Ecuador Eco-Adventure In Style: Andean Volcanoes & Amazon Jungle

Quito, Ecuador

ST
Safarika Travel
  • Email address verified
  • Facebook verified
58 reviews
Duration: 8 days
Group size: 2 - 10
Ecuador Eco-Adventure In Style: Andean Volcanoes & Amazon Jungle
Quito, Ecuador

Safarika Travel
  • Email address verified
  • Facebook verified
58 reviews

Duration: 8 days
Group size: 2 - 10

About this trip

Explore 2 unique eco-systems and the most beautiful landscapes of Ecuador iN ONE TRIP: 

ANDEAN SIERRA & ECUATORIAL AMAZOINIA


Travel from Latitude 0 along the Andean Range of the  "Avenue of the Volcanoes" down to the tropics of the Route of Waterfalls and then even deeper to the heart of the Amazon jungle, a unique place to be on Earth like no other! Spot the abundance of wildlife and exotic nature as you take a motorized canoe ride along the banks of the mighty Amazon river tributaries!


Travel back in time to the era of the Age of Discovery of the New World. Stay overnight at the hacienda house in the Andes , a mansion of colonial background settled on a rural land . 


Experience Ecuador assisted by our knowledgeable and friendly crew of local english-speaking guides. Learn about Ecuadorian culture, traditions and taste the delicious local cuisine!


* This trip is good for families with kids 9+ yo and can be run on private basis

Trip HIghlights

ECUADOR MAINLAND (ANDES):


💒 Colonial Quito - start your adventure from the capital of Ecuador, travel back in times and walk the streets of the city built by spaniards

🇪🇨 Latitude 0 - Step from northern hemisphere to southern and balance yourself on the Middle of the World 

🌋 Cotopaxi Volcano -Hike the foothills of the one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, covered with ice on its peak! Last time erupted in October 2022!

🏔 Quilotoa Lagoon - Explore the turquoise waters of one of the most beautiful lagoons in South America.

💦  Route of Waterfalls & Swing at the End of the World - Walk to one of the most powerful waterfalls of Ecuador and take canopy rides along the thundering waterfalls of tropical Baños sanctuary 

🌟  Quechua culture - Hunt for trophies at the vibrant local indigenous markets

👙  Papallacta Thermal Springs - Treat yourself relaxing in volcanic-origin hot springs


 AMAZONIA JUNGLE ADVENTURE:


🐢 Take an adventure deep inland into equatorial forests of the Yasuni National Reserve,  a home to an incredible wildlife such as river dolphins, tapirs, caimans, anacondas, ocelots, howler monkeys, piranhas, toucans and more

🛖 Stay 3 nights in ecolodge - rustic cabins with private bathroom, designed to serve all your comforts

🌴 Visit the local indigenous community, and learn about their ways of life, that haven't changed for decades

🛶 Explore the unique green world of primary jungle walking the trails, from the observation tower elevated above the trees, and in daily motorized canoe rides on the maze of waterways and tributaries of the Amazon river

Travel entry requiremenents

Certification of vaccination for COVID-19 or a negative covid test are NO LONGER REQUIRED

All visitors must complete a digital form (one per person) before arrival.


Your travel passport should be valid no less than 6 months from the date of entry to Ecuador.

Trip Cancellations

In if the Trip departure is canceled by Organizer, the amount paid by Participant will be fully refundable. If the trip is cancelled by Participant due to any personal reason, the following penalties will be applied: 

Cancellation out of 60 days before departure - fully refundable

Cancellation 61 to 45 days before departure - registration deposit is non-refundable (but can be transferrable to other person).

Cancellation 44 to 0 calendar days before departure – non refundable


We highly recommend to purchase Trip Cancellation Insurance to protect yourself from unexpected cancellations due to medial or any other reasons.

Altitude and Acclimatizing

At the elevation of the city of Quito (2850m/9000ft) some people feel mild symptoms of altitude sickness. That's normal. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. With altitude sickness, you may have a headache, nausea or trouble sleeping.  As a suggestion for successful acclimatizing drink plenty of water and herbal teas, avoid alcohol drinks on the first days of your trip. If you have a headache, take medications immediately.

(!) People with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and pregnant women are strongly recommended to consult a therapist before having a high-altitude trip.

Weather & Packing list

GENERAL ITEMS

Middle sized suitcase for your main luggage (please check out for the airlines restrictions for max allowed checked luggage weight)

A small day-pack (for day-tours and in town walks)

Refillable water bottle (1-1.5L)

Personal first aid kit (personal medication for migraines treatment, Imodium or similar, motion sickness (dramamine), band-a

** If you bring a photo-camera: charger + extra memory cards (if you run out of memory space, getting a new one can be expensive or difficult. If you bring a tripod, make it a lightweight non-bulky


QUITO & ANDEAN REGION

Altitude 9500-12000feet, 

Average air temp: 55-70F, Windy, Possibility of rains in the afternoons (low in July)


Windbreaker jacket

Fleece jacket or warm hoodie

Beanie & gloves

Hiking pants, windproof 

Sunscreen UV 50+

Lip balm with sun protection

Sunglasses

Tennis shoes

Cotopaxi day-hike: Trekking shoes

Refillable water bottle (1-1.5L)


AMAZON RAINFOREST

Altitude 0-1500Feet, Average air temperature 80-85F,

Very humid, High possibility of showers and thunderstorm


Lightweight pants (sweatpants/ bermudas)

Change of t-shirts

Long sleeve loose cotton shirt (protection against the sun and insects)

Swimming suite

Sunhat or bandana

A windbreaker jacket (for early morning and late evening motorized canoe rides)

Quick-dry sandals or flip flops

Sunscreen (SPF 50+). 

Mosquito repellent 

Sunglasses

Headlamp with extra-batteries

Binoculars – good to have for canoe rides and observation tower wildlife watching

Refillable water bottle (1-1.5L)


Provided gear at the lodge (at no extra cost):

Raincoats 

Rubber boots for jungle walks 

Things to know about Amazonia:

ECO-LODGE  & CABINS

Located in the natural reserve (national park), at the water, allowing you to experience a special affinity with wildlife. 

The Lodge is a few guest bungalows and a gazebo-dining room, a terrace for relaxing in the hammocks. 

All bungalows are interconnected by small wooden bridges and footpaths. 

The rooms are  comfortable, queen beds in every cabin, provided with bed linen, towels, toilet paper and private bathroom in every cabin.  Each room is divided into two parts: bathroom cabin and a bedroom. 

Everything is built from the same simple eco-friendly materials as the native houses. Bungalows are built on platform on stilts, elevated above the ground.


ELECTRICITY is provided from solar panels. Do not forget to turn off the lights in your bungalow every time before leaving, to save the energy and also because light attracts small insects.

You won't find TV's, radio, hair-dryers, or iron in the rooms due to the high energy consumption. There is no laundry facilities at the lodge, that’s why bring a change of clothes. 

Artificial lighting is not arranged outside the bungalows during the night, as it can disturb or change the behavior of nocturnal inhabitants of the jungle. Therefore, every time you leave your room after the dark don't forget to take a headlamp or flashlight with you. 

You can charge your electronic devices/camera for free in the dining area.

WiFi is available to use in the dining are, however it can be slow


TAKING  A SHOWER

Water heating for taking shower in each bungalow is for max 18-19L per day and taken from rivers and lakes. Please, try to save the water when taking a shower. Be prepared for the fact that the water is heated from the sun, so if the day is cloudy, the water may be just warm,  but not hot as at home :)


ECO-FRIENDLY RULES

For the sake of sustainability please try not to use any spray-fragrances or spray-deodorants (use repellent or sunblock in a lotion, not spray please). 

Travelers are encouraged to use their bio-gradable cosmetics/shampoos

Throw used toilet paper in the trash container in your bathroom (please follow this rule everywhere in Ecuador)


DAY-TOURS in the rainforest are always accompanied by local naturalist-guide and consist of moderate hikes and exploring the area in motorized canoe for up to 10-12 passengers. Naturalist guide is a true wildlife expert, who was born and raised in the region, he is a ranger who is looking out for animals and responsible for the safety of the group. Always listen to his advice and recommendations and try to keep quiet not to frighten the wildlife.

Swimming is possible in the rainy season when the water level in the rivers and lakes is high enough. Always follow the recommendations of your guide about the choice of places for swimming


VISITING NATIVE COMMUNITY

Remember that you are guests in a completely different culture and traditions which may seem rather strange to a western world

Please don't take pictures or videos of locals without their permission 

Guests are usually offered to taste “chicha”,  the local beer made from cassava. Do not decline, as it may offend the hosts. You can sip a drink or just pretend you are drinking 

Please do not give money to local children, it may lead to begging. You can bring small learning materials, small gifts from your country. Locals will happily accept that


MEALS AT THE LODGE - FULL BOARD

Breakfast at the lodge is usually served at ~8AM, lunch  ~at 1PM, and dinner - at 7.30PM. 

Meals and non-alcoholic drinks  are included in the price of your package.

Drinking water for bottle refills are provided at no cost.

Tea and coffee are always available in the dining area.

Sodas and alcoholic drinks are available at the additional cost at the bar (although don't expect the variety except local beer and wine, it is allowed to bring your own alcohol)


TELEPHONE CALLS / WiFI

There is no telephone reception in the lodge. 

In the case of emergency, the staff of the lodge use satellite phone.

WiFi is available in dining area

Drinking water

Please use ONLY bottled drinking water.  

Tap water is good only for brushing your teeth.

What’s included

  • Lodging
    Hotels 4* in Quito, Colonial-style hacienda (mansion) in Cotopaxi, Upscale eco-lodge in Amazon jungle
  • Domestic flgiths
    Roundtrip to/from Amazonia
  • Day-tours & activities
    All mentioned day-tours, activities and arrangements
  • Included Meal Plan
    Quito: Breakfasts in hotels; Cotopaxi: Full Board, Amazonia lodge: Full board
  • Ground Transportation
    Quito: Private van; Amazon: 2 shared airport transfers & canoe-rides
  • Parking fees, tolls, gas
    all included
  • Professional Assistance
    Certified english-speaking local guides
  • Provided gear
    Jungle: Rain-ponchos and rubber boots

What’s not included

  • Flights
    International flights start at $700 USD roundtrip from SFO
  • Admissions
    Papallacta thermal springs $23-25per person
  • Meals
    Lunches and dinners in Quito, Baños, Quilotoa
  • Travel insurance
    Medical & Trip cancellations
  • Optional activities
    Horseback riding in hacienda Cotopaxi (paid directly)

Available Packages

Adult traveler (12+)
Available until 62 days before departure
$3,100
Deposit: $1,000
Child (under 12)
Available until 61 days before departure
$2,850
Deposit: $1,000


Itinerary

Day 1 (Fri)
Hola, Ecuador! Arrival in Quito, the capital of Ecuador

Arrival to Quito at 2:44PM from MIA (AA 2163)

Meet with your local english-speaking guide at the airport terminal exit and drive to town (45min - 1 hr). Hotel check-in, evening at your own.

Overnight in Hotel 4* in Quito


Altitude - 2850m (9 350ft)

Your Organizer


ST
Safarika Travel
58 reviews
Safarika Adventure Club (Safarika Travel Inc.) was founded in Los Angeles (CA) in the year 2013. Legal travel provider on the territory of United States (California Seller of Travel License # 2112795-40) since 2013. Founder & CEO - Karina Safari, professional adventure travel organizer and team leader since 2011. Specialization: in small group hiking trips in South America and beyond, as well as private eco-adventures for families.

Reviews

Had an amazing time on a trip! Great and busy itinerary and we managed to see a lot of things in a short period of time. Thank you for organizers for making it smooth and interesting!
By Anna R for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 12, 2024
SC
What an amazing experience! I was eager to visit Patagonia, knew it'd be great and had quite high expectations for it - but all these expectations were exceeded with a huge margin. Where to start? Hikes with breathtaking views around El Chalten and El Calafate (by far the most beautiful places I've even been), rugged beauty of Terra del Fuego, vibes of Buenos Aires - this is something that'll be remembered for life. Another thing worth noting is flawless organization of the trip, and the care we got from Karina and our tour lead Masha. We've never had to worry about transportation, accommodation or any other logistics and could fully focus on experiencing the beauties around. Last but not the least, as already noted in another review, we started as a group of strangers and ended as a group of friends for life. Karina and Masha - thank you for an amazing and very well-organized trip and for one of the best experiences in my life!
By Sergey C for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 07, 2024
MS
Amazing trip! Spotless organization and communication, Spanish speaking guide who has become our dearest friend. This trip has started as a group of starangers and ended by a group of friends for life. The trip itself consisted of a perfect combination of moderate-to-challenging physical activity amid unimaginable scenery of southern Argentina, where no day was like any other. Thank you Karina for exceptionally well researched and organized trip.
By Misha S for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 06, 2024
Patagonia trip was an unforgettable experience. Great people, stunning views, excellent food and convenient lodging. Everything was organized extremely well, and our team leader Masha went above and beyond taking care of all logistics, so all that was left for us was relax and enjoy Argentina. Highly recommended!
By Roman B for Patagonia: Epic hiking adventure in Argentina on Mar 06, 2024
Morocco trip was one of the best trips I've ever had! I got everything I dreamed of and even more. The trip was organized in a way that we didn't have to worry about anything. We stayed in great hotels, tried authentic delicious food in fancy restaurants, the local guide showed us the most beautiful places. Thank you, Karina, for helping us to see and feel this beautiful country!
By IRINA L for All colors of Morocco. Escape to Sahara Desert on Nov 13, 2023
Show More Reviews

References

YM
One of the best trips I've done! I am mainly either a solo traveler or prefer to go with my family But 4 days hiking trip to Montana Glacier NP has changed my preferences :) Thank you very much, it's been a pleasure and FUN Met so many interesting intelligent people, would highly recommend if you enjoy active vacations
By Yelena M on 10 Sep, 2020
GL
I traveled with Karina to Patagonia in 2020 and it was awesome! Perfect planning & organization throughout the trip, including dealing with the unexpected (e.g. lost luggage). I really liked other folks in the group and made several new friends in this trip. I highly recommend Karina's trips to casual and semi-serious hikers, and plan to be a return customer myself.
By Grigory L on 14 Mar, 2020
Thank you, Karina, for a wonderful first time experience of active adventure trip! Everything is well thought and organized. Would recommend to anyone!
By Aizhan T on 20 Jun, 2019