8 Days Highland to Jungle Trekking Journeys

Day 1: No scheduled activities are planned for your first day, giving you the freedom to explore Quito at your own pace. Wander through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or visit local markets and museums to get a feel for the city’s vibrant culture. If you’d like a deeper experience, guided city tours are available at an additional cost and offer insights into Quito’s rich history and architecture. In the evening, please join us for a welcome meeting at 18:00 in the hotel lobby. This will be an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travelers, and to review the itinerary and important details for the days ahead. Meals included: None

Day 2: After a hearty breakfast, we begin our adventure along the "Agua y Vida" route in the stunning Cayambe-Coca Nature Reserve near Papallacta. This trail is set against some of Ecuador’s finest highland paramo scenery, within one of the world’s largest hydrological systems, featuring one of the highest concentrations of lakes in the Andes. As we trek through this lush and humid ecosystem, we’ll encounter unique Andean wildlife, with a chance to spot three deer species, the elusive spectacled bear, and the rare Andean condor soaring above. The "Agua y Vida" route takes us mostly downhill, leading us toward the Amazonian lowlands. Our hike concludes at the Termas de Papallacta Spa & Resort, where you can soak in the mineral-rich, naturally heated hot springs, known for their therapeutic benefits. Relax in these curative waters and enjoy a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the serene Andean landscape. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

After a restful morning in the rejuvenating, mineral-rich waters of Termas de Papallacta, we embark on our descent into the heart of the Amazon basin. This journey brings a dramatic change in climate and landscape, as we leave behind the cool Andean highlands and enter the warm, humid environment of the Amazon. Our trek leads us to the captivating Cotundo Canyon, a place rich in both natural beauty and ancient history. Here, we pass through lush rainforest trails lined with towering rock formations and serene waterfalls, surrounded by the vibrant sights and sounds of the Amazon. Along the way, we’ll encounter mysterious petroglyphs and archaeological sites—remnants of pre-Columbian cultures that once thrived in this region. The day concludes with an opportunity to unwind in the Amazon’s naturally warm waters—a refreshing contrast to the crisp highland páramo we left behind. This evening, we reflect on the unique blend of adventure and discovery we’ve experienced, surrounded by the captivating beauty of the Amazon rainforest.

Day4: Today is a thrilling blend of natural beauty and adventure as we journey from Tena to the vibrant town of Baños, nestled in the Andean foothills. Our first stop is the breathtaking Pailón del Diablo, one of Ecuador’s most powerful waterfalls, where you’ll feel the raw energy of nature as the water crashes down in a stunning display. After this exhilarating visit, we’ll head into Baños for a relaxing lunch. For those seeking an extra dose of adrenaline, your guide can recommend optional extreme activities, such as zip-lining through the lush landscape. The adventure continues in the afternoon with visits to the area’s many beautiful waterfalls, including a stop at the Swing at the End of the World, which offers unforgettable views over the Andes. The day concludes in the serene village of Patate, recognized as one of Ecuador’s "Pueblitos Mágicos" for its charm and heritage. Here, you’ll settle into a historic hacienda, where the peaceful surroundings and rustic elegance offer the perfect setting for a restful night after a day full of adventure.

Day 5: After a hearty breakfast, we venture into the mysterious Llanganates Mountain Range, a region famed for its untold stories and legends of hidden Inca gold left behind by General Rumiñahui. This vast landscape spans over 543,000 acres of cloud forests, Andean woodlands, and páramo, making it one of Ecuador’s most diverse natural parks. Our hike begins at an altitude of 11,480 feet, with spectacular views of surrounding volcanoes and a chance to spot Andean wildlife, including hummingbirds, tanagers, and even deer. As we approach the enchanting Laguna San Borja, we’ll keep our eyes open for the elusive spectacled bear, a rare sight in these rugged lands. In the afternoon, we travel to Zumbahua, a highland indigenous community celebrated for its vibrant culture and rich traditions. Here, you’ll settle into a unique homestay experience, where local families welcome us warmly, providing an immersive glimpse into their way of life. It’s an ideal ending to a day brimming with nature, adventure, and cultural exchange. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: We begin our day with a short drive to the awe-inspiring Quilotoa Crater Lake, the turquoise jewel of the Ilinizas Ecological Reserve. This crater lake is a true natural wonder, captivating visitors with its striking blue-green waters set within the dramatic volcanic landscape. Today’s adventure takes us on the Quilotoa Loop, a scenic trail that circles the lake and offers incredible panoramic views of the crater and its unique ecosystem. As we hike, we’re treated to breathtaking vistas of the crater’s turquoise waters below, surrounded by rugged Andean landscapes and vivid geological formations that display the area’s vibrant colors. After completing the loop, we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch with stunning views, followed by a visit to a local market known for its handicrafts and traditional paintings. Here, you’ll have the chance to browse and perhaps take home a unique piece of local artistry. The day winds down as we return to our cozy hacienda, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s exploration, surrounded by the serenity of Ecuador’s highlands. Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch

Today’s adventure brings us face-to-face with one of Ecuador’s most iconic sights, the Cotopaxi Volcano. With its perfectly symmetrical, glacier-capped cone reaching 19,350 feet, Cotopaxi is a true natural marvel. The surrounding Cotopaxi National Park offers a wild paramo landscape, providing an incredible setting for today’s hike. We begin our journey on the slopes of Volcán Rumiñahui, from where we can enjoy stunning views of Cotopaxi rising majestically over 5,660 feet above the high Andean plain. Along the trail, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including hares, foxes, falcons, deer, and even herds of wild horses that roam freely across the rugged landscape. Our hike descends toward Limpiopungo Glacier Lake, a serene spot surrounded by open plains and home to a variety of aquatic birds. Here, you’re likely to spot gulls, ducks, teals, lapwings, and shorebirds, each adding to the richness of this Andean ecosystem. After a satisfying lunch, we’ll make our way back to the city, arriving in Quito by late afternoon, where you’ll spend your final night, resting and reflecting on the incredible journey through Ecuador’s highlands. Meals included: Breakfast and lunch

Our services conclude today, but if you wish to extend your stay, we would be delighted to assist with additional travel arrangements. We highly recommend pairing this Andean adventure with an exploration of the Galápagos Islands, where unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes await. Alternatively, consider extending your journey to other destinations in Latin America, such as the ancient ruins of Peru, the vibrant cities of Colombia, or the natural wonders of Chile and Argentina. Safe travels, whether you’re heading home or continuing your adventure! Meals included: Breakfast