If you only have a few days, dedicate all of your time to exploring the history, architecture, and culture of Quito. If you have time and are feeling active, dedicate one of those day to a hike up the active Volcán Pichincha.
One Week
Ecuador’s small size makes it easy to spend time in both the Amazon and Quito on a one-week trip. The best way to organize your time is to fly into Quito and spend two or three nights there, then venture south to the remote Amazon village of Kapawi for four nights.
Two Weeks
Tack on to the above itinerary a week-long trip to the Galapagos to see the wealth of wildlife that inspired Darwin.