10-Day Ecuador Highlights

5.00(28)

Discover the MAGIC of ECUADOR traveling through the Avenue of Volcanoes in the high Andes Mountains towards the best tropical Amazon destinations and explore the outdoor town of Baños, Unesco classified city of Cuenca and local indigenous market in Otavalo. On your journey, you will learn about all the different local tribes and their cultures. The Ecuador Highlights trip is the perfect combination of cultural experiences, wildlife spotting, adventure activities, and natural wonders that make Ecuador one of the most mega-divers countries on Earth. "Unique Experiences:" Visit a native local family in the middle of the Amazon jungle and look for the smallest monkey in the world (Pygmy Marmoset) Breathtaking zig-zag train ride through the rocky slopes of the Andes and the switchbacks of the Devil's Nose

Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
IMPORTANT DETAILS
It is our intention to adhere to the itinerary described; however, due to our travel style, on occasions it may be necessary or desirable to make small changes. Weather conditions and unpredictable local circumstances may lead us to make alterations to the route and/or travel times. Hotels and flight schedules might change according to availability. Any mention to specific wildlife in the itinerary or trip details is not a guarantee that it will be seen during the trip.
From 2 to 3 hours driving average from place to place.
All-year (best from May to October)
Pichincha, Imbabura, Napo, Pastaza, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Cañar and Azuay.
All Inter-Andean Valleys and Andes ranges, Amazon Rainforest upper part, cloud forest and canyons.
From 500 to 5000m (1600 to 16500 ft)
Day 15-34ºC / 59-93ºF - Night 12-17ºC / 53-62ºF
Easy. This program will run from the high Andean Mountains to the Tropical Rainforest of the Amazon, which involves the hiking in flat areas of the Amazon, hike down the Pastaza canon to the Pailon Del Diablo waterfall for 1 km. Optional hike up to Chimborazo Volcano Base Camp 5000m.
Life jackets, hiking sticks.
Guides are certified as Wilderness First Aid Responders. We carry a complete first aid kit.
All prices are based on double-occupancy. If you are travelling solo, you will be matched with another participant of your same gender. If you prefer to have a single room, please contact AJ prior to your departure to arrange your accommodation at an extra cost.
Traveling with Adventure Journeys you will have the possibility to experience and taste local food and snacks. Your guide will help you identify typical food and suggest the best places to enjoy it. Some meals are not included in order to give you some flexibility about where what and with whom to eat. You have the option to share these meals with the group, however, there is no obligation to do this. If you have any allergies or food restrictions, please inform AJ prior to your departure.
Clients receive a conservationist interpretation of the ecology of the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest and the factors that threaten it. We aim to promote long-term conservation to support responsible ecotourism as a sustainable alternative to surrendering to the oil industry's destructive appetites. We transport out and recycle all non-organic garbage.

Activities: All mentioned in the itinerary
Gear: hiking sticks, life jackets
Accommodation based on double occupancy: First Class hotel in Quito, colonial hacienda in Otavalo, 5-star Spa Resort Papallacta, Itamandi Eco-lodge in the Amazon, 3 or 4 star hotel in Baños, 5-star Andean lodge in Chimborazo, 3 or 4 star hotel in Cuenca
Trip Leader: Certified AJ expert English-speaking adventure Trip Leader and local guides
Transportation: Private and comfortable land transportation, train, motorized canoe