Andes to Amazon Explore Ecuadors Wild Ecosystems in 3 Days

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Quito – Papallacta Pass - Baeza - Archidona - Tena - Upper Napo River
4 stops
1
Quito
Early departure from Quito city to connect with an Andean scenic view in some minutes. We stop in a viewpoint to see the Antisana Volcano (If weather allows). We´ll drive on the inter-oceanic highway to reach out Papallacta thermal springs. To cross over the highest part of the eastern Andes and continue towards the lowlands.
2
Termas de Papallacta
Start the trip from the top of the eastern Andes (4,100 m/13,451 ft high). This is the highest point on the roads of Ecuador. On the way, we will observe low vegetation accompanied by lagoons, slopes and snow-capped mountains. Normally, the temperature in this pass is 7° C/44°F. The landscape presents a dramatic change as the Papallacta pass is in the middle of two national parks, Cayambe-Coca and Antisana. The latter is home to the emblematic Andean condor.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
3
Its history is intertwined with the routes of Spanish explorers and adventurers. Baeza is a strategic point for adventure and ecological tourism, offering routes for rafting, hiking and bird watching. Observe three waterfalls called "Las 3 Marías". Feel a warm weather that occurs after descent from the Andes mountain range to lower areas. See stormy rivers by the highway come from the upper parts of mountains. Shortly break to enjoy a delicious lunch on the way down. We´ll stop in the Tena city, just for walking around or do shopping.
4
Laguna del Caiman Negro
After a 5-hour drive, we will be able to feel the pleasant climate that oscillates between 20°C and 25°C (68° F and 77° F). The humidity of the rainforest is around 85%. Eco-lodge staff will be waiting for to take us by a motorized canoe that goes down river for 20 minutes through the tropical forest to Eco lodge. At the Eco-Lodge, the host will welcome us with a refreshing drink from the Amazon. To then go to the cabins where we can take a bath and make ourselves comfortable. Or if the weather and conditions allow it, you can bathe on the banks of the river. Turn on your lamp and do a nocturnal hike by the Eco-Lodge trails. On the walk, you can find tarantulas, spiders, frogs, insects and sometimes snakes. The species that it is possible to observe in this activity are: fake coral, monkey frog, Amazonian terrestrial toad, rainbow boa among others. Eco-Lodge is a simply place, that focuses on minimizing the negative effect lodging has on the environment. Cabins are lit by candles.
Day 2
Amazoonico - Walking in the Jungle - Laguna Caiman
3 stops
5
Amazoonico Animal Rescue Centre
Discover AmaZOOnico Rescue Center in Ecuador’s Tena Province, a respected wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center in the Amazon. This ethical experience focuses on education and conservation, offering insight into how rescued animals are cared for with the goal of protecting biodiversity. Learn about the vital role these species play in maintaining the balance of the rainforest ecosystem, and how habitat loss and human impact affect their survival. Guided visits emphasize respect for wildlife—no touching or exploitation—fully aligned with responsible tourism standards. Support the inspiring work of dedicated local communities and international volunteers who collaborate every day to protect the jungle and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
6
Venture deep into the rainforest on a guided walk to a majestic ancient ceibo tree—over 300 years old—one of the last surviving giants of the Amazon. Along the trail, your expert local guide will share fascinating insights into native medicinal plants and their traditional uses. This immersive experience offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, including spider monkeys (endangered), chorongo monkeys, geckos (Hemidactylus mabouia), leafcutter ants, gray-fronted doves, zigzag herons, vibrant morpho butterflies, black-fronted nunbirds, oropendolas, and even the prehistoric hoatzin. You’ll also encounter remarkable natural features such as towering termite nests. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and biodiversity in one unforgettable Amazon adventure.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
7
Laguna del Caiman Negro
Visit the enchanting Black Caiman Lagoon in Ahuano, along the scenic Arajuno River, for an immersive cultural and wildlife experience in the Amazon. During your visit, a local family will warmly share the ancestral tradition of preparing chicha de yuca, a traditional cassava drink deeply rooted in Amazonian culture. Learn about the ingredients and take part in the process by helping mash the yuca before enjoying a tasting. Then, take a short guided walk to observe the elusive black caiman, one of the rainforest’s most fascinating species, with opportunities for photography from a respectful distance. On the return journey, keep watch for the remarkable hoatzin, a prehistoric-looking bird that adds even more wonder to this unforgettable experience.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Cruise in the Napo River - Ahuano Town - Return to Quito City or Airport
2 stops
8
Cruise along the scenic Napo River to the riverside town of Ahuano, where you’ll visit a traditional ceramics workshop led by indigenous artisans. Discover the full pottery process—from sourcing natural clays to shaping and firing—while learning how plant-based pigments are used to decorate each piece with intricate, cultural designs. This hands-on, interpretive experience offers a meaningful connection to local heritage and craftsmanship. As an optional experience, visit a community coffee project where sustainable cultivation is transforming local livelihoods, providing insight into responsible production and its positive impact on the region.
Admission ticket free
9
Quito
After your Amazon experience, begin the scenic return journey to Quito or choose a convenient drop-off at Quito Airport for your next adventure. Along the way, admire the dramatic transition of ecosystems as the landscape rises from the lush Amazon lowlands to the majestic Andes Mountains. Enjoy opportunities to stop at beautiful viewpoints for unforgettable photographs of rivers, cloud forest, and mountain scenery. A lunch stop will also be included en route at a local restaurant (meal at your own expense), allowing time to relax before completing your journey.

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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