5 Days in Ecuador – Amazon or Vilcabamba? Best Route Between Quito & Guayaquil? (Skipping Galápagos)

Hey all! I’m looking for advice on how to make the most of 5 full days in Ecuador on a lower budget. I’m arriving in Quito early Tuesday morning (12am) and flying out of Guayaquil on Sunday at 6am — though I can switch my return to be from Quito if that makes more sense logistically.

A few things I’m considering:

• I’d love to visit the Amazon (budget-friendly, of course). Tena or Misahuallí seem to be doable options without going too deep or breaking the bank.
• I was originally thinking about Baños for waterfalls and hiking, but it looks rainy all week and I’m not sure it’s worth it in that case.
• I just discovered Vilcabamba and it looks super dreamy — I’d love to check it out and just slow down there for a few days, do some hiking, soak up the nature, and disconnect.
• I’m trying to decide if I should dedicate my time to either the Amazon or Vilcabamba, instead of rushing through too many places.
• I’m skipping Galápagos this trip — definitely want to do it someday but not with this timeframe/budget.
• I love hiking, nature, and local culture, and I’m not too into beaches or big cities for this trip.

Any suggestions for how to spend my time efficiently between Quito and Guayaquil (or a Quito–Quito loop)? Should I just pick one region (Amazon or Vilcabamba) and dive deep? Would love your tips, sample itineraries, or insight from folks who’ve been.

Thanks in advance — I really want to make the most of it without burning myself out!