Enchanted Ecuador: Rainforest, Andes, and Culture 9D/8N
Enchanted Ecuador: Rainforest, Andes, and Culture 9D/8N
Enchanted Ecuador: Rainforest, Andes, and Culture 9D/8N
9 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador
Visiting: Quito, Tena, Baños, Banos, Quilotoa
Tour operator:
Tour code:
10006
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through Ecuador with the "Enchanted Ecuador: Rainforest, Andes, and Culture" tour. Begin in Quito, exploring its historic center and the equator line at Intiñan Museum. Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture of Yunguilla, then venture into the Amazon rainforest in Tena, where you'll experience Kichwa traditions and the vibrant local community. Discover the charm of Baños with its lively culture and optional adventure activities. Marvel at the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon and hike the majestic Cotopaxi volcano. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable Ecuadorian experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Quito, Ecuador
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Hotel near the airport
Arrival Day
Arrive in Quito and immerse yourself in its vibrant energy! If you land early, take advantage of the chance to discover the city's captivating streets and bustling markets at your leisure. Delve into its storied past, savor the local flavors, and absorb the lively ambiance while awaiting the arrival of your fellow travelers. Keep in mind that your hotel is near the airport, so if you're keen on exploring the city, consider arranging transportation, as it's not included. Later, come together for an orientation meeting filled with excitement and anticipation as you meet your fellow adventurers, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead.
Day 2: Quito - Yunguilla, Ecuador
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Yunguilla
Get ready for an exhilarating adventure as your private transport swiftly takes you to downtown Quito! Prepare to be amazed by the Historic Center's stunning architecture, a true gem of Latin American colonial culture. With our lively happiness leader leading the way, soak in the sights of iconic landmarks like the Basilica del Voto, Iglesia de la CompañÃa de Jesús, and Plaza Grande. Take a leisurely stroll along La Ronda, immersing yourself in the rich history of one of Quito's oldest streets.
But the fun doesn't end there! After your exciting walking tour, get ready for a mind-blowing experience at the Intiñan Museum, where gravity-defying experiments await. From balancing an egg on a nail to watching water spin in opposite directions, these unique exhibits will spark your curiosity.
Then, it's time for Yunguilla, where adventure and community await. Feel the warmth of their extended family as you dive into their daily life or embark on a scenic hike. Get ready for an unforgettable overnight stay, ensuring you savor every moment of the full Yunguilla experience.
Day 3: Yunguilla - Tena, Ecuador
Location: Tena
Accommodation Name: Lodge in Tena
Rise and shine for an immersive morning in the community, engaging in activities before breakfast. Afterward, embark on a journey to Tena, with a captivating stop at Amupakin. Delve into the rich Kiwcha tradition, rooted in a quest for intercultural healthcare recognition. Experience the healing power of Kichwa ancestral medicine, deeply intertwined with nature and spiritual wisdom.
Continue your Amazon adventure upon arrival at the lodge dock. Receive a warm welcome from the staff before unwinding in the lounge with a refreshing tropical snack. Gather for a briefing by our knowledgeable guides, offering insights into accommodation and activities.
*Note: the itinerary is subject to change, according the weather conditions or the availability in the lodge
Day 4: Tena, Ecuador
Location: Tena
Accommodation Name: Lodge in Tena
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fuel up with breakfast before embarking on a thrilling trek through the secondary forest, lasting 2.5 to 3 hours. In the afternoon, dive into cultural immersion as an Amazonian Kichwa community graciously welcomes us. Witness their unique way of life and profound connection with the jungle, unveiling a hidden part of the Amazon rarely seen on maps. Join in the tradition of preparing and tasting "chicha," a beloved fermented yucca drink, and savor traditional dishes. Delight in the opportunity to support the indigenous community by purchasing handmade crafts, contributing to their livelihoods.
Day 5: Tena - Banos, Ecuador
Location: Baños
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a journey to the charming town of Baños. Along the way, make a meaningful stop at Yanacocha, a rescue center dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of the tropical forest. Witness their vital efforts to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals, and learn about their mission to educate communities on wildlife conservation.Upon arrival in Baños, dive into the vibrant culture with a lively salsa lesson. Then, enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the town at your own pace.
Day 6: Banos, Ecuador
Location: Banos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation. Then, indulge in leisure time to explore the enchanting town of Baños at your own pace or opt for one of our exciting tours.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:
For thrill-seekers, embark on the thrilling Canopy and Bridge Experience, featuring zip lines, a Tibetan bridge, and rock climbing above the river. Afterward, enjoy the afternoon off to partake in a variety of activities, from visiting the iconic "Casa del Arbol" swing for breathtaking views to rafting, hiking, canyoning, or unwinding at nearby hot springs.
As evening descends, join a shared tour aboard the traditional Chiva transport to a viewpoint for a mesmerizing nocturnal vista of the city. Later, embrace the nightlife of Baños on your own for an unforgettable evening adventure.
Day 7: Banos - Quilotoa, Ecuador
Location: Quilotoa
Meals Included: Breakfast
After savoring a delightful breakfast at our accommodation, we'll embark on an unforgettable journey to the Quilotoa Lagoon, a mesmerizing volcanic crater lake known for its striking greenish hue. Delve into free time to hike down into the crater or explore its rim, soaking in panoramic views from various angles. Later, we'll visit a studio in Tigua renowned for its vibrant and intricate artwork, offering insight into the area's rich cultural heritage.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:Experience the thrill of kayaking on the stunning Lake Quilotoa, where you can paddle through the crystal-clear waters and soak in the breathtaking views of this volcanic-crater lake. (This activity will arrange locally directly paid to the community cost about 10 pp)
Day 8: Quilotoa - Quito, Ecuador
Location: Quito
Accommodation Name: Hacienda in Quito
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we will start the day early and head towards the Cotopaxi, which is with its 5897m considered one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The first stop will be the entrance of the national park to register your entry and use restrooms in case you need them. We will get off the bus at the parking lot on the Cotopaxi and start to hike up towards the refuge José Róse, located at 4864m. It is a smooth hike, yet it takes some time to adjust to the height.
Upon arrival at the refuge, we will take a break and enjoy the great view. Afterward, we will return to the parking place, from where the downhill cycling towards the preserved area of the Limpiopungo Lagoon starts (optional). Arriving at the lagoon, you have some time to rest and take pictures of the stunning nature. Afterward, the whole group will reach the Hacienda, where we will enjoy a late lunch.
The rest of the day you will have free time, to discover the beautiful surroundings of the Hacienda, or just relax in the cozy rooms. In the evening we will enjoy dinner together. Overnight in Quito near to the airport
Day 9: Quito, Ecuador
Location: Quito
On this last day, you will be taken to the Quito Airport on time to catch your flight back home.
What's Included
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Accommodation
8N in Shared Hostel Accommodations
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Transport
Private transfers with Spanish Speaking Driver
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Meals
8B/3L/3D
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Activities
Activities in family homestays in Yunguilla
Visit the Amupakin community
Activities in Suchipakari
Visit to Yanacocha rescue centre
Bike excursion at Cotopaxi National Park
Visit the Quilotoa Lagoon -
Guides
English speaking tour leader
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Extras
Entrance fees where mentioned
What's Not Included
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Entrance Fees where not mentioned
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Other Meals / Drinks
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Personal Expenses
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Tips & Gratuities
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Single Room Supplement
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Optional Activities
Mode of Transport
Travel in private transfers with a Spanish-speaking driver, ensuring a smooth and personalized journey throughout the tour.
Accommodation
Enjoy 8 nights in shared hostel accommodations, providing a comfortable and social environment for your stay.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 8 nights in shared hostel accommodations.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
Private transfers with a Spanish-speaking driver are provided for transportation during the tour.
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Will there be a tour guide during the trip?
Yes, an English-speaking tour leader will accompany the group throughout the trip.
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Are entrance fees included in the tour package?
Entrance fees are included where mentioned in the itinerary.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes activities in family homestays in Yunguilla, a visit to the Amupakin community, activities in Suchipakari, a visit to the Yanacocha rescue center, a bike excursion at Cotopaxi National Park, and a visit to the Quilotoa Lagoon.
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What can I expect on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will arrive in Quito and have the opportunity to explore the city at your leisure if you arrive early. There will be an orientation meeting later in the day.
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What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes cultural experiences such as visiting the Intiñan Museum, engaging in activities with the Yunguilla community, experiencing Kichwa ancestral medicine at Amupakin, and participating in a salsa lesson in Baños.
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What kind of physical activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes hiking in Cotopaxi National Park, trekking through the secondary forest in Tena, and optional activities such as kayaking on Lake Quilotoa and cycling downhill towards the Limpiopungo Lagoon.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities include the Canopy and Bridge Experience in Baños, kayaking on Lake Quilotoa, and various activities such as rafting, hiking, and canyoning in Baños.
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What happens on the last day of the tour?
On the last day, you will be taken to the Quito Airport in time to catch your flight back home.
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Is there an age limit?
No! Most of our bamba travellers fall between the ages of 18 - 35, but everyone is young at heart and welcome to come experience the world with us! If you are between the ages of 18 and 118, we invite you to travel with bamba and have the time of your life! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Most of our trips cater to the adventurous independent traveller. In fact, many of our travellers arrive on their own and quickly find that they easily meet like-minded people along the way at their hostels, on transportation, or during activities.
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Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip, especially when travelling in developing countries. Bamba does not include travel insurance of any type.Your current medical insurance may cover part of your trip, so it is important for you to become familiar with your current coverage. We recommend purchasing additional travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and repatriation, lost or stolen items and unforeseen cancellations. If you plan to participate in activities such as white-water rafting, trekking, sand-buggy rides, etc please make sure they are included in your policy.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
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Bamba Travel requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bamba travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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