Enchanted Ecuador: Rainforest, Andes, and Culture 9D/8N

Enchanted Ecuador: Rainforest, Andes, and Culture 9D/8N

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9 Days From

$1579

$1529

Enchanted Ecuador: Rainforest, Andes, and Culture 9D/8N

9 Days Starting and ending in Quito, Ecuador

Visiting: Quito, Tena, Baños, Banos, Quilotoa

Tour operator:

Bamba Travel

Tour code:

10006

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Cycling, Hiking, Walking

From: $1579 $1529 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$50

NB: Prices correct on 05-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

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

  • Explore the Amazon rainforest in Tena

  • Hike Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest volcanoes

  • Stand on the equator line at Intiñan Museum

  • Immerse in indigenous culture at Yunguilla

  • Visit the Amupakin community

  • Bike excursion at Cotopaxi National Park

  • Visit the Quilotoa Lagoon

  • Witness wildlife conservation efforts at Yanacocha rescue center

Itinerary

Expand All

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 Compañía 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

  • Accommodation

    8N in Shared Hostel Accommodations

  • Transport

    Private transfers with Spanish Speaking Driver

  • Meals

    8B/3L/3D

  • 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

  • Extras

    Entrance fees where mentioned

What's Not Included

  • Entrance Fees where not mentioned

  • Other Meals / Drinks

  • Personal Expenses

  • Tips & Gratuities

  • Single Room Supplement

  • 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

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 8 nights in shared hostel accommodations.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Private transfers with a Spanish-speaking driver are provided for transportation during the tour.

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, an English-speaking tour leader will accompany the group throughout the trip.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour package?

    Entrance fees are included where mentioned in the itinerary.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Reviews of this operator

Jonas Nesset(Norway)  

The company is exceptional. When...

Dec 10 2019

The company is exceptional. When I had questions, I always got prompt and professional answers. The excursions that Bamba organized were fantastic! Thank you once again for everything!

Shane Alce(United Kingdom)  

For true explorers....

Aug 12 2019

For true explorers.

Marian Reder(Germany)  

To this day, this is...

Oct 2 2019

To this day, this is the best tour we've ever done together as a couple! The fun activities, great hotels and nice guides worth the money! We were always taken care of and they made sure that we had a good time. This tour is definitely worth taking.

Tanja Ottosen(Denmark)  

The Bamba Team really made...

Jan 9 2020

The Bamba Team really made my journey one of the most memorable experiences of my life! Still so nice and supportive! They handled everything and responded to each question within a few minutes. I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone. Especially if you want to do a lot of activities and travel to a lot of different places without feeling rushed. They've also helped me with specific issues that weren't covered by the tour, as well as answering general questions. Thank you so much for making my journey so enjoyable!

Braiden Rowe(United States)  

The tour was fantastic; I...

Feb 12 2020

The tour was fantastic; I was able to visit some of Japan's most beautiful locations, and the accommodations were excellent, with convenient access to the city's best attractions. Also, our tour guide was fantastic. I will pick bamba again and recommend the tour to anyone who wants to see Japan while having a good time!!

Aaron Davies(Australia)  

I only have good words...

Oct 23 2019

I only have good words about our trip to Kenya. The entire experience was totally magical and I struggle to say how fantastic it was. We were fortunate enough to have a brilliant vehicle for ourselves, but we had great luck with David for our guide too. He was very knowledgeable, courteous and nice. Thank you for helping to create this fantastic safari experience. I Highly recommend this company.

Matteo Hoffmeister(Germany)  

Bamba Experience has been the...

Jun 5 2019

Bamba Experience has been the best tour guide I've ever had. Every tour has been a thrilling experience. There are so many things to choose from. Bamba has been extremely helpful in providing us with all of the necessary information for our departures and activities! Bamba has made this a simple and enjoyable experience. I'll certainly tell my friends and family about it! Thank you very much, Bamba!!

Melanie Liu Chang(Australia)  

We organized a trip through...

Feb 20 2020

We organized a trip through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia on the hop-on, hop-off bus. It made the trip so much simpler for us as first-time travelers because we just had to send an email to arrange the bus, which avoided the hassle of looking for the best price and so on! We also had a number of tours included, they were all amazing and saved us the trouble of trying to find the best offers on our own; it also meant we got to see a lot of stuff we wouldn't have seen otherwise. Overall, it was a fantastic experience that I will strongly suggest and use again!

Marius Halvorson(Norway)  

Our Bamba tour of Vietnam...

Jun 25 2019

Our Bamba tour of Vietnam was fantastic. We had a lot of new experiences and all of the help we needed to make this a stress-free vacation. The well-organized accomodation and transportation were excellent. We will certainly use Bamba in the future.

Alexis Helman(Australia)  

I had booked our Uyuni...

Jun 25 2019

I had booked our Uyuni Salt Flats & Desert Adventure 3D/2N (Uyuni to Atacama) tour via an Australian travel agency, but they had made an error and refused to assist us or take responsibility. This was very difficult for us because we wanted to have a stress-free honeymoon. I contacted Bamba and I asked if we could talk on the phone so they made the improvements to our tour reservation that our travel agent declined to make. The quality of service was exceptional and they generously offered to us a complimentary gift because it was our honeymoon. I can't say enough good things about Bamba.

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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 22, 2024
$1579 $1529

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$50

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Bamba Travel allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Bamba Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bamba travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    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.

  • 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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