Culture 
Cruises 
Adventure & Nature 
Family 
Red: Worst time to visit, due to extreme weather conditions like heavy rain or heat.
Day 1 : Quito
Arrival: Mariscal Sucre International Airport - Transfer to the hotel. (1 hour)
Accommodation: Hotel Plaza Grande 5* www.plazagrandequito.com
Day 2 : Quito – Coca
Breakfast: at hotel
Transfer to the
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to the airport - flight to Coca.
Departure from Quito. A short 30-minute flight takes us to the frontier town of Coca (Francisco de Orellana) – and transfer to the dock, where we will embark on a motorized canoe and navigate down river about 1 hour, to board the M/V ANAKONDA AMAZON CRUISE. Throughout the journey we have a chance to admire the rainforest landscape and banks of the great Napo River.
Immediately after boarding the M/V Anakonda, we continue navigating downstream. Passengers will have their first opportunities to enjoy the exciting features of our cruise ship: the spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and an observation deck that offers spectacular views. An evening walk is organized after sunset; it gives us the opportunity to discover the forest’s nocturnal activity and listen to the incessant sounds of nature.
Accommodation: Anakonda Amazon Cruise 5* www.anakondaamazonexpeditions.com
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 3 : Border with Peru (The Heart of Yasuní)
After a delicious breakfast, we disembark on land for our first daylight close-and-personal tropical rainforest experience, where we will learn about the relationship between plants and animals while closely watching out for samples of Amazonia’s fascinating biodiversity at every turn.
After lunch, the M/V Anakonda navigates to one of the most pristine and little explored sections of Ecuadorian Amazonia, home to the legendary pink river dolphin, black caiman and anaconda. We may also find river turtles and various species of monkeys, as well as the primitive Hoatzin, a one-of-a-kind bird locally known as "the Stinky Turkey". The only way to actually visit this flooded ecosystem is by canoe, a ride that will reveal the beauty of a lush jungle world.
Accommodation: Anakonda Amazon Cruise 5* www.anakondaamazonexpeditions.com
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 4 : Meeting the Community – Activities on Board – Island Exploration
Breakfast on board. We visit a school located on the banks of the Napo River, where we will have the opportunity to interact with children of the area and learn about the educational system of a remote jungle community in Ecuador.
We return on board the M/V Anakonda for lunch and a moment to relax while we navigate upstream. We will offer a lecture and documentary screening, and if time permits, learn about (and make) typical handicrafts of the area. In the afternoon, we explore one of the largest river islands of the Napo River.
Accommodation: Anakonda Amazon Cruise 5* www.anakondaamazonexpeditions.com
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 5 : Observation Tower – Limoncocha Biological Reserve
In the morning after breakfast, visit an observation tower 100-feet high, built against a giant kapok tree. From the top of the tower, we will be blessed with this unique perspective of the forest, looming over the treetops and the greatness of the Amazon Basin.
In the afternoon, we visit Limoncocha Biological Reserve, a fascinating protected area where more than 478 bird species and several monkey species have been recorded. This activity will extend into the evening, when we will have a chance to spot black caiman with the help of our flashlights. Return to the M/V Anakonda for dinner.
Accommodation: Anakonda Amazon Cruise 5* www.anakondaamazonexpeditions.com
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 6 : Coca – Quito – Papallacta
In the morning, disembark the M/V Anakonda and transfer by motorized canoe to Coca (1-hour ride); flight to Quito.
Arrival: Antonio Jose de Sucre International Airport – Transfer to the hotel
Accommodation: Termas de Papallacta www.termaspapallacta.com
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 : Papallacta – Cotopaxi
Breakfast at the hotel.
Papallacta is famous for its hot springs,. Papallacta is a small village in Ecuador located at an altitude of 3,300 m in the Andes just off the Eastern Cordilleras on the road from Quito which leads into the Amazon jungle. Descending from the peak to Papallacta, one passes through the portal where the ecosystems transform from alpine to tropical jungle.
There are three important reasons to visit “Termas de Papallacta”: Health, recreation & relaxation.
The thermal baths are located on the banks of the Papallacta River in a unique natural environment; here we can find nine hot thermal pools and three cold water pools. The source temperature of the thermal baths varies between 30°C and 70°C (86°F and 158°F). At the pools the temperature ranges from 36°C to 40°C (97°F to 104°F). Papallacta´s thermal waters contain sulfates, sodium, calcium, chloride and traces of magnesium which are odorless, colorless but have a slightly salty taste.
Continue to Cotopaxi.
Accommodation: Hacienda San Agustin de Callo 5* www.incahacienda.com
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner
Day 8 : Cotopaxi – Quito
Breakfast at the hotel.
Cotopaxi National Park was founded in 1975 in order to protect the volcanos and lakes within it. You will be fascinated by nature at its best, in this popular national park in Ecuador. An impressive range of animals lives within the 34,000-hectare park, such as: condors, pumas, spectacled bears, Andean foxes, orange-headed caracaras, llamas, frogs, paramos, hummingbirds and many others. This park also counts an important collection of lakes and mountain peaks. Two of the most outstanding lakes are Limpiopungo Lake and Santo Domingo Lake. The waters of Limpiopungo Lake reflect the 4,757 meters high majestic Rumiñahui. Santo Domingo Lake is surrounded by walls on Incan stone, the ruins of Pucarás (Incan forts) and other stone platforms that are said to have been built by Pre-Colombian shepherds.
Once you arrive at the park, you will visit a museum and learn about the flora and fauna of the area, as well as other important information about the Cotopaxi Volcano. After you've had your fill of the museum, you'll walk to the Limpiopungo Lagoon, which will take about 30 minutes. Birds frequent this lagoon, and it's a great place for birding. Commonly sighted species include great thrushes, ground-tyrants, and speckled teals.
Return to Quito for a City Tour.
Quito city tour is perfect for seeing fascinating panoramas, churches, domes and roofs that have an important historical value. You will admire and learn about colonial art, architecture, culture, legends, and traditions. Quito, the capital of Ecuador, was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city and stands at an altitude of 9.350 feet. Despite the 1917 earthquake, the city has the best-preserved, least altered historic Center in Latin America. The architecture and rich interiors, are pure examples of Quito School of sculpture, which is a fusion of Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish and indigenous art. After four incredible hours exploring the Old Town, you'll understand why Quito was the world's first city named to UNESCO's Cultural Heritage list.
Accommodation:Hotel Plaza Grande 5* www.plazagrandequito.com
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
Day 9 : Quito - Departure
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to the airport - International flight.
END OF OUR SERVICE
Our services include :
- Private transportation and tours with English Speaking Guide in Mainland Ecuador as described on the itinerary
- Shared transportation and tours with English speaking guide in the Amazon and the Galapagos Islands as described on the itinerary
- Accommodation as listed on the itinerary
- Meals as listed on the itinerary
- Entrance fees as listed on the itinerary
Our services do not include :
- Flight to/from Coca – USD 250
- International flights
- Travel and health insurance
- Tips
- Personal expenses
- Items not specified
Accomodation :
- Quito : Hotel Plaza Grande 5*
- Coca : Anakonda Amazon Cruise 5*
- Papallacta : Termas de Papallacta
- Cotopaxi : Hacienda San Agustin de Callo 5*
Ecuador, a country straddling the equator on South America's west coast, is known for its diverse landscape, rich culture, and unique biodiversity. From the Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands to the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador offers an array of experiences for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts.
Getting There :
By Air: The main international airports are Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito and José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil.
Both airports are well-connected to major cities in the Americas and Europe.
By Land: Border crossings from Colombia and Peru are possible via bus or car.
Accommodation :
Luxury: Casa Gangotena (Quito), Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel (Galápagos), Hotel del Parque (Guayaquil)
Mid-Range: Hotel Plaza Grande (Quito), Mansion Santa Isabella (Riobamba), Hotel Victoria (Cuenca)
Budget: Community Hostel (Quito), Hostal Galápagos Natural Life (Galápagos), Posada del Angel (Cuenca)
Top Attractions :
Galápagos Islands: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the islands are famous for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Activities include snorkeling, diving, and wildlife tours.
Quito: The capital city with a well-preserved colonial center, featuring attractions such as the Plaza Grande, La Compañía de Jesús Church, and El Panecillo.
Cuenca: Known for its beautiful colonial architecture, including the New Cathedral and the historic Tomebamba River.
Baños: A hub for adventure sports, offering activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and hiking to waterfalls like Pailón del Diablo.
Cotopaxi National Park: Home to the Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, ideal for hiking and mountaineering.
Amazon Rainforest: Explore the Yasuni National Park and Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, where you can encounter diverse wildlife and indigenous cultures.
Otavalo Market: A vibrant market known for its textiles, crafts, and traditional Andean goods.
Quilotoa Loop: A scenic hiking route around the Quilotoa crater lake, offering stunning views and cultural encounters with local communities.
Activities :
Hiking and Trekking: Popular routes include the Inca Trail to Ingapirca, the Quilotoa Loop, and hikes in the Andes.
Wildlife Watching: The Galápagos Islands, Amazon rainforest, and coastal regions are prime locations for observing diverse wildlife.
Water Sports: Surfing, snorkeling, and diving along the coast and in the Galápagos Islands.
Cultural Tours: Explore indigenous markets, traditional villages, and historical sites.
Adventure Sports: White-water rafting, zip-lining, and mountain biking in places like Baños and the Andes.
Dining :
Traditional Cuisine: Try local dishes such as ceviche, llapingachos (potato pancakes), and hornado (roast pork).
Seafood: Coastal regions offer fresh seafood dishes, including encocado (coconut seafood stew) and arroz marinero (seafood rice).
International Cuisine: In major cities, you'll find a variety of international restaurants offering Italian, Asian, and fusion cuisine.
Street Food: Sample local snacks like empanadas, tamales, and humitas (corn cakes).
Practical Information :
Language: Spanish, with indigenous languages spoken in some regions. English is spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
Best Time to Visit: The dry season from June to September is ideal for exploring the highlands and the coast, while the Galápagos Islands can be visited year-round.
Local Transport: Buses are the main mode of transport between cities. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are available in urban areas. Domestic flights connect major cities and the Galápagos Islands.
Tips :
Altitude: If traveling to high-altitude areas like Quito or the Andes, take time to acclimate and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
Health Precautions: Vaccinations for yellow fever and malaria prophylaxis are recommended for Amazon regions. Drink bottled or boiled water.
Safety: Be cautious with your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Avoid traveling alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Cultural Respect: Learn a few basic Spanish phrases and respect local customs and traditions.
Ecuador's diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife make it a compelling destination for all types of travelers. Whether you're trekking through
the Andes, exploring colonial cities, or discovering the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos, Ecuador promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure and discovery.
MAINLAND ECUADOR
Reference #: WTP0767
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