Quito City - Papallacta Hot Springs - Tena City - Amazon Rainforest

Quito - The journey begins by heading towards the eastern mountain range. 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.

Termas de Papallacta - After an hour’s drive, the village of Papallacta is reached, which means “Father of the Land” in the local language. Just 15 minutes from this village lies “Termas Papallacta,” the premier lodge in the area, 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 history and culture of the village transport us back in time.

Archidona - Known as the city of petroglyphs, Archidona is a stopover city near Tena. The surrounding rivers feature several marked stones, or petroglyphs, created by ancient civilizations that once inhabited the area.

Tena - Upon reaching Tena, the journey continues to the Arajuno River Bridge. Here, a motorized canoe is taken upstream to the Eco-Lodge, a 20-minute ride showcasing the Amazon jungle’s magic and beauty. At the dock, staff welcome guests with a brief explanation of check-in procedures and upcoming activities. The Eco-Lodge is situated in a transition zone of the Ecuadorian jungle, on the banks of a river originating in the Pastaza basin near Baños. The cabins are traditionally lit with candles.

Primary and Secondary Amazon Rainforest 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 the hiking pace. Afterward, lunch is served. The forest is characterized by dense vegetation, with giant trees and hanging lianas, evoking thoughts of jungle adventures. Occasionally, Tití pigmeo monkeys may be spotted, shyly approaching the forest, perfect for capturing on camera. Remember, animal sightings depend 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 “Hoatzin” bird, 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 located by the Napo River, a major Amazon tributary.

Rio Napo - After lunch, a visit to Amazonico Park is planned, which protects a variety of endangered animals. Amazonico is a rescue center, not a zoo, allowing observation of animals in their natural habitat. Afterward, guests return to the Eco-Lodge to enjoy its facilities. The entrance fee is not included; it is $5 per person.

Amazon Rainforest – Tena City – Archidona City - Quito City

Rio Arajuno - An early departure is scheduled to visit the Parrot Clay Lick, weather permitting. After a 15-minute canoe ride upstream, the Parrot Clay Lick is reached, a unique site where parrots and parakeets gather to consume minerals aiding in the digestion of fruits or seeds. Hundreds of these birds approach the canopy before descending to the clay wall to eat the mineral-rich soil. Binoculars are essential to fully appreciate this natural spectacle. Afterward, breakfast is served, and luggage is packed for the return journey 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.