Quito City - Cayambe Coca National Park - Papallacta Hot Springs

Quito - The journey begins with a trip to the Eastern Andes. Pick-up is available from either the hotel or the International Airport in Quito. As the valley unfolds, the landscape transforms with the elevations characteristic of the Highlands. The drive takes us through the heart of Cayambe Coca and Antisana National Parks.

Termas de Papallacta - After an hour’s drive, we arrive at the village of Papallacta, which means “Father of the Land” in the local language. Just 15 minutes from this village is “Termas Papallacta,” the area’s premier lodge, known for its Hot Springs. Upon arrival, backpacks are prepared for a short walk along trails where plants, rivers, streams, animals, and mountain formations can be observed. Then, it’s time to relax in the hot springs before continuing the descent to the Amazon. Traveling through the dense cloud forest and along turbulent rivers, the village’s history and culture transport us back in time.

Parque Nacional Cayambe - Coca - The visit includes the lower part of Cayambe Coca National Park, an ideal spot to learn about the Andean Paramo, a crucial ecosystem that shelters hundreds of species, including the Andean Spectacled Bear, wild rabbits, deer, and birds.

Primary and Secondary Amazon Rain Forest by the Arajuno River

Rio Arajuno - After a delicious breakfast, a long walk through the primary and secondary forest begins. This activity lasts about three hours, depending on hiking activity levels. Afterward, lunch is served. The forest is characterized by dense vegetation, with giant trees and lianas hanging from them, evoking thoughts of jungle adventures. Occasionally, Tití pigmeo monkeys may be spotted, shyly approaching the forest, perfect for capturing on camera. Remember, spotting animals depends on various geological or climatic factors.

Amazonico Park - Anaconda Island by the Napo River

Rio Napo - Following breakfast, a 40-minute canoe ride leads to “Anaconda Island.” Here, the prehistoric bird “Hoatzin,” monkeys, and squirrel monkeys can be observed. A visit to a local indigenous community offers insights into their cultivation practices, medicinal plants, and traditional hunting methods using blowguns and handmade traps. Anaconda Island is situated by the Napo River, a major tributary of the Amazon.

Rio Napo - After lunch, a visit to Amazonico Park, which protects a wide range of endangered animals, is planned. Amazonico is a rescue center, not a zoo, for animals living in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest. Animals can be observed in their natural habitat at close range. Afterward, return to the Eco-Lodge to enjoy the hotel facilities. Entrance fee is not included; $5 per person.

Amazon Rain Forest – Tena City – Archidona City - Quito City

Rio Arajuno - An early departure to visit the Parrot Clay Lick is planned, weather permitting. A 15-minute canoe ride upstream leads to the Parrot Clay Lick, a unique site where parrots and parakeets gather to obtain minerals that aid in digesting consumed fruits or seeds. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets approach the canopy before descending to the clay wall to consume the mineral-rich soil. Binoculars are essential to fully appreciate this magnificent natural spectacle. Afterward, breakfast is served, and luggage is collected for the return trip to the pier and then to Quito. Drop-off is available at a hotel in the city or at the airport in Quito.

• All meals included at the Eco-Lodge
• 3-star accommodation in an Eco-Lodge
• Private transportation Quito City – Amazon Rain Forest – Quito City
• Naturalist Guide/Driver (English/Spanish-speaking)

• Travel Insurance for each passenger
• Entrance fees; Papallacta Thermal springs $9pp.
• Tips, meals and services not mentioned.

Cross over the Andes and deep into the dense vegetation of the Amazon Rainforest. Make your first contact with the jungle and surprised yourself about this magnificent ecosystem. Sail on a calm river and observe great diversity of flora and fauna. Rest in the middle of the sound of the nocturnal animals of the jungle. Take a walk along the dense paths of jungle. Integrate to the culture of the indigenous communities. Enjoy a pleasant temperature averaging 76° Fahrenheit. Look at prehistoric bird “Hoatzin”, monkeys, fishing bats, owls, arthropods, tarantulas, toads, frogs, among others. Learn in detail about the animals in the area at the Interpretation Centre that runs by local experts from the rainforest. Admire a unique place where parrots and parakeets gather in order to obtain the minerals that will help them digest the fruits or seeds that have consumed. Includes a relaxation activity at Papallacta hot springs. The Amazon experience will be etched forever in your mind.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.