Amazon Jungle & Baños Adventure City: 4 Days of Nature & Wildlife

Day 1 · Quito – Papallacta Pass - Baeza - Archidona - Tena

1. 1

   Quito

   Passing by

   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. 2

   Papallacta

   Passing by

   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.

3. 3

   Tena

   30 min

   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. 4

   Puerto Napo

   Passing by

   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.

5. 5

   Baeza

   Passing by

   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.

Overnight at Eco-Lodge in a double standard room

Day 2 · Hiking in the jungle and meeting the magical Kichwa community

1. 1

   Napo Province

   3 hours

   After breakfast, we´ll visiting a protector forest which is located crossing by canoe the Arajuno river. In the forest, we may be able to observe monkeys, native jungle plants and birds that are typical of this ecosystem. The native Guide will give you the jungle interpretation, its medicinal plants and uses that were once given to leaves or lianas that were found in the place. This activity lasts about 2 to 3 hours.

   The species that it is possible to observe in this activity are: spider monkey (on endengerd of extinction), chorongo monkeys (sometimes near by lodge), gecos (Hemidactylus mabouia), conga ants, gray fronted dove, zigzag heron, morpho butterfly, black-fronted nunbird, Termite nest, Oropendolas, Hoatzin (prehistoric bird) among others.

2. 2

   Napo Province

   3 hours

   In the afternoon, it is time to enjoy a cultural activity. An Amazonian Kichwa community passed us by and we will learn about their way of life and the interaction they have with the jungle.

   In this meeting, that part of the Amazon that is not found on maps will be shown: the Amazonian people in their daily lives. Part of our visit to the community consists of sharing the famous "chicha", a fermented yuca (manioc) drink that has become part of their festivities and daily consumption.

   We will participate in the preparation of this drink and try some of the traditional dishes. We will end the visit with a traditional dance performed by the children of the community and have time to buy some handicrafts made by the indigenous people of the area. This small company is of great help to support the daily life of the indigenous people.

Overnight at Eco-Lodge in a double standard room

Day 3 · San Pedro de Arajuno - Santa Clara town - Puyo City - Baños City

1. 1

   Puerto Napo

   Passing by

   Wake up to the sounds of the Ecuadorian rainforest at sunrise, as mist drifts through the jungle canopy. After enjoying a fresh breakfast at the lodge, it’s time to say goodbye to the Amazon.

   Following lunch, we travel by motorized canoe along the Arajuno River, carrying our luggage to the river port. From there, we continue by vehicle through the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, heading southeast toward Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador’s renowned city of adventure.

   A scenic journey that connects wild rainforest landscapes with Andean adventure, marking the perfect transition between two unforgettable destinations.

2. 2

   Puyo

   20 min

   La Casa de la Balsa is a unique cultural attraction located in Puyo City, one of the most authentic destinations in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. This special place functions as both a craft workshop and artisan shop, where visitors can learn about balsa wood, a natural, lightweight, and sustainable material native to Ecuador.

   Local artisans use traditional techniques to create beautiful handmade crafts, reflecting Amazonian culture, creativity, and respect for nature. La Casa de la Balsa is the perfect place to buy authentic souvenirs and meaningful gifts to take home for family and friends.

   A visit to La Casa de la Balsa supports local communities, promotes sustainable tourism, and offers travelers a deeper connection to the culture of the Amazon. It is an ideal stop for those looking for cultural experiences, Amazon handicrafts, and responsible tourism in Puyo, Ecuador.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   45 min Admission included

   Impressive waterfall with a water volume capable of filling up an Olympic swimming pool in at least an hour. Here, you can walk along the paths that are next to the green river that forms the waterfall. You will descend along a trail that will take you to a suspension bridge more than 328 feet high. Further, you can practically admire the full force of the waterfall whose drizzle will envelop you. It will be the perfect place to take photos and make spectacular videos.

4. 4

   Cascada el Manto de la Novia

   45 min Admission included

   The Bride's Mantle is a waterfall found in the lower area of the Llanganates National Park. To be able to observe it, we will have to cross over the Pastaza River in Tarabita (cable car). Upon reaching another side, we can see orchids and other local plants that are usually cared of by farmers of the area.

5. 5

   Banos

   Passing by

   Upon arrival at the hotel, you can go out to enjoy and get to know the famous adventure capital in Ecuador. In the city, you can visit the hot springs. Or take a good massage in one of the Spas of the city. Stroll the city of Baños to see the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Agua Santa. These mentioned activities will be by yourself. Also, you can enjoy the night life in Baños.

Overnight at La Floresta or similar, a 3-star hotel (Double room)

Day 4 · Baños - Quito City

1. 1

   Stop 1

   45 min Admission included

   The first activity of the morning will be a visit to an iconic bathing spot that for many years served as a lookout point for the active volcano located very close to this viewpoint. Enjoy the beautiful Andean landscape. Swing at the end of the world in front of the volcano and relax like a child.

2. 2

   Banos

   Passing by

   Before leaving Baños, if you are a candy lover, we can stop at a "melcochas" store (sugar cain tuffy), here, we will observe its manufacture and packaging before being distributed in the city of Baños or exported to various cities in Ecuador.

3. 3

   Quito

   Passing by

   After a memorable trip, we will start our journey back to Quito. We can leave you at any point in the Quito city or at the airport.