Ecuador with your family - 2 weeks: volcanoes, jungle and adrenalin

The’Ecuador with family, it's one of those destinations we recommend without hesitation. We went there—two adults, two boys—in February 2020 for 17 days, taking us from the cloud forest of Mindo to the colonial streets of Cuenca, via the Cotopaxi volcano, the turquoise Quilotoa lagoon, and the thermal baths of Baños. What surprised us the most? The ease of travel: everything is close by, buses are reliable, children are welcome everywhere, and the landscapes change every couple of hours. This guide is our complete itinerary with actual prices, our favorite spots, and a few misadventures (altitude, rushed return due to COVID...) to help you plan your own adventure.

About Ecuador

For me, Ecuador has always been a special destination. This is where I did my first real backpacking trip, in the early 2000s, To rediscover these landscapes today with my family is a true return to my roots.

The capital, Quito, perched over 4,000 metres in the Andes mountains, is an authentic jewel: its colonial streets, markets, squares, and architecture tell the local history and culture in a unique way. Ecuador is a concentrate of diversity We offer a wide range of activities: imposing volcanoes, tropical forests, traditional villages and heavenly beaches, all in a human-sized country that's easy for families to explore.

This trip is an opportunity to share the same wonder with my children that I had felt as a young traveler, while discovering the country's cultural and natural richness through their eyes.

Ecuador is very easy to discover by bus, without having to rent a car. The routes between towns and tourist sites are fast, safe and affordable, and even offer the opportunity to admire the scenery along the way.

For added comfort and flexibility, it's also easy to call a private cab, which is still very reasonably priced, fast and convenient for a family. It's ideal for avoiding complicated transfers, managing excursion timing, and fully enjoying each stage of the trip.

Why choose Ecuador for a family vacation?

Ecuador is one of South America's best-kept secrets. Small in size but immense in diversity, this country the size of the UK concentrates in a few hours' drive ecosystems that other entire continents can't manage. For families who want to experience everything without spending weeks in transit, Ecuador is a revelation.

A small country, easy to travel in
This is one of Ecuador's greatest advantages: everything is close at hand. From Quito, you can reach the Amazon jungle in 5 hours, the Pacific coast in 4 hours and the Andean peaks in less than 2 hours. There's no need to take long, expensive domestic flights or spend entire days in a bus - ideal when traveling with impatient children!

Simple, affordable transport
Ecuador has a dense, punctual and extremely economical intercity bus network linking all the country's major cities and regions. For families who prefer greater comfort and flexibility, car rental is available and the main roads are well maintained. Short distances mean that even the longest journeys are manageable with children.

Breathtaking Andean landscapes
The Volcano Route through the Ecuadorian Andes offers some of the most spectacular views in South America. Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, and Chimborazo, the closest peak to the sun on Earth, impress young and old alike. Otavalo's colorful and lively indigenous markets immerse the whole family in authentic, vibrant Andean culture.

The Amazon jungle at your fingertips
From Tena or Puyo, family lodges in the heart of the Amazon can be reached in just a few hours from Quito. River canoeing, wildlife watching, encounters with indigenous communities and nights under the stars in the jungle - unforgettable experiences that your children will remember for the rest of their lives, without the long flight connections from Brazil or Peru.

The Galapagos, a world wonder
For families who want to take their adventure a step further, the Galapagos Islands can be reached from Quito in just 3 hours by plane. Observe marine iguanas, giant tortoises and sea lions in their natural habitat, just a few meters away - nowhere else in the world is such an experience possible. A moment that will leave a lasting impression on your children.

Activities for the whole family
Ecuador is full of experiences for all ages and tastes.

COVID-19

Our last two days in Ecuador were suddenly interrupted with the start of COVID-19. We had to return to Canada two days before the country closes, until then, there was no official word of what was to come. This hasty return was stressful, but it also reminded us just how unpredictable travel can be. Despite this unexpected end, we're going home with a lot of memories. incredible and unforgettable of these 17 days with the family.

Our itinerary Ecuador with family — 2 weeks

• Day 1-2: Mindo – Cloud forests + bird watching + zip-lining + waterfalls + chocolate
• Day 3-4: Quito – UNESCO Historic Center + Pichincha Cable Car + Local Markets
• Day 5: Cotopaxi Park Majestic volcano + hiking + Limpiopungo lagoon + wildlife observation
• Days 6-7: Quilotoa – Crater lagoon + hike along the rim + traditional villages
• Day 8-9: Baños – Bicycle + zip line + thermal bath + hikes
• Day 10-11: Ambato – Ascension Chimborazo, the world's highest point + colonial city
• Day 12-16: Cuenca – Old colonial town UNESCO + museums + craft markets + redevelopments
• Day 17: Quito

What to do in Ecuador with family — step by step and where to sleep

Mindo

We begin our adventure in Ecuador with 3 days in Mindo, ideal for avoiding the effects of Quito's altitude too quickly (over 2,800 m). Upon arrival at the airport, we decide take a private cab - we negotiate a good price to go directly to Mindo, as we're tired and want to avoid endless public transport.

Going down to Mindo is like a breath of fresh air: the altitude is milder (around 1,200 m), the climate is more pleasant, and above all, it's The perfect place for family fun.

Here, we immerse ourselves in nature with activities that appeal to everyone:

• Ziplines to soar above the forest,
• A butterfly aviary, a feast for the eyes,
• A chocolate-making workshop where children love to get their hands dirty,
• Not to mention the observation of hundreds of colorful bird species, as well as the banana trees growing all around.

These first few days set the mood for this country's incredible biodiversity, with gentle exploration and playful discoveries.

🎯 What to do in Mindo with family

• Zipline over the cloud forest — Several operators in the city offer tours suitable for children as young as 6 years old. The boys were thrilled!
• Artisan Chocolate Farm Visit — we did the full workshop: from bean to bar. The children were able to dip their own candies.
• Butterfly aviary and garden hundreds of colorful species in an enclosed space, perfect for little ones.
• Birdwatching Mindo is one of the world capitals of birdwatching. Even without binoculars, the hummingbirds and toucans impress everyone.
• Cascades within walking distance — several short trails lead to waterfalls. Bring hiking shoes and a light raincoat.

🏨 Where to sleep in Mindo with family

We chose a small hotel in the village center, simple and functional, a stone's throw from all services. It's the right choice for a family: no need for taxis to get to activities, and local restaurants are right downstairs. Count $40-70 $ USD per night for a family room. If you want the full jungle experience, a few lodges on the outskirts offer accommodation in the middle of the forest with birdsong upon waking – magical, but plan for transportation.

Quito

After Mindo, here we are in Quito, where we begin by exploring the old colonial town. We wander through the cobblestone streets, visit magnificent churches, and a few small museums that tell the fascinating history of the city.

Full of energy, we then take the cable car to go up near the Pichincha volcano, with the idea of hiking and enjoying a spectacular view.

But the altitude is making itself felt: one of our children starts to have a severe headache. For their safety, we decide to descend quickly, less than 30 minutes from the summit, to find lighter air.

This experience reminds us to take it easy with altitude, especially when traveling as a family.

What to do in Quito with family

• Old Colonial Town (Historic Center) — UNESCO World Heritage site. The cobblestone alleys, the Plaza Grande, and the colorful facades impress young and old alike. Allow half a day.
• TelefériQo Cable Car — Ascend up to 4,050 m on the flank of Pichincha. Spectacular views of the entire city. Beware of altitude sickness: allow at least 24 hours for acclimatization before going.
• The Middle of the World — The Equator Monument, 20 km from the city. Kids love putting one foot in each hemisphere. Touristy, yes — but worth the detour.
• Alabado Museum and City Museum - For families who love history, these museums are accessible and well-presented.
• San Francisco Market to taste local specialties: humitas, llapingachos, fresh fruit juices. A sensory experience for the whole family.

🏨 Where to stay in Quito with family

We stayed in a hotel in the colonial district, and it's the best decision we made in Quito. Everything is within walking distance, the streets are safe during the day, and the historic atmosphere is unique. For families, aim for a hotel with Family room or suite — several boutique hotels in this area offer configurations adapted for 60-100 $ USD per night. The La Mariscal neighborhood is a more modern and trendy alternative if you prefer to be close to restaurants and cafes.

Cotopaxi Park

To join the Cotopaxi Park, we take a bus to Latacunga. On the way, we ask the driver to help us stop directly at the park, located approximately 3,800 meters altitude, This allows you to discover the Andean landscape without leaving Quito too quickly.

Once on site, lots of vans waiting for visitors to offer tours of the park. We choose an excursion that allows us to do the ascent to Cotopaxi base camp, with the possibility to go a bit higher for the bravest. The park is spectacular: snow-capped volcanoes, glacial lagoons, and Andean fauna create an incredible setting.

What to do at Cotopaxi National Park with family

• Ascent to Base Camp (4,800 m) — Step vans in the main parking lot will take you there. From there, the more adventurous can hike up to the refuge at 4,864 m. Spectacular, but take time to acclimatize first.
• Limpiopungo Lagoon At an altitude of 3,800 meters, this lagoon is surrounded by the Andean páramo. A beautiful flat walk (1-2 hours) accessible to all ages, with sightings of Andean ducks and migratory birds.
• Wildlife observation — Vicuñas, llamas, and Andean condors live in the park. With luck (and binoculars), you'll see them from the road.
• Picnic with a view of the volcano — bring food supplies from Latacunga or Quito. Eating with the snow-capped Cotopaxi in front of you is an experience in itself.

🏨 Where to sleep near Cotopaxi National Park

Two practical options: either you do the day trip from Quito (3 hours round trip), or you stay overnight in Latacunga, the nearest town. Latacunga is recommended to avoid fatigue and better enjoy the park. Several decent hotels in the center for 35-60 $ USD per night. There are also a few Haciendas and lodges at the entrance to the park — expensive but unforgettable, especially to see the volcano at sunrise.

Quilotoa

From Latacunga, we take a bus to Quilotoa, one of the most spectacular sites in the Ecuadorian Andes. As soon as we arrive, we take the time to tour the crater to admire the turquoise lagoon and breathtaking scenery.

Next, we descend inside the crater. To climb back up, a classic activity greatly amuses the children: to lift with a ring On the steep trail. Amidst laughter and the parents' little scares, it's a memorable moment that will remain in the family's memories!

🎯 What to do in Quilotoa with family

• Crater hike The trail is about 12 km along the crater rim (3-4 hours). Moderate level but at an altitude of 3,900m - start slowly. The view of the turquoise lagoon is breathtaking at every turn.
• Descent to the bottom of the crater and ascent on muleback The descent takes 30-45 minutes; climbing back up on foot is very demanding due to the altitude. Mules are available on-site for the ascent—kids love this option!
• Villages of the Quilotoa Loop — Small indigenous villages surround the lagoon. Tigua is famous for its naive paintings on leather. A beautiful way to support local artisans.
• Sunset photography If you stay overnight, the evenings and mornings offer exceptional light on the lagoon. A safe bet.

🏨 Where to sleep in Quilotoa

Slept in a small inn with full board at the edge of the crater, and we absolutely do not regret it. The inns here are simple but warm, often run by local families. Expect $20-40 $ USD per person all-inclusive (night + dinner + lunch). The Black Sheep Inn is the premium and eco-friendly option in the sector. Book in advance during peak season (June-August) – it's small and fills up fast.

Baños

After Quilotoa, we're on our way to Baños, known as The city of sports and adventure. From the moment we arrived, you can feel the energy of the place: waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs, surrounding mountains, and the fresh valley air. The boys are already excited about all the activities we can do here.

We start with a mountain bike descent along the winding and scenic roads. Between turns and breathtaking scenery, the boys are having a blast while I focus on the handlebars with a slightly strained smile... but I'm still enjoying the view!

Then we're off to explore a few waterfalls perfect for taking photos and cooling off a bit. The day continues with zip-line, A moment that amuses the boys and makes the parents' hearts beat a little faster.

After all these adventures, we finish the day by relaxing in the thermal baths from the city, a perfect moment to relax and enjoy the hot water and Andean landscapes.

For those who still have energy, it's possible to take a climb the trails around the volcano and admire Baños and its valleys from the heights. It's a stop that perfectly combines adrenalin, nature and relaxation, and will remain engraved in the memories of the whole family.

What to do in Baños as a family

• Waterfall Route by bike — 17 km descent between Baños and Puyo, along the Pastaza gorge. Dozens of waterfalls along the way, including Pailón del Diablo, Ecuador's most impressive. Bikes for rent all over town ($5-8 $ USD/day). We put the little ones in trailers for the younger children.
• Devil's Cauldron the most powerful waterfall in Ecuador. The viewpoint is accessible by a 15-minute walk from the parking lot. Bring a poncho — you're going to get wet and it's great.
• Zipline and swing at the end of the world (Treehouse) — ride a van to the Tungurahua volcano. The swing suspended over the void with the volcano in the background is the most shared photo from Ecuador. The kids will have a blast (and the parents will panic a little).
• Hot springs (thermal baths) — Baños is its name. The thermal baths are heated naturally by the Tungurahua volcano. Perfect for recovering after a day of cycling. Several complexes are open in the evening.
• Melcocha (local taffy) production — In the shops on Ambato Street, you'll see artisans stretching caramel by hand. Children can try it. It's sweet, sticky, and delicious.

🏨 Where to sleep in Baños with family

Baños is very touristy, with a wide range of accommodation options. For families, we recommend a hotel with heated pool in the center — several offer one powered by thermal springs. Budget: $50-90 $ USD per night for a family room. Book in advance for Quebec weekends and holidays – Ecuadorians themselves love Baños and it fills up quickly. The hotel Sangay is a local institution with a pool and a view of the falls.

Ambato - Chimborazo

After Banos, we take the road again to Ambato, a warm and lively colonial city. But the main attraction here is Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest peak (6,263 m), and, relative to the Earth's center, the farthest point on the globe.

For the excursion, we take a cab that waits for us all day, This is a great way to avoid tiring out with transport and enjoy the site to the full. We start our walk from the park base at approximately 4,800 m, then we proceed to the base camp at 5,000 m, with the possibility of going a bit higher depending on current form.

The path is dotted with vicuñas and llamas, which greatly amuses the boys who love to watch them and take pictures. The ascent is demanding but accessible, and the view of the glaciers and Andean plains is simply spectacular.

After this adventure, we return to Ambato to stroll through local markets, admire the craftsmanship and discover the colonial architecture. This step combines awe-inspiring nature and cultural immersion, A perfect balance for the whole family.

🎯 What to do in Ambato and Chimborazo with family

• Climb of Chimborazo (to base camp) — we're not talking about mountaineering here, but about hiking to the first refuge (4,800 m) or even the second (5,000 m). The air is thin, the landscape is lunar, and seeing the eternal glaciers up close is an emotionally powerful experience. Take a taxi or an organized excursion from Ambato or Riobamba.
• Observation of vicuñas and llamas — Chimborazo National Park is a vicuña reserve. We saw dozens as we approached the volcano. Children love to get close to them (gently).
• Historic Center of Ambato The city was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1949. Juan Montalvo Park and the house museum of the same writer are worth a visit.
• Riobamba Market — if you pass through Riobamba (30 min from Ambato), the Saturday market is one of the most authentic in the Andes. Crafts, textiles, local products — a complete cultural experience.

🏨 Where to stay in Ambato with family

Ambato is a lively commercial city but often underestimated by tourists. We slept there in a hotel in the colonial center, practical and well-located for 45-70 $ USD per night. For the Chimborazo excursion, some families prefer to sleep at Riobamba (30 km), which is slightly more touristy and offers more hotel choices. Regardless of your base, book the taxi or guide for Chimborazo the day before – good guides leave early.

Cuenca

To complete our Ecuadorian itinerary, we arrive in Cuenca, the most beautiful colonial city in Ecuador, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We are staying in the historic center, which allows us to explore everything on foot: cobbled streets, churches, squares and craft markets where children love to discover colorful souvenirs.

A must on this stage is the Cajas National Park, just a few kilometers from the city. We organize a family-friendly hiking, We'll take you on a journey through lagoons, green hills and trails bathed in Andean mist. The boys are fascinated by the local wildlife and wild landscapes, while we enjoy the calm and beauty of nature.

🎯 What to do in Cuenca with family

• Old colonial town (UNESCO World Heritage) — Cuenca is often described as the most beautiful colonial city in Ecuador, and we agree. The blue domes of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the rivers that run through the city, the flower-filled balconies — we wandered for hours without realizing it.
• San Francisco Market and 10th of August Market — to eat local and cheap. Quinoa soup, llapingachos, naranjilla juice — the kids tried everything.
• Museum of Popular Arts (CIDAP) — Ecuadorian crafts from all regions. Ideal for understanding the country's different cultures in one visit.
• Cajas National Park — 30 minutes from Cuenca, this high mountain park (3,000-4,400 m) offers hikes around glacial lagoons in a misty, wild setting. Several trail levels. Bring food and warm clothes — it can be cold even in summer.
• Panama Hats (Made in Cuenca) — It is here, and not in Panama, that the famous hats are made. The Homero Ortega factory offers guided tours, and children are fascinated to see the artisanal manufacturing process.

🏨 Where to stay in Cuenca with family

Cuenca offers the most varied and comfortable accommodation on our entire itinerary. We stayed in the historic center, and it's clearly the ideal place - everything is within walking distance, the atmosphere is beautiful, and the neighborhood is safe. Budget: 60-100 $ USD per night for a comfortable family room. The hotel Saint Lucia and the Alcázar Mansion are two superb colonial boutique hotels if you want to splurge. For a tighter budget, several decent hotels in the same area for $40-60 $ USD.

Our budget for 17 days in Ecuador as a family

To give you a concrete idea, here is what we spent on a family trip for 4 people to Ecuador:

• International flights (Quebec City → Quito) 600 $ per person, i.e. 2 400 $ (we were lucky)
• Hotels about 70 $ at night, i.e. 1,190 $ for 17 nights
• Restaurants approximately 30 $ per person per day, i.e. 2 040 $
• Local transport / private cabs and buses : about 300 $
• Internal flights (e.g. Cuenca → Quito ) 75 $ per person, i.e. 300 $
• Activities and excursions : 250 $

Approximate family total for 17 days : ~7 000 $ with little extras

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✅ Travel Checklist — Ecuador · 2 weeks

📋 Documents

• Valid passports 6 months after return
• No visa required for Canadians (90 days)
• Scanned copies in Google Drive
• Printed and PDF travel insurance
• Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
• Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid - check 6 weeks in advance
• Yellow fever recommended for Mindo (rainforest)

👕 Clothing — Extreme Altitude + Jungle

• Ecuador = 4 climates in 2 weeks — layers a must
• Mindo (1200m): warm and humid ~20°C
• Quito (2850m): cool in the evening, 15-20°C
• Cotopaxi/Chimborazo (4500-6000m): Intense cold, glacial wind
• Cuenca (2550m): Spring-like, 15-20°C
• Light down jacket or warm coat — Chimborazo mandatory
• Hat and gloves — Cotopaxi and Chimborazo
• Lightweight waterproof — frequent showers everywhere
• Waterproof hiking boots — volcanic terrain, muddy trails
• Swimsuit for the thermal baths of Baños
• Sandals for the city and evenings

Daypack

• Waterproof bag — rain and waterfalls in Mindo
• SPF 50+ Sunscreen — Extreme UV at Equatorial Altitudes
• Mosquito repellent with DEET — Mindo and rainforest
• Reusable Water Bottles — Critical Hydration at Altitude
• Folding trekking poles — Quilotoa and Chimborazo
• High-protection sunglasses — altitude + equator = maximum UV

💊 Health — Critical Altitude

• Chimborazo at 5000m+ — the most demanding point of the trip
• Gradual acclimatization: Quito (2850m) → Cotopaxi (3800m) → Chimborazo (5000m)
• Possible altitude sickness from Quito—take 24h before exerting yourself
• Coca tea and ibuprofen for altitude headaches
• Traveler's diarrhea medication — bottled water mandatory everywhere
• Complete first-aid kit
• Sufficient quantity of usual medications

📱 Tech — eSIM First

• eSIM strongly recommended — activate BEFORE leaving from Quebec
• Reliable providers: Airalo, Holafly — Ecuador plan available
• Advantage: data upon landing in Quito, no line at the kiosk
• Keep SIM Québec active for banking SMS and 2FA
• No adaptor needed — American plugs like in Quebec
• Offline Google Maps - Limited signal between Quilotoa and Baños
• Power bank — long days without an outlet in rural areas

💰 Budget & Logistics

• US Dollar (USD) — Ecuador uses the US Dollar
• Very affordable prices — one of the cheapest countries in South America
• ATMs available in Quito and Cuenca — withdraw cash before rural areas
• Book a Chimborazo guide in advance — technical ascent, guide required
• Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Park Entrance — bring USD cash
• Reliable and economical intercity bus between stages
• Mindo Chocolate - buy directly from the source, best price and quality

🏔️ Must-sees you shouldn't miss

• Mindo: Zipline over the cloud forest — thrills guaranteed
• Quito Cable Car at 4050m — view of snow-capped volcanoes
• Quilotoa: Hike Along the Crater Rim — Breathtaking Turquoise
• Bathrooms: Bike ride on the Cascade Route - epic descent with teenagers
• Thermal baths in Baños in the evening - perfect after a day of cycling
• Chimborazo: Earth's Farthest Point from its Center - Guaranteed Emotion at the Summit
• Cuenca Market: Local crafts, Panama hats (made in Ecuador!)
• Artisanal Chocolate from Mindo — Plantation Tour, Kids Love It

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Our advice for planning your trip Ecuador with family

If we were to give you just one piece of advice for your Family trip to Ecuador, it would be this one: take the time to acclimate to the altitude. Start in Mindo (1,200m) before heading up to Quito (2,850m), and don't try Cotopaxi or Chimborazo the day after you arrive. Our son got a severe headache on the Quito cable car – we turned back 30 minutes from the summit. It's part of the journey, but with an extra day of acclimatization, we probably would have had a different experience.

For the rest: Trust the local buses, eat at local restaurants (we ate like royalty for 10 $ per person), and let your children set the pace. Ecuador is an extraordinarily family-friendly country—and it might just become your favorite South American destination.