Best of Ecuadors Mainland in 10 Days

Exploring Ecuador’s stunning mainland in just 10 days might seem ambitious, but this curated tour offers an immersive experience that captures the country’s natural wonders and cultural highlights. From historic Quito to the cloud forests of Mindo and the iconic Quilotoa crater, travelers can expect a seamlessly organized adventure with private transportation and accommodations. While meals and entrance fees are additional, the itinerary promises unforgettable moments and a chance to discover why Ecuador is a top South American destination.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 10-day tour exploring Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, including cloud forests, crater lakes, and the iconic Cotopaxi volcano.
• Private transportation and English-speaking driver for seamless exploration of the country’s cultural highlights.
• Accommodations with breakfast for 9 nights, with additional costs for meals, flights, tips, and entrance fees.
• Activities such as butterfly farms, chocolate tours, canopy and cable car rides in Mindo, and visits to historical sites.
• Flexible itinerary allowing for an immersive and personalized experience of Ecuador’s mainland.

Overview of the Tour

The "Best of Ecuador’s Mainland in 10 Days" tour provides travelers with a comprehensive exploration of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights.

Over the course of 10 days, guests will experience private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and accommodations with breakfast included.

While meals, flights, tips, and various entrance fees aren’t covered, the itinerary offers a well-rounded adventure through Ecuador’s natural wonders and historic sites.

With a mix of activities, from butterfly farms to chocolate tours, this tour promises an immersive journey through the country’s mainland, showcasing its beauty and unique experiences.

Detailed Itinerary

Although the 10-day "Best of Ecuador’s Mainland" tour covers a wide range of destinations, the itinerary is carefully structured to provide travelers with a seamless and immersive experience.

The tour begins in the capital city of Quito, featuring visits to iconic landmarks like the Basilica del Voto Nacional and the Iglesia de la Compañía.

The tour commences in Quito, Ecuador’s capital, with visits to renowned landmarks like the Basilica del Voto Nacional and the Iglesia de la Compañía.

From there, it ventures into the lush cloud forests of Mindo, where activities like canopy tours and hummingbird observation await.

The journey continues to Quilotoa’s stunning crater lake, the Ruta de Las Cascadas waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring Cotopaxi volcano before returning to Quito.

Private Transportation and Accommodation

One of the key features of this 10-day tour is the provision of private transportation throughout the journey.

Travelers will be driven by an English-speaking driver, offering a comfortable and convenient way to explore Ecuador’s mainland. The tour also includes accommodation and breakfast for 9 nights, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

However, meals outside of breakfast and flights to/from Ecuador aren’t covered. Entrance fees to various attractions, like the butterfly farm, cable cars, and museums, are also an additional cost.

Included Activities and Entrance Fees

This 10-day tour includes a variety of activities and entrance fees to popular attractions across Ecuador’s mainland.

Visitors can explore a butterfly farm, go canopy and cable car riding in Mindo, and tour a hummingbird garden and chocolate factory.

They’ll visit historical sites like the Quitsato Sundial and the Mitad del Mundo Monument.

Other highlights include the Basilica del Voto Nacional, Iglesia de la Compañía, and Cathedral Metropolitana in Quito, as well as the Quilotoa Lake and the Ruta de Las Cascadas.

Thrill-seekers can also check out the Casa del Arbol and Fantasias de Volar’s Puente de Cristal.

Entrance fees range from $0.50 to $50.

Exclusions and Additional Costs

Aside from the inclusions, the tour has several exclusions and additional costs for travelers to consider.

Meals, aside from breakfast, aren’t provided. Travelers must also cover the cost of flights to and from Ecuador. Tips for the driver and any souvenirs are additional expenses.

On top of that, the tour involves a range of entrance fees, including:

• Butterfly farm: $7.50

• Canopy in Mindo: $20

• Cable cart and Telesilla in Mindo: $10

• Chocolate tour in Mindo: $10

• Cotopaxi National Park: $50 (up to 3 persons)

Considering these exclusions and costs is important for budgeting and planning the Ecuador adventure.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour begins with pickup at the Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport. The driver will hold a sign with the lead traveler’s name, making for a smooth and effortless meeting.

Pickup options are available upon request. The tour ends by returning to the same meeting point. Confirmation of the tour is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats can be arranged if travelers bring their own. While not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate in this 10-day tour of Ecuador’s mainland.

Tour Considerations and Pricing

Most travelers can participate in this 10-day tour of Ecuador’s mainland, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

This 10-day tour of Ecuador’s mainland may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

The tour is priced at £2,420.79 per person, with the final cost varying by group size. While bookings are non-refundable, confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This comprehensive tour offers:

• Private transportation with an English-speaking driver

• 9 nights of accommodation with breakfast

• A variety of entrance fees to notable attractions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Alter the Pre-Planned Itinerary on This Tour?

The tour’s itinerary is pre-planned, so guests can’t alter it. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate special requests or accommodate changes, but they’ll need to be discussed and approved in advance. Alterations may incur additional fees.

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is flexible, as it’s a private tour. There’s no specific group size limit stated, though it’ll likely be based on the number of travelers and the vehicle capacity. The price per person may vary depending on the group size.

Does the Tour Provide Any Complimentary Meals or Snacks?

The tour includes complimentary breakfast on 9 days, but all other meals and snacks are excluded. Travelers must pay for their own meals and refreshments during the 10-day itinerary, except for the provided breakfasts.

Can I Self-Drive During the Tour Instead of Using the Provided Transportation?

No, self-driving is not an option for this tour. The private transportation and English-speaking driver are included in the package. Participants must use the provided transportation throughout the 10-day itinerary.

Is There an Option to Extend or Shorten the Length of the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers the flexibility to extend or shorten the length of the tour. Travelers can customize the itinerary based on their preferences and needs, subject to availability and additional costs.

The Sum Up

The "Best of Ecuador’s Mainland in 10 Days" tour offers an immersive experience into the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. With private transportation, accommodations, and exciting activities included, this well-structured itinerary ensures a seamless and unforgettable adventure. While meals and entrance fees are additional, the tour provides a comprehensive way to explore the best of Ecuador’s mainland in just 10 days.