eCUADOR
AMAZON, AVENUE of VOLCANOS & CLOUD FOREST
JAN 2022 • 11 DAYS • 14 GUESTS
On this adventure, step into a country world-renowned for its biodiversity, varied terrain, and wildlife habitats thriving with wildlife and natural beauty. Hike through the primary rainforest as you journey into the heart of the Amazon. Be in awe of the pristine nature surrounding you as you glide down the river on canoes. Observe the speed and agility of a variety of dazzling hummingbirds in the cloud forest. Head up into the Andes for breathtaking views of high-altitude volcanos and valleys dotted with traditional villages. Delve into the rich Ecuadorian history and indigenous culture for an authentic experience like no other.
Begin your journey exploring Quito, the capital of Ecuador, a bustling city nestled in the mountains. A blend of indigenous styles, European and Moorish architecture constructed on ancient Incan foundations.
Fly over the Andes into the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. The jungle is rich in wildlife, including iguanas, geckos, tortoises, lizards, caiman, anacondas, jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and anteaters, to name but a few. The famous river is home to unique aquatic life, such as river dolphins, catfish, stingrays, piranhas, and eels. Enjoy tranquil canoe rides, jungle hikes, and tree-top canopy walks to witness the natural beauty and life along the river. Be mesmerized by the symphony of sounds of nocturnal creatures as you glide on the river after dark and learn about the indigenous traditions and authentic lifestyles of the local people.
Travel to the mist-covered cloud forest on the slopes of the Andean mountains. These forests are bursting with biodiversity and are alive with bird species such as tanagers, hummingbirds, Long-wattled umbrella birds, Andean cock-of-the-rock, and Plate-billed toucans.
Enjoy the contrasting landscapes and awe-inspiring views as you journey along the "Avenue of Volcanos." Symmetrical Cotopaxi is one of the most prominent volcanoes, proudly standing 5,987m tall. It is the 2nd highest peak in Ecuador, and one of the most active volcanoes. It has produced more than 50 eruptions since the 16th century. It is home to wild horses, hawks, weasels, and the Andean condor. Be in awe of the crisp green landscape, speckled with vibrant blooming flowers, waterfalls, mountains, forest and lava trails that weave through the pine trees, in the shadow of the snow-capped volcano.
Your Ecuadorian adventure comes to an end with a thrilling ride on the famous "Devil's nose train." A feat of engineering constructed to overcome the almost perpendicular walls. The zig-zag railroad offers spectacular views and is an exhilarating ride.
If you are a diver, combine your Ecuador Expedition with the Galapagos Islands for the ultimate adventure…
HIGHLIGHTS
Glide on guided wildlife-focused canoe rides on the Amazon River
Journey through primary rainforest, swamps, and cloud forest
Learn ancient traditions from the indigenous tribes dating back thousands of years
Go in search for Anacondas, caimans, capybaras, squirrel-, Capuchin- & howler monkeys
Explore the historic sites of beautiful Quito
Walk through high-altitude valleys surrounded by towering volcanos and the mist-shrouded cloud forest
Spot the famous and colorful ‘Cock of the Rock’ bird and observe Hummingbirds dart around you.
Stay in the best Haciendas in Ecuador, where luxury and history combine
Enjoy nature walks, village visits, and bird walks with knowledge local guides
ENQUIRIES
Love this itinerary and wondering when we are returning? Don't hesitate to contact us today.
COMBINE for the ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
Galapagos - The Ultimate Galapagos Experience
JAN 2022 ● 17 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Experience all that the Galapagos Islands has to offer on a nature lover and marine enthusiast's complete adventure. Nineteen remote islands make up the Galapagos archipelago and are among the most pristine and natural places on earth. Sprinkled almost 1000km off Ecuador's coast in the eastern Pacific Ocean, they are a UNESCO World Heritage site for both land and sea. The diverse and unique islands offer breathtaking landscapes, green highlands, volcanic peaks, powder white sandy beaches, and clear seas with magnificent underwater seascapes. Uninhabited by man for 150 years, has allowed wildlife to flourish. With a plethora of endemic birdlife and reptiles on land and an abundant sea filled with life and healthy vibrant reefs, made the Galapagos Islands the inspiration for Charles Darwin's ground-breaking 'Origin of Species' book published in 1859. Follow in Darwin's footsteps onboard our privately chartered yacht, with a specially designed 2-week itinerary to showcase why the Galapagos Islands are unlike any other place on earth.
“I had debated joining the Ecuador portion of the trip because I had been in Ecuador previously with another tour group. I was astonished to see a completely different Ecuador. You showed me another face to the country and whetted my appetite to travel there again to see more. The places and sights included in your itinerary were much appreciated. If it were not for you, I might have remained ignorant about the great variety of wildlife, including hummingbirds. In the Galapagos, your experience as Divemasters came to the fore, even though the dive boat provided dive masters and naturalist guides. You successfully managed the dive guides and assured your entire group would safely dive and see everything that had been billed, including Hammerhead Sharks in profusion, the Eagle rays flying in formation, and the close approach of all of the Whale Sharks. Thank you for everything that you did in making this trip a success.”
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ITINERARY OVERVIEW
ECUADOR – Amazon, Avenue of Volcanos & Cloud Forest
JAN 2022 ● 11 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Day 01 | Depart Home / En Route to Quito, Ecuador
Day 02 | Arrival / Quito city tour / Welcome cocktails & dinner
Day 03 | Fly to Ecuadorian Amazon
Day 04-06 | Explore the Amazon
Day 07 | Fly to Quito / Discover the Mindo Cloud Forest
Day 08 | Cloud forest / Avenue of Volcanos ~ Cotopaxi
Day 09 | Cotopaxi / Riobamba
Day 10 | Devil’s Nose Train / Quito
Day 11 | Depart Quito on your homeward journey or fly to Galapagos
COMBINE: GALAPAGOS – TheUltimate Galapagos Experience
JAN 2022 ● 17 DAYS ● 14 GUESTS
Day 01 | Depart Home / En Route to Quito, Ecuador
Day 02 | Quito / Welcome dinner
Day 03 | Fly to Galapagos / Board M/Y Blue Spirit
Day 04-16 | Explore the Galapagos Islands above & below the water
Day 17 | Disembark / International flights home
WILD EARTH LEADERS
Pablo Salazar
Local Tour Guide
Pablo is an enthusiastic communicator and will impart passionate natural and cultural knowledge on our Ecuador tour as our local Tour Guide escort. Pablo is well versed in tailoring memorable and organized tours and is committed to achieving 100% client satisfaction.
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PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas & Natalia, Sasha Lodge, Adobe Stock