tbpalmtree

flying into Quito, 3/15 -3/24, renting a car for 9 days. Interested in outdoor activities, sightseeing.
Any dos and don'ts? Appreciate any tips, advice, suggestions.
Thanks!

crellston

Highlights for us included ( in no particular order) :

Hiking around Cotopaxi ( a day or overnight trip from Quito)
Hiking the Quilatoa Loop (2 days min)
Mountain Biking down Chimborazo volcano ( from Riobamba)
Otavalo on a weekend for the markets and hikin* around Mojanda Lakes
Cuenca and Cajas NP
Vilcabamba and Podcarpus NP

Some of these places I blogged about @ https://accidentalnomads.com/category/ecuador/



I am not sure if a car would be an advantage or not. We got around entirely by bus but did have much longer. Driving standards are not good and security of parking you car could be an issue. Personally, you couldn’t pay me to rent a car in Quito!

A car plus driver probably wouldn’t work out much more expensive and would be far less hassle.

Clearly you would have to be selective. Maybe entering in Quito and flying back from Cuenca would work to save backtracking

tbpalmtree

Great info! thank you so much. We actually are now flying into GYE...........but I will reconsider the car rental for sure!

PeachyEssay

I love Quito. Spent a year in this city. Stay safe and enjoy Ecuador. Make sure you visit the beach. Also Ambato is my favourite. Let me know if you have any questions.