Quito City - Cayambe Coca National Park - Papallacta Hot Springs

Quito - The journey begins with a trip to 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, we arrive at the village of Papallacta, which means “Father of the Land” in the local language. Just 15 minutes from this village is “Termas Papallacta,” the premier lodge in the area, known for its hot springs. Upon arrival, we will prepare for a short walk along the trails, where we can observe plants, rivers, streams, animals, and mountain formations. 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 will transport us back in time.

Primary and Secondary Amazon Rain Forest by the Arajuno River

Rio Arajuno - After a delicious breakfast, we embark on a long walk through the primary and secondary forest. This activity lasts about three hours, depending on the hiking pace. Afterward, we return for lunch. In the forest, we will see dense vegetation, giant trees, and hanging lianas, evoking thoughts of jungle adventures. Occasionally, we may spot Tití pigmeo monkeys, who shyly approach the forest, perfect for capturing on camera. Remember, spotting animals depends on various geological or climatic factors.

Amazonico Park - Anaconda Island by the Napo River

Rio Napo - After breakfast, we take a 40-minute canoe ride to “Anaconda Island.” Here, we can see the prehistoric “Hoatzin” bird, monkeys, and squirrel monkeys, among others. We also visit a family in an indigenous community to learn about their cultivation practices, medicinal plants, and traditional hunting methods with blowguns and handmade traps. Anaconda Island is located by the Napo River, a major tributary of the Amazon.

Rio Napo - After lunch, we visit Amazonico Park, which protects a variety of endangered animals. Amazonico is a rescue center, not a zoo, for animals living in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest. We can observe some animals in their natural habitat up close. After this, we return to the Eco-Lodge to enjoy the hotel facilities. The entrance fee is not included; it is $5 per person.

Amazon Rain Forest – Tena City – Archidona City - Quito City

Rio Arajuno - We depart early to visit the Parrot Clay Lick, an activity dependent on weather conditions. After a 15-minute canoe ride upstream, we reach the Parrot Clay Lick, a unique site where parrots and parakeets gather to obtain minerals that aid in digesting the fruits or seeds they have consumed. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets will approach the canopy and then descend to the clay wall to consume the mineral-rich soil. Binoculars are essential to fully appreciate this magnificent natural spectacle. We return for breakfast, collect our luggage, and head back to the pier, and from there 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.