Sorry! There are no remaining departures for "Inland & Amazon" (EIA), but here are some similar trips.
This itinerary is valid for departures until March 2018. To view the itinerary from April 2018 onwards click here.
Inland & Amazon
16 days, Quito to Quito
Itinerary
Day 1Quito
Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities before an evening welcome meeting.
Booking pre- or post-trip accommodation is highly recommended to fully experience the city and take advantage of the many optional activities available.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Mindo Cloud Forest - Full Day Trip
70-100USD per personDrive northwest for 2 hours, enjoy the dramatic change of vegetation heading down from the Andes into the cloud forest. Mindo is a tiny town set amidst some of the most beautiful and peaceful countryside in the entire country. It is a centre for both nature and adventure activities. Go walking through the cloud forest and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the different waterfalls, take time to ride up the cable car with amazing views. Visit a butterfly farm and see an array of colourful hummingbirds for which Mindo is renowned. In the afternoon, opt for an organic chocolate tour and tasting.
This trip takes roughly 9 hours departing at 7 am, and includes a guide, transport and lunch. Any activities upon arrival will be additional. **Check availability at destination because this tour does not have daily departures.
Quito City Tour & Equator Line
Enjoy a city tour of Quito. Visit the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stops at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, La Compañia Church, San Francisco Square, Plaza Grande and the Panecillo, a towering statue of the virgin of Quito who looks out over a stunning view of the city. Drive 25km (16 mi) north of Quito to the Middle of the World, latitude 0º. Stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
Please note that this tour starts at 8 a.m. and ends around 5 p.m.
Teleférico
9USD per personEnjoy spectacular views of Quito from this sky tram up Volcán Pichincha. Choose to go for a hike at the top, or just come along for the ride.
Cotopaxi Volcano - Full Day
Enjoy a spectacular 2 hour drive to Cotopaxi Volcano National Park to see the highest active volcano in the world (5,897m/ 19,347 ft). Visit a museum in the park and hike around a lagoon at the bottom of the volcano to learn about the flora and fauna found at this altitude. Continue by car up the volcano to the parking lot, at over 4,500m/14,763 ft. Walk for an hour and a half to the refuge and after a short break, continue to the glacier (if the weather holds out). Return to Quito in the early evening. **Park entrance fee is not included and is split among the number of travellers in the group**
Day 2Quito/Papallacta
Travel to Papallacta Hot Springs and opt for a relaxing afternoon at the hot springs.
Take a local bus through the heights of the Andes en route to the Amazon. Stop for the night in Papallacta and relax in the natural mineral hot pools.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Free Time
Get exploring. Free time is yours to use any way you want!
Your Wellness Moment: Papallacta Hot Springs Visit
Enjoy access to the private hot springs at the accommodation in Papallacta.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Papallacta/Tena
Travel by bus into the Amazon Jungle. Spend 2 nights with a local Quichua family at a homestay in a small village. Enjoy nature walks and and learn about local culture.
Descend into the Amazon Jungle region. Notice the scenery change dramatically heading from the mountains into the lush, tropical Amazon rainforest.
Stay with a Quichua family enjoying the hospitality of these wonderful people, and experience life in the jungle firsthand.
Optional activities include visiting an animal rescue centre, caving, and whitewater rafting.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Local Living Moment: Amazon Jungle Experience
Learn about local traditional beliefs and customs on this cultural jungle experience in the Ecuadorian Amazon close to Napo River. Stay in rustic wooden huts with a local Quichua family as hosts near the community of Cando. They've introduced countless visitors to local living and a completely different way of doing things — one that may give you a different perspective on life.
Take part in a number of amazing activities. Hike through the rainforest, plunge into waterfalls, and learn the uses of tropical plants. Experience local tradition, and learn about Quichua history and culture.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 4Tena
Spend a full day in the Amazon learning about life at a homestay. Enjoy cooking demonstrations and hiking to nearby waterfalls.
Your Local Living Moment: Amazon Jungle Experience
Learn about local traditional beliefs and customs on this cultural jungle experience in the Ecuadorian Amazon close to Napo River. Stay in rustic wooden huts with a local Quichua family as hosts near the community of Cando. They've introduced countless visitors to local living and a completely different way of doing things — one that may give you a different perspective on life.
Take part in a number of amazing activities. Hike through the rainforest, plunge into waterfalls, and learn the uses of tropical plants. Experience local tradition, and learn about Quichua history and culture.
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 5Tena
Journey further into the Amazon to a jungle lodge. Included guided walks and canoe rides show the natural history and wildlife. Opt to go whitewater rafting on the Napo River.
Travel to a jungle lodge located on the Napo River, one of the Amazon’s two major tributaries.
Explore by foot and canoe to learn about the natural history of this area. There is also an option for an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip on the Napo.
Please note: wildlife viewing in this part of the jungle is limited for a number of reasons. This visit is more a cultural learning experience.
Jungle Excursions
Go for canoe rides through the Tena area on the Napo River to learn more about the way of life in the region. Or, go on jungle walks to learn about the traditional uses of local plants.
Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow
Jatunyacu River Rafting with lunch
65USD per personHit the rapids in the Amazon, and enjoy the thrill of a lifetime! Enjoy amazing scenery as you paddle past rainforests on this wild ride.
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 6Tena
Spend another day exploring the area.
Jungle Excursions
Go for canoe rides through the Tena area on the Napo River to learn more about the way of life in the region. Or, go on jungle walks to learn about the traditional uses of local plants.
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Jatunyacu River Rafting with lunch
65USD per personHit the rapids in the Amazon, and enjoy the thrill of a lifetime! Enjoy amazing scenery as you paddle past rainforests on this wild ride.
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 7Tena/Baños
Travel to Baños and enjoy numerous outdoor optional activities available like hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking or soaking in the hot springs.
Opt to pre-book the "Baños Canyoning Adventure" or "Baños Ziplining Adventure Bundle" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Horseback Riding - Baños
25USD per personHop in the saddle and explore Baños’ beautiful countryside by horseback. Check out the unique vegetation in the region, and, perhaps, trot over to Tungurahua Volcano for amazing views.
Hot Springs - Baños
4USD per personSoak weary muscles in the thermal baths that Baños is famous for. Head to hot springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano, which means “little hell” in Quichua, or try some of the baths fed by the melt waters of Tungurahua's glaciated flanks. Rise before the sun for an early soak – watching the sun peak over the mountains while relaxing in the warm waters is definitely worth the early start.
Baños Ziplining Adventure Bundle
25USD per personBuckle up your harness, put on your helmet, and prepare to launch. Glide along a zipline suspended 850m above the canyon below, dare to let go and reach top speeds as you zip past stunning scenery. Forget your fear as you cross Tibetan Suspension Bridge above Pastaza River. Rock climb up to a second zipline to finish off this adrenaline-filled adventure. Please keep in mind this is a level 3/5 physical activity. Good mobility, no fear of heights, and a strong fitness level are required for you to have an enjoyable experience.
Baños Canyoning Adventure
Jump, slide, rappel, swim and float around Cascadas de Chamana on this canyoning adventure, while enjoying the stunning scenery near Sangay National Park. Please keep in mind this is a level 4/5 physical activity. Good mobility and a strong fitness level are required for you to have an enjoyable experience.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Baños
Enjoy free time to experience all this adventurous town has to offer.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Baños, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like hiking, canyoneering, and relaxing in the hot springs. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow
Whitewater Rafting
30USD per personHit the rapids in the adrenaline capital of Ecuador. Choose a river that suits your experience level; there a number with varying ranges of difficulty. Enjoy amazing Andean scenery and a fun-filled ride!
Hiking - Baños
FreeHead to the mountains for some amazing treks; Baños provides the perfect natural setting for outdoor adventure.
Mountain Bike Rental
10USD per personHop on your bike and explore the amazing scenery surrounding Baños. Pass by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and changing vegetation – depending on what path you take. Enjoy the cool wind on downhill stretches, but be sure to bring sunblock; the sun can be strong.
Horseback Riding - Baños
25USD per personHop in the saddle and explore Baños’ beautiful countryside by horseback. Check out the unique vegetation in the region, and, perhaps, trot over to Tungurahua Volcano for amazing views.
Baños Canyoning Adventure
Jump, slide, rappel, swim and float around Cascadas de Chamana on this canyoning adventure, while enjoying the stunning scenery near Sangay National Park. Please keep in mind this is a level 4/5 physical activity. Good mobility and a strong fitness level are required for you to have an enjoyable experience.
Hot Springs - Baños
4USD per personSoak weary muscles in the thermal baths that Baños is famous for. Head to hot springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano, which means “little hell” in Quichua, or try some of the baths fed by the melt waters of Tungurahua's glaciated flanks. Rise before the sun for an early soak – watching the sun peak over the mountains while relaxing in the warm waters is definitely worth the early start.
Baños Ziplining Adventure Bundle
25USD per personBuckle up your harness, put on your helmet, and prepare to launch. Glide along a zipline suspended 850m above the canyon below, dare to let go and reach top speeds as you zip past stunning scenery. Forget your fear as you cross Tibetan Suspension Bridge above Pastaza River. Rock climb up to a second zipline to finish off this adrenaline-filled adventure. Please keep in mind this is a level 3/5 physical activity. Good mobility, no fear of heights, and a strong fitness level are required for you to have an enjoyable experience.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Baños
Enjoy another free day to experience all this adventurous town has to offer.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Baños, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like hiking, canyoneering, and relaxing in the hot springs. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Hiking - Baños
FreeHead to the mountains for some amazing treks; Baños provides the perfect natural setting for outdoor adventure.
Whitewater Rafting
30USD per personHit the rapids in the adrenaline capital of Ecuador. Choose a river that suits your experience level; there a number with varying ranges of difficulty. Enjoy amazing Andean scenery and a fun-filled ride!
Horseback Riding - Baños
25USD per personHop in the saddle and explore Baños’ beautiful countryside by horseback. Check out the unique vegetation in the region, and, perhaps, trot over to Tungurahua Volcano for amazing views.
Mountain Bike Rental
10USD per personHop on your bike and explore the amazing scenery surrounding Baños. Pass by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and changing vegetation – depending on what path you take. Enjoy the cool wind on downhill stretches, but be sure to bring sunblock; the sun can be strong.
Hot Springs - Baños
4USD per personSoak weary muscles in the thermal baths that Baños is famous for. Head to hot springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano, which means “little hell” in Quichua, or try some of the baths fed by the melt waters of Tungurahua's glaciated flanks. Rise before the sun for an early soak – watching the sun peak over the mountains while relaxing in the warm waters is definitely worth the early start.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Baños/Cuenca
Travel south to the colonial city of Cuenca, stopping en route at the Ingapirca ruins. Enjoy an orientation walk of the city.
Travel along the 'Avenue of Volcanoes', through Ecuador's central valley of mountains to the colonial town of Cuenca. Enjoy a full day trip with spectacular views along the way, stopping at the Inca ruins of Ingapirca — the largest and best-preserved archaeological site in Ecuador.
Explore the city’s sights, including cobblestoned streets, red-tiled roofs, art galleries, flower markets, shady plazas, and museums.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day Trip to Ingapirca Ruins
Visit the ruins of Ingapirca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is approximately an hour and a half drive north of Cuenca, through some of Ecuador's most beautiful countryside. Although it is a major Inca site, not a lot is known about its history.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Cuenca
Enjoy a free day to explore. Opt for a city tour or go hiking in Cajas National Park.
Free Time
Explore the city or go further afield.
Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow
Cajas National Park Visit
65USD per personHead out for an excursion from Cuenca with a visit to Cajas National Park. Tour this natural outdoor playground that combines stunning scenery and wildlife with excellent areas for hiking. The terrain is quite stark, mostly above 4,000m (13,120 ft) in the páramo (grassy highlands), with many clear lakes. Try some of the variety of treks in the park’s vast 28,000 ha, and keep an eye out for oncillas, wild llamas, pumas, and a wide variety of birds, including toucans!
Cuenca Mud Baths & Hot Springs
40USD per personSlather volcanic muds on your face and body and relax in the natural hot springs.
Gualaceo and Chordeleg Day Trip
65USD per personExplore the countryside near Cuenca, visit nearby towns well-known for handicrafts, weaving, and textiles. Learn about the weaving process and pick up a shawl, guitar, or straw hat directly from the people who make them.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Cuenca/Cayambe
Fly back to Quito and continue on to Cayambe. Spend the night in a 400-year-old hacienda at the base of a volcano.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Cayambe/Otavalo
Travel to Otavalo. Optional activities include visits to Peguche Waterfall or the Cotacachi leather market, or a hike around Cuicocha Lake.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Free Time
Enjoy the town and the area further afield.
Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow
Cotacachi Visit
Visit the mountain town of Cotacachi, known for its leather goods and handicrafts. Wander the streets of the scenic town and watch craftspeople make handmade leather goods. Take in local living, and be sure to pick up some goods and souvenirs.
Cuicocha Lake Hike
Trek around this volcanic crater lake located at 3,246m (10,650 ft) above sea level. Take in amazing scenic views of the deep blue lake and its two lava islands.
Peguche Waterfall Visit
Enjoy a stroll to the famous Peguche Waterfall nestled within a gorgeous protected forest, Bosque Protector Cascada de Peguche. Take in the beauty of this natural wonder that’s also a sacred Indigenous ceremonial site used for purification baths.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Otavalo
Explore the famous Otavalo handicraft market.
Explore the largest handicraft market in South America. Villagers from the surrounding countryside come every week to sell handmade goods as well as livestock, fruits, and vegetables.
Otavalo Handicrafts Market Visit
Discover some amazing local art, tapestries, and textiles at Otavalo’s famous artisan market, the largest handicraft market in South America. Wander the stalls to meet local artists, and find one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Try to arrive early for the best bargains (it starts at dawn), and try your hand at haggling – it’s expected for every purchase. A good negotiator could get at least 20 per cent off the starting price.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 15Otavalo/Quito
Travel back to Quito and spend free time in the city.
Enjoy a free day to explore Quito, with the options to visit the Basilica or explore the old town. Enjoy the last evening in this energetic city.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Free Time
Head out and explore this capital city.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 16Quito
Depart at any time.
We recommend booking pre- or post-accommodation to fully explore this charming city.
Optional Activities - Day 16 HideShow
Teleférico
9USD per personEnjoy spectacular views of Quito from this sky tram up Volcán Pichincha. Choose to go for a hike at the top, or just come along for the ride.
Mindo Cloud Forest - Full Day Trip
70-100USD per personDrive northwest for 2 hours, enjoy the dramatic change of vegetation heading down from the Andes into the cloud forest. Mindo is a tiny town set amidst some of the most beautiful and peaceful countryside in the entire country. It is a centre for both nature and adventure activities. Go walking through the cloud forest and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the different waterfalls, take time to ride up the cable car with amazing views. Visit a butterfly farm and see an array of colourful hummingbirds for which Mindo is renowned. In the afternoon, opt for an organic chocolate tour and tasting.
This trip takes roughly 9 hours departing at 7 am, and includes a guide, transport and lunch. Any activities upon arrival will be additional. **Check availability at destination because this tour does not have daily departures.
Quito City Tour & Equator Line
Enjoy a city tour of Quito. Visit the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stops at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, La Compañia Church, San Francisco Square, Plaza Grande and the Panecillo, a towering statue of the virgin of Quito who looks out over a stunning view of the city. Drive 25km (16 mi) north of Quito to the Middle of the World, latitude 0º. Stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
Please note that this tour starts at 8 a.m. and ends around 5 p.m.
Cotopaxi Volcano - Full Day
Enjoy a spectacular 2 hour drive to Cotopaxi Volcano National Park to see the highest active volcano in the world (5,897m/ 19,347 ft). Visit a museum in the park and hike around a lagoon at the bottom of the volcano to learn about the flora and fauna found at this altitude. Continue by car up the volcano to the parking lot, at over 4,500m/14,763 ft. Walk for an hour and a half to the refuge and after a short break, continue to the glacier (if the weather holds out). Return to Quito in the early evening. **Park entrance fee is not included and is split among the number of travellers in the group**