The Ecuador Experience

From$1249USD
18 days,Quito to Quito
Trip Code: REE

Feeling like a local at an Amazon homestay, relaxing on Ecuador's beaches, witnessing Andean scenery, riding by train to the Devil's Nose, learning from the locals at an indigenous community, shopping the Otavalo market.

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Offer valid for new bookings only with international air travel originating in North America added to a land booking. Not valid with any other discount, offer or promotion. Subject to availability. Must book by May 31, 2013, for travel by February 1, 2014. Subject to airline regulations and restrictions.

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If you want to sample the region’s highlights without sacrificing some of its lesser known gems, there’s no better way to experience Ecuador's dramatic scenery and colourful people. Visit the Amazon and a shaman for an incredible introduction to indigenous culture and witness lush jungles and exotic wildlife. Staying in simple hotels and homestays and using public transport will keep you grounded in the local customs and culture. We'll travel from the Avenue of the Volcanoes to relaxing Pacific beaches and mountain hot springs in Ecuador. This adventure offers up a great combination of must-see highlights and free time to explore on your own.

What's Included

  • 2-night Amazon Jungle homestay, Excursion by train to the Devil's Nose, 2-night homestay at an indigenous community, Visit to Otavalo market.
  • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. (Allow USD305-400 for meals not included.)
  • Simple hotels (12 nts), Amazon community stay (2 nts), overnight bus (1 nt), indigenous community homestay (2 nts, multi-share).
  • Public bus, truck, motorized canoe, train.
  • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.
  • Small group experience; Max 16, avg 10.
Map of the route for The Ecuador Experience Click to enlarge
Places Visited
  • Amazon
  • Ecuador
Day 1 Quito

Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Tena

Head down windy roads to the Amazon basin. Optional activities include visiting an animal rescue centre, caving and whitewater rafting.

Day 3-4 Amazon Jungle Homestay (2B,2L,2D)

Spot wildlife on nature walks, visit a local shaman, learn about local Quichua history and cultural traditions while on a homestay.

Day 5-6 Baños

Time to get active with outdoor optional activities such as hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking, or a soak in the nearby hot springs.

Day 7 Alausí

Arrive via Riobamba and take in the architecture of this local town.

Day 8 Guayaquil

Board the train to an included excursion bound for the Devil's Nose. Take advantage of some free time to explore the city or try a boat ride on Guayas River.

Day 9-12 Puerto Lopez/Machalilla National Park

Optional activities include a day trip to Isla de la Plata, hiking in Machalilla National Park, a visit to a local community reforestation project, snorkelling or relaxing on the beach. Opt to go whale watching (when in season). Return to Quito by overnight bus on Day 12.

Day 13 Quito

Free day in Quito. Opt to take a city tour, ride the cable car up the nearby volcano or relax in one of the city's many cafés and restaurants.

Day 14-15 San Clemente (1B,2L,2D)

Optional hikes to see and learn about the medicinal plants or trek up the Imbabura Mountain. Interact with the locals in this indigenous community and learn about their traditional ways. Optional cultural evening and show with typical food.

Day 16-17 Otavalo/Quito (1B)

Optional activities include a visit to Peguche Waterfall, Cotacachi leather market or hike around Cuicocha Lake. Explore the Otavalo handicraft market for shopping. Final night out in Quito.

Day 18 Quito

Depart at any time.

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