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 days, 4 nights

Group Size

Up to 12 travelers

Travel-Style

small group adventure expedition

Recommended Age

6+ years old

Adventure Pace

Moderate (balanced pace, active but not extreme)

Included

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

Not Included

airfare
travel insurance

Takiri Tip

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

From $ 1330

Only a 20% deposit is required to secure your spot; you can pay the balance later!

More than 8 travelers? Contact us and get a group discount.

Ask about our open dates and get 100 USD OFF!

All our tours are customizable – reach out to us for a 15-minute trip planning session with one of our experts.

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.

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   RICHARD BRIMS  
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing First Class Hotel Experience We stayed at The Reserve Madeira recently and honestly… We didn’t want to leave. From the very first moments even before I arrived everything was handled so smoothly. The GEPA team were amazing and always very helpful. The hotel itself is really lovely, and all the staff were amazing. Whatever we needed throughout the stay, they were ready to help with genuine warmth and attention. The room was spotless, maintained to a very high standard, and you could feel the attention to detail. Overall, everything was amazing from start to finish — the service, the atmosphere, the details, and best of all the staff. It’s the kind of place you just love and want to return to. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful, stylish and genuinely relaxing stay in Madiera. If we could give it 6 stars we would.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   YAYA014  
 
 
 
 Verified Excellent service and memorable snorkeling experience I really appreciated that Alex was able to customize one of their regular tours to meet some of our requirements. Having 24/7 contact with him while in the islands was reassuring and he was always prompt. He was able to adjust our itinerary when we felt we had a need. The tour guides they used were wonderful and knowledgeable. Sometimes we were a little confused with the itinerary but he was able to clarify and we do realize he’s juggling several groups. In addition to having his contact we had a local contact in the islands that insured we got from point a to b.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   MAUREEN H  
 
 
 
 Verified Exciting Adventure to the Galapagos Fabulous 7 day trip to the Galapagos with Takiri Travel! Guides met us every step of the way and connected us with our tour groups. Hotels were lovely and each had a pool! We were given itinararies and, amazingly, experienced everything we could imagine - lots of snorkling, biking, kayaking, hiking and wildlife - blue footed boobies, penguins, tortoises, iguanas...so much! Takiri stayed in contact with the group all week and responded immediately to all questions and requests.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   EXPLORER62050765042  
 
 
 
 Verified Les îles Galapagos avec Takiri : un rêve devenu réalité! Quelle expérience extraordinaire! Un rêve qui est devenu réalité. Tous les guides étaient exceptionnels, avec eux, nous avons appris plein de choses sur l'Equateur et sur les Ile Galapagos. Certains ont même étudié au Québec pendant un an. Les Équatoriens sont des gens très accueillants et généreux. Takiri a pris soin de nous à chaque arrivée et à chaque départ des îles ou des différentes activités, c'était tellement rassurant. J'ai beaucoup apprécié que nous nous sommes joints à des groupes distincts pour les activités nautiques ou culturelles mais nous nous retrouvions en couple le soir pour explorer et souper ensemble. La nourriture est excellente aux Galapagos : que dire du thon et de l'espadon, du ceviche, de la soupe aux patates... une belle expérience culinaire. Nous avons été chanceux pour la température, il a fait beau tous les jours, quelques gouttes de pluie ici et là mais ça ne durait jamais. Les hôtels sont de qualité supérieure : air climatisé, lit de bonne qualité, chambre moderne, déjeuner complet et l'eau disponible pour remplir nos bouteilles. Les hôtels sont aussi très bien situés pour l'exploration des lieux. Sur Isabella, nous étions à quelques mètres de la mer... Les sorties en mer sont exceptionnelles : requin marteaux, requin à tête blanche, « Eagle ray», requin des Galapagos, lion de mer, tortue de mer, iguane de mer, pingouin, hippocampe et de nombreux poissons tropicaux... rien à craindre. Les oiseaux des Galapagos sont magnifiques : frégate, fous à pieds bleus, flamant rose, pélican, etc. Ce voyage restera gravé à jamais dans nos têtes et dans nos coeurs! Je tiens à remercier Alex, qui tout au long du voyage, a été disponible pour répondre à nos questions. Nous nous sentions en sécurité et bien accompagnés. Merci Takiri Travel et merci Alex!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   SJCHAP01  
 
 
 
 Verified Great for coffee and chocolate lovers! Our guide Alex, and driver, Daniel, were delightful. The tour was appropriately paced, including a brief stop at the Equator, and a juice/baño/hummingbird stop midway. We learned about - and sampled - the Rumisitana artesanal coffee, which was the most delicious coffee we have ever tasted. Heck, we even drank it black and loooved it! We toured the chocolate making process at Yumbos in Mindo, sampled chocolate, and had a chocolate facial. A totally delightful experience!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   TONI C  
 
 
 
 Verified Fabulous Galapagos trip on a catamaran We took a 7 day cruise expedition of the Galapagos onboard Lindblad /National Geographic's catamaran the Delfina. We highly recommend experiencing the Galapagos Islands onboard a small vessel. There were 8 rooms for a total of 16 people. Everything was top notch. Our meals were delicious and we were always offered one or more Ecuadorian specialties in addition to our meal of choice. Each and every member of the crew were congenial and did everything they could to make sure we were having the best experience. The rooms were roomy and serviced several times each day. We wanted for nothing because there was always a crew member available to help in any way they could. The number of animals/birds we encountered was everything we had hoped for. Our expedition leader Christian and his counter part Omar (who was the photography expert) imparted their knowledge and love of the islands with enthusiasm. The weather was in the mid 70's everyday and only one day did we have to deviate from our planned itinerary due to slightly rougher seas. Our only additional comment to anyone wanting to experience the Galapagos Islands is to go before your knees start giving you problems. Everyday you will get on and off Zodiacs at least 4 times. Sometimes wet landings on a beach and sometimes dry landings on land. There were always crew members helping you on and off the Zodiacs but it is still a big step down into the raft.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   JAIME T  
 
 
 
 Verified Galapagos highlights with great customer service This tour hits all the highlights for land-based tours in the Galapagos. Activities, accommodations, and meals all exceeded my expectations. I had smooth travel to the Galapagos thanks to the detailed itinerary document from Alex at Takiri. Throughout the trip I received regular communication from Alex and the local coordinators on each island letting me know what to expect each day in terms of scheduling, what to wear and pack for each activity, etc. Excursions and transfers were well-planned, and any issues or questions were quickly responded to and resolved by Alex or the local coordinators. I had a great time on this trip and highly recommend it if you want to make the most of your time on the islands and let someone else deal with all the logistics.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   TRAVIS LEE O  
 
 
 
 Verified LOOK NO FURTHER! I do not even know where to start, other than to say that if you are considering booking travel literally anywhere in South America, stop looking and book with Takiri right now! The task of planning multiple weeks and different locations on a continent with which I was not yet familiar was so daunting and convoluted. Takiri is not just a large, faceless travel agency, they are comprised of local experts who LOVE travel, hospitality, and people! This was the most impeccably organized excursion experience that I have ever had. I was connected to Takiri though a mutual friend who knows Alex (SAINT Alex Santillán), and that is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. Alex (and Takiri) literally took care of me from beginning to end. Alex even picked me up and dropped me off multiple times from the airport as I flew to and from the Ecuadorian Amazon and the Galapagos. After Ecuador, I continued to Peru and Colombia. Takiri Ambassadors greeted me the moment I got off of each respective plane! I was one of Takiri Quito’s first multi-national itineraries, and they managed everything without missing a beat! I am already planning my return to South American this year and there is no question: I am entrusting it with Takiri! A personal note: Alex is one of the kindest, most compassionate people that I have ever met. He loves his country and his clients. I watched him stop what he was doing at 11PM to help some travelers who were stuck because of a delayed flight. This is the spirit of what Takiri offers, in part because of people like Alex. Takiri not only gave me the trip of a lifetime, but it also gave me an AMAZING first impression of South America and a wonderful new friend! THANK YOU!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   FRANCESCA M  
 
 
 
 Verified Paradise on Earth! Everyone told me this would be a once-in-a-lifetime destination, but I didn’t truly understand it until I experienced it myself. The Galápagos are like paradise on Earth. I was absolutely amazed by the natural landscapes, the beautiful beaches and the wildlife. Takiri organised the trip perfectly. I didn’t have to worry about anything cause on every island there was always someone ready to help and coordinate my activities. I really appreciated the suggestions from Alex and Michael at Takiri, especially the snorkelling excursions and the different hikes, which made the experience so special. Whenever I had questions, Alex always replied very quickly, this made the trip more easy and enjoyable. This is a trip I will never forget, and I would definitely recommend Takiri to anyone looking for a customized and well-organized trip.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   JULIO ORTIZ ANDINO  
 
 
 
 Verified Un viaje espectacular. La verdad que estuvo muy bueno el tour. Pudimos cambiar alguna de las actividades sin problema y todo los guías fueron muy amables y muy capacitados.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 17 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Ian Comly 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We were very pleased with our recent trip to the Galapogos using Takiri Teavel.  Our trip included 6 days of prearranged excursions and prearranged breakfasts and lunches.  The selected excursions were excellent along with all of the local guides. Takiri arranged to have people pick us up and drop us off at our hotels every step of the way.  These people were always right on time and knowledgeable about our activities. Alex coordinated this all and was always very responsive.  I would recommend Takiri to any visitors to the Galopogos, especially first time visitors.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Francesca Massimi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had the incredible opportunity to visit Cotopaxi with Takiri Travel, and it was truly one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve ever had. Our guide was exceptionally kind and knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights and stories about the area throughout the day. After reaching the top of the volcano, we enjoyed an amazing cup of coca tea, a perfect moment to take in the altitude and the scenery. Then we went to a beautiful lodge  for lunch, where the views of Cotopaxi and the surrounding landscape were absolutely breathtaking. To end the day, we went on a two-hour horseback ride, guided by another wonderful and attentive guide. This was, without a doubt, one of my favorite parts of the experience. Takiri Travel planned everything with such care and attention to detail, it was clear that every part of the trip was thoughtfully organised. I couldn’t recommend them more for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Ecuador.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kelsey Krebsbach 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a fantastic time! Once in a lifetime adventure experience, awesome guide, definitely recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   David Maddison 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Takiri Travel was fantastic! I found them based on a recommendation from a friend and they exceeded my expectations. They really made sure that I got the most out of my two weeks in Ecuador. The team was super accomodating and were as flexible as possible when it came to making changes to the itinerary. There was not a single hiccup: drivers on time, hotels organised and guides ready and waiting where required. Thanks team!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jenna McLaughlin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alex from Takiri planned and executed a fabulous trip to the Galapagos Islands for us! My husband and I had a fantastic 12-day trip on the Galapagos Islands that exceeded expectations. Alex was a great partner from the beginning as he created a customized trip that was awesome on so many levels. Our trip was personalized to our interests and budget. We stayed on 3 different islands and our excursions included a few others. Through multiple video calls, Alex got to know us and understand what we wanted to see/do as well as our desired activity level. Our goal was to travel independently but have some personalized service and assistance with transfers which is exactly what Takiri offers. Every step of our trip went perfectly smoothly - we had guides meet us at each transfer and felt completely comfortable that our trip was very well organized - all the transfers and connections were seamless. Throughout the planning process, Alex was very responsive to all our questions (and there were many!!). Takiri is very happy to accommodate different budget levels for hotels so be sure to be clear on what type of accommodations you are interested in. Alex was also very helpful with providing restaurant recommendations and suggestions for free time. Each excursion was fantastic, and Alex arranged an itinerary that provided a great variety of activity and opportunity to have many unique experiences. We traveled in October which is a cooler month but enabled many fantastic sightings of sea lion pups, blue footed boobie chicks, and male frigate birds during mating season. The snorkeling was amazing! We snorkeled at 7 different locations and saw something new each time. The wildlife did not disappoint! Takiri works with exceptional on-island points of contact and guides. The guides’ deep knowledge of the islands’ unique ecosystems and wildlife was truly remarkable. Every excursion was filled with fascinating insights about the flora and fauna. They shared personal stories about the conservation efforts underway, the history of the islands, and their own experiences growing up in such a unique place. What stood out most was their genuine passion for the Galapagos - this enthusiasm was infectious, making every hike, snorkel, and boat ride feel like a journey of discovery rather than just a tour. Whether it was identifying rare bird species or explaining the significance of a volcanic formation, they brought the islands to life in a way that was both educational and inspiring. The guides were very motivated to ensure we had a rewarding experience! It was nice to be able to travel independently but not have to plan all the travel logistics and each activity ourselves. Some of our excursions were just the 2 of us and a guide, some were with one other couple, and some were with 10-12 other people. Alex/Takiri provides a detailed itinerary including each day’s activities but also information about items not included, what to expect, contact information, etc. We rarely had a need to contact Alex during the trip, but he was immediately available when we did reach out. Shout-out to Kevin on Isabela – thank you for your personalized service! Thanks to Alex and Takiri, we had an amazing experience exploring the Galapagos! Definitely recommend booking a Galapagos adventure with Takiri!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Azra Bandali 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend!! I recently went on a tour of the Galapagos Islands and it was an incredible experience. The communication leading up to the tour was great, and the tour guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. The tour was well-organized and ran efficiently, making it a stress-free adventure. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore the Galapagos Islands. It was the best tour I've ever been on!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tess 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I booked the 4 day tour to the jungle via Takiri Travel and it was amazing! A special thanks to Michael for his service. He was extremely helpful!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Hieu Nguyen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My partner and I took the 7 day boutique tour to the Galapagos and we loved it. At the beginning we were thinking either we should go for the budget or the boutique, but this being our first trip in more than one year we chose to spoil ourselves and go for the boutique option and we don’t regret it! The hotels were much better than we expected, breakfast were delicious and plentiful, and they knew how to accommodate my partners vegan diet very well. The activities, fantastic!! We saw all the animals we had in our list, and more! Saying the guides were amazing is not enough: Cesar, Javier, Kevin, thank you so much! The reality surpassed the dream and we are more than satisfied with the quality and attentions from all the Takiri staff. 6 stars out of 5!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Joel Davis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would highly recommend using Takiri for all your travel needs in Ecuador! They helped put together an amazing trip to the Galápagos for us. They were very responsive and helpful and made sure that everything went smoothly!

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.

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3-Day Avenue of the Volcanoes Adventure Expedition – Immersive Andes Tour

Explore Ecuador’s Andean heart—where snowcapped peaks rise from golden páramo and turquoise crater lakes...

Adventure

4-day Amazon Experience in the Cuyabeno Reserve – Shared Amazon Tour

Step into one of the most biodiverse corners of the planet with this 4-Day Immersive Amazon Adventure...

From $ 1330

Only a 20% deposit is required to secure your spot; you can pay the balance later!

More than 8 travelers? Contact us and get a group discount.

Ask about our open dates and get 100 USD OFF!

All our tours are customizable – reach out to us for a 15-minute trip planning session with one of our experts.

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

Tour Details

Itinerary

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

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

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

DAY 4 – CHONTAYACU INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY & THE HIDDEN LAGOON

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

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Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Do you offer customized tours?

How difficult are the hikes and horseback riding activities?

What should I bring for horseback riding and hiking?

What’s the best season for visiting the Amazon?

Can the tour end directly at the airport?

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