help with ecuador to peru itinerary

Planning 8 week trip starting with 8 day cruise in Galapagos isles ,flying into Quito and back from Lima Peru.Can someone suggest an overland route breaking this long trip up with some good base cities for exploring{jungle treks Amazon cruises etc.}Is flying as expensive as the prices I"m seeing in the US[450$for round trip or one way Quito to Lima].Any suggestions would be greatlly appreciated.

Quito and Cuenca are good base cities to explore from. Ecuador is a small but very diverse country. You could take the bus (with a reputable company to cross the border into Peru) from Guayaquil and explore Peru on the way down to Lima by breaking up your journey. I don't know much about touring in Peru but the Peru forum willl help you there.

Days in Ecuador should include the World Heritage sites of Galapagos, Quito, Sangay NP (Baños) & Cuenca. Vilcabamba is popular & convenient to cross via Loja to Piura on international bus.

Peru Ecuador border

North Peru

Peru Ecuador Amazon