This unique park is home to numerous iguanas that roam freely, making it a fascinating spot for visitors.
Afternoon
After enjoying the park, take a Guayaquil City Tour. This tour will give you an overview of the city's main attractions, including the Malecón 2000, Las Peñas neighborhood, and the Santa Ana Hill.
Evening
For dinner, head to La Pata Gorda, a popular restaurant known for its seafood dishes and lively atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Visit Seminario Park (Parque de las Iguanas) in Guayaquil
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Seminario Park (Parque de las Iguanas)

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Guayaquil City Tour

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Cultural and Culinary Delights in Guayaquil

Morning
Guayaquil Cacao Farm Tour with Chocolate Making and Lunch is a must-do activity. This tour will take you through the process of cacao farming and chocolate making, offering a hands-on experience that ends with a delicious lunch.
Afternoon
Guayaquil City Tour Including the Light House of Santa Ana will provide more insights into the city's history and culture. Climb up to the lighthouse for panoramic views of Guayaquil.
Evening
Lo Nuestro Cafe - Restaurant is an excellent choice for your final dinner in Ecuador. Known for its traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and charming ambiance, it's the perfect place to reflect on your journey.
Bedtime
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Visit Guayaquil Cacao Farm Tour with Chocolate Making and Lunch in Guayaquil
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Guayaquil Cacao Farm Tour with Chocolate Making and Lunch

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Visit Guayaquil City Tour Including the Light House of Santa Ana in Guayaquil

Guayaquil City Tour Including the Light House of Santa Ana

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