Ecuador Multi-Sport (Activexpedition) evoTrip

Ecuador Multi-Sport (Activexpedition) evoTrip

Explore Ecuador, from the Andes to the Amazon for the ultimate adventure package

Ecuador
Group Trip
Ability level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
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Mountain bike, hike, raft and explore Ecuador all the way from the Andean Highlands to the Amazon Jungle. Hike up to Cotopaxi’s glacier, explore canyons and kayak crater lakes on this action packed 8-day adventure with our partners at Activexpeditions. Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife and local culture for an experience of Ecuador unlike any other. 

This multi-activity expedition takes place in two different regions, traversing through the heights of the Andes with its spectacular volcanoes down into the lush Amazon basin. This is the ideal combination for adventures that like human-powered holidays with varying activities such hiking up to Cotopaxi’s glacier, kayaking around crater lakes, biking along Andean volcanoes, canyoning in the jungle, paddling rapids in the Amazon and soaking in hot springs. Join us for eight days of pure adventure as we immerse ourselves in nature and local culture that make memories that will last a lifetime! Hike up to Cotopaxi’s glacier, one of the world's highest active volcanoes in Cotopaxi National Park, down to the turquoise waters of Quilotoa crater lake in the highlands of Otavalo. Seek birds, butterflies and native wildlife as you white water raft, zipline and swing through the Amazon Basin. Mountain bike down the dramatic Andean mountainside within Llanganates National Park with striking views of Tungurahua Volcano. Immerse yourself in the local culture within indigenous communities, including artisan markets and a cocoa cooking class. Rejuvenate in medicinal hot springs and at cozy overnight haciendas and ecolodges, feasting on fresh ceviches and hearty lamb stews. Join us on this action packed adventure, featuring the best of Ecuador and so much more.

Plans may evolve with weather & guides' judgement, we strive to find the best conditions each day

ITINERARY

Arrive!

Welcometo Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cultural capital of South America. This day is designed to be at your leisure, so you can acclimate, rest and explore the beautiful city of Quito on your own terms. Explore the colonial streets, chocolate shops and artisan markets before a trek up to El Panecillo for stunning panoramas of the entire town. If you feel like having a guided day tour to learn more about this Andean gem, no problem! We are more than happy to arrange an expert guide to help you learn more about the city and surrounding areas. Regroup at 6PM in the hotel’s lobby to meet your weeks guide, the rest of the group and hear an orientation of what’s in store for your coming adventure!

Hiking Quilotoa Crater Lake.

Start the day with a drive (3 hours) along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Quilotoa, the highlight of the Illinizas Ecological Reserve. Tucked in between rolling mountains of greens and golds, lies a beautiful turquoise crater lake. Hike to the bottom and rent a kayak to go paddling into the center for jaw-dropping 360-degree views from below. After spending some time exploring the islands and enjoying this masterpiece of Mother Nature, we hike back up the trail to the edge of the crater (or hire a mule or horse to take you back up). At the top, enjoy lunch and visit a local handicraft and painting market before heading to our overnight Hacienda.

Cotopaxi National Park

After breakfast, we'll take a short 10-minute drive to the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park. Cotopaxi Volcano, with its perfect conical shape and snow-capped summit at 19,347 feet, is an iconic symbol of Ecuador. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm cup of coca tea, a traditional remedy to ease the effects of altitude, as you take in the stunning vistas of the park.

We are ready to set off on a thrilling bike ride along dirt and grass tracks, navigating diverse terrains surrounded by volcanic material from Cotopaxi's last eruption. This ride offers opportunities to spot local fauna, including bulls, horses, foxes, and the majestic Andean condor. The mostly flat route is accessible for various skill levels and takes us past ancient ruins, where your guide will share insightful stories about the region's history.

We'll return to our vehicle and enjoy lunch before heading to the vibrant town of Baños de Agua Santa. After checking into our hotel, we'll unwind and soak in the therapeutic volcanic hot springs, a perfect way to relax after our high-altitude adventure.

Cloud Forest and Cycle

Dive into the lush cloud forest ecosystem surrounding Baños. A 45-minute drive takes us to Llanganates National Park, where our biking adventure begins at 10,000 feet. After a short uphill warm-up, we'll enjoy a mostly downhill ride to 5,000 feet.

As we cycle, you'll be immersed in the incredible biodiversity of the cloud forest, admiring diverse flora and fauna, and passing by local farms growing exotic fruits like tree tomatoes and passion fruit. The ride is primarily on a paved road with light traffic.

Once we complete our ride, we'll enjoy a refreshing picnic lunch. Our afternoon includes a visit to the famous "Swing at the End of the World," a National Geographic award-winning photo spot, and a ride on the thrilling Tarabita cable car across a gorge (with an optional zip-lining experience available). In the evening, we'll return to our hotel and then head out to experience Baños' vibrant nightlife, perhaps with a local beer tasting at a brewery.

Waterfalls and The Amazon Basin

Get ready for an early start as we journey into the heart of the Amazon basin! Our first stop is the breathtaking Pailon del Diablo Waterfall, a natural wonder we'll explore with a one-hour round-trip hike through the forest.

Afterward, a scenic 2.5-hour drive takes us deeper into the jungle. Upon arrival at the Arajuno River, we'll enjoy a welcome picnic and a thorough safety briefing on our kayaking equipment and techniques. The Arajuno River is a calm Class I river, perfect for beginners—no prior kayaking experience is necessary as our expert guides will provide all the instruction you need for a smooth and enjoyable paddle. As we glide along the river, you'll be mesmerized by the Amazon rainforest's incredible biodiversity and spot many colorful bird species along the shoreline.

After approximately two hours of paddling, we'll arrive at our serene riverside glamping site. Enjoy a refreshing drink upon check-in before a delicious traditional dinner is served. In the evening, a local shaman will visit our camp to share insights into the spiritual practices and medicinal traditions of the jungle, offering a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

More Kayaking & Wildlife Sanctuary

Our day begins with an early morning canoe ride to a clay lick, where parrots gather daily to consume vital minerals that help detoxify their diet—an incredible encounter with nature! After this spectacle, we'll return to camp for breakfast.

Later, we'll kayak to a local school and community to learn more about their culture and traditions. You might even participate in games with the local children, including soccer. We're proud to have established a computer center at this school, empowering children with technology and a stronger voice to protect their territory from mining and deforestation. Your visit directly supports this vital project.

We'll continue kayaking down the river for another two hours on calm waters. After our kayaking adventure, we'll transfer to a Wildlife Sanctuary, where we'll explore by canoe and on foot to observe monkeys and colorful birds. Our journey continues to Llanganates National Park, where a local family will welcome us with a traditional lunch. In the afternoon, we'll embark on an educational hike to learn about the Amazon's medicinal plants, and a canyoning adventure where we will be walking along a shallow river and climbing some small waterfalls with ropes. The late afternoon features a hands-on cooking class where we'll prepare our traditional dinner and even make delicious chocolate fondue!

Natural Lagoons Reserve and Final Dinner

After breakfast, we'll visit a Natural Lagoons Reserve, where you'll have the opportunity to swim and relax in these pristine waters. We'll enjoy lunch here. For those seeking more adventure, an optional Class III rafting trip is available (at extra cost).

In the afternoon, we'll begin our journey back to Quito, arriving around 6:00 PM. After a short break to freshen up, we'll gather for a special farewell dinner, reminiscing about our incredible Ecuadorian expedition.

Departure Day

As our incredible journey comes to an end, we'll arrange your airport transfer based on your individual flight schedule. To ensure a smooth departure, we recommend scheduling your pick-up at least three hours prior to your flight's departure time.

What’s Included

  • Airport transfers
  • Top-experienced, certified English-speaking guides
  • All land and water transport as per itinerary
  • Seven nights accommodation
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Water and snacks provided at all times
  • Quality biking gear, including gloves and helmets
  • Quality kayaking gear, Amazon: Expedition-grade inflatable kayaks, lifejackets and paddles
  • Canyoning gear, Black diamond harnesses, helmets, ropes and rubber boots
  • Trekking poles
  • Fees to National Parks and reserves

Not Included

  • International or domestic flights
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, we recommend World Nomads)
  • Meals not described in the itinerary 
  • Optional activities: Rafting ($75 USD per person)
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guides and drivers

Questions? Call or email us! 

What’s Included

  • Airport transfers
  • Top-experienced, certified English-speaking guides
  • All land and water transport as per itinerary
  • Seven nights accommodation
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Water and snacks provided at all times
  • Quality biking gear, including gloves and helmets
  • Quality kayaking gear, Amazon: Expedition-grade inflatable kayaks, lifejackets and paddles
  • Canyoning gear, Black diamond harnesses, helmets, ropes and rubber boots
  • Trekking poles
  • Fees to National Parks and reserves

Not Included

  • International or domestic flights
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, we recommend World Nomads)
  • Meals not described in the itinerary 
  • Optional activities: Rafting ($75 USD per person)
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guides and drivers

Questions? Call or email us! 

Location Details

An adventure travel trip to Ecuador is not complete without a visit to Cotopaxi National Park. Standing at 19,000 feet, Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and a spectacular landmark of the Cotopaxi National Park and surrounding area. The massive national park extends through three of Ecuador’s provinces and is home to three other volcanoes Rumiñahui, Quilindaña, and Antisana. Hikers and mountaineers alike can explore the glaciated slopes of Cotopaxi or trek along the many trails at its base. Limpiopungo Lagoon, a large lake at the base of the mountain, is a popular destination as its waters reflect the volcanoes perfectly. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for the wild horses that roam the park.

Llanganates is a protected area between the Andes and Amazon in Ecuador. Since 1996, it has been considered as “Llanganates National Park.” Llanganates translates to "beautiful hill,” and is rightfully named such as this park boasts stunning lakes, rivers, mountains and cloud forests. While Llanganates National Park’s reputation relies predominantly on its rich biodiversity, the park also holds historic legend and myth of ancient hidden treasure. Legend has it that in ancient times general Rumiñahui ordered here, the burial of the El Dorado treasure. The gold was to pay the Spaniards a ransom for the Inca emperor Atahualpa. Although buried treasure has yet to be found, local and visitors alike enjoy experiencing the natural raw beauty and ecology this region exudes.

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FAQs

Are departures guaranteed?

There is a minimum of 2 people required per departure date, with each trip departing on a Sunday. Please wait to make travel arrangements until you have received confirmation.

What are the accommodations like?

Accommodation is provided at charming eco-lodges and colonial Haciendas. Eco-lodges are boutique accommodations designed to have the least possible impact on the natural environment in which it is situated. Haciendas are historical farm houses or Ecuadorian estates that date back to the 16th century and have been renovated into first class hotels, lodges and inns. Most of the haciendas are family-run and offer charming amenities, historic relics, traditional home-cooking and cozy, intimate settings. Haciendas are a major part of Ecuadorian culture and a highlight of the region.

Is there a Single Supplement if I am a solo traveler? Can I book my own room?

There is a minimum of 2 people required per departure date. Please wait to make travel arrangements until you have received confirmation that there are at least one other person on this trip to operate. Generally a single supplement fee is not incurred, as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room. If you prefer not to share and have your own room, no problem. In this case a single room supplement of about $315 (based on availability and season) will be needed to cover the extra costs associated with not sharing a room.

What skill/experience level is required for this trip?

This trip is considered as 3 out of 5. No prior experience is required and your guides will always brief you about safety and proper use of gear on every leg of the trip. Trekking will take place on varying terrain of dirt and rock; biking takes place on paved roads with light traffic; while canyoning you can expect to hike on water and rocks, and also climbing into some small waterfalls. There will be transport support for the majority of the activities in the case that someone wants to take a break, relax or avoid an activity.

What are the guides like?

All guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; meaning they have a degree in guiding, with top-notch skills and knowledge. Each guide has many years of leading experience, including additional courses taken for other outdoor activities and International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, all guides are extremely personable and strive to deliver exceptional travel experiences for each guest.

What gear should I bring? Do you offer rentals?

All gear is included. Activexpeditions always makes sure to have the best and most updated outdoor gear possible.

What if I need to cancel?

evoTrip upholds Activexpedition's policies regarding cancellation. Guests have: 72 hours to cancel with no fee. 3 days after the booking - 60 days before the trip; a 30% of trip cost cancellation fee would be charged. 59 days - or less before the trip; 100% of the trip cost would be charged.

When and how do I meet up with the group?

Please be ready to meet the group on Day 1 at 6 PM in the hotel lobby.

What will the food be like?

Pork, chicken, beef, and cuy (guinea pig) are really popular in the Andean regions of Ecuador, and are served with a variety of carbohydrate-rich foods, especially rice, corn, and potatoes. A popular street food is hornado (roasted pig), which is often served with llapingacho (a pan seared potato ball). Some examples of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine generally include Ecuadorian ceviche (shrimp, lime and corn), hearty quinoa soups, patacones (unripe plantains fried in oil), llapingachos (fried potato pancakes), and seco de chivo (a type of stew made from goat). A wide variety of fresh fruits are available, particularly at lower altitudes, including granadilla, passionfruit, naranjilla and several types of bananas. Another local favorite are fresh juices, including the tree tomato or a colada morada (a traditional Ecuadorian drink made with fruits, spices, and purple corn flour).

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

As Ecuador has a great variety of cuisine and gastronomy, vegetarians, vegans and gluten free options are widely available and welcome. If you have any allergies or food restrictions, please inform Activexpeditions prior to your departure. Our guides are always ready to coordinate with chefs and restaurants for substitute meals and allergy needs.

What is the minimum and maximum number of guests per trip?

Minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10. Trips usually average 8 people.

Is there a minimum age required for this trip?

Yes, 8 years old.

When is the best time to go?

Since Ecuador is on the equator, weather patterns are fairly consistent meaning it is a great place to travel all year round. The average temperature annually is 64°F (17.8°C). There are only really two seasons in the city: dry and wet. The dry season runs from June to September and the wet season is from October to May. In Ecuador the weather can vary greatly depending on which side of the Andes you are traveling to, so it is highly recommended to come ready for all kinds of weather. When they say “Ecuador, All in One Place” they mean it! The altitude determines the temperature and the higher you go, the colder it gets. The coastal lowlands in the western part of Ecuador and the Amazon are typically warm with temperatures in the region of 25 °C (77 °F). The weather in Quito is consistent with that of a subtropical highland climate. The average temperature during the day is 70 °F (21 °C), which generally falls to an average of 50 °F (10 °C) at night. The weather in the Andean Highlands tends to be cooler due to its high altitude, especially during the night. We recommend cool weather clothing and layers for activities and when roaming the town in the Andes.

What is transportation like?

Driving time can take more than expected in Ecuador, as it is a small country with many people and consists of both dirt and paved roads. We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group.

Do I need a Visa, Passport and Vaccinations?

A valid passport for at least six months past the planned date of departure is required. Make sure you check your passport validity and expiration date prior to travel. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Ecuador and travelers can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without a visa. However, sanctions including fines and deportation can occur if you stay past this time period. No vaccinations are needed for this trip.

Do I need travel insurance?

While it is not required, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement if you are forced to cancel your trip for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to cover medical help, emergency transport, theft and/or accidental damage while traveling. We recommend World Nomads.

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