Ecuador has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to natural wonders, stunning scenery and indigenous cultures and this itinerary showcases them all, with time to slow down and to appreciate them to the full. Explore the three main habitats on mainland Ecuador: the cloud forest, high Andes and of course the Amazon jungle, where you will also spend time with Amazonian communities that have chosen tourism as a way to defend their land from oil companies. Perfect for nature lovers who want to experience Ecuador's unique landscapes and profusion of wildlife, this Ecuador highlights holiday brings you the best of one of Latin America's true gems.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 3: After a delicious breakfast, take a relatively short drive north to the beautiful Bellavista cloud forest, where you will spend the next few days in this amazing and biodiverse area. (B/L/D)
Day 4: Wake to the sounds of the forest nice and early, so you can head out on a guided hike to spot some of the incredible array of birdlife that calls this reserve home. Spend the rest of the day exploring with a guide or on your own. (B/L/D)
Day 5: You will have another chance to immerse yourself in the forest today before transferring back to Quito for the afternoon. (B/L/D)
Day 6: Fly into the Amazon and transfer by boat to Napo Wildlife Centre for an authentic experience of the deep jungle and Kichwa community. Check into your guest lodge, which is about as close to luxury as you can get in the Amazon! (B/D)
Days 7-8: Explore the Amazon jungle on foot or by canoe and take part in some of the activities run by the Centre, such as piranha fishing and night walks. (B/L/D)
Day 9: Spend one last morning under the enormous green canopy before making your way by boat and plane back to Quito. (B/L/D)
Day 10: Your journey now turns west as you drive to the wide open spaces of Cotopaxi National Park, filled with tropical flowers, beautiful mountain lakes and, of course, the stunning Cotopaxi volcano. Once you reach your lodge you can relax and stroll among the beautiful scenery, or we can arrange hikes or horseriding for you. (B)
Day 11: After a unique morning spent horseriding alongside local cowboys, the afternoon is free to spend however you like. (B)
Day 12: Leave Cotopaxi as you travel across the valley to the stunningly beautiful crater lake of Quilotoa. Here you will hike around the rim before heading back to Quito for your last night. (B/L/D)
Day 13: Time to say goodbye to this incredible country as you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Prices from: £1995 per person
Services included: hotels on shared room basis, meals, transfers and activities as mentioned, entry fees, English speaking guide, 24 hour assistance.
Services not included: flights, drinks, tips and personal expenses.
Note: stops can be extended, added or cut - just ask us!
Best Time To Travel
Best time to visit: Dec - Apr
Andes: Oct is the driest season offering the best views, however it is cooler. Nov - Apr is warmer but wetter with lots of cloud cover obstructing the views.
The Amazon: Jul & Aug bring the most rain but the Amazon really is a year round destination.
Add a Mini Experience
These unique short trips and one day tours could make your holiday even better! They can be added into any itinerary and are designed to help you further explore the cultural, natural and social diversity of Ecuador