Tour Type: Mainland with private English-speaking Guide - Driver. Shared services with Naturalist guides in Cuyabeno Reserve.
Duration: 19 days / 18 nights
Destinations: Quito, Mindo, Cuyabeno, Papallacta, Otavalo, Cotopaxi, Banos, Riobamba, Ingapirca, Cuenca, Gualaceo, Chordeleg, El Cajas, Guayaquil, Montanita, Puerto Lopez, Isla de la Plata.
Type of Trip: Nature, culture, wildlife, soft adventure, hiking, photography, beach excursions.

Highlights:

• Quito city tour with Mitad del Mundo and Teleferico for panoramic views.
• Cloud forest experience in Mindo with biodiversity encounters.
• Amazon rainforest immersion at Cuyabeno Lodge with wildlife watching, canoeing, and cultural visits.
• Thermal baths at Papallacta and exploration of Otavalo Indigenous Market.
• High-altitude landscapes: Cotopaxi Volcano, Quilotoa Lagoon, Banos Cascades, and the “Route of the Cascades.”
• Historic towns and cultural gems: Riobamba, Ingapirca ruins, Cuenca, Gualaceo, and Chordeleg.
• Scenic hiking in El Cajas National Park.
• Coastal experiences: Montanita town, Puerto Lopez, Los Frailes Beach, and Isla de la Plata “Little Galapagos” with snorkeling and wildlife encounters.
• Diverse photography opportunities ranging from rainforest and mountains to beaches and wildlife.
• Combination of guided private tours on the mainland with shared naturalist-guided excursions in the Cuaybeno Reserve.

Welcome to Ecuador! Upon your arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), our guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

• Meals included: N/A.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quito.

We’ll explore some of Quito’s most iconic squares, churches, and colonial landmarks. Our tour begins at Plaza de la Independencia, home to the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Municipal Building, the Statue of Independence, and the Cathedral. Next, we’ll visit the churches of El Sagrario and La Compania, followed by the impressive Church and Convent of San Francisco. Inside, you’ll be amazed by the lavish gold-leaf decoration of Quito’s oldest church. We then head up to El Panecillo, where the towering Statue of the Virgin of Quito stands. From this vantage point, enjoy panoramic views of both the northern and southern parts of the city, along with the surrounding snow-capped volcanoes. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the famous Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) one of Quito’s top attractions. Here, you can explore the monument marking the equator or dive into interactive exhibits at the Intiñan Museum, where you'll learn about the solar system, equatorial phenomena, ancient cultures, and more. Our final stop is the Teleferico, Quito’s spectacular cable car. Ascending over 2,500 meters, it takes you to the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano, offering breathtaking views of Quito’s north, center, and south. After this unforgettable experience, we’ll return to your hotel.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quito.

We head towards Mindo cloudforest where fun and adventure in nature is guaranteed. Located about 49 miles from Quito. Mindo is the most famous town for bidwachters in the Andes of Ecuador, due the amount of species we can find on the area.. Orchids, bromeliads and more than 40 species of butterflies are the highliths of this area. Our guide will lead to some activities possible to do in this day, some of them could be birdwatching hikking, also an ecological walk to the waterfalls or canopy. You will have time for lunch (Not included) then we will visit the Chocolate Factory or Butterfly Farm. After this interesting visit we will return to Quito. Return to Quito. You will have time to rest for few hour at your hotel in Quito. At night, Take a semi-private touriistic bus to Cuyabeno. Night trip to the jungle for about 8 hours.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Night bus trip to Cuyabeno Reserve.

Arrives at morning to to the Cuyabeno Bridge.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

The tour begins at the entrance to the Cuyabeno River, where a delicious lunch will be served. Afterward, a naturalist guide will provide information about the reserve and important recommendations before beginning the two-hour boat trip up the Cuyabeno River to your chosen Cuyabeno Lodge. Upon arrival at the Reserve office, visitors must complete the registration process. There, the naturalist guide will offer additional details about the Cuyabeno Reserve, helpful tips, and further recommendations before continuing the tour. During the canoe trip, guests will enjoy their first impressions of the rainforest and spot various bird species such as caciques, oropendolas, and the prehistoric-looking hoatzin. Depending on weather conditions, it is also possible to observe different types of monkeys and other wildlife. Guests will be distribuided to their rooms and have time to rest. In the afternoon, the group will head to the lagoon for a refreshing swim and to enjoy a beautiful sunset over Laguna Grande.

• Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
• Overnight: Lodge in Cuyabeno Reserve.

The second day begins with a delicious breakfast, followed by a 3–4 hour walk through the primary forest, where the naturalist guide explains the dynamics of the tropical rainforest and the use of medicinal plants. During the hike, it is possible to observe impressive trees such as the CEIBO, as well as small insects like ants. After returning to the lodge for lunch and a break, the afternoon continues with butterfly watching and a refreshing swim in the lagoon. When conditions allow, pink river dolphins may also be spotted, along with a stunning Amazonian sunset. At night, a nocturnal activity takes place, focused on searching for alligators along the riverbanks.

• Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.
• Overnight: Lodge in Cuyabeno Reserve.

Today the group departs in a canoe downriver for about one hour to visit a family from the Tarapuy community. During this cultural activity, participants learn how to prepare casabe, a traditional yuca bread, and take part in its preparation. The process involves using natural materials from the jungle and typically occupies most of the day. Return to the lodge. After lunch, guests have time to relax. To end the day, a short walk through the primary forest is scheduled, focusing on observing nocturnal insects such as spiders, geckos, and scorpions, while listening to the sounds of the rainforest at night.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Lodge in Cuyabeno Reserve.

An early-morning birdwatching excursion is offered before breakfast. This activity is optional and depends greatly on weather conditions. After returning to the lodge, breakfast is served, followed by the transfer back to the Cuyabeno Reserve Bridge, where the Bus for returning to Quito awaits. Lunch will be served on the technical stop on your return to Quito.

• Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quito.

Today you can enjoy the famous hot springs "Termas de Papallacta". These hot springs are an excellent option of relaxing and nature of the paramo in Ecuador. There are excellent self-guided walks and there is a complete spa where you can enjoy some beauty spa massages (extra fees not included). This is well deserved relax activity after the adventure in the jungle.

At the end of the afternoon we will travel to Otavalo, a magical city where the indigenous community is the predominant one and the next day you will enjoy the cultural richness of this are of the Andes. Overnight in Otavalo

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Otavalo.

We'll visit the Peguche cascade. Then you will fee time for shopping in the big market of handicrafts in Otavalo, this is one of the biggest indigenous markets of America. Later we'll go towards the town of Cotacachi, famous for its leather products, such as clothes, bags, belts, wallets, sandals. Finally we will visit Lake Cuicocha. This lake is located in an old crater of the still active Cotacachi volcano. We can take an optional boat ride on the lake and observe the fumaroles. In the afternoon we return to Quito. Overnight in Quito.

• Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quito.

Departure from your hotel in Quito. Today we venture into the breathtaking Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes—Cotopaxi, rising to an impressive 5,897 meters (19,347 feet). Our day begins with a visit to the National Park’s Interpretation Center, where you’ll learn about the park’s unique ecosystem, geology, and the cultural significance of the volcano. We then continue to the scenic Limpiopungo Lagoon, a high-altitude lake where, on clear days, Cotopaxi’s snow-capped peak is reflected in the water—an ideal spot for photography and wildlife observation. From there, we ascend by vehicle to the Cotopaxi parking area. Our adventure continues on foot as we hike approximately 800 meters over sandy terrain to reach the José Rivas Refuge, located at 4,810 meters (15,392 feet) above sea level. The hike takes about an hour and offers stunning panoramic views and a close-up look at the volcano’s glaciers. After this unforgettable experience, we’ll return to the local hacienda.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Cotopaxi.

Today you’ll set out on a scenic journey to one of Ecuador’s most stunning natural wonders: Quilotoa Crater Lake a volcanic caldera filled with striking turquoise water. According to local indigenous legend, the lake is believed to be bottomless, adding to its mystique. Before reaching Quilotoa, we’ll also pass through the Zumbahua Canyon, a dramatic landscape that makes for an excellent photo stop. Upon arrival at Quilotoa, you’ll have the chance to hike from the crater rim down to the lake’s edge, where you can fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of this magical place. The hike back up is steep and physically challenging In the late afternoon, we’ll travel to the Banos.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Banos.

We will explore the charming town of Banos, visiting the main church and several local attractions. Then we’ll embark on the scenic “Route of the Cascades”, one of the highlights of the region. Along the way, you’ll visit stunning Cascades such as Manto de la Novia, San Pedro, and others nestled in the lush cloud forest. The main highlight is the Pailón del Diablo, a spectacular and powerful cascade surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery perfect for photos and a short hike.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey to the city of Riobamba. En route, we’ll make a brief stop near Chimborazo Volcano, Ecuador’s highest peak, for panoramic views and photos.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Riobamba.

We’ll explore a few historic and cultural highlights of Riobamba, a city rich in colonial architecture and Andean heritage. We then head south, stopping at the Balbanera Church, the first church ever built in Ecuador, dating back to 1534. Nearby, we’ll enjoy a peaceful walk around the Colta Lagoon, a tranquil spot surrounded by unique Andean landscapes. Continuing our journey, we’ll pass through the area of the famous Devil’s Nose (Nariz del Diablo), once home to one of the most dramatic railway routes in the world. Although the train is not currently operating due to the closure of the national railway company, your guide will explain the history, engineering marvel, and significance of the route. In the afternoon, we arrive at the Ingapirca Ruins (Ingapirca Operation days: Wednesday to Sunday), the most important pre-Columbian archaeological site in Ecuador. Located at 3,160 meters above sea level, Ingapirca meaning “Inca Wall” in Kichwa offers deep insight into the Inca civilizations. This sacred site, part of the Qhapaq Ñan (the Andean Road System), once served as a ceremonial and administrative hub connecting diverse cultures throughout the Tahuantinsuyo (Inca Empire). After this fascinating visit, we’ll continue our drive to Cuenca, one of Ecuador’s most beautiful colonial cities.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Cuenca.

We’ll begin the day with a guided city tour of Cuenca, a stunning city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we explore, you’ll discover the rich cultural and architectural diversity that makes Cuenca so unique. The tour includes visits to the city's most important churches, historical landmarks, and monuments. We will also stop at the Turi Viewpoint, which offers a spectacular panoramic view of Cuenca and its surrounding landscapes. After lunch (not included), we’ll head to the nearby colonial towns of Gualaceo and Chordeleg—two of the most charming and culturally significant towns in the region. These towns are renowned for their artisan handicrafts, especially fine jewelry made from gold and silver, as well as their deep-rooted colonial traditions.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Cuenca.

Today begins with a short hike through El Cajas National Park. Visit Laguna Toreadora, a stunning nature Lagoon nestled in the Andean highlands. This unique landscape is home to numerous glacial lakes, remnants of the last Ice Age, interconnected by small rivers that eventually flow into the Pacific Ocean. During the hike, you'll also pass through the fascinating "paper tree" forest, known for its rare Polylepis trees, which contribute to the park's biodiversity and mystical atmosphere. After exploring the park, we'll continue our journey to the Ecuadorian coast, descending into the lowlands to reach Guayaquil, the country's largest and most vibrant city. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief city tour that includes highlights such as the Malecón 2000 boardwalk, the Las Peñas neighborhood, and other iconic landmarks.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Guayaquil.

Today we begin our journey along the scenic Ruta del Sol (Route of the Sun), one of Ecuador’s most picturesque coastal highways. As we drive north, we’ll pass by several charming beach towns and fishing villages, taking in the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Our first stop is the coastal town of Ballenita, where you can enjoy a brief visit and stretch your legs. Along the route, we’ll also pass through other small seaside communities, each offering a glimpse into Ecuador’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. By midday, we’ll arrive in Montañita, a lively beach town known for its vibrant atmosphere, surf culture, and laid-back vibe. Spend some free time enjoying the beach, local shops, or cafés. Later in the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey north to the tranquil town of Puerto Lopez, a coastal destination famous for whale watching (in season), marine biodiversity, and natural beauty.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel inPuerto Lopez.

Embark on a full-day excursion to Isla de la Plata, often referred to as the “Little Galápagos.” After a 1.5-hour boat ride, explore the island’s trails, observing seabirds such as blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and frigatebirds. In the afternoon, snorkel among coral reefs and tropical fish. From June to October, enjoy the spectacular sight of humpback whales breaching during their migration. Return to Puerto Lopez in the evening. Overnight in Puerto Lopez.

• Meals included: Breakfast - Lunch on board.
• Overnight: Hotel in Puerto Lopez.

Visit Los Frailes Beach, considered one of Ecuador’s most beautiful, with white sands and turquoise waters surrounded by cliffs. Walk the ecological trails through the dry forest of Machalilla National Park before enjoying time at the beach. In the afternoon, begin the long drive (approx. 8–9 hours) back to Quito, passing through the coastal city of Manta and Santo Domingo. Overnight in Quito.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: Hotel in Quito.

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at the scheduled time of your international flight, allowing ample time to transfer you to Quito International Airport (UIO) for your departure.

• Meals included: Breakfast.
• Overnight: No Hotel.

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