So you don’t have a whole month to enjoy the fruits of the equator—don’t despair. You can still see a good chunk of the country in less than 15 days, including a visit to Darwin’s famous isles.

DAY 1
Fly into Quito and check out the highlights of the World Heritage Site that is the centro histórico. Take in the view from Itchimbia or El Panecillo and browse a crafts market or two. Book your Galápagos trip if you haven’t already.

DAY 2
More poking around Quito—head to the New Town for the reptile-filled Vivarium, the Abya Yala Amazon museum, and the Fundación Guayasamín and its Capilla del Hombre.

DAY 3
Head north to Otavalo and its appealing environs, ideally in time for the Saturday market. Spend the night in town or at the Casa Mojanda on the way to the Lagunas de Mojanda.

DAY 4
Another day in the northern highlands, either at the quiet colonial city of Ibarra or hiking around the twin peaks of the Laguna Cuicocha. The town of Cotacachi nearby is known for its leatherwork.

DAY 5
Head south to Quito and onward to Cotopaxi National Park, where you can sleep at a historic hacienda nearby, such as La Ciénega or La Alegria.

DAY 6
Go horseback riding for the day through the gorgeous volcanic scenery of the central highlands. Sleep where you did last night.

DAY 7
Head back to Quito, with a possible afternoon jaunt to the Mitad del Mundo and Pululahua crater. Be back in time to rest up for the next leg of your journey.

DAYS 8–14
A trip to Darwin’s famous isles will take up at least half your visit, but it’s well worth it.