Ecuador Road Trip Itinerary
This Ecuador Road Trip is a great way to explore the stunning landscapes, historical sites, and UNESCO Heritage Monuments of Ecuador. Starting in the capital city of Quito, the route takes you through Ibarra, Esmeraldas, Pedernales, Manta, Salinas, Cuenca, and Riobamba, covering a total distance of 2332km (1439 miles) in 14 days. The best time to drive is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny.
Along the route, you'll experience a variety of landscapes, from the lush forests of Ibarra to the white sand beaches of Salinas. There are many historical sites to explore, such as the colonial-era churches of Cuenca and the old cobblestone streets of Manta. You'll also discover several UNESCO Heritage Monuments, including the San Francisco de Quito Church in Quito and the Ingapirca Ruins in Cuenca.
The roads in Ecuador are generally in good condition, though some sections may be curvy and narrow. However, this road trip is suitable for all drivers, and can be done on a budget. So why not take the Ecuador Road Trip and explore the beauty of this country?
14
number of days
2,278 km
route length
low
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Quito
Distance 2,278 km
Driving time 43.6 h
Pace: modest
592.2 kWh
Airports
UIO
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Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is the perfect starting point for any traveler embarking on the Ecuador Road Trip. Located in the Andean highlands, the city is known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and its vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the historic district of Quito, known as Centro Historico, and admire the stunning churches and plazas, as well as the city's iconic monument, El Panecillo.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Mariscal Sucre International Airport (IATA: UIO). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy for travelers to start their Ecuador Road Trip.
For those looking for outdoor activities, Quito is home to the Cotopaxi National Park, where visitors can explore its stunning volcanic landscape, glaciers, and the nearby lake. Other popular attractions in the city include the Teleferico cable car, which offers stunning views of the city, and the Middle of the World Monument, where visitors can stand on the equator.
No matter what type of traveler you are, Quito is the perfect place to start your Ecuador Road Trip. With its vibrant culture, stunning sights, and convenient car rentals, Quito is the perfect starting point for your adventure.
1
Quito
- Ibarra
Distance 105 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
27.4 kWh
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Embark on an exciting 106 km journey from Quito to Ibarra, with a stop in Otavalo. This scenic road trip will take you fewer than 3 hours, and you will get to explore some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Ecuador.
Start your journey in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, and drive through the beautiful mountain landscapes of the Andes. On your way to Otavalo, you will get to visit some UNESCO Heritage sites and experience the local culture. In Otavalo, you can explore the famous Otavalo Market and take some souvenirs home. Don’t forget to take some pictures of the picturesque landscapes and enjoy the stunning views of the Imbabura volcano.
Continue your journey to Ibarra, the capital of Imbabura province, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Make sure to stop at the Mira Lago Park and admire the beauty of the lake.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Ibarra - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - Pikist
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2
Ibarra
- Esmeraldas
Distance 299 km
Driving time 6.7 h
Pace: modest
77.7 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip adventure? Start your journey in Ibarra, Ecuador and explore the beautiful landscapes of the northern coast of the country. With a total distance of 298 km and a driving time of fewer than 6 hours, you will be able to admire the stunning views of the Andes Mountains, the green hills, and the rivers that cross the route.
You will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in the region, such as the San Antonio de Ibarra Church, the Otavalo Market, and the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve. As you drive along the route, make sure to take a few moments to admire the scenic road.
Your final destination is Esmeraldas, a city with a rich culture and many attractions. Some of the must-see places are the San Lorenzo Fort, the Malecón 2000, and the Eloy Alfaro Airport.
This is only one of the many stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let the adventure begin!
Esmeraldas - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Esmeraldas
- Pedernales
Distance 185 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: modest
48.2 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Esmeraldas to Pedernales! This 185km journey will take you less than 3 hours, and you'll be able to take in all the stunning sights along the way. The route will take you through the lush green forests of the Chocó region, where you'll be able to admire the unique flora and fauna. As you drive, keep an eye out for the picturesque waterfalls, rivers, and streams that make this area so special.
When you arrive in Pedernales, you'll be able to explore the city's colonial history and its beautiful beaches. Don't forget to visit the nearby Isla de la Plata, where you can spot some of the most stunning wildlife in the region. The Isla de la Plata is also known for its diverse marine life, so be sure to bring your snorkeling gear!
For a truly unforgettable experience, be sure to check out the nearby El Angel Ecological Reserve. This protected area is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and reptiles, and you can even take a guided tour to explore the area.
This is just one of the many stages of your journey, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So get ready to hit the road and explore the beauty of Esmeraldas and Pedernales!
Pedernales - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Pedernales - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - Needpix.com
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4
Pedernales
- Manta
Distance 192 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: modest
49.8 kWh
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Embark on a unique road trip from Pedernales to Manta, Ecuador, passing through Cabo Pasado. This 192 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete, and you'll be rewarded with some of the most stunning scenery in the region.
Start your journey in Pedernales, where you can explore its beautiful beaches and take in the local culture. Then, drive to Cabo Pasado, a stunning beach town with a picturesque lighthouse and a variety of wildlife.
Continue your journey to Manta, where you can discover the city's vibrant culture, explore its beautiful beaches, and enjoy its delicious seafood. You can also visit the nearby El Arenal beach, where you can relax and take in the stunning views.
This is one stage of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable journey!
Manta - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Manta
- Salinas
Distance 186 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: modest
48.3 kWh
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Welcome to the Manta-Salinas road trip stage! This beautiful journey is 210 km long and takes around 5 hours to complete. The route is full of stunning views and incredible landscapes, so don't forget to take some pictures.
Starting in Manta, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Murciélago Beach, the most popular beach in the city. It is a great spot for surfing and sunbathing, and the sunsets here are simply breathtaking.
The next stop is the town of San Vicente. Here you can explore the historical center of the city and visit the San Vicente Church, built in 1885. The architecture is amazing and the interior is decorated with beautiful murals.
Continuing your journey, you'll arrive in Chone, a great place to try some of the local cuisine. Here you can also visit the Chone Church, which dates back to the 18th century.
Finally, you'll reach the city of Salinas. Here you'll find the Salinas Beach, a great spot for swimming and relaxing. You can also visit the Salinas Cathedral, an impressive building with a beautiful interior.
Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
Salinas - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Salinas
- Guayaquil
Distance 126 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
37.7 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Salinas to Guayaquil and experience the beauty of the Ecuadorian coast! This 127 km journey is the perfect way to explore the two cities, with a driving time of fewer than two hours.
Start your journey in Salinas, a popular beach resort town known for its stunning ocean views and excellent seafood. Visit La Libertad, a fishing village and the birthplace of Ecuadorian shrimp industry, and the nearby Salinas Boardwalk, a perfect spot for a romantic stroll.
Continue your journey to Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city and the country's main port. Here, you can explore the Malecón 2000, a waterfront promenade and park, and the Parque Seminario, a large public square and the city's main plaza. Make sure to also visit the nearby Cerro Santa Ana, a hilltop park with panoramic views of the city.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Ecuador!
Guayaquil - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Guayaquil
- Machala
Distance 185 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
48.1 kWh
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Are you ready to start your road trip from Guayaquil to Machala? This is one of the most interesting stages of your tour, as the route is full of attractions and activities. Start your journey at the Malecon 2000 in Guayaquil, a beautiful park with a promenade, gardens, and a variety of restaurants. From there, continue your journey to the beaches of Salinas, where you can relax and take in the stunning views. As you leave Salinas, you will pass through the city of Santa Elena, home to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Here, you can explore the tropical rainforest and its unique biodiversity. After that, you will arrive in Machala, where you can visit the El Malecon, a beautiful park with a lake and a variety of restaurants. The total distance of this stage is 187km and it should take about 4 hours of driving. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Machala - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Machala
- Vilcabamba
Distance 258 km
Driving time 5.8 h
Pace: modest
67.1 kWh
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Start your road trip in Machala, Ecuador and take the route 283 km to the south to Loja, where you will find many attractions to explore. Visit the beautiful Iglesia de San Francisco, the oldest church in the city, or the Museum of Loja, where you can learn about the history of the region. As you drive through the winding roads, take in the picturesque landscapes and enjoy the scenic views. Don't forget to stop in Vilcabamba, the "Valley of Longevity", for a unique experience. Here you can explore the natural wonders of the area, such as the stunning El Cajas National Park. The drive from Machala to Vilcabamba will take you less than six hours and you'll be able to take in the best of the region. Along the way, keep an eye out for attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information, check the Itinerary of this stage for details. Enjoy your road trip!
Vilcabamba - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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9
Vilcabamba
- Cuenca
Distance 255 km
Driving time 4.8 h
Pace: modest
66.3 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Vilcabamba to Cuenca! This 255km route takes you through Podokarpus National Park, and will take you fewer than 5 hours to complete. Along the way, you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in the region. In Podokarpus National Park, you can explore the lush rainforest and its diverse wildlife. There are also numerous historical sites, and the winding roads offer stunning views of the countryside. As you make your way to Cuenca, you will be able to witness the beautiful Ecuadorian landscape. Make sure to take your time and take in all the sights and sounds of the journey. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, get ready to experience the best of Ecuador on this unforgettable road trip from Vilcabamba to Cuenca!
Cuenca - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
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10
Cuenca
- Riobamba
Distance 261 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: modest
67.8 kWh
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Embark on a 262km road trip from Cuenca to Riobamba and discover the beauty of Ecuador's landscapes! This journey will take you less than 5 hours and will be filled with picturesque views, scenic roads, and UNESCO Heritage sites. As you drive through the Andes, you will be able to admire the beauty of the Ecuadorian countryside. Along the way, you will be able to visit the iconic Ingapirca ruins, the amazing El Cajas National Park and the beautiful colonial city of Riobamba. Don't forget to take some time to admire the views and take some pictures! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Riobamba - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Riobamba - Ecuador - South America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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11
Riobamba
- Quito
Distance 226 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: fast
67.9 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Riobamba to Quito, a 226 km journey that will take you less than 4 hours. Along the way, you'll witness some of Ecuador's most stunning landscapes, including the Cotopaxi National Park. Here, you'll get to explore the world's highest active volcano and its surrounding glaciers. Make sure to visit the Cotopaxi Museum, where you can learn all about the history of the area. Don't forget to take a few pictures of the stunning views! As you continue your journey, you'll come across some of Ecuador's UNESCO Heritage sites, so make sure to take some time to appreciate their beauty. When you arrive in Quito, take a stroll through the old town and admire its colonial architecture. You won't regret it! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Quito
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Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is the end of the amazing Ecuador Road Trip. It is located in the Andean highlands at an altitude of 2800 meters, surrounded by the Pichincha volcano and the Cotopaxi National Park. Quito is an old colonial city full of history, art and culture. Its old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978, is the best place to start exploring the city. Here you can find churches, monasteries and old buildings, as well as the Plaza Grande, the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop's Palace and the Municipal Palace.
The city also offers plenty of natural attractions. The Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument is the most famous attraction in Quito. Here you can stand in both hemispheres at the same time. You can also visit the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve and the Lloa Wildlife Reserve to observe the local flora and fauna.
The city also has a vibrant nightlife with lots of bars, restaurants and clubs. The La Mariscal neighborhood is the best place to explore the city's nightlife.
Quito is served by Mariscal Sucre International Airport (IATA: UIO) and is the main gateway to the city. From here you can continue your journey to the rest of Ecuador and the rest of Latin America.
Ecuador Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Quito
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End:
Quito
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Distance:
2,278 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey, the Ecuador Road Trip, which provides a deep dive into the country's varied landscapes, rich history, and an array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The adventure starts from the high-altitude capital, Quito, and weaves through a tapestry of experiences in Ibarra, Esmeraldas, Pedernales, Manta, Salinas, Cuenca, and Riobamba, spanning a distance of 2332 km (1439 miles).
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Quito: Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its stunning San Francisco Church and the impressive La Compañía de Jesús, known for its elaborate gold leaf interior.
- Ibarra: Dive into the surrounding Andean ecosystems, home to charming villages and lush cloud forests teeming with orchids and hummingbirds.
- Esmeraldas: Appreciate the unique Afro-Ecuadorian culture and unspoiled coastal sceneries, perfect for culinary delights and water sports.
- Pedernales: Relax on pristine beaches and experience the laid-back coastal lifestyle, offering a slice of heaven for surfers and sun-seekers.
- Manta: Wander through the cobblestone streets and visit the Montecristi, where the genuine Panama hats are crafted.
- Salinas: Bask on white sand beaches and enjoy the vibrant nightlife, with the nearby La Chocolatera offering breathtaking views where sea currents collide.
- Cuenca: Step back in time with colonial-era churches and the nearby Ingapirca Ruins, Ecuador's most significant Incan site.
- Riobamba: Behold majestic Andean landscapes and prepare for an excursion to Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest peak and the point on Earth closest to the sun due to the equatorial bulge.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for this Road Trip is from June to September when the dry season promises clear skies and pleasant temperatures, perfect for both coastal leisure and highland exploration.
Potential Risks:
The journey includes mountainous terrain with curvy and narrow Roads. Being cautious and prepared for varying Road conditions will ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This Trip caters to novice and experienced drivers alike.
- Travelers can undertake this journey on a budget, with options for affordable lodging and dining.
- Ecuador's official currency is the US dollar, which simplifies financial matters for international visitors.
- While Spanish is the official language, English is widely understood in tourist areas. Learning basic Spanish phrases, however, will enrich interactions with locals.
- Ecuador's biodiversity is unparalleled, with chances to encounter exotic wildlife in the Amazon rainforest, the Galápagos Islands, and the Andean highlands.
A good choice for:
The Ecuador Road Trip is an enthralling exploration designed for those who seek to immerse themselves in the nation's vibrant cultures, historical tapestry, and breathtaking natural wonders. It promises a plethora of experiences that cater to the desires of every type of traveler.
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