Questions, I have questions.

Inside Ecuador round trip air from one big city to another should run around $120 round trip.  Don´t try to drive to Ecuador I know 2 people who have done it and they would never do it again.

How about from the USA to Ecuador? And back? Any local airline to look at?

I have been studying all the alternate possibilities for transportation to Ecuador.  After 5 weeks in Cotacachi I am bound to get back, but air fair is quite high now.  About $1800 round for 2 (cheapair.com)  Depending on where you live.
As for driving, not a consideration.
2 things.
(1) You can’t get south of Panama without putting your vehicle on a boat. ($$$$) Would cost less to fly. 
(2) Mexico isn’t the safest place to be right now.
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact me.  I know what your going thru and there is a lot of help available.

Try Taca Airlines. They generally have a good fare. I like their service, and I like NOT landing at 10PM or later (Their flights arrive in the early afternoon)

Rosetta Stone is a very good student aid. Having a private tutor is very inexpensive in Ecuador, being in a Spanish speaking country learning the language you will get it quick.I can definitely help you out with this matter.I taught Spanish in the USA

I have found that Rosetta Stone is the best at home learning tool.  Nothing really compares to a good physical class room or a tutor as this forces you to really take the time to sit down and learn.

LAN airlines is my favorite ~ hands down (opinion, of course!!).  Currently they have deals going on from Miami-Guayaquil $399 r/t plus tax or New York-Guayaquil $599 r/t plus tax (of course, check the terms and conditions!!) 

Best way to learn language is via immersion, but getting a jump start with a program like Rosetta Stone or Pimsleur is very helpful.

Hope this helps!

Thank you Salinagirl, I had never heard of LAN.