Tour Type: Mainland Ecuador with private English-speaking Guide-Driver
Tour Runs: Any day, subject to availability
Duration: 14 days / 13 nights
Destinations: Quito, Mitad del Mundo, Teleferico de Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Lagoon, Papallacta Hot Springs, Upper Napo (Amazon Jungle), Puyo, Banos de Agua Santa, Route of the Waterfalls, Riobamba, Chimborazo area, Ingapirca Archaeological Site, Cuenca, Gualaceo, Chordeleg, El Cajas National Park, Guayaquil, Montanita, Puerto Lopez, Machalilla National Park, Isla de la Plata, Los Frailes Beach
Type of Trip: Cultural, nature, wildlife, soft adventure, hiking, photography, wellness
Highlights: Complete journey through mainland Ecuador, combining Andean landscapes, Amazon rainforest, colonial cities, archaeological sites, waterfalls, national parks, and the Pacific coast, with wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and iconic natural attractions.

Welcome to Ecuador! Upon your arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), our guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

• Meals included: N/A.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quito.

Pick up from your hotel in Quito. traveling along the Pan-American Highway towards the breathtaking Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes Cotopaxi, rising to an impressive 5,897 meters (19,347 feet). Visit to the National Park’s Interpretation Center, where you’ll learn about the park’s unique ecosystem, geology, and the cultural significance of the volcano. We then continue to the scenic Limpiopungo Lagoon, a high-altitude lake where, on clear days, Cotopaxi’s snow-capped peak is reflected in the water an ideal spot for photography and wildlife observation. Then we will embark on a scenic journey to one of Ecuador's most breathtaking natural wonders: Quilotoa Lagoon, a volcanic caldera filled with stunning turquoise waters. According to a local indigenous legend, the lagoon is believed to be bottomless, adding to its mystical allure. Before arriving at Quilotoa, we will also pass through the Zumbahua Canyon and indigenous villages and communities, a spectacular landscape ideal for photography. Upon arrival at Quilotoa, enjoy a panoramic view of the lagoon and the Andean landscapes then we will return to Quito.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quitos.

This morning, we’ll head to the renowned Termas de Papallacta, a natural hot springs resort nestled in the beautiful Andean páramo. Surrounded by lush highland landscapes, these thermal pools are the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters. You’ll also have the option to explore scenic self-guided nature trails or indulge in a variety of spa treatmentsand massages at the full-service wellness center (spa services not included). After a relaxing morning, we continue our journey into the Amazon region, (Your experience in the Upper Napo region may vary slightly depending on the lodge you choose, but the following is a general sample of the itinerary) traveling through the town of Tena and onward to Ahuano, where we’ll cross the Napo River by canoe to reach your lodge La Casa del Suizo (or another lodge of your choice).

Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome cocktail before settling into your private bungalow. For those who wish, there’s time to relax or take a refreshing swim at the nearby sandy river beach.

• Meals included: Breakfast - Dinner.
• Overnight: Lodge in Upper Napo Area.

OPTION 1: La Casa del Suizo
If you stay at La Casa del Suizo, you can personalize your day by choosing one morning activity and one afternoon activity. In the morning, you may explore the primary rainforest on a guided jungle trek, build a traditional balsa raft and float down the river, visit the Amazoonico Wildlife Rescue Center (extra fee), or enjoy a relaxing tubing experience along the Arajuno River. In the afternoon, you can visit the Caiman Lagoon to observe white caimans (extra fee), share a cultural encounter with a Kichwa family (extra fee), learn about traditional gold panning, prepare chocolate with local families (extra fee), walk through a butterfly garden (extra fee), or explore a small museum showcasing ancient plants, traps, and tools used by Indigenous communities (extra fee).

OPTION 2: Standard Upper Napo Lodges
For travelers staying in other lodges of the Upper Napo region, the day follows a set program. You will begin with a motorized canoe ride through lush Amazon landscapes, followed by a guided visit to a wildlife rescue center where you may spot animals such as hoatzins, woolly monkeys, macaws, toucans, and more. After enjoying a box lunch in nature, you will visit a Kichwa family to learn about their traditions, blowgun skills, and the preparation of yucca chicha. The day concludes with caiman spotting at the Caiman Lagoon on Anaconda Island, with an optional stop to explore local ceramic crafts before returning to the lodge for a relaxing evening.

• Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
• Overnight: Lodge in Upper Napo Area.

Today we travel from the Amazon toward Puyo and Banos, enjoying a scenic route filled with the lush landscapes of the Ecuadorian jungle, as well as views of rivers and tributaries that accompany us along the way.

Upon arrival in Banos, you’ll have the afternoon at leisure to explore at your leisure. You may choose to visit the local zoo, stroll through town, or simply relax in the town’s famous thermal baths.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Banos.

We will explore the charming town of Banos, visiting the main church and several local attractions. Then we’ll embark on the scenic “Route of the Cascades”, one of the highlights of the region. Along the way, you’ll visit stunning Cascades such as Manto de la Novia, San Pedro, and others nestled in the lush cloud forest. The main highlight is the Pailón del Diablo, a spectacular and powerful cascade surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery perfect for photos and a short hike.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey to the city of Riobamba. En route, we’ll make a brief stop near Chimborazo Volcano, Ecuador’s highest peak, for panoramic views and photos.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Riobamba.

We’ll explore a few historic and cultural highlights of Riobamba, a city rich in colonial architecture and Andean heritage. We then head south, stopping at the Balbanera Church, the first church ever built in Ecuador, dating back to 1534. Nearby, we’ll enjoy a peaceful walk around the Colta Lagoon, a tranquil spot surrounded by unique Andean landscapes. Continuing our journey, we’ll pass through the area of the famous Devil’s Nose (Nariz del Diablo), once home to one of the most dramatic railway routes in the world. Although the train is not currently operating due to the closure of the national railway company, your guide will explain the history, engineering marvel, and significance of the route. In the afternoon, we arrive at the Ingapirca Ruins (Ingapirca Operation days: Wednesday to Sunday), the most important pre-Columbian archaeological site in Ecuador. Located at 3,160 meters above sea level, Ingapirca meaning “Inca Wall” in Kichwa offers deep insight into the Inca civilizations. This sacred site, part of the Qhapaq Ñan (the Andean Road System), once served as a ceremonial and administrative hub connecting diverse cultures throughout the Tahuantinsuyo (Inca Empire). After this fascinating visit, we’ll continue our drive to Cuenca, one of Ecuador’s most beautiful colonial cities.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Cuenca.

We’ll begin the day with a guided city tour of Cuenca, a stunning city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we explore, you’ll discover the rich cultural and architectural diversity that makes Cuenca so unique. The tour includes visits to the city's most important churches, historical landmarks, and monuments. We will also stop at the Turi Viewpoint, which offers a spectacular panoramic view of Cuenca and its surrounding landscapes. After lunch (not included), we’ll head to the nearby colonial towns of Gualaceo and Chordeleg two of the most charming and culturally significant towns in the region. These towns are renowned for their artisan handicrafts, especially fine jewelry made from gold and silver, as well as their deep-rooted colonial traditions.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Cuenca.

Today begins with a short hike through El Cajas National Park, a stunning natural reserve located in the Andean highlands. This unique landscape is home to numerous glacial lagoons, including the emblematic Toreadora Lagoon, remnants of the last Ice Age, interconnected by small rivers that eventually flow into the Pacific Ocean. During the hike, you’ll also pass through the fascinating “paper tree” forest, known for its rare Polylepis trees, adding to the park’s biodiversity and mystical atmosphere. After exploring the park, we’ll continue our journey toward the Ecuadorian coast, descending into the lowlands to reach Guayaquil, the country’s largest and most dynamic city. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief city tour that includes highlights such as Malecon 2000, Las Penas neighborhood, and other notable landmarks.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Guayaquil.

Depart from Guayaquil and begin your journey along the scenic Spondylus Route, a coastal road connecting vibrant towns and beaches of Ecuador’s Pacific coast. Stop at Montanita, famous for its surf culture, lively atmosphere, and beachside cafes. Continue north to Puerto Lopez, a tranquil fishing town known for its access to Machalilla National Park, pristine beaches like Los Frailes, and abundant marine life. This route combines cultural experiences, stunning coastal landscapes, and opportunities to enjoy Ecuador’s beach towns along the way.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Puerto Lopez.

Embark on a full-day excursion to Isla de la Plata, often referred to as the “Little Galapagos.” After a 1.5-hour boat ride, explore the island’s trails, observing seabirds such as blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and frigatebirds. In the afternoon, snorkel among coral reefs and tropical fish. From June to October, enjoy the spectacular sight of humpback whales breaching during their migration. Return to Puerto Lopez in the evening. Overnight in Puerto Lopez.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Puerto Lopez.

Visit Los Frailes Beach, considered one of Ecuador’s most beautiful, with white sands and turquoise waters surrounded by cliffs. Walk the ecological trails through the dry forest of Machalilla National Park before enjoying time at the beach. In the afternoon, begin the long drive (approx. 8–9 hours) back to Quito, passing through the coastal city of Manta and Santo Domingo Towards Quito. Overnight in Quito.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quito.

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at the scheduled time of your international flight, allowing ample time to transfer you to Quito International Airport (UIO) for your departure.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: No Hotel.

END OF OUR SERVICES.

• Private transportation during the whole program with English speaking guide-driver.
• Accommodation in double room with private bathroom.
• Meals according the description of the program.
• Excursions according to the itinerary.
• Museum entrance fees during the land program.
• Isla de La Plata Navigation tour with Snorkel Equipment.

• Meals not specified in the program.
• Extra activities are not specified in the program.
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Personal expenses.
• Gratuities.
• Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
• Any other non-specified.