Ecuador: The Amazon, Cloud Forests & Crater Lakes

Arrive at any time and prepare for an epic adventure through Ecuador’s highlights and hidden gems. It will be 1000% better than watching reels of these beautiful places! Attend a welcome meeting in the evening and then choose to hang out with the group afterwards for an optional dinner in Quito. Break the ice, get to know each other, and share your best travel stories before making new ones together over the next nine days.

Included Experiences

• Connect With New Friends: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
• Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Hop on a bus and travel into the lush Amazon Jungle and your community lodge stay in the rainforest. Learn about local food production and everything there is to know about cacao. If in season, collect cacao pods from the nearby plants. At the end of the experience, the group will enjoy a taste of this sweet treat amid the sounds of the forest. It is here you will experience life in the jungle firsthand and connect with the local indigenous culture. It’s the perfect way to fall in love with the Amazon you have been learning about since you were younger.

Included Experiences

• Local Bus: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
• Cacao and Chocolate Experience: Expand your knowledge of local food production and learn everything there is to know about cacao. If it's in season, collect cacao pods from the nearby plants and learn about the history of cacao in Ecuador. While the plant has been harvested since the early 16th century, the late 19th century saw the beginning of the Ecuadorian cacao boom. The plant remains a key export and is fundamental in supporting local communities across the country. Roast and de-shell the beans, then re-heat the beans with milk and cinnamon into a fondue to be eaten with local fruits. When finished, enjoy a fire-side traditional jungle snack.
• Shandia Community Lodge: Stay overnight at the Shandia Indigenous lodge located in the Ecuadorian Amazon. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive tours led by the village’s youth. The community lodge is seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. Watch a chocolate making demonstration and learn about their cultivation of cacao and their traditional agriculture practices. Meals of local ingredients grown in the village are prepared by women who were provided with culinary training through the project. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a whole new generation of people in this community to improve their lives, and the lives of their children and grandchildren.

Put the pedal to the metal on a cycling excursion to the Indigenous Shandia community. This rural village is surrounded by rivers and the fertile Amazon landscape. Take in the beauty as you ride through the jungle. And take pride in being able to help support the preservation of the community’s indigenous culture. Afterwards, spend free time at the lodge and choose to enjoy some of the activities available to visitors. Choose to walk to the nearby beach along the river and try to spot wildlife in the jungle. Later go on an included walk to the Pimpilala Waterfalls and perhaps there will be time for a quick dip into the natural pool formed at the base of the falls. Group selfie, anyone?

Included Experiences

• Shandia Biking & Community Experience: Cycle to the Indigenous Shandia community, a rural village surrounded by rivers and lush Amazonian landscapes. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive experiences led by the village’s youth. Spend 40 minutes cycling from Shandia lodge stopping along the way to take in the beauty of the Amazon. These cultural tours are seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. This provides an economic opportunity for youth who traditionally would have left the community to find work. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a new generation in the community and contributing to the preservation of their culture.
• Free Time: Take advantage of free time to enjoy the activities available at the lodge.
• Pimpilala Waterfalls Visit: Head into the jungle today where you will see a variety of plants (medicinal, timber, and fruit), and animals including birds, monkeys, and insects. As you walk learn more about the uses and relationships between these plants and the indigenous people in the area. The group will also visit the Pimpilala Waterfalls and perhaps there will be time for a quick dip into the natural pool formed at the base of the falls.
• Shandia Community Lodge: Stay overnight at the Shandia Indigenous lodge located in the Ecuadorian Amazon. With the support of G Adventures and Planeterra, the community has developed new culturally immersive tours led by the village’s youth. The community lodge is seen by the community as a way to rescue their Indigenous culture and provide opportunities for the future. Watch a chocolate making demonstration and learn about their cultivation of cacao and their traditional agriculture practices. Meals of local ingredients grown in the village are prepared by women who were provided with culinary training through the project. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a whole new generation of people in this community to improve their lives, and the lives of their children and grandchildren.

Experience a slice of local life on a public bus ride between Tena and Baños. Download those road trip playlists and stare at the passing scenery. Arrive in the afternoon and get settled. The town is surrounded by lush cloud forest and has an abundance of outdoor optional activities for travellers to indulge in. Maybe soak in the nearby hot springs to relax after bumping along on the bus. But rest up because you’re in the adventure capital of Ecuador and tomorrow there’s no time to waste.

Included Experiences

• Local Bus: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
• Free Time: Enjoy free time in Baños, a town famous for outdoor activities. Visit the local hot springs, or simply relax in town.

Optional Experiences

• Hot Springs - Baños: Soak weary muscles in the thermal baths that Baños is famous for. Head to hot springs at the base of Tungurahua Volcano, which means “little hell” in Quichua, or try some of the baths fed by the melt waters of Tungurahua's glaciated flanks. Rise before the sun for an early soak – watching the sun peak over the mountains while relaxing in the warm waters is definitely worth the early start.

Discover your adventurous spirit on this full free day to enjoy the epic outdoor adventure activities in Baños. Nestled at the foot of the active Tungurahua volcano, this town is a gorgeous place to hangout for the day. From ziplining to canyoning and visiting the famous Casa del Arbol, you won’t have time to worry about what to do next. And maybe end the day with a group dance party to see if you can make the next viral Tik Tok.

Included Experiences

• Free Time: There's plenty to see and do in Baños, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like hiking, canyoneering, and relaxing in the hot springs. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Experiences

• Baños Ziplining Adventure Bundle: Buckle up your harness, put on your helmet, and prepare to launch. Glide along a zipline suspended 850m above the canyon below, dare to let go and reach top speeds as you zip past stunning scenery. Forget your fear as you cross Tibetan Suspension Bridge above Pastaza River. Rock climb up to a second zipline to finish off this adrenaline-filled adventure. Please keep in mind this is a level 3/5 physical activity. Good mobility, no fear of heights, and a strong fitness level are required for you to have an enjoyable experience.
• Mountain Bike Rental: Hop on your bike and explore the amazing scenery surrounding Baños. Pass by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and changing vegetation – depending on what path you take. Enjoy the cool wind on downhill stretches, but be sure to bring sunblock; the sun can be strong.
• Horseback Riding - Baños: Hop in the saddle and explore Baños’ beautiful countryside by horseback. Check out the unique vegetation in the region, and, perhaps, trot over to Tungurahua Volcano for amazing views.
• Hiking - Baños: Head to the mountains for some amazing treks; Baños provides the perfect natural setting for outdoor adventure.
• Whitewater Rafting: Hit the rapids in the adrenaline capital of Ecuador. Choose a river that suits your experience level; there a number with varying ranges of difficulty. Enjoy amazing Andean scenery and a fun-filled ride!
• Baños Canyoning Adventure: Jump, slide, rappel, swim and float around Cascadas de Chamana on this canyoning adventure, while enjoying the stunning scenery near Sangay National Park. Please keep in mind this is a level 4/5 physical activity. Good mobility and a strong fitness level are required for you to have an enjoyable experience.
• Visit Casa del Arbol: Perched on a hilltop behind Baños is La Casa del Arbol, sporting epic views of the Tungurahua volcano on a clear day. It was used previously to monitor the volcano's activity, but now has become a popular attraction because of the iconic image of a swing attached to the treehouse. Visit the viewpoint where you can choose to try whooshing over the abyss for yourself to feel the thrill of swinging on the edge of the world.

Leave Baños behind to travel to Quilotoa and its stunning caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption. It’s a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Along the route the group will stop for a visit to an art workshop and gallery that celebrates the indigenous art of the region, showcasing the breathtaking works in Tigua's artistic community. Here, you can meet local artisans and learn about their techniques. Upon arrival to the town of Quilotoa the group will hike down to the lake in the centre of the crater to enjoy the dramatic surrounding landscape and turquoise coloured water. Check-in to your eco-friendly accommodations in the evening located high in the Ecuadoran Andes at over 10,400 feet in elevation (3200 meters above sea level) with views that will make you fall in love. Who wants to move here and stay forever?

Included Experiences

• Community Artisan Workshop Visit: Nestled in the heart of Tigua, you will find a vibrant gallery that celebrates the local indigenous art of the region. Visit here and see the beautiful works of Julio Toaquiza, a pioneer in Tigua's artistic community. The kaleidoscope of colors and intricate designs that tell stories of the Andes and its people. Each piece reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Tigua community, making it not just an art gallery, but a living museum of the traditions and values that shape this beautiful region. Meet local artisans, learn about their techniques, and consider participating in a workshop to create your own piece of art.
• Quilotoa Community Entrance: This popular hike down to Quilotoa's crater is relatively short, but steep. It offers gorgeous views and a chance to experience the mesmerizing water up close. The way down is shorter, but steep and the ascent back up can be more challenging due to the high altitude. Once down at the crater choose to relax by the water or maybe rent a kayak for a unique experience while here in Ecuador.

Feel the warmth and impact of community connection today on a visit to the Guayama Community project nearby. Learn about the culture and lifestyle of the area’s indigenous peoples while supporting the sustainable development of this project. Discover the Kichuas Panzaleos culture project led by the local population. Lunch will be had on your own at the on site restaurant. You’ll be welcomed into their indigenous community with open arms and leave with a deeper love of this region and its people. Later, relax back at your accommodations in Quilotoa, play some cards, swap travel stories, and laugh together as a group.

Included Experiences

• Entrance + Community living experience in Guayama Grande: The Guayama Grande Community Tourism Cultural Center offers travellers a meaningful experience where they can learn about the culture and lifestyle of the area's indigenous peoples, while also supporting the sustainable development of this centre. Enjoy the landscape's natural beauty surrounded by mountains. Learn about daily life in the quichua agricultural community, walk through the farming area with a local guide to learn about the community's traditional crofts, crop seasonality, and their project to eliminate pesticide use. Then head out to the fields to watch the planting or harvesting process, depending on the season. Feel welcome by the community and leave with a deeper connection and appreciation of this land and its people.
• Free Time: Free time will be had back at the accommodations. Choose to hang out as a group or head into town for a night of fun, laughter, and some cold beverages. You can also choose to hike again in the area or find a stunning view of the crater as the sun begins to set.

After breakfast, travel back to Quito swapping stories with your travel crew on the ride back. Take some time to grab lunch on your own, maybe find some potato soup, or fried cheese empanadas, or fresh ceviche. Then, come back together with everyone for an orientation walk at La Carolina Park with its natural oasis within the city. The night belongs to you and it’s time to let loose. Find somewhere to dance your heart out and let the beat move your soul.

Included Experiences

• La Carolina Park Orientation Walk: Set off on an orientation walking tour with your CEO of La Carolina Park. This large, 165-acre urban park can be found in the heart of Quito. It features a botanical garden with diverse ecosystems, including high-altitude Andean grasslands, cloud forest, wetlands, and Amazon. Walk around a bit and get a sense of its immense size and importance as a recreational space for locals within the city. Then choose to enjoy extra time here yourself if you desire.
• Free Time: The night is yours in Quito. Find a local spot for a delicious dinner on your own and maybe dance the night away with your travel family by your side. What are your best dance moves?
• Big Night Out: Enjoy a night out on the town with your travel friends and truly let your hair down in the lively Ecuadorian city of Quito.

Depart at any time. Or maybe stay longer to explore more of Quito on your own.