Welcome to Ecuador to all participants to the IAF Global Conference on Space for Emerging Countries (GLEC 2022).
Enjoy Ecuador while you visit with the handpicked tours below, or contact us for personalized options.
May 16-20, 2022
day tours & extra servIces
TOURS EXCLUSIVE FOR PARTICIPANTS IN THE GLEC AND MAY BE COMBINED WITH OTHER PARTICIPANTS FROM THE EVENT.
TRANSFERS
Dates available: As needed
Transfer from the airport to your selected hotel in Quito, or vice versa. Look for a sign with your name on it. The airport is located in the town of Tababela, about 43 km from Quito and it will take approximately 45 minutes to one hour to arrive.
- Assistance upon arrival with an English-speaking guide
- Private transportation from Quito Airport to your selected hotel.
- Transfers might be subject to be shared with other participants of the event.
OTAVALO
OTAVALO
You´ll be picked up from your hotel to head towards Imbabura known as “The Province of the Lakes”. The highway offers a lovely view passing through Calderón and Guayllabamba valleys.
We will make a short stop here to get to know more about local culture. Passing through Cayambe we can get a sight of the snow-capped volcano (5,790m.), the world´s highest point crossed by the Equator Line. This small town is also famous for its salt biscuits with “leaf cheese” and “manjar”.
We can make a stop here to try this delicacy before we continue to the Imbabura province, named after the Imbabura Volcano, where we will first head to the largest lake in Ecuador, the San Pablo. We will then enter Otavalo City which holds a local market every day, the biggest are on Wednesdays and Saturdays, an ancient tradition and cultural exchange site among the Otavalo community. Furthermore, we visit the peaceful Cotacachi Village, famous for its leather, and meet the local craftsmen. After a last visit to the charming Cuicocha Crater Lake, we will head back to Quito in the late afternoon.
INCLUDED: Private transportation, English-speaking guide, lunch.
Per Person
Minimum of 2 travelers on each tour to confirm
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
QUITO
QUITO CITY TOUR, MIDDLE OF THE WORLD & VISIT TO LOCAL BREWERY
During the historical city tour of Quito, you will explore the best-preserved colonial center of all of South America. As one of the first World Heritage Sites, it will be an unforgettable experience as if you …
were stepping back in time. The first stop is the Basilica del Voto Nacional. Due to its size and style, it is considered the largest neo-gothic temple in the Americas, and the most important piece of neo-gothic architecture in Ecuador. You will continue to the Plaza Grande or Independence Square. Admire the historical buildings surrounding the square and its important history! Located here are the Presidential Palace, the Catholic Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace.
Another visit you will enjoy is the most impressive of all churches, the San Francisco de Quito. The church houses masterpieces of talented indigenous artists from the famous methods of “Escuela Quiteña” Quito School, which are the artistic traditions associated with the 17th and 18th centuries. Walk through the lively colonial streets of the old town to visit other historical highlights such as the Panecillo, from where you will have an amazing 360-degree view of the city.
A must-see stop during your visit to Ecuador is the Middle of the World. Here an Equator Monument was built to honor the 18th century French Geodesic Mission, led by French scientists Condamine, Bouguer, Godin, and the Ecuadorian geographer, Pedro Vicente Maldonado, who studied the curvature of the planet and determined the supposed location of the equator. This unique place allows you to be a part of a historic landmark in what was once thought as the exact equator line. Have fun with the family taking playful photos with the monument in the background, such as the popular takes with one foot in each hemisphere or pretending to hold the monument ball in your hands! Additionally, the complex offers an Ethnographic museum, a planetarium, artisanal stores, great for picking up souvenirs, coffee shops, and restaurants that serve local food.
We end the tour at a local brewery, the first beer is on us!
INCLUDED: Private transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance to La Compañia, Panecillo, and Middle of the World, 1 beer.
Per Person
Minimum of 2 travelers on each tour to confirm
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- One glass of beer included at the local brewery.
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
COTOPAXI
COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Today’s adventure starts early in the morning when you drive south through the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Today’s destination is one of the highest active volcanoes. in the world and one of Ecuador’s most…
popular highlights: the elegant Cotopaxi Volcano, with an altitude of 5897 meters above sea level. This impressive, snow-capped volcano stands proudly in the middle of the beautiful national park that bears its name.
Upon arrival at the entrance of the Cotopaxi National Park, your guide will explain the unique flora and fauna of the area and the history of the volcano. Subsequently, you’ll continue to the Limpiopungo Lake (altitude: 3850 meters), to enjoy a hike through the stunning “paramo”, or grassland, a landscape where you can see hummingbirds, wild horses, and other wildlife. All this time, the imposing Cotopaxi Volcano is just a few steps away and on a clear day, you can admire its full glory.
INCLUDED: Private transportation, English-speaking guide, lunch
Per Person
Minimum of 2 travelers on each tour to confirm
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
MINDO
MINDO CLOUD FOREST
Mindo is a natural paradise hidden amongst the clouds. The site is considered one of the most biodiverse places on earth and its protected forest Mindo-Nambillo is home to many…
species of birds, mammals, reptiles, orchids, and butterflies. You can visit this natural reserve through a ‘tarabita’ or cable car that will ride you above breathtaking scenery. Once there, you can choose to do a hike to visit 15 waterfalls of different heights and beauty.
On the way back you can visit one of the most touching experiences in Mindo; a butterfly garden. The place has an exhibition of 25 colorful butterfly species and you can observe them in their four stages of life. To experience 1,200 butterflies flying at the same time around or even landing on you is definitely a must! In the afternoon, you can delight your senses by taking a chocolate tour. A guide will teach you about all the necessary steps to produce the best chocolate in the world! At the end of the tour, you will be able to try and buy several chocolate products.
Zip-Line Through the Cloud Forest
In Mindo, you can experience the cloud forest like a bird, soaring above in the treetops. Before taking off through the forest with a new perspective, you will be given a briefing on the equipment. There is more than one zip-line and each is built under strict international safety regulations, hardy pulleys, and stainless steel that can withstand 11,000 lbs or 5,000 kg.
Included: private excursion, English-speaking guide, entrance to Butterfly farm, chocolate factory, and Zip-line
INCLUDED: Private excursion, English-speaking guide, entrance to Butterfly farm, chocolate factory, and Zip-line, lunch.
Per Person
Minimum of 2 travelers on each tour to confirm
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
ANTISANA
ANTISANA NATIONAL PARK
In the morning you leave Quito to travel southeast, to the Antisana Ecological Reserve. The impressive Antisana Volcano stands proudly in the middle of this beautiful reserve, creating stunning landscapes.
Because of the altitude of 4000 meters and the extreme temperature, the flora and fauna in the Antisana Ecological Reserve are truly unique. The plants in this area have adapted to the natural circumstances and make a mysterious and beautiful landscape. Your guide brings you close to the snow-capped top of the volcano by car, where you start to explore this special area. During the hike and car ride through the national park, you have the opportunity to see wildlife, such as horses, llamas, Andean gulls, black-faced ibises, and even condors, with some luck.
INCLUDED: Private transportation, English-speaking guide, lunch.
Per Person
Minimum of 2 travelers on each tour to confirm
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
PAPALLACTA
PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS SPA
You leave Ecuador’s capital in the morning to drive over the Eastern Cordillera, up to an impressive altitude of 4065 meters, before arriving at the small town of Papallacta (3300 meters).
On a clear day, you get amazed by magnificent views of the Antisana Volcano and the surrounding paramo highlands. In this beautiful region, you can spot birds, wild horses, and even spectacled bears, with some luck. Upon arrival in Papallacta, begin by exploring the area with a hike and then relax at the spa of Termas de Papallacta thermal hot springs that are naturally heated by the volcanic activity in the area. Thanks to the volcanoes, this water contains minerals that make bathing here benefit your mind and body. With this tour, you will experience ultimate relaxation in a beautiful environment. If you like, there is also time for a short hike to explore the area further.
INCLUDED: private transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance to Termas de Papallacta (spa area)
Per Person
Minimum of 2 travelers on each tour to confirm
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Spa treatments, massages, etc.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
tour packages available
GALAPAGOS
Immerse yourself in a place where you are the guest among the wildlife, The Galapagos Islands. Explore the islands with the comfort of a hotel in the islands and enjoy at your own pace how you interact with the locals and the different tours.
Dates available: After May 20th, 2022
Rates per person based on double accommodation
2⋆ Category
$1,563 (Single)
$1,460 (Double)
4⋆ Category
$2,143 (Single)
$1,815 (Double)
Day 1: Santa Cruz Island Highlands
Arrive at Baltra Island of the Galapagos, you will meet your guide and transportation that will take you to the Itabaca Channel, crossing over to Santa Cruz. Your first stop on Santa Cruz will be Los Gemelos or the Twin Craters. They are not real craters, however, they were formed by the collapse of surface materials in underground fissures in an underground caldera from extinct volcanoes. Later, continue through the highlands to visit a ranch with abundant green vegetation. You will be able to observe Giant Tortoises in their natural habitat. Another attraction here is an excursion through lava tunnels that are millions of years old.
*Please note this visit is subject to change according to flight schedule.
INCLUDED: Departure transfer, private transportation, English speaking guide for the transfer, accommodation, English speaking guide, private excursion, lunch, arrival transfer
Day 2: Charles Darwin Station & Tortuga Bay
After breakfast visit Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. The interpretation center carries out education and developmental projects in support of the National Park Service, such as conservation programs and sustainable management of flora and fauna. The aim is to preserve this natural habitat in every aspect, allowing visitors to appreciate the original and endemic ecosystems.
In the afternoon visit one of the most beautiful beaches in the Archipelago: Tortuga Bay. The walk in the sun is rewarded with a spectacular white sand beach stretching across the southern coast of Santa Cruz. Tortuga Bay beach is famous for its expansive and pristine shoreline that gradually descends into the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
INCLUDED: Accommodation, breakfast, English speaking guide, private excursion, lunch.
Day 3: Full day tour to another island
Today you will be given an option to go on a navigable excursion to another island. The activities on these navigable tours may include hiking, snorkeling, swimming, or an opportunity to relax in beautiful areas. Each tour is subject to availability to one of the following nearby islands: Bartolome, Santa Fe, South Plazas, or North Seymour.
INCLUDED: Accommodation, boxed lunch, breakfast, English speaking guide, shared excursion.
Day 4: Return to Quito
Departure from Santa Cruz Island. You will have a transfer to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador.
INCLUDED: Airport transfer, and breakfast.
Include
- Accommodations in standard room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Airport Transfer.
Not Include
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International & national flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
- Transit Control Card (TCC): $20 USD per person.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee: $100 USD per adult and $50 USD per child under 12 years old. (Visitors from the Andean Community and Mercosur nations $50 USD per adult and $25 USD per child under 12 years old)
- Wetsuit or snorkeling gear (subject to each cruise).
- Accommodations in standard room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Airport Transfer.
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International & national flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
- Transit Control Card (TCC): $20 USD per person.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee: $100 USD per adult and $50 USD per child under 12 years old. (Visitors from the Andean Community and Mercosur nations $50 USD per adult and $25 USD per child under 12 years old)
- Wetsuit or snorkeling gear
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
With spacious decks and gorgeous chic interiors based on the principle of stylish simplicity, this vessel guarantees its guests a luxurious ambiance from which they can appreciate the breathtaking views of the enchanted islands. The vessel offers three decks to host a maximum of 90 guests throughout 50 modern cabins.
Dates available: May 23 - 27, 2022
Rates per person based on double accommodation
Day 1: Quito – Santa Cruz Island
Transfer from your selected hotel to the airport in Quito. The airport is located in the town of Tababela, about 43 km from Quito and it will take approximately 45 minutes to one hour to arrive.
AM. Flight to Galapagos Islands from Quito: Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, your guide welcomes you (with a sign of Santa Cruz II) and brings you to the ship, where the captain and the rest of the crew await you with a welcome drink.
PM. Santa Cruz Island : Bachas Beach – After a wonderful lunch on board, your naturalist guide gives you a short explanation about the afternoon activities. And then your Galapagos adventure really starts! You visit Bachas Beach with its beautiful white sand beach made out of decomposed coral. This stunning tropical beach is a popular nesting site for sea turtles. You and the rest of the group walk to a small lagoon located right next to the beach, where occasionally Galapagos flamingos can be seen. Also, other bird species, like black-necked stilts and whimbrels can be spotted here. Further along the beach, you meet very likely a colony of sea lions relaxing on the beach. You also have time to relax on this stunning beach and enjoy the company of the playful sea lions. Before dinner, you learn more about the Galapagos Islands and the Santa Cruz II during the welcome reception, followed by a delicious dinner.
INCLUDED: Departure transfer, private transportation, English speaking guide for the transfer, cabin, cruise, dinner, English speaking guide, shared excursion, lunch, arrival transfer, domestic flight.
Day 2: Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove & Egas Port
AM. Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove – This amazing place is located on the northwest coast of Santiago Island and thanks to its name to the interesting history of this cove, where sailors, pirates, and whalers anchored their vessels to look for fresh water and food in the higher parts of the island. Nowadays, Buccaneer Cove has remains of an eroded shoreline that is home to seabirds, sea lions, and fur seals. Boobies, pelicans, and gulls use these rocks as feeding grounds and nesting sites. You can also see Galapagos fur seals searching for shade on the rocks and sea lions swimming playfully in the waves.
PM. Santiago Island: Egas Port – In the afternoon, you leave the ship again to visit Egas Port, a black sand beach. Behind the beach, you find ‘El Crater’, a saltwater lagoon that becomes a potential salt mine during the dry season. In the past, people made attempts to exploit salt here without major success. The walk along the shoreline, especially at low tide, allows you to observe many marine species, like marine iguanas sunbathing on the rocks and sea lions playing in the water. At the end of the trail, a series of sea caves create a perfect resting place for fur seals and night herons.
INCLUDED: All-inclusive, cabin, cruise, English speaking guide, shared excursion.
Day 3: Rabida & Bartolome Island
AM. Rabida Island – This morning you explore Rabida Island, unique because of the red-colored rocks and beach. The volcanic material of the island is very porous and external factors such as rain, saltwater, and sea breeze have oxidized the sand and rocks. You visit the east coast of Rabida Island, to admire a beautiful red sand beach where sea lions enjoy the morning sun. You and the rest of the group follow a short trail of a bit more than one kilometer to the lagoon behind the beach, where you might spot a colony of flamingos. During the walk, you can observe beautiful land birds, such as finches, doves, yellow warblers, and mocking birds.
PM. Bartolomé Island – One of the most famous islands of the Galapagos, because of the stunning views the highest point provides its visitors with. Your guide takes you up to the viewpoint while telling you more about the island, its flora, and fauna. It is a bit of a climb, but the amazing moonlike landscape of volcanic formations contrasting the blue ocean is definitely worth it. Then, you head to a beautiful beach nearby to snorkel with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine species. With some luck, you even see Galapagos penguins here! A short walk brings you to another part of the beach, where swimming is not allowed, to spot white-tipped reef sharks swimming along the shoreline.
INCLUDED: All-inclusive, cabin, cruise, English speaking guide, shared excursion.
Day 4: Genovesa Island
AM: Genovesa Island: Prince Phillip’s Steps – A dinghy brings you to El Barranco, where you go on land to walk up Prince Phillip’s Steps. It is a steep climb, but once at the top, many sea bird species give you a warm welcome. The natural erosion has created an ideal nesting site for storm petrels, red-footed boobies, and masked boobies. Afterward, a dingy ride along the shoreline gives you the opportunity to see fur sea lions and several species of seabirds.
PM. Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay – A wet landing brings you to a beautiful white coral sand beach. This site is one of the favorites for birdwatchers: masked boobies, wandering tattlers, lava gulls, whimbrels, yellow-crowned, and black-crowned lava herons, and yellow warblers can be seen here. Continuing the trail, you climb gradually to the edge of the cliff to see red-footed boobies nesting in the mangrove trees.
INCLUDED: All-inclusive, cabin, cruise, English speaking guide, shared excursion.
Day 5: Santa Cruz Island: Giant Tortoise Reserve and departure
After breakfast, your luggage is taken to the airport, while you visit the Giant Tortoise Reserve. A bus ride to the highlands of the island brings you to the last highlight of the cruise: giant tortoises in the wild, an amazing experience! You can observe two species of giant tortoises living in the green fields and in forests of Galapagos daisies, orchids, and bromeliads. The highlands of Santa Cruz are very green, because of which the giant tortoises have a good life here.
After this visit, you are brought directly to Baltra Airport by bus and boat. From Balta Airport, you fly back to Quito or Guayaquil.
*Please note that itineraries are subject to change without previous notice due to operational purposes, policies of the Galapagos National Park authorities, weather conditions, and for the comfort of the passengers.
INCLUDED: Breakfast, English speaking guide, departure transfer.
Include
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category – Horizon Deck Explorer Cabin
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking guide with the cruise services
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Flight to/from the Galapagos Islands.
- Airport Transfer.
Not Include
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
- Transit Control Card (TCC): $20 USD per person.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee: $100 USD per adult and $50 USD per child under 12 years old. (Visitors from the Andean Community and Mercosur nations $50 USD per adult and $25 USD per child under 12 years old)
- Wetsuit (subject to each cruise).
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category – Horizon Deck Explorer Cabin
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking guide with the cruise services
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Flight to/from the Galapagos Islands.
- Airport Transfer
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
- Transit Control Card (TCC): $20 USD per person.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee: $100 USD per adult and $50 USD per child under 12 years old. (Visitors from the Andean Community and Mercosur nations $50 USD per adult and $25 USD per child under 12 years old)
- Wetsuit (subject to each cruise).
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
AMAZON EXPLORATION
La Casa del Suizo overlooks the vast and beautiful expanse of the surrounding tropical rainforest. The hotel features peaceful rooms, each with its own terrace and hammocks to enjoy jungle views in a private room.
Dates available: Daily Departure
Rates per person based on double accommodation
Day 1: Arrive to Punta Ahuano
Punta Ahuano is a small port town on the northern banks of the Napo River – a main tributary to the mighty Amazon River. Here there will be canoes waiting to take you the rest of the way to Casa del Suizo, a beautiful oasis to enjoy your time in the Amazon where you can enjoy the spa services, excursions, pool, bar, and delicious food.
INCLUDED: Transfers, dinner, English-speaking guide, accommodation in standard.
Day 2: Rainforest Hike & Community Visit
In the morning you will board a canoe that will navigate for about 20 minutes down the scenic Napo River. This is a great opportunity to see what the Amazon river ecosystem looks like and provides a fun adventure for the whole family. Finally, you will reach Cosano, here you will walk with your guide on a trail discovering flora and fauna together. After some time on the trail, you will return to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will visit an Amazon community to experience the local lifestyle of this unique area. Women of the community show you around and tell you and the rest of the group about the crops they grow, such as yucca (cassava), coffee beans, tropical fruits, and cacao. Also, you can witness how these Kichwa women produce pottery and other traditional, domestic skills. Later on, members of the community show you the traditional methods of searching for gold and fishing on the shores of the Napo River. This activity is not just about listening and watching; you will have the unique opportunity to become a part of these traditions!
INCLUDED: Shared excursion, breakfast, dinner, English-speaking guide, local guide, water poncho, accommodation in standard.
Day 3: Return to Quito
In the morning you will get ready to depart the Amazon Rainforest to your next destination.
*Note: Please note that Amazon itineraries are subject to change without previous notice due to weather circumstances and/or the comfort of our guests.
INCLUDED: Transfers, English-speaking guide, and breakfast.
Included
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Airport Transfer.
Not Included
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Airport Transfer
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
Sacha Lodge is found within a 5000-acre private ecological reserve in Ecuador’s Amazon Basin, an accessible yet pristine rainforest sanctuary where you and your family will enjoy a true jungle adventure.
The lodging at Sacha is carefully designed to offer comfort while preserving the environment and rainforest ambiance at the same time. All the cabins, with high thatched roofs and private shaded terraces, are constructed with traditional materials and fit perfectly into the lush surroundings.
Dates available: After May 20th, 2022
Rate per person based on double/twin standard accommodation
Day 1: Quito – Coca City – Amazon Lodge
In the morning you will take a short flight of about 30 minutes from Quito to the town of Coca. Once you arrive at Coca, Sacha Lodge staff will meet you and transfer you to the Napo River where you board a canoe powered by outboard motors. They will lead you down the river for about 2.5 hours until you reach the lodge. A 30-minute hike through the rainforest leads you to Lake Pilchicocha. Here, you are met by native workers to paddle you across the lake to your final destination, Sacha Lodge.
In the afternoon after your arrival, you can choose to swim in Lake Pilchicocha, a black water lake home to many species of fish and animals. A refreshing swim after arriving may be just what you need after being in the equatorial heat all day. Bird observing from the mini-tower near the lodge offers you an excellent opportunity to view several species of birds common around the lodge such as colorful parrots, toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers, hawks, and oropendolas, it is also a great place to watch the sunset. You can also visit the butterfly house with your naturalist guide to view the beautiful colors of many different species of butterflies.
After dinner, accompany your naturalist guide on a night walk through the rainforest to view the hundreds of different species of animals that can only be found at night. Or maybe a canoe ride on the lake to view the spectacled and black caimans with their glowing orange eyes as you silently paddle across the lake to get a closer view.
INCLUDED: departure transfer, private transportation, English-speaking guide for the transfer, boxed lunch, dinner, shared excursion, standard accommodation, arrival transfer, domestic flight
Day 2: Canopy Bridge and Rainforest Hike
An early morning activity on the Liana Chica Trail will have you arrive at the canopy walk for a spectacular view of the rainforest canopy and the many different species of vibrantly colored birds you may be able to find. Designed to be a self-standing rigid suspension canopy walk, it is one of only a few in the world! Located within Sacha´s private reserve, 2 miles from the shores of the Rio Napo and 1 mile from the lodge, the bird walk gives guests the opportunity to get an up-close and personal view of the rainforest canopy. Two of the three towers have observation decks every 12 meters, making towers accessible for everyone. The canopy walkway is 36 meters high and 275 meters long, giving guests a “birds-eye view” of all the wonders and beauty the tropical rainforest has to offer. The canopy walk is designed as a sturdy walkway enabling guests to casually move along while enjoying the spectacular views. After the canopy, walk the Liana Grande Trail once more through terra firma and Igapo forest habitats where native guides will explain many different species of medicinal plants that have been used in their culture for hundreds of years.
The Liana Grande Trail will turn into the Higueron Trail, which will take you through a pristine primary forest with huge Kapok and Fig trees towering hundreds of feet above you. After lunch, you may choose to take a leisurely hike along the Napo River or choose a little more challenging hike on the Leoncillo Trail to try and spot the elusive Dusky Titi Monkey. Either way, the trails will lead you back to the main lodge while you walk or have a canoe ride back to the lodge.
INCLUDED: breakfast, dinner, English-speaking guide, shared excursion, standard accommodation, lunch, water poncho.
Day 3: Lagartococha trail, Canoe Trip Through the Swamp, and Kapok Tower
Leaving the lodge after breakfast, you begin your hike on the Lagartococha Trail. This trail offers you the chance to learn more about the native people and their relationship with the forest. Learn about the trees where native people believe the spirits of their ancestors live, and the mysterious “duende” or devil-man of the forest. After arriving at Lake Lagartococha, take a tranquil canoe ride through a natural swamp, which is the home of anacondas, caimans, and capybaras. After the canoe ride, a walk on the other side of Lake Largatococha may give you the opportunity to spot capuchin or squirrel monkeys playfully jumping through the trees. Returning back to the lodge you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake or a nice relaxing nap in your personal hammock on your private balcony.
After lunch, your native guide will teach you how to fish for the infamous razor-toothed piranha. Keep in mind that piranhas will never attack a person and swimming at the same time is perfectly safe and fun! You will begin what many think is the best activity at Sacha, a silent canoe ride through the flooded Amazonian forest. Where you have a good chance of being surrounded by troops of squirrel, capuchin, and howler monkeys. Keep your eyes peeled for the shy and elusive river otter as well as the incredibly well camouflaged three-toed sloth!
After your eye-popping ride through the flooded forest, you will arrive at Sacha´s 135-foot wooden tower built around an ancient Kapok tree. Get close-up views of vibrantly colored birds through Sacha´s powerful scopes, and watch the sunset with an amazing view of the Sumaco Volcano.
Leaving the tower just before or after sunset will give you an experience not soon forgotten. A canoe rides back through the flooded forest in the evening will be an awe-inspiring experience. Listen to the symphony of frogs and insects as you navigate through the narrow flooded forest trail, keeping your eyes open for caimans. Watch several species of bats flying over your heads and listen to the many species of nocturnal birds making their eerie nighttime calls. Finally, after your mesmerizing canoe trip through the Amazon, you will arrive back at Lake Pilchicocha and the welcoming lights of Sacha lodge.
INCLUDED: breakfast, dinner, English-speaking guide, shared excursion, standard accommodation, lunch, water poncho.
Day 4: Return to Quito
After breakfast, you depart from the lodge for a short walk over the boardwalk to hopefully spot monkeys and tropical birds one last time, before your final departure. Back in Coca, you are brought to the airport for your return flight to Quito.
INCLUDED: Breakfast, English-speaking guide, departure transfer, flight to Quito, water poncho.
Included
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Domestic flight to/from Coca.
- Airport Transfer.
Not Included
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Hotel Availability
- All hotels are subject to availability.
- Please consider that Sacha Lodge only operates from Friday to Monday or from Monday to Thursday.
- All hotels are subject to availability.
- Please consider that Sacha Lodge only operates from Friday to Monday or from Monday to Thursday.
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Domestic flight to/from Coca.
- Airport Transfer
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.
The Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge has been carefully built and designed by the Añangu indigenous community to offer tourists maximum privacy and comfort. Luxury rooms and commodities, first-class attention, beautiful views of the jungle and the lake, nature within your reach. Energy is generated by solar panels, industrial batteries, and silent generators, which is an efficient system with minimal environmental impact. It is a real paradise for nature lovers, eco-travelers, and adventure seekers. Napo Wildlife Center is considered one of the best eco-hotels in the world.
Dates available: After May 20th, 2022
Rate per person based on double/twin standard accommodation
Day 1: Quito – Coca . Añangu Community
Flight from Quito to Coca city, and then transfer to the Napo Cultural Center. After arriving at NWC’s entry dock you disembark for the restroom then take a majestic and peaceful 2 hours paddle canoe ride surrounded by trees, paddling along an arrow creek that connects to the lake where the lodge is located. Chances to spot some species of monkeys as well as large birds like toucans, parrots, or even macaws. Late afternoon arrival to Napo Wildlife Center with an overwhelming view of the Añangu lake, welcome drink followed by a briefing of the local manager.
INCLUDED: departure transfer, private transportation, fight from Quito, English-speaking guide for the transfer, standard accommodation, boxed lunch, dinner, English-speaking guide, shared excursion, arrival transfer, water poncho
Day 2: Parrot Clay Lick, Añangu Community Visit and Rainforest Hike
Early wake up to reach the easiest access parrot clay licks in Ecuador, about 1 hour away from the lodge, guests reach there just before parrot activity kicks off at the clay lick between 7:30 to 8:30. A total of 11 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws can be seen.
INCLUDED: accommodation, breakfast, dinner, English-speaking guide, shared excursion, lunch, water poncho
Day 3: Observation Tower, Terra Firme Trail, and Añangu Lake
After early breakfast, you leave the lodge to experience an amazing view of the rainforest from a 36m. tall canopy tower, a great way to see the life above the ground of the forest. This is the second tower at the Napo Wildlife Center (the first is attached to the dining hall and allows great views of the lake). The tower is located about 30 minutes from the lodge deep within the Terra Firme forest. As you ascend the 12-floor tower, you pass through different levels of the forest and emerge on top of a huge Ceiba tree. Here you cross onto a wooden platform that is actually built into the tree and experience the view formerly reserved only for the birds. The metal tower itself was constructed to the highest standards, galvanized, and carefully inspected by engineers. Safety is the priority. The platform at the top of the tree was constructed by tree platform specialists as well. From top to bottom, there is no finer canopy experience in Eastern Ecuador.
Flocks of colorful tanagers pass right through the canopy of the tree, Blue-and-yellow Macaws fly past, in nearby trees, Spider Monkeys search for fruit, two species of large toucans call in the early mornings and afternoons, and the life of the forest canopy opens before you. Birds that are virtually impossible to see from the forest floor far below are suddenly right beside you, oblivious to your presence.
The canopy tower opens a whole new world to guests of the Napo Wildlife Center!! Lunch is served at the lodge. Afternoon visit to a Terra Firme trail, hike along primary forest to discover the forest interior, possibilities of finding lizards, colorful manakins, or the unique and endemic Golden mantle tamarin monkeys. After the hike, explore the lake and creeks by dugout canoe with great possibilities of running into a Giant otter family on the way.
INCLUDED: accommodation, breakfast, dinner, English speaking guide, shared excursion, lunch, water poncho
Day 4: Canoe Excursion & Return to Quito
Early departure and last excursion canoeing back to the Napo River, the creek may reveal new sights of Giant otters, Monk Saki monkeys, or many other rare birds. Transfer to the motorized canoe in order to return back to Coca, arrival approximately after a 2 hours boat ride in order to check-in for Coca–Quito flight, Schedule to be announced according to departure details and arrangement.
** Please note that Amazon itineraries are subject to change without previous notice due to operational purposes, weather conditions, and for the comfort of the guests.
This itinerary is an example and the order of the activities may change.
INCLUDED: breakfast, departure transfer, water poncho
Included
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Domestic flight to/from Coca.
- Airport Transfer.
Not Included
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Hotel Availability
- All hotels are subject to availability.
- Please consider that Napo Wildlife Center only operates from Friday to Monday or from Monday to Thursday.
- All hotels are subject to availability.
- Please consider that Napo Wildlife Center only operates from Friday to Monday or from Monday to Thursday.
- Accommodations in the mentioned room category.
- Transportation is provided on the days mentioned.
- English-speaking driver/guide (1 to 3 persons) or driver and guide (4 or more persons) on the days mentioned.
- Excursions and visits as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as mentioned in the program.
- Entrance fees as mentioned in the program.
- Domestic flight to/from Coca.
- Airport Transfer
- Any excursions not mentioned in the program.
- Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages and/or additional drinks.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- International flights.
- Travel and/or Cancellation Insurance.
Travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage is recommended for medical assistance if required while traveling on destination.