Day 1:
Day 1:
From Highlands to Amazon

Start your adventure with us at 8:00 AM from our conveniently located office at Esquina de las Artes in Cuenca. From there, we journey toward the breathtaking continental divide. Along the way, we’ll visit the renowned Tejedoras of Sigsig, where you can purchase an authentic Panama hat directly from the skilled hands of the weavers—a perfect keepsake for the trip.

From the summit at 3,500 meters above sea level, we’ll begin our descent Rawayana Guayusa, where we will discover the Guayusa plant and the traditional use by the locals to make a beautifull tea. Here we have the option of a short hike to a nice waterfall with the chance to dip into its refreshing waters—a rejuvenating experience for body and soul.

Next, we head to the historic Hacienda La Aureliana. Delight in a farm-to-table Lunch featuring the flavors of Ecuador, followed by an exclusive tour of their cacao plantation. Learn the fascinating process of chocolate-making and create your very own chocolate bar to take home—a sweet reminder of your day.

As the day winds down, we’ll make our way to Nueva Tarqui, where you’ll check in at the charming Hotel Rio Vida. Dinner is yours to savor, whether you choose to dine at the hotel or explore the local cuisine in Nueva Tarqui.
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Dia 2:
Dia 2:
Rafting and Botanical Garden

Start your morning with a short 20-minute drive to the beginning of an exhilarating adventure: rafting on the Cuyes River. This carefully designed experience balances the thrill of adrenaline with top-notch safety measures, allowing you to fully embrace the beauty of nature.

At the end of the rafting tour, enjoy a refreshing dip in the river before returning to Hotel Rio Vida for a delicious lunch and a quick change for the afternoon’s activities.

After lunch, we’ll take a scenic 20-minute drive to Gualaquiza. Explore its charming church and central park before visiting a private reserve that has been transformed into an awe-inspiring botanical garden. Discover the diverse local Amazonian flora, and you may even spot some of the mammals that call this protected forest home.

To cap off the day, we’ll visit a traditional sugar cane processing factory, where you’ll learn about the artisanal methods used to create the finest panela.

We then return to Rio Vida Lodge, where you can relax and reflect on the day. Dinner is on your own, with the option to enjoy a meal at the lodge or explore nearby dining options.

This day promises the perfect blend of excitement, discovery, and relaxation in the heart of the southern amazon of Ecuador
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Dia 3:
Dia 3:
Visit to a Shuar Community and Visit to Zamora
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a 30-minute drive to a Shuar community, where you’ll be immersed in the fascinating traditions of this legendary Amazonian tribe.

Guided by local Shuar experts, you’ll learn about their ancestral hunting techniques, dances, songs, language, and unique way of life—a truly enriching cultural experience.

Share a memorable lunch with the community before continuing your journey to Zamora, known as the city of waterfalls and birds. This vibrant area offers a blend of natural beauty and serene charm.

As the day comes to a close, check in at Copalinga Reserve, a haven of conservation and biodiversity. This extraordinary lodge has been preserved through dedicated local efforts, offering you a unique opportunity to connect with nature.

Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge as you unwind from a day filled with discovery, connection, and wonder. This experience promises to leave you inspired and refreshed.

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Dia 4:
Dia 4:
Podocarpus National Park exploration
For the early birds, begin your morning with a peaceful birdwatching experience.
Marvel at the vibrant tanagers, toucans, parrots, parakeets, and the enchanting hummingbirds as they flit among the flowers and feeders at the lodge—all while savoring a cup of freshly brewed local coffee.

After breakfast, embark on a short hike to the stunning grounds of the National Park. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Bombuscaro River, an invigorating way to connect with nature.

Return to Copalinga for a delicious lunch.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish—relax at the lodge, explore the nearby trails, or spend more time by the river.

Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner at the lodge. For those seeking more adventure, an optional night hike offers a chance to experience the magic of the forest after dark, unveiling its nocturnal wonders.

This day is designed to let you immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility while offering moments of adventure and discovery.

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Day 5:
Day 5:
Loja, Saraguro and Return to Cuenca
After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the lodge, we journey to the historic city of Loja. Here, you’ll explore its beautiful colonial church and charming parks, soaking in the city’s rich heritage. Indulge in local delicacies, including the famed bocadillos, a sweet treat that captures the flavors of the region.

Our adventure continues to Saraguro, a town known for its vibrant indigenous culture. Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at the renowned ShamuiCO.

After lunch, we begin our scenic drive back to Cuenca, ensuring you arrive by 6:00 PM.

This day is the perfect conclusion to your journey, blending history, culture, and gastronomy with Ecuador’s natural beauty.

End of Services

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Day 1:

From Highlands to Amazon

Our trip was absolutely magical. The lodge is beautiful and very comfortable. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable about the flora, fauna, and belong to the Sani Nation. They were incredible hosts. Also, the food was so delicious, the service was kind and efficient. We felt well taken care of and welcome. I would definitely book there again.

By Karina C for Sani Lodge 3d2n NCI 13 pax on Mar 03, 2025

A deluxe tour with a nice car, a highly-educated guide, and perfect English from the guides. They don't rush you, but they have everything planned perfectly so that you have a huge number of experiences packed into one tour. Everything we ever saw on youtube about these towns outside of Cuenca, the tour included them.

By Carl W for Gualaceo - Chordeleg - San Bartolo on Sep 22, 2024

I would call this the deluxe tour company in Cuenca. Everything is done for maximum safety and legality. The guides speak perfect English, are officially licensed, and have a deep personal respect for the ecology, history, and future of Ecuador. You can probably find cheaper tours, but you will miss the expert commentary of the highly-educated guides. You won't get the high reliability of this company and the excellent vehicles they use to transport you. Paying a little more for peace of mind is really a good investment in a poor country. We had a great time being shown around by someone who deeply cares about Ecuador and its conservation.

By Carl W for Cajas National Park Hike on Sep 22, 2024

Simply the best. This was a transition trip, because we were moving from one city to another city with all of our stuff. Felipe organized transportation of people and things like a champ. We have traveled with Felipe before, and he is such a delightful, kind, and knowledgable human. While traveling with a 4 year old and 3 month, you could find him playing or watching our kids near by so we can enjoy attractions. He was a SUPER guide. Felipe took us to the nooks and crannies of Ecuador that had social impact. I'm thankful that we got to spend time with him.