Ready to explore both the Andes and the Amazon? This is your adventure!
Day 1
Arrival in Quito
Upon arrival in Quito, a driver will be waiting for you at the airport. The journey to your hotel in Quito’s historic center takes approximately two hours. Take some time to rest, adjust to the altitude, and get ready for the beautiful days ahead.
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Day 2
Views over Quito & the Equator
Ride the cable car up the slopes of the Pichincha volcano, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views over Quito. At the top, you will have time to walk around, take in the scenery, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Afterwards, your guide will go over several options with you so you can choose your own local lunch experience. In the afternoon, continue to the famous Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the monument and learn more about the equator and its fascinating history.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 2]()
Day 3
Markets, Lakes & Local Crafts
Discover the highlights of northern Ecuador: Otavalo, Cuicocha, and Cotacachi. Begin at the colorful Otavalo market, then continue to the impressive Cuicocha crater lake before visiting the peaceful town of Cotacachi, famous for its leather craftsmanship. Enjoy the stunning scenery, take a walk, and experience the perfect mix of nature and culture in the Andes.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 3]()
Day 4
Start of Your Amazon Adventure
During the night, you will travel towards the Amazon rainforest and arrive in the morning at El Puente de Cuyabeno, where your guide will give an introduction to the reserve and the activities ahead. From there, continue with a beautiful two-hour canoe ride through the jungle towards the lodge, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as monkeys and reptiles along the way. Upon arrival, lunch will be served and you will have some time to relax. In the afternoon, visit Laguna Grande for a swim and enjoy a magical sunset surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest. In the evening, head out on a nighttime river excursion in search of caimans and boas. A truly unique experience in the darkness of the Amazon.
Breakfast Lunch Diner ![timeline-image-Day 4]()
Day 5
Wildlife & River Adventure in the Amazon
Travel deeper into the rainforest by canoe while learning about the wildlife and medicinal plants found along the way. During a jungle walk, you may encounter birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals hidden within the forest. In the afternoon, there is time to relax. Read a book, take a swim, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the jungle. During the right season, you may even spot the famous pink river dolphins. Later in the day, head out on another canoe excursion along the river in search of sloths, monkeys, parrots, and caimans. The day ends with a night walk around the lodge, where you will discover the fascinating nocturnal life of the Amazon.
Breakfast Lunch Diner ![timeline-image-Day 5]()
Day 6
Canoeing Through the Amazon
Until now, most excursions have been done by motorized canoe. Today, you will experience the Amazon in a different way as you paddle through the rainforest by canoe yourself. Without the sound of a motor, you will have a unique opportunity to observe wildlife up close and fully enjoy the silence and beauty of the jungle. You will also visit a local community, where you can experience daily life in the rainforest and learn more about the traditions and culture of its inhabitants. An active day filled with both nature and culture.
Breakfast Lunch Diner ![timeline-image-Day 6]()
Day 7
Birdwatching & Return to Civilization
Wake up early for a special birdwatching experience, at the perfect moment when the birds become most active and can be beautifully observed. Afterwards, enjoy your final breakfast in the Amazon before packing your bags for departure. Your last excursion of the journey is a canoe ride from the lodge back to El Puente de Cuyabeno, offering one final opportunity to spot wildlife along the river. In the evening, you will arrive back in Quito, where you will stay at a hotel near the airport.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 7]()
Day 8
See You Again, Ecuador!
Your adventure on mainland Ecuador has come to an end. Perhaps you will choose to extend your journey to the enchanting Galapagos Islands, or maybe it is time to return home. Whichever path your travels take next, you will leave with unforgettable memories. Memories of special moments, new flavors, unexpected encounters, and the sense of freedom that makes traveling so unique.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 8]()
Do you enjoy a fast-paced itinerary and an active adventure tour? Then this is the perfect journey for you!
Day 1
Off to the Amazon!
You will be welcomed at the airport in Quito and travel approximately 3.5 hours to a beautiful lodge in Tena, located in the Ecuadorian Amazon region. After arrival, there will be time to relax and enjoy the swimming pool if you wish. In the evening, dinner will be served. Prepare for the adventures ahead and enjoy a good night’s sleep surrounded by nature.
Diner ![timeline-image-Day 1]()
Day 2
Rafting & Night Walk
Today is all about adventure as you go rafting through the Amazon! Experience the rainforest from its most exciting side while navigating a beautiful mix of thrilling rapids and calmer sections where you can fully enjoy the surrounding nature. Along the way, you will discover the rainforest from a unique perspective on the water. An unforgettable experience that perfectly fits this environment. In the evening, head out on a guided walk through the Amazon with a local guide. You will learn more about the flora and fauna of the rainforest while hearing fascinating stories and insights about life in the jungle.
Breakfast Diner ![timeline-image-Day 2]()
Day 3
Jungle Walk & Departure to Baños
After breakfast, it is time for a guided walk through the Amazon rainforest. Together with your guide, you will follow jungle trails through dense rainforest and alongside rivers while learning about medicinal plants, insects, and the incredible biodiversity of the region. With a bit of luck, you may spot sloths, anteaters, or toucans along the way. After the hike, continue your journey to Baños de Agua Santa. During the approximately three-hour drive, you will watch the lush Amazon landscape gradually transform into the dramatic scenery of the Andes.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 3]()
Day 4
The Most Famous Treehouse
Today you will visit the most famous treehouse in South America: Casa del Árbol. From here, you will enjoy spectacular views over the surrounding mountains and valleys. The iconic swing gives you the feeling of floating above the cliffs, with the active Tungurahua volcano in the background. It is the perfect place to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy a touch of adventure. You will also make an approximately two-hour hike through the area before visiting a special hidden location where you can enjoy coffee and optionally have lunch. The exact place will remain a surprise for now.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 4]()
Day 5
Waterfalls Hike
Baños is famous for its many spectacular waterfalls. Today’s hike takes approximately three hours and brings you to one of the most impressive and well-known waterfalls in Ecuador: Pailón del Diablo. You will walk through the forest, cross hanging bridges, and enjoy beautiful views of the river and waterfalls along the way. Several viewpoints offer perfect opportunities to take in the scenery. Today, you will also have the option to ride the traditional tarabita cable car. Your guide will explain the different cable car options available, and for those looking for even more adventure, ziplining is also possible.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 5]()
Day 6
Adventure at the Crater Lake
Today, visit the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake. Hike along the rim of the crater while enjoying spectacular views of the turquoise water and the surrounding Andes mountains. Along the trail, several viewpoints offer incredible photo opportunities and panoramic scenery. After the hike, continue your journey to a charming lodge in the heart of the Andean highlands. Here, you can enjoy an authentic rural atmosphere and the peaceful surroundings. The lodge serves a delicious local meal prepared with fresh, homemade ingredients. For those who enjoy longer trekking experiences, it is also possible to turn this into a three-day hike.
Breakfast Diner ![timeline-image-Day 6]()
Day 7
One of the Highest Active Volcanoes in the World
Today you leave the lodge and travel towards Cotopaxi. Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and one of Ecuador’s most impressive natural highlights. Often covered in snow, the volcano offers spectacular scenery and breathtaking views. Around the volcano, there are several activities to choose from, including hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking. Afterwards, continue your journey towards the beautiful Quijos Valley.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 7]()
Day 8
Birdwatching
Wake up in the beautiful Quijos Valley, one of Ecuador’s hidden natural treasures. Ecuador is considered one of the best destinations in the world for bird lovers and is among the most biodiverse regions on the planet, with more than 600 bird species recorded in this area alone. Today, together with your guide, you will have the opportunity to spot a wide variety of these incredible birds while learning more about the unique flora and fauna of this remarkable region.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 8]()
Day 9
Whitewater Rafting
The river next to the lodge is known as one of the best rivers in Ecuador for whitewater rafting, featuring fast-flowing waters and exciting rapids. During today’s adventure, you will experience the perfect combination of adrenaline and nature. Together with an experienced guide, you will navigate the rapids while enjoying the lush green scenery surrounding the river. With a bit of luck, you may even spot birds or other wildlife along the riverbanks. If you prefer, you can also choose a different activity such as fishing, mountain biking, or horseback riding.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 9]()
Day 10
See You Again, Ecuador!
Your adventure on mainland Ecuador has come to an end. Perhaps you will choose to extend your journey to the enchanting Galapagos Islands, or maybe it is time to return home. Whichever direction your journey takes next, you will leave with unforgettable memories. Memories of special moments, new flavors, unexpected encounters, and the feeling of freedom that makes traveling so unique.
Breakfast ![timeline-image-Day 10]()
