Ecuador road trip: 14 places from Cotopaxi to the Galápagos
Explore Ecuador's diverse landscapes across 14 major destinations, from the volcanic peaks of Cotopaxi and Chimborazo to the biodiverse Amazon Rainforest and Galápagos Islands. This 4,376 km route connects iconic sites including Quilotoa Lake, Cajas National Park, and the historic Devil's Nose Train, spanning key cities like Quito, Guayaquil, and Baños de Agua Santa.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Cotopaxi Volcano
- End
- Guayaquil
- Stops
- 14
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Cotopaxi Volcano — Active volcano and Ecuador's second-highest peak, featuring dramatic snow-capped cone and alpine terrain.
- Quilotoa Lake — Crater lake with stunning turquoise waters nestled in the Andes, accessible via scenic hiking trail.
- Galápagos Islands — UNESCO World Heritage archipelago renowned for unique endemic wildlife and pristine natural ecosystems.
- Baños de Agua Santa — Mountain town famous for hot springs, waterfalls, and adventure activities in the Tungurahua Province.
- Laguna de Cuicocha — Crater lake near Ibarra with two small islands, offering hiking and panoramic views of the Andes.
- Mindo Forest — Cloud forest reserve northwest of Quito featuring exceptional biodiversity, birdwatching, and waterfall trails.
- Chimborazo Volcano — Ecuador's highest peak with dual summits and glaciated slopes, offering mountaineering and scenic views.
- Cajas National Park — High-altitude protected area near Cuenca with numerous lakes, páramo landscape, and hiking opportunities.
- Cayambe Coca National Park — Biodiverse protected area spanning cloud forests to high mountains, home to jaguars and endemic species.
- Amazon Rainforest, Tena
- Devil's Nose Train — Historic narrow-gauge railway featuring dramatic switchbacks and engineering marvel near Sibambe village.
- Ibarra — Colonial city in northern Ecuador known as the White City, featuring historic architecture and local culture.
- Quito — Capital city positioned high in the Andes, renowned for well-preserved colonial Old Town and diverse culture.
- Guayaquil — Major coastal port city and Ecuador's largest city, featuring riverfront malecón and cultural attractions.
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Take the Devil's Nose Train to experience a scenic railway journey
- Tip
- Visit Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the stunning natural attractions featured in the journey
- Tip
- Explore Quilotoa Lake during your visit
- Tip
- Visit Mindo Forest for nature exploration
- Tip
- Tour Cajas National Park
- Tip
- Experience La Ruta de las Cascadas for waterfall viewing
- Tip
- Visit El Cajas Waterfalls
- Tip
- Explore the Amazon Rainforest from Tena
Video on this route
Ecuador in 4K - Incredible Scenes & Uncovering Hidden Gems