13 Days Exploring Ecuador's Highlands and Rainforest

13 days
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Small Group Tour
Get ready for an incredible 13-day journey through Ecuador’s most breathtaking spots. From the bustling streets of Quito to the serene landscapes of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, and the vibrant town of Baños, we’ve got it all covered. Dive into the heart of the Amazon in Puyo, and witness the wild wonders of Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Take a relaxing dip in the soo...
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From$1,443
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

    • Explore the well-preserved colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and lively plazas.
    • Experience the thrill of the "Swing at the End of the World" with stunning views of Tungurahua Volcano.
    • Immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest, home to diverse wildlife and indigenous communities.
    • Embark on a river adventure, whether it's for kayaking, rafting, or simply enjoying the stunning surroundings.

What's this trip about?

    Get ready for an incredible 13-day journey through Ecuador’s most breathtaking spots. From the bustling streets of Quito to the serene landscapes of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, and the vibrant town of Baños, we’ve got it all covered. Dive into the heart of the Amazon in Puyo, and witness the wild wonders of Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Take a relaxing dip in the soothing Papallacta hot springs and explore the charming markets of Otavalo.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityQuito
End CityQuito

Travel Themes

  • Hiking & Walking
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Safari
  • Singles Travel

Destinations

  • South America
  • Ecuador

Attractions

  • Baños de Agua Santa
  • Cotopaxi National Park
  • Otavalo
  • Pacific Ocean
  • Quilotoa Lagoon

Trip includes

    • 11 nights of lodging
    • Entrances to all the activities listed on the itinerary

Itinerary

DAY 1: WELCOME TO ECUADOR: LET YOUR ADVENTURE BEGIN!

We extend a warm welcome to Ecuador, and we couldn't be more excited to have you here! Your journey begins with a sense of relaxation and anticipation as you embark on a scenic 45-minute drive into the enchanting city of Quito. Along the way, the picturesque landscape...

DAY 2: ANDEAN ADVENTURE: FROM ANCIENT CLOCKS TO CRAFT MARKETS

Our journey takes us along the iconic Pan-American Highway, heading north to the Quitsato solar clock. This culturally significant site, constructed in pre-Hispanic times, was designed to track the solstices and equinoxes. It's also the very spot where the equator lin...

DAY 3: CITY TOUR QUITO

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 ch...

DAY 4: COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK - QUILOTOA LAGOON – BAÑOS

After a delicious breakfast, you will continue north to 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 bird...

DAY 5: FREE DAY IN BAÑOS: (OPTIONAL ACTIVITY) - BAÑOS THROUGH THE VOLCANOES AVENUE

Experience the magic of Baños, the doorway to the Amazon rainforest, nestled in the shadow of the lively Tungurahua volcano. Here, you'll find a climate that's just right, setting the stage for thrilling adventures and encounters with nature. And of course, you can't ...

DAY 6: FREE DAY IN BAÑOS: (OPTIONAL ACTIVITY) - CHIMBORAZO: A BREATHTAKING ASCENT TO THE CLOSEST POINT TO THE SUN

Join us on an extraordinary adventure to Chimborazo Mountain, where you'll encounter the unparalleled tranquility of standing at the Earth's nearest point to the sun, a moment that will render you speechless and quite possibly breathless. Hike to astounding altitudes ...

DAY 7: RAINFOREST ADVENTURE: FROM BAÑOS TO LAGO AGRIO

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...

DAY 8: INTO THE HEART OF CUYABENO: WILDLIFE EXPEDITION

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure deep into the heart of the rainforest, starting at a leisurely 09:30 am. We'll embark on a scenic drive lasting about two hours, arriving at the pivotal 'El Puente,' the gateway to the mesmerizing Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Her...

DAY 9: ADVENTURE IN THE RAINFOREST: IMMERSIVE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS

Wake up with the forest as the sun paints the sky. Together, we'll step into the verdant embrace of the surrounding wilderness, eagerly awaiting the lively awakening of the animal world. After a hearty breakfast, set off on a guided trek through the rainforest, led by...

DAY 10: AMAZON IMMERSION: CULTURE, NATURE, AND SUNSET MAGIC

Start your day with the serenity of a morning canoe ride, immersing yourself in the peaceful embrace of nature as the world awakens. After a hearty breakfast, hop on a motorized canoe to visit the Seoqueya community, home to warm-hearted Siona families. Here, you'll b...

DAY 11: FAREWELL TO THE JUNGLE: MORNING CANOE ADVENTURE

As the morning sun paints the sky, embark on a peaceful canoe ride, cherishing the last moments with the jungle's vibrant inhabitants as they go about their day. After a satisfying lodge breakfast, take some time to gather your belongings for the journey ahead. We'll ...

DAY 12: FROM COCOA FARMS TO SOOTHING SPRINGS

Ease into the day with a delightful breakfast, and enjoy a relaxed start as our pick-up time is set for 11:00h. Get ready for an enriching experience as you dive into the world of Ecuadorian chocolate. Our journey takes us to the charming Santa Rita village, where you...

DAY 13: PRIVATE TRANSFER TO QUITO AIRPORT FOR DEPARTURE

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.

Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: -

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Dates & Availability

Price From $1,443
Price per day$111
Last Updated: 5/10/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Responsible Travel.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Responsible Travel Reviews & Ratings

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Other Responsible Travel Reviews

J

Jamie R.

Dec 2023

We just returned from a wonderful 3-week trip in Ecuador that included Quito, Amazon jungle, touring down the Andes to Cuenca, and Galapagos cruise.

We just returned from a wonderful 3-week trip in Ecuador that included Quito, Amazon jungle, touring down the Andes to Cuenca, and Galapagos cruise. Our travel agent...

J

Jessica S.

Sep 2023

Alvaro helped me and my husband plan our honeymoon trip to Ecuador and it was amazing!

Alvaro helped me and my husband plan our honeymoon trip to Ecuador and it was amazing! Our guides were very kind and knowledgeable. We learned not only about the are...

M

Mathew S.

Jul 2023

We had the most amazing trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We had the most amazing trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the initial interaction and Alvaro all the way through to o...

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Tour Operator

Responsible Travel

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We are a team full of travel enthusiasts with 13+ years of experience, ready to support and help you find the best out of your Trip.

We understand that travel is becoming an important part of people's desires and we are happy to help all travelers who want memories.

Alexander Humboldt admired and studied the diversity of nature along the equator during his American journey from 1799 to 1804. Subsequently, the world-famous Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835 and was inspired to write his theory of evolution by their unique nature, flora, and fauna.

By traveling to Ecuador with Ecuador Galapagos Travels, you will be inspired by the country’s unique landscapes and diverse civilizations. Discover the wonders of the animal and plant worlds evolving on the Galapagos archipelago; immerse yourself in extraordinary and ancient cultures that have survived the ages while traveling through the Amazon basin and the Andean highlands; enjoy trekking through pristine national parks and horseback riding in the shadow of glaciated mountain peaks; or make new friends during a Spanish language course in Quito.

To guarantee that your expectations of Ecuador are fulfilled, Ecuador and Galapagos Travel Team specialize in tailor-made travel services to fit your every need, whether in the Amazon, the Andes, the coast, or the Galapagos Islands. From hotels to jungle excursions, Andean peaks to Galapagos cruises, and palm-fringed beaches to paramo hikes, we will help you realize your goals, escape the mundane, and get great care for your tailored vacation on the equator.

We warmly welcome you to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • International flights
    • Meals not listed on the itinerary
    • Wetsuits
    • Tips & gratuities
    • Personal expenses
    • Travel insurance

Transportation & Flights

Transfers from and to the airport with a private English-speaking driver All transfers with private English-speaking drivers in Mainland,

Transportation & flights

Transfers from and to the airport with a private English-speaking driver All transfers with private English-speaking drivers in Mainland
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
  •  11 Breakfast
  • 0 Box Lunch
  • 4 Lunch
  • 3 Dinners
Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Additional Information
Trip ID
respon-respon-ExEcHiRai

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