5-Day Adventure Expedition – The Andes Volcanoes and The Amazon

This 5-Day Andes & Amazon Adventure Expedition traces one of Ecuador’s most breathtaking transitions—from snow-capped volcanoes and golden páramo to misty cloud forests and the vibrant Amazon basin. Crafted for travelers seeking soft adventure and genuine cultural connection, it weaves together hikes on Cotopaxi’s slopes, rides with local chagras, waterfall explorations in Baños, meaningful encounters with Indigenous families, and atmospheric night walks in the rainforest. With private guiding and thoughtfully curated nature experiences, it reveals Ecuador’s contrasting worlds in a way that feels authentic, human, and deeply unforgettable.

Departure

All year round

Duration

5 dias, 4 noites

Group Size

Up to 12 travelers

Travel-Style

small group adventure expedition

Recommended Age

6+ years old

Adventure Pace

Moderate (tooltips: balanced pace, active but not extreme)

Incluído

2 nights boutique accommodation, 3 nights in an ecolodge, private transportation, guided activities, local project visits, bilingual guides, meals (tooltips: breakfasts x4, lunches x4, dinners x3), entrance fees, and gear for activities.

Não incluído

airfare, travel insurance.

Takiri Tip

Add an extra day and visit the Otavalo Market and the Cuicocha turquoise lagoon!

DAY 1 – QUITO → COTOPAXI HIKE & HORSEBACK RIDING IN THE PÁRAMO

As dawn rises over Quito, you head south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes toward Cotopaxi’s vast national park. Crisp air and high-altitude silence accompany your ascent to the José Rivas Refuge, where volcanic slopes and sweeping panoramas unfold beneath your feet. After warming up, continue with a gentle horseback ride through the páramo—guided by local chagras and surrounded by wild horses, native shrubs, and the soft hum of the Andean wind. Your evening ends in the Cotopaxi region, wrapped in mountain stillness.

DAY 2 – BAÑOS: WATERFALL ROUTE, PAILÓN DEL DIABLO & SWING AT THE END OF THE WORLD

The landscape softens as you descend into Baños, a valley of warm breezes, waterfalls, and cloud-covered peaks. Follow the famous Waterfall Route toward Pailón del Diablo, where the roar of the cascade and the rising mist create one of Ecuador’s most impressive natural spectacles. After lunch, continue to the Swing at the End of the World to soar over green valleys with Tungurahua Volcano watching quietly in the background. The evening in Baños is relaxed, with time to unwind before entering the Amazon.

DAY 3 – BAÑOS → TENA → SANTA ROSA LODGE: GUAYUSA CEREMONY & NIGHT TREK

This morning, the Andes fade behind you as the road winds toward the Amazon basin, where dense jungle, warm air, and high humidity signal your arrival in Tena. At Santa Rosa Lodge, you’re welcomed with a traditional Guayusa infusion—an ancient drink used for energy, clarity, and community. After settling in, night falls and your guides lead you into the forest, where frog calls, rustling leaves, and shimmering insects reveal an entirely new world alive under the glow of your headlamp.

DAY 4 – CHONTAYACU INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY & THE HIDDEN LAGOON

In the morning, you visit the Chontayacu Indigenous Community, where families share their knowledge of medicinal plants, daily traditions, and the rainforest’s delicate balance. After a communal activity, follow a forest trail to the Hidden Lagoon—a serene spot surrounded by dense jungle, glassy water, and the soft sounds of the Amazon. Warm temperatures and the river breeze shape a peaceful afternoon before returning to the lodge for a quiet night surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

DAY 5 – OPTIONAL: RAFTING IN TENA OR PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS → RETURN TO QUITO / AIRPORT

Your final morning offers two different endings to your adventure: an exhilarating rafting descent through the warm, fast-moving rapids of the Pastaza River, or a soothing retreat to the Papallacta Hot Springs, where steam rises from volcanic pools set high in the Andean mountains. After your chosen experience, begin the drive back to Quito or directly to the airport, watching the scenery shift from rainforest greens to Andean blues as your journey comes full circle.

This expedition is crafted to highlight Ecuador’s contrasts—volcanoes, valleys, waterfalls, and rainforest—through slow, thoughtful travel. With private guiding, curated cultural encounters, and a deep respect for local communities, our local expert tours offer meaningful experiences and warm connections that stay with you long after the journey ends.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Yes, this experience is designed to be flexible and enjoyable for travelers of all ages. Because it’s a semi-private tour, we tailor the pace, activities, and level of adventure to your needs, whether you’re traveling with young children or seniors. If you have specific mobility considerations or special requests, just let us know and we’ll customize the experience accordingly.

Do you offer customized tours?

Yes, all our itineraries can be personalized up to your preferences and budget. Whether you want to upgrade your accommodations, extend your stay, or combine it with tours in Ecuador’s mainland or the Galapagos. You just need to contact us, and we’ll put together a trip for you.

How difficult are the hikes and horseback riding activities?

The hikes and horseback riding are easy to moderate, suitable for most travelers with basic fitness. Horseback riding is gentle and guided, and the páramo hike is non-technical but can feel a bit more demanding due to altitude. The pace is always adjusted to guests’ comfort.

What should I bring for horseback riding and hiking?

Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight layers, and a rain jacket are essential. Bring binoculars, a camera, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. A small daypack is useful for carrying personal items during hikes.

What’s the best season for visiting the Amazon?

The Amazon is a year-round destination, with lush forests and wildlife activity in every season. You’ll find wetter months (Dec–May) bring higher rivers and easier canoe access, while drier months (Jun–Nov) offer more trail exploration and clearer wildlife spotting. Each season brings a different—and equally rewarding—side of the rainforest.

Can the tour end directly at the airport?

Yes. We can finish the tour with a direct drop-off at Quito Airport (UIO). Just let us know your flight details in advance so we can schedule the timing comfortably.