From colonial Quito to the heart of the Amazon rainforest, this Andean adventure explores Ecuador’s vibrant culture and diverse landscape.

Our trek begins with a walking tour along the cobbled streets of Quito’s old town. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, we will stroll past historic churches and the Plaza de la Independencia before heading to El Panecillo for a bird’s eye view of the capital city.

A short drive brings us to Mitad del Mundo, “Middle of the World,” where we will visit the Equator Monument and straddle both hemispheres. The next morning we will explore the celebrated Otavalo market. This is one of the most colourful and diverse indigenous markets to be found anywhere in the Americas and is an ideal place to do all of your holiday shopping! And what better way to relax after a day in the market, then by enjoying the Papallacta hot springs. We will soak in the natural springs soothing waters and enjoy the mountain scenery as we anticipate the Amazon rainforest.

Descending the Cordillera de los Andes and passing a proud landscape of mountain peaks we reach the Napo River, one of the Amazon’s innumerable tributaries, where we canoe downstream to our traditional Quechua-styled jungle lodge. We will enjoy two nights in the jungle and our local guide will teach us about the medicinal properties of the plants, help us observe wild monkeys and parrots, and introduce us to an indigenous Quechua community. After learning about their local customs and way of life, there may be time for a refreshing swim or fishing with the locals.

Returning from the Amazon, we will make our way to the mountain spa town of Banos, visiting the Devil’s Gorge and its thundering waterfall enroute. Beyond its idyllic location, delicious restaurants and thermal pools, Banos offers exciting mountain biking, white water rafting and horse riding.

We will spend our last days visiting the two highest volcanoes of Ecuador- Chimborazo and Cotopaxi. There will be time for a guided hike at Chimborazo and opportunities to observe gracious vicunas wandering on the highlands before finishing this incredible Ecuadorian adventure!

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