3 days · Quito itinerary

Quito in 3 Days: The Complete Itinerary

Three days in Quito covers the city, a volcano and Andean nature. Here is how to spend three perfect days in Ecuador — with the best-rated tours and day trips to book for each.

At a glance

1Day 1: Old Town & equator
2Day 2: Cotopaxi
3Day 3: Quilotoa or Mindo
4City, volcano & nature

Day 1: city & equator

Old Town, cable car and the Middle of the World.

Day 2: Cotopaxi

Hike the national park beneath the volcano.

Day 3: Quilotoa or Mindo

The emerald crater lake or the cloud forest.

Quito in 3 days — FAQ

Is 3 days enough for Quito?

Three days is ideal — the city and equator on day one, Cotopaxi on day two, and the Quilotoa crater lake or Mindo cloud forest on day three, covering Quito’s colonial heart and the spectacular Andes.

What is the best day trip from Quito for 3 days?

Cotopaxi is the most iconic, Quilotoa the most breathtaking, and Mindo the most lush; all reward your time around Quito.

How do I plan a 3-day Quito itinerary?

Spend day one in the Old Town and at the equator, day two at Cotopaxi, and day three at Quilotoa or Mindo, booking the popular day trips ahead.

Explore more in Quito

Old Town & Cable Car Middle of the World Cotopaxi Volcano Quilotoa Crater Lake