Ecuador in a Week

Welcome to Quito! The mood will be sky high as we gather in Ecuador's capital. This modern day city (nicknamed the 'light of America') is built on ancient Incan ruins and boasts one of the best preserved historic centers in America. It was also the first city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. We'll jump straight in to a team tour of the city, skip between two hemispheres at the Equatorial line. Squeezing in a visit to the IInti-Ñan Museum should round off the first day on trip pretty nicely. Stay: Ibis Quito (or similar)

It's out of the city & into the lush jungle with spectacular views en route. Not a bad way to spend the day. With vibrant hills and tumbling rivers, Tena is a dream for white water rafting - and that's exactly what you'll have the chance to do! After that, we'll settle in for the night, ready for big adventures tomorrow. (B) Stay: Cotococha Lodge Tena (or similar)

Today is yours to roam the city and jungle to your hearts content. Maybe unwind over a few hot sugar cane and cinnamon drinks and a traditional Guayuza, or opt to visit a local indigenous community - a pretty cool way to truly go local and give back on your trip. You'll get the chance to meet a shaman, play soccer with the local kids and really experience what tribe life is all about in this part of the world. Like the sound of this? Maybe consider packing some extra school supplies or tasty treats in your luggage - absolutely not essential but definitely appreciated by the local children.

Tonight, we'll feast on delicious meats, sauces and salads, all traditional and sourced locally from the area. YUM. (B/D)

Good morning, Amazonian roamers! Today we're off to the adrenaline capital of Baños, so time to shimmy our way out of the rainforest - our next adventure awaits... Sitting amidst tumbling valleys, waterfalls, and the still active Volcán Tungurahua, Baños is a big deal on the natural beauty front. If "Thrill Seeker" is your middle name, you'll love to opt for today's Zip Line and Canyoneering experiences.

Afterwards, we'll feast on a DELISH spread of perfectly seasoned barbecue meats, before we burn away all those calories with salsa - with our friendly local teacher, Edith. Now, that's a night well spent! (B/D) Stay: Hotel Napolitano Apart Baños (or similar)

The adventure opportunities are endless today, with horseback riding, canyoneering and ziplining all on the menu. And trust us, this isn't just any regular old zipline – we're talking aerial bridges, rock climbing and speeding through the skies, Superman style – pretty much the ultimate aerial adventure. Don't have such a head for heights? Horsey fun and canyoneering expeditions will keep you on your toes. Oh what a tough day this will be in Banos – deciding how best to embrace your inner adventurer. (B)

You've got another chance to explore this beautiful city - lucky you! At night, we'll dine on a traditional Ecuadorian meal as our time in this wonderful country comes to an end. (B/D) Stay: Ibis Quito (or similar)

Your trip ends after breakfast today when it's time to say adios to your new bffs. Why not continue the adventure on head onto our Galapagos Island Hopper or Peru Uncovered trip? (B)