13 Days Exploring Ecuador’s Highlands And Rainforest

As you wing your way into Quito, the walls of this Andean valley rise to greet you as do the volcanic peaks all around. The city spreads across the valley floor, climbing its sides up narrow, winding roads. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once you land and take care of the formalities, a driver will meet you and take you to your hotel, a charmingly colorful place with welcoming rooms.

• Breakfast

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the iconic Pan-American Highway, beginning with a visit to the Quitsato solar clock in Cayambe, a cultural monument on the equator with stunning views of the snow-capped Cayambe volcano. Savor authentic Ecuadorian coffee and the region’s famous Bizcochos before heading to Otavalo, home to South America’s largest indigenous handicraft market. Take in breathtaking views of San Pablo Lake and Imbabura Hill, then enjoy shopping at the vibrant La Plaza de los Ponchos and Cotacachi’s artisan leather market. Conclude your adventure at the stunning Cuicocha Lagoon, nestled in a volcanic crater, where a short walk to a viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the lagoon’s turquoise waters and islets. Return to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, setting the tone for a day of exploration. You'll be picked up and whisked away to the captivating Historic Center of Quito, where every cobblestone, plaza, and colonial structure tells tales of centuries gone by. This cherished district earned its UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 1978, and it's not hard to see why. Our adventure begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Basilica, a neo-Gothic masterpiece. Its stained glass windows come alive with vibrant floral scenes, while playful gargoyles pay homage to the country's rich wildlife. Climb the towers for a sweeping view that will surely steal your breath away. Next, step into the grandeur of the San Francisco convent, a sprawling testament to history, and be captivated by the opulent baroque splendor of La Compañía church, where various artistic styles seamlessly blend within gold-adorned interiors.

• Breakfast

You will start your day at Cotopaxi National Park. You will visit Lake Limpiopungo, located in the highlands of the park. Here, you will have a spectacular view of Cotopaxi Volcano's gigantic cone. Lake Limpiopungo offers a variety of birds, and occasionally even wild horses. A short walk around the lake will allow you to admire the Andean plant and animal life along the way. Then, you will visit another highlight: Quilotoa Lagoon. This 2-mile (3 km) wide crater lake is filled with 820 feet (250 m) of mineral-rich green water. Hike along the lake's outer rim, enjoying the views from three lava domes, or follow a path to the lake itself. Hiking in the area, especially uphill, can be challenging, so consider renting a mule for some help along the way. After exploring the lake, it's time to travel south to Baños de Agua Santa, a city on the edge of the Amazonian Basin known for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls.

• Breakfast

Choose your adventure today: Option 1: Explore Baños along the scenic Waterfall Route, visiting stunning cascades like Manto de la Novia and Pailón del Diablo, with optional cable car rides and forest hikes. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon back in Baños. Option 2: Immerse yourself in the Amazon with a visit to an animal rescue center, a guided jungle hike to a hidden waterfall, and breathtaking views of the jungle canopy from Indichuris lookout. Both promise unforgettable experiences!

• Breakfast

Enjoy a free day in Baños de Agua Santa, a paradise for adventure and relaxation. Soak in the rejuvenating hot springs, explore the vibrant town, or hike to stunning waterfalls. Embark on an exhilarating bike ride along the famous Ruta de las Cascadas, and try your hand at canyoning, zip- lining, or bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush. Experience the thrill of white-water rafting, take a scenic cable car ride, or visit the Swing at the End of the World for breathtaking views. With its diverse activities set against a backdrop of lush landscapes, Baños offers something for every traveler.

• Breakfast

Kickstart your day with a morning adventure, tracing the Rio Patate's winding path from Baños into the lush rainforest, where Puyo awaits with a tempting breakfast stop (not included). As the day unfolds, you'll head north, passing through Misahualli and along the Rio Napo, before arriving at the enchanting Paikawe Lagoon within its private sanctuary. Here, hop into a canoe for an intimate wildlife-viewing experience amidst the tranquil waters. Afterward, private transportation will take you to Lago Agrio, a journey of about a five-hour ride that offers glimpses of the Ecuadorian countryside. As the day draws to a close, find comfort in Lago Agrio, where a cozy night's rest awaits, promising more incredible adventures on the horizon.

• Breakfast

Your adventure begins at El Puente del Cuyabeno, the gateway to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, where you embark on a 2.5-hour motorized canoe journey along the winding Cuyabeno River. As you glide through the river, surrounded by lush jungle, you’ll spot monkeys, colorful birds, and perhaps even sloths or caimans. The serene river reflects the vibrant green forest canopy, creating a surreal landscape. Upon arrival at the Amazon Lodge, you’ll be greeted with a refreshing cocktail, then settle into your rooms before enjoying a hearty lunch. In the afternoon, head to Laguna Grande, a peaceful waterway rich in wildlife, where you can swim and watch a breathtaking sunset over the lagoon. As night falls, embark on a nocturnal excursion to spot bats and caimans, experiencing the jungle’s vibrant sounds. Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and a preview of tomorrow's adventures.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

As the morning sun rises, we’ll begin our day with a visit to the Observation Tower, offering sweeping views of the lush jungle canopy and the breathtaking landscapes beyond. After a short hike through the vibrant forest, we’ll return to the lodge for a nourishing breakfast. Later, we’ll set off by canoe or on foot to dive deeper into the heart of the jungle, where we’ll uncover the fascinating world of medicinal plants and learn how native cultures have used them for centuries. Following lunch and a restful pause, we’ll embark on an afternoon paddle along the tranquil Cuyabeno River. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Amazon, we’ll keep our eyes open for glimpses of exotic wildlife—perhaps a flash of vibrant feathers, the curious gaze of a river dolphin, or the stealthy movement of a caiman. As night falls, we’ll return to the lodge for a well-earned dinner, with the sights and sounds of the Amazon vivid in our minds.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Begin your day with a serene canoe ride at dawn, gliding through calm waters surrounded by the stunning Amazon landscape. This peaceful journey offers the perfect opportunity to observe a vibrant variety of bird species in their natural habitat. After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, visit the Siona Indigenous community, where you'll immerse yourself in Amazonian culture by participating in the cassava harvest and learning to prepare the traditional bread, “Cassave.” Share lunch with the community and gain insights into their customs and traditions. In the afternoon, take a guided jungle walk to uncover the fascinating world of insects, spiders, and colorful tree frogs hidden among the lush vegetation. End the day with a relaxing dinner back at the lodge.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

At first light, we’ll set out on a final canoe excursion, gliding through the misty waters as the jungle awakens around us. This serene journey offers a last chance to soak in the breathtaking landscapes and spot some of the Amazon’s captivating wildlife—perhaps colorful birds perched overhead, playful river otters, or a shy caiman along the riverbank. After a hearty breakfast back at the lodge, we’ll pack up and check out at 8:00 am. With a boxed lunch in hand, we’ll start our journey back to El Puente de Cuyabeno, surrounded by the unforgettable sights and sounds of the Amazon one last time. Arriving around 10:30 am, we’ll board a private bus and begin our scenic route back to Quito, carrying memories of the stunning wilderness with us.

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Get ready for a day packed with Ecuadorian wonders! Our adventure kicks off in the morning to Paikawe Lagoon for some enchanting wildlife encounters and a playful canoe ride. Ever wondered about the magic of Ecuadorian chocolate? Get the insider's scoop and even taste a bit! Next, we'll visit the Santa Rita neighborhood for a tour of a cocoa farm, followed by a traditional lunch experience (not included). In the afternoon, prepare for ultimate relaxation at the Papallacta Hot Springs. These soothing waters hold the very essence of volcanic energy, offering a truly rejuvenating experience. Whether you're into local delicacies, scenic hikes, or spa treatments, there's something for everyone here.

• Breakfast

At the designated time for your international flight, your private driver will be waiting for you at your hotel lobby to help you with your luggage and drive you to the airport for your departure.

• Breakfast