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8 Days in Ecuador's Heartland: From Mountains to Hot Springs

8 days
Start and end in Quito
4.6
8 traveler reviews
From
US $1,335 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

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2026

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2027

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Sep
Oct
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2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
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1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

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Plan your adventure:
Explorer
Curated to ignite your sense of adventure
Fully Guided
An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Medium Intensity
Travelers should be comfortable with somewhat-demanding activities
Guided in English
Other languages on request: Spanish
Group Size 1 - 16
All Ages Welcome
Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Arrival in Quito

    Start point
    Aeropuerto Internacional Mariscal Sucre (UIO), Vía Tababela - Yaruquí Lote 18, Quito, Pichincha 1709, Ecuador (International Arrive)

    Optional Activities

    • Explore vibrant atmosphere of Quito
    • Immerse in captivating cultural offerings of Quito
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  2. Day 2

    Otavalo

    Meals
    Breakfast (Box Breakfast), Lunch

    Included Activities

    • Visit Quitsato solar clock and equator crossing point
    • Stop for Ecuadorian coffee or chocolate with biscuits and watch baking process
    • Explore La Plaza de los Ponchos indigenous handicraft market (approximately 2 hours)
    • Browse Cotacachi leather craft market (approximately 45 minutes)
    • Visit Cuicocha Lagoon in active volcanic crater
    Landmarks
    Quitsato Solar Clock
    San Pablo Lake
    Mount Imbabura
    La Plaza de los Ponchos
    Cuicocha Lagoon
    Itinerary Image 1
  3. Day 3

    Quito

    Meals
    Breakfast (Breakfast at hotel)

    Included Activities

    • Walking tour of Historic Center of Quito
    • Visit Basilica with tower climb for panoramic views
    • Explore San Francisco convent
    • Visit La CompaГ±Г­a church

    Optional Activities

    • Afternoon self-guided exploration of Quito
    Landmarks
    Historic Center of Quito
    Basilica of Quito
    San Francisco Convent
    La CompaГ±Г­a Church
  4. Day 4

    Cotopaxi National Park - Quilotoa Lagoon - BaГ±os de Agua Santa

    Meals
    Breakfast (Box Breakfast)

    Included Activities

    • Visit Lake Limpiopungo in Cotopaxi National Park
    • Short walk around Lake Limpiopungo
    • Hike Quilotoa Lagoon rim or descend to lake
    • Travel to BaГ±os de Agua Santa

    Optional Activities

    • Rent a mule for challenging sections of Quilotoa Lagoon hike
    Landmarks
    Cotopaxi National Park
    Lake Limpiopungo
    Cotopaxi Volcano
    Quilotoa Lagoon
    BaГ±os de Agua Santa
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  5. Day 5

    BaГ±os de Agua Santa

    Meals
    Breakfast

    Included Activities

    • Box Breakfast

    Optional Activities

    • Waterfall Route: Visit Agoyan dam, Manto de la Novia Waterfall with Tarabita cable car ride, Mirador de San Jorge viewpoint, and PailГіn del Diablo waterfall with forest hike
    • Amazon Tour: Animal rescue center visit, private reserve exploration for indigenous life and medicinal plants, jungle trail hike to waterfall, Indichuris lookout visit
    Landmarks
    Agoyan Dam
    Manto de la Novia Waterfall
    Mirador de San Jorge
    PailГіn del Diablo
    Indichuris Lookout
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2
  6. Day 6

    Free Day in Baños de Agua Santa

    Meals
    Breakfast

    Optional Activities

    • Soak in hot springs
    • Explore vibrant town
    • Hike to waterfalls
    • Bike ride along Ruta de las Cascadas
    • Canyoning
    • Zip-lining
    • Bungee jumping
    • White-water rafting
    • Scenic cable car ride
    • Visit Swing at the End of the World
    • Optional excursion to Chimborazo (closest point on Earth to the sun)
    Landmarks
    Ruta de las Cascadas
    Swing at the End of the World
    Chimborazo
  7. Day 7

    Puyo - Papallacta Hot Springs - Quito

    Meals
    Breakfast (Box Breakfast)

    Included Activities

    • Visit Paikawe Lagoon for wildlife encounters and canoe ride
    • Ecuadorian chocolate learning experience and tasting
    • Cocoa farm tour in Santa Rita neighborhood
    • Visit Papallacta Hot Springs

    Optional Activities

    • Breakfast in Puyo (not included, cost $5-10 per person estimated)
    • Traditional lunch in Santa Rita (not included, cost $5-10 per person estimated)
    • Hiking at Papallacta Hot Springs
    • Spa treatments at Papallacta Hot Springs
    • Local cuisine experiences at Papallacta Hot Springs
    Landmarks
    Paikawe Lagoon
    Santa Rita Neighborhood
    Papallacta Hot Springs
    Itinerary Image 1
  8. Day 8

    Departure from Quito

    End point
    Aeropuerto Internacional Mariscal Sucre (UIO), Vía Tababela - Yaruquí Lote 18, Quito, Pichincha 1709, Ecuador (Domestic Departure)
    Meals
    Breakfast
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What's Included

Expand All
  • Accommodation
  • Guide
  • Meals
  • Transport

What's Not Included

  • Flights
  • Insurance
  • Optional
  • Additional Services
4.5
(128 reviews)

Number of tours

249

Age Range

5 to 99 years old

Response time

7 hours

Response rate

96%

For an incredible span of 12 years, Responsible Travel has been your go-to...

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Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

4.6
Overall rating based on 8 Reviews
  • Itinerary
    4.8
  • Transport
    4.6
  • Guide
    4.6
  • Accommodation
    4.4
  • Food
    4.3
  • 4.5

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  • 8 Days in Ecuador's Heartland: From Mountains to Hot Springs reviewer 1
    December 19th, 2025
    5
    This tour was absolutely fantastic. Good itinerary & sightseeing inclusions, great value accommodation, comfortable...
    Show more
    Traveled in December 2025
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Hello Nick, Thank you so much for your wonderful review and kind words. I would like you to know that my team and I were happy to serve you during your entire trip. I look forward to planning your next adventure in my country since there are still wonderful destinations such as the enchanted Galapagos Islands or any other highlights of Latin America. I wish you all the best from the Middle of the World. Best wishes, Jeferson and the Responsible Travel Team
    Show more
  • W
    October 14th, 2025
    5
    Excellent tour well organised throughout the eight days. Beautiful country and a special thanks to Richard and...
    Show more
    Traveled in September 2025
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re truly happy to hear that you enjoyed the eight days and that everything felt well-organized from start to finish. That’s exactly the experience we aim to create. Ecuador really is a beautiful country, and it means a lot that you were able to feel that during your journey. A special thank you as well for recognizing Richard and Augusto at Kituandes Hotel. They will be absolutely delighted to hear your comments. Their warmth and dedication make such a difference, and we’re proud to work with people who genuinely care about our travelers. And of course, we’ll make sure Josselyn receives your lovely message. Coordinating every detail behind the scenes is no small task, and she’ll be so pleased to know her work helped create a seamless experience for you. It was a pleasure being part of your adventure, and we hope this won’t be your last journey with us. Ecuador, and the rest of South America, will always be waiting for you!
    Show more
  • R
    July 31st, 2025
    5
    It was a memorable trip for us. We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Ecuador & left with very good memories. All the...
    Show more
    Traveled in June 2025
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Hello Rupinder, Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us. We are delighted to hear that you thoroughly enjoyed your time in Ecuador and left with such wonderful memories. Your kind words about our guides and vehicles mean a great deal to us. Your comments help us improve our services and provide an even better experience for future travelers. We truly hope to welcome you back to Ecuador one day for another memorable adventure! Best, Responsible Travel Team
    Show more
  • 8 Days in Ecuador's Heartland: From Mountains to Hot Springs reviewer 4
    May 10th, 2025
    5
    Warm welcome by the team when we arrived in Ecuador! Well planned and thought out itinerary which gave us as first...
    Show more
    Traveled in April 2025
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Thank you very much for your kind message! I'm so happy to hear that you felt welcome and that you enjoyed your first visit to Ecuador. We tried to create a plan that shows you the real culture, traditions, and history of our country, and it’s great to know you loved it! If one day you decide to come back or visit other places in South America, I’ll be very happy to help you again. - Responsible Travel Team
    Show more
  • O
    May 7th, 2025
    5
    We visited Ecuador in April 2025 on a family vacation with another family, and were so thrilled that we planned our...
    Show more
    Traveled in April 2025
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! It was truly a joy to plan this special adventure for your two families, and we’re happy to hear that it exceeded your expectations. Traveling with a group that includes both adults and kids requires thoughtful planning, and we're so glad the itinerary struck the right balance of fun, learning, and cultural immersion. David loved guiding you through Ecuador’s wonders, and the rest of our team (Ana, Diego, and Alejandra) are smiling from ear to ear knowing their behind-the-scenes work made a difference—especially when we had to adapt due to weather or spontaneous ideas! Thank you for trusting us with your family vacation and for sharing the love with your friends and community. We can’t wait to welcome you back for more unforgettable experiences! Responsible Travel Team
    Show more
  • A
    January 27th, 2025
    3
    The instructions were not clear where and what time to meet our ride. Many times the guide or the driver did not...
    Show more
    Traveled in January 2025
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Hello, Thank you for your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that aspects of your experience did not meet your expectations. Clear communication is very important to us, and we regret any confusion regarding meeting instructions or language barriers with guides and drivers. Regarding accommodations, we aim to provide lodging that aligns with the itinerary description. However, we understand that expectations may vary, and we appreciate your input. Please feel free to reach out to us directly if there’s anything we can do to assist you further. Best regards, Ecuador Galapagos Travels Teams
    Show more
  • G
    October 21st, 2024
    4
    My 8-days trip to Ecuador was unexpectedly and uniquely enjoyable, some of which was a Cotopaxi volcano hike,...
    Show more
    Traveled in September 2024
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We're delighted to hear that your trip to Ecuador was filled with unforgettable moments, from hiking Cotopaxi and swimming beneath a waterfall to immersing yourself in the Vayuri community. It’s wonderful that the unexpected chocolate tasting and the local art discovery near Quilotoa Lagoon added even more magic to your journey. We’re glad our guides made you feel well taken care of, especially with their attention to your dietary needs and assistance in ordering food. Your feedback about road comfort is very helpful, and we’ll keep it in mind to improve the experience for future travelers. It was our pleasure to be part of your adventure, and we’re so happy you chose us to explore Ecuador with. Thank you once again, and we hope to welcome you back for more incredible memories! Best regards, Ronni
    Show more
  • A
    September 4th, 2024
    5
    I had an amazing time with my friend in Ecuador! It really was a memorable experience. Thank you Responsible travel !
    Traveled in August 2024
    Reply from: Responsible Travel South America
    Dear Aissatou Malima Ndoye, That sounds fantastic! It was a pleasure helping you plan your amazing adventure in Ecuador! Ecuador is truly a gem with so much to offer. I'm glad you had such a memorable experience there with your friend. Thank you for trusting Responsible Travel, and feel free to reach out whenever you're ready for your next journey!
    Show more

Dates & Availability

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2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
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2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
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1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
Upcoming departures
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Friday
    20 Mar, 2026
    To Friday
    27 Mar, 2026
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    3 Apr, 2026
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    8 May, 2026
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What our customers ask about this tour

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  • T

    Tom

    Asked on January 15th, 2026

    I'm looking to book a further tour or accommodation to explore San Cristobal and Isabella from the 13th for maybe 4-6 nights and then fly back to Quito. And also a tour of Ecuador the week before, to finish by Saturday 07 March. Is this something you could organise?

    Accommodation
    Tour Details
    • Responsible Travel South AmericaOperatorWritten January 2026

      We can help you organize an extension in the Galápagos after your Northern Route program, combining San Cristóbal and Isabela for about 4 to 6 nights, including accommodation, activities, and the flight back to Quito. We can also plan a tour of mainland Ecuador the week before, from Friday, February 27 to Saturday, March 7, at your own pace and according to your interests. What type of accommodation you prefer (standard, comfort, or boutique). If you want a more active or more relaxed trip. If there is any must-see place in Ecuador you want to include or have always wanted to visit. If you have an approximate budget for the trip.

  • M

    Marilyn

    Asked on November 8th, 2025

    Could you please let us know if there's any last-minute availability in November?

    Price / Availability
  • D

    Dominique

    Asked on February 3rd, 2025

    What is the maximum group size for the tours?

    Group size
  • V

    Venezia

    Asked on February 2nd, 2025

    What is the price for the 8-day tour package?

    Price / Availability
  • O

    Olivia

    Asked on January 25th, 2025

    Is it possible to join only the later half of the tour, from day 4? If so, to what price? I travel alone but can share room with another female.

    Single supplement
    Tour Details
    • Responsible Travel South AmericaOperatorWritten January 2025

      Yes, it's possible to join the later half of the tour starting from Day 4. The price will not change but keep in mind that specific activities will be arranged privately and others will be joining a group. In the case of accommodation, if another female confirms this departure on the same dates, you can share the room, otherwise, the room will be just for you, and the price will not change.

    • O

      Olivia

      TravelerWritten January 2025

      I thought the price would be less if I don't join the full tour. Then it will be too expensive for me. I will try to arrange something by myself.

    • Responsible Travel South AmericaOperatorWritten January 2025

      I want to let you know that I would be happy to explore a customized option for you that fits your budget and travel plans. Please let me know what would be your current budget?

    • O

      Olivia

      TravelerWritten January 2025

      I'm trying at the moment to decide how many days to spend in Ecuador also considering safety warnings from our authorities.

    • Responsible Travel South AmericaOperatorWritten February 2025

      The safety warnings that are currently in effect for our destinations are NOT visitable in your itinerary. USA Travel Advisory mentions the Coastal Pacific Zone, and the borderline with Peru, as your trip includes Quito and the Andes, these are 'green zones' safe tourist areas.

    • O
      4 more answers
  • L

    Lokita

    Asked on January 12th, 2025

    Is there an option to add activities after booking?

    Tour Details
  • B

    Bapt

    Asked on December 30th, 2024

    What are the star ratings of the hotels we will stay at?

    Accommodation
  • I

    Ibrahim

    Asked on November 27th, 2024

    Are there options for customizing the itinerary?

    Tour Details
  • M

    Maria Isabel

    Asked on November 17th, 2024

    How far in advance should I book the tour?

    Price / Availability
  • D

    Dianne

    Asked on November 9th, 2024

    Can I travel alone and get a single room?

    Accommodation
    Single supplement
Can’t find the answer to your question?
Reach out to the experts at Responsible Travel South America with your enquiry, they usually respond within 7 hours.
From
US $1,335 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
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Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
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Good to Know

Tour ID: 258610

  • Currency
    $
    US Dollar
    Ecuador
  • Plugs & Adapters

  • Vaccines
    • These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
    • Typhoid - Recommended for Ecuador. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
    • Hepatitis A - Recommended for Ecuador. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
    • Tuberculosis - Recommended for Ecuador. Ideally 3 months before travel.
    • Hepatitis B - Recommended for Ecuador. Ideally 2 months before travel.
    • Rabies - Recommended for Ecuador. Ideally 1 month before travel.
    • Yellow fever - Recommended for Ecuador. Ideally 10 days before travel.
  • Visa
    • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
    • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • Payment information
    • For any tour departing before May 13th, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after May 13th, 2026, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with Responsible Travel South America. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
    • Some departure dates and prices may vary and Responsible Travel South America will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
    • The following cards are accepted for "Responsible Travel South America" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
  • Cancellation Policy
  • Accessibility
    Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
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Sep
Oct
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2027

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2028

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