Ecuador: The Amazon, Cloud Forests & Crater Lakes image
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Operated by G Adventures

Ecuador: The Amazon, Cloud Forests & Crater Lakes

From
CAD 944
Duration
9 days
Countries
Ecuador
Activity
moderate

The adventure

Some trips just hit different — and this one’s got the perfect mix of wild nature, bucket list thrills, and real local connection. Dive into the heart of Ecuador with a lodge stay deep in the Amazon where monkeys leap overhead and the jungle hums all night long. Learn how to make chocolate from scratch and cruise through a local community by bike before heading to Baños for hot springs, canyon swings, and all the adventure your heart can handle. Then explore the volcanic rim and dreamy turquoise waters of Quilotoa, one of the country’s best-kept secrets. With just the right balance of structured days and free time, you’ll come back with more than just epic photos — you’ll leave with stories you’ll be telling for years.

At a glance

Duration
9 days
Route
Quito → Quito
Countries
Ecuador
Activity level
moderate
Style
Beach & Islands, Culture & History, Cycling, Food & Drink, Overland & Road Trips, Trekking & Hiking, Wildlife & Safari
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Where you'll go

Ecuador: The Amazon, Cloud Forests & Crater Lakes image

Day by day

Breathtaking aerial shot of Cotopaxi Volcano with a lone house in El Corazón, Ecuador. Perfect for nature lovers.
Your journey through

Ecuador

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive at any time and prepare for an epic adventure through Ecuador’s highlights and hidden gems. It will be 1000% better than watching reels of these beautiful places! Attend a welcome meeting in the evening and then choose to hang out with the group afterwards for an optional dinner in Quito. Break the ice, get to know each other, and share your best travel stories before making new ones together over the next nine days.
Arrive at any time and prepare for an epic adventure through Ecuador’s highlights and hidden gems. It will be 1000% better than watching reels of these beautiful places! Attend a welcome meeting in the evening and then choose to hang out with the group afterwards for an optional dinner in Quito. Break the ice, get to know each other, and share your best travel stories before making new ones together over the next nine days.
Day 2Hop on a bus and travel…Amazon
Beautiful landscape of the Tena River with lush green forest and blue sky.Amazon
Hop on a bus and travel into the lush Amazon Jungle and your community lodge stay in the rainforest. Learn about local food production and everything there is to know about cacao. If in season, collect cacao pods from the nearby plants. At the end of the experience, the group will enjoy a taste of this sweet treat amid the sounds of the forest. It is here you will experience life in the jungle firsthand and connect with the local indigenous culture. It’s the perfect way to fall in love with the Amazon you have been learning about since you were younger.
Map showing Amazon
Day 3Put the pedal to the metal…Amazon
Vibrant greenery and exotic plants in the Ecuadorian rainforest, showcasing nature's beauty.Amazon
Put the pedal to the metal on a cycling excursion to the Indigenous Shandia community. This rural village is surrounded by rivers and the fertile Amazon landscape. Take in the beauty as you ride through the jungle. And take pride in being able to help support the preservation of the community’s indigenous culture. Afterwards, spend free time at the lodge and choose to enjoy some of the activities available to visitors. Choose to walk to the nearby beach along the river and try to spot wildlife in the jungle. Later go on an included walk to the Pimpilala Waterfalls and perhaps there will be time for a quick dip into the natural pool formed at the base of the falls. Group selfie, anyone?
Map showing Amazon
Day 4Experience a slice of local life…
Experience a slice of local life on a public bus ride between Tena and Baños. Download those road trip playlists and stare at the passing scenery. Arrive in the afternoon and get settled. The town is surrounded by lush cloud forest and has an abundance of outdoor optional activities for travellers to indulge in. Maybe soak in the nearby hot springs to relax after bumping along on the bus. But rest up because you’re in the adventure capital of Ecuador and tomorrow there’s no time to waste.
Day 5Discover your adventurous spirit on this full free…
Discover your adventurous spirit on this full free day to enjoy the epic outdoor adventure activities in Baños. Nestled at the foot of the active Tungurahua volcano, this town is a gorgeous place to hangout for the day. From ziplining to canyoning and visiting the famous Casa del Arbol, you won’t have time to worry about what to do next. And maybe end the day with a group dance party to see if you can make the next viral Tik Tok.
Day 6Leave Baños behind to travel to Quilotoa…
Leave Baños behind to travel to Quilotoa and its stunning caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption. It’s a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Along the route the group will stop for a visit to an art workshop and gallery that celebrates the indigenous art of the region, showcasing the breathtaking works in Tigua's artistic community. Here, you can meet local artisans and learn about their techniques. Upon arrival to the town of Quilotoa the group will hike down to the lake in the centre of the crater to enjoy the dramatic surrounding landscape and turquoise coloured water. Check-in to your eco-friendly accommodations in the evening located high in the Ecuadoran Andes at over 10,400 feet in elevation (3200 meters above sea level) with views that will make you fall in love. Who wants to move here and stay forever?
Day 7Feel the warmth and impact of community connection…
Feel the warmth and impact of community connection today on a visit to the Guayama Community project nearby. Learn about the culture and lifestyle of the area’s indigenous peoples while supporting the sustainable development of this project. Discover the Kichuas Panzaleos culture project led by the local population. Lunch will be had on your own at the on site restaurant. You’ll be welcomed into their indigenous community with open arms and leave with a deeper love of this region and its people. Later, relax back at your accommodations in Quilotoa, play some cards, swap travel stories, and laugh together as a group.
Day 8After breakfastQuito
Aerial view of Quito featuring Panecillo Hill and Virgin statue, capturing historic architecture and vibrant cityscape.Quito
After breakfast, travel back to Quito swapping stories with your travel crew on the ride back. Take some time to grab lunch on your own, maybe find some potato soup, or fried cheese empanadas, or fresh ceviche. Then, come back together with everyone for an orientation walk at La Carolina Park with its natural oasis within the city. The night belongs to you and it’s time to let loose. Find somewhere to dance your heart out and let the beat move your soul.
Map showing Quito
Day 9Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time. Or maybe stay longer to explore more of Quito on your own.
Depart at any time. Or maybe stay longer to explore more of Quito on your own.

Discover Ecuador

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Majestic view of Cotopaxi volcano surrounded by vibrant wildflowers under a clear blue sky.
Stunning aerial view of Quilotoa Crater Lake surrounded by mountains under a vibrant blue sky.
A stunning aerial view of the hillside towns and lush greenery in Quito, Ecuador.
Breathtaking view of Cotopaxi Volcano in Ecuador, showcasing barren, eroded landscapes and clouds.
Explore the tranquil beauty of a remote lake nestled amid lush mountains, offering a peaceful escape.

Upcoming departures

20% off The Americas · ends 2026-06-30
DatesPrice / personAvailability
14 Jun 202622 Jun 2026CAD 1,000unknownBook my trip
Operated by G Adventures

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