Night 1
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Dann Carlton in Quito
This Quito hotel has lovely welcoming rooms, but you’ll want to spend all your time at the indoor pool, fully equipped gym, or the charming garden.
Andes and Amazon Adventure
Prices
Highlights
Hike, bike, raft, and more in the beautiful and diverse landscapes of Ecuador
The 8-day guided Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure tour will take you on the adventure of a lifetime. With a range of exciting activities on deck, there’s never a dull moment on this tour! Explore the volcanic mountains and rainforests of Ecuador on hikes and bike rides. Then, your guides will take you to hidden crater lakes, powerful waterfalls, and majestic canyons.
Between hikes and bike rides, you’ll go white water rafting, canyoneering, and explore the jungle. This tour is packed with exciting activities in beautiful places, but you’ll also get to know the indigenous people of the area and learn about their way of life. Take a breather from the adrenaline by visiting a hummingbird habitat and learning about local chocolate! You’ll finish your tour with everyone’s favourite, a visit to the volcanic hot springs. This guided tour has everything an adventurous traveller could want in Ecuador!
Andes and Amazon Adventure Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Quito
Feel free to explore Quito on your own today. Your tour starts in the evening with a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby. This is when you’ll meet your tour guide and the rest of your group. You’ll have a chance to ask any questions you might have as you learn all about the adventure that awaits you!
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Quito (2,850m / 9,350’)
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- None
Day 2 Hike to the Crater Lake in Quilotoa
The day will start with a three-hour drive into the Andes along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. You’ll arrive in Quilotoa, where you’ll hike into the crater to discover the gorgeous blue Crater Lake at the bottom. You can choose to rent a kayak and go for a paddle to take in the incredible views, or just relax and soak in the scenery.
Hike back out of the crater, or rent a mule or horse to take you back up to the crater rim. You’ll have lunch at the top and then visit a local artisan market.
- Overnight Location
- B&B in Lasso (3,050m / 10,000’)
- Distance
- About 3 hours of hiking and optional 1-hour paddle
- Meals
- Breakfast, lunch
Day 3 Hike to the Cotopaxi Glacier
Today will be a hike up to the Cotopaxi Glacier. The trail starts at about 4500m above sea level, and you’ll be climbing all the way up to 5200m. Your guides will help you with some tips and tricks to handle the thin air at such high altitudes. The trail is quite steep, so the climb will take about 2 hours. It’s going to be well worth it at the top, though!
In the afternoon, you’ll head to charming Baños de Agua Santa. This town is surrounded by mountain ridges and a waterfall. Besides being very pretty, Baños has great restaurants and nightlife, making it the perfect place to spend the evening.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Baños (1,820m / 5,970’)
- Distance
- About 3 hours of hiking
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 4 Bike Ride in Llanganates National Park
This morning you’ll be driven to the Llanganates National Park for a bike ride. You’ll only be riding gently uphill for about an hour before the trail starts zipping downwards. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and the spectacular views, including the active Tungurahua Volcano.
After the bike ride, the group will go to the Casa de Arbol, which is famous for its “swing at the end of the world”. Take a swing if you’re feeling brave! Time permitting, there may be an option to do some zip lining as well.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Baños (1,820m / 5,970’)
- Distance
- About 3 hours of biking
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 5 Discover the Amazon Basin
Before driving to the Amazon, you’ll make a stop to see the incredible Pailon del Diablo waterfall. Enjoy the scenic drive into the beautiful Amazon basin.
After a traditional lunch, you’ll go canyoneering in the spectacular canyons. Your day will end with a sweet treat as you learn how to make traditional chocolate fondue from the local cacao.
- Overnight Location
- Wilderness lodge in the Amazon
- Distance
- About 3 hours of hiking and canyoneering
- Meals
- Lunch, dinner
Day 6 Raft on the Jatunyacu River
Today will be a trip highlight as you’ll be rafting down the Jatunyacu River! This river is sourced from the Llanganates Mountains and has Class III rapids. Hold on tight!
After your exciting morning on the river, have a nice lunch and return to the lodge to relax or go for a swim. Tonight you can take a nocturnal stroll to discover all the insects and amphibians who only come out at night.
- Overnight Location
- Wilderness lodge in the Amazon
- Distance
- About 3 hours of rafting
- Meals
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 7 Explore the Jungle and Visit the Hot Springs
Start your day with a hike through the jungle to learn about the medicinal uses of the local plants and the importance of them for the indigenous people.
After your exploration, you’ll start heading back towards the highlands. On your way, you’ll stop in the Guango forest reserve to visit hummingbirds in their natural habitat.
The next stop is Papallacta Hot Springs. These natural volcanic hot springs are known to have healing properties. Relax in the different pools and unwind in nature’s spa, or if you’d like to add a spa treatment, massages and facials can be arranged. Your day will finish back in Quito, joining the rest of your group for a farewell celebration at a local brewery.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Quito (2,850m / 9,350’)
- Distance
- Flexible
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 8 Farewell!
Your tour has come to an end, and it’s time to return home or continue on the next leg of your journey.
- Overnight Location
- None
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- Breakfast
Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure Price and Dates
This guided adventure tour in Ecuador is run either as a group tour or a private tour. The prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room and those willing to have single rooms will have to pay a supplement:
Private tour:
- Group of 2-4:
$1,775USD per person-Now $1,495USD per person
- Group of 5+:
$1,775USD per person-Now $1,295USD per person
Prices to join a group tour:
| Day Of Week | Price Per Person * | |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Not Available | |
| Tuesday | Not Available | |
| Wednesday | Not Available | |
| Thursday | Not Available | |
| Friday | Not Available | |
| Saturday | Not Available | |
| Sunday | $1,250USD | Book Now |
Accommodation on the Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure
This tour is based in 3-star hotels, B&Bs, and ecolodges. The hotels offer comfortable rooms with great locations. The lodges in the Amazon are more rustic. Rooms are double occupancy and single travellers will pay a supplement.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel (please contact us to find out the pricing).
Night 2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsLa Cienega Hacienda in Lasso
At 325 years old, this is one of the oldest colonial properties in the country. You’ll love the warm service and historical charm of this hacienda.
Night 3-4
See Tripadvisor ReviewsAlisamay Hotel in Banos
This hotel offers cozy rooms and incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Spend time relaxing in the garden or at the outdoor swimming pool.
Night 5-6
Basic wilderness lodge in the Amazon Basin
The lodges are rustic, wilderness accommodations, but the experience of staying right in the Amazon basin will outweigh the rugged amenities.
Night 7
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Dann Carlton in Quito
This Quito hotel has lovely welcoming rooms, but you’ll want to spend all your time at the indoor pool, fully equipped gym, or the charming garden.
Hotels on Standard Tour
What’s Included in the Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure?
Meals
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, water, and snacks are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included. Accommodations before and after the tour in Quito are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
Transport for you and your luggage is included as outlined in the itinerary. Airport transfers are not included.
Also Included
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Bike (quality hybrid bikes), certified helmets and gloves
- Hiking poles
- NRS rafts, paddles and helmets for whitewater rafting
- Canyoneering equipment, harnesses, helmets, ropes, and rubber boots
- Water bottle
- All fees for reserves and museums
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights to or from Ecuador
- Airport transfers
- Lunches and dinners not previously mentioned
- Tourist taxes if applicable
- Visas if required
- Optional activities
- Personal equipment
- Fees not mentioned as ‘included’
- Gratuities for tour guides and drivers
Frequenty Asked Questions about Andes and Amazon Adventure
How hard is the Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure?
We rate this tour as a 4/5. This tour has a high difficulty rating because it includes two hikes at high elevations in addition to other demanding physical activities. No experience is required for rafting or canyoneering, but travellers should be adventurous and fairly fit to get the most out of this tour.
Do I need a visa to travel to Ecuador?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure?
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, water, and snacks are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover all the activities included. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Quito to start this tour?
The best way to reach Quito is to fly to the Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). You will need to arrange your own transfer to the hotel.
Is the Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure guided?
Yes, you will have an English-speaking guide for the duration of the tour.
Where does the Ecuadorian Andes and Amazon Adventure tour end?
The tour ends when you check out of your hotel in Quito. You will need to arrange a ride to the airport.
Are equipment rentals included?
Your bike, helmet, and gloves are included for the cycling portion. Hiking poles will be provided for hikes, and all rafting equipment including helmets are also provided. The tour includes the harnesses, ropes, and helmets you’ll require for canyoneering as well. Please bring any other personal equipment desired.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Ecuador?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Ecuador?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
What time of the year is the best time to travel to Ecuador for this tour?
The best time to travel to Ecuador for this tour is June through September when the weather tends to be dry and sunny.
The creation of Activexpedition is to inspire adventure travelers to explore our world from a different perspective. At Activexpedition they prioritize eco-friendly activities in every destination they go, as well as support local people and traditions through sustainability efforts.
Activexpedition’s mission is to deliver educational experiences of a lifetime with stellar service and provide human powered holidays that go beyond typical adventure travel.
Prices
What travellers says
Stephen L.
I’ve been using 10A route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10A made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
Valeria R.
I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
Isabella N.
I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
When can I do this tour?
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Is this tour for me?
We rate this tour as a 4/5. This tour has a high difficulty rating because it includes two hikes at high elevations in addition to other demanding physical activities. No experience is required for rafting or canyoneering, but travellers should be adventurous and fairly fit to get the most out of this tour.
Local guide
Cesar Romero
Quito, Ecuador
Get in touch
Book your next Adventure on 10Adventures
Hassle-free Adventure Travel
Sit back, relax, and enjoy! Let us take care of all the travel planning details, so you don’t have to.
Don't Just Take A Trip, Take YOUR Trip
Let us help you get exactly what YOU want with a customizable adventure tour centred around your active interests and passions.
No Hidden Fees
We don’t believe in hidden fees like credit card fees, booking fees or more. Even better, most people can pay in their local currency!
Happiness Guarantee
We want your journey to meet your expectations, and we will work with you to solve any issues you’ve encountered.
Personal Adventure Travel Concierge
Our dedicated adventure travel concierge will curate the perfect itinerary to make your travel dreams a reality.
Vetted Local Guides
Book with confidence, knowing that our team has carefully hand-picked each tour operator and they use local, experienced guides.