Ecuador with Courtney Leopard

Let's raise a glass together to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's gathering will take place at a local restaurant, just a brief 20-minute transfer from the hotel. The evening promises a delightful 3-course set menu, offering a taste of the most authentic Ecuadorian flavors. Please note that the menu includes a soft drink, and additional beverages can be purchased at the venue.

Overnight in Quito.

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Following a hearty breakfast, enjoy a 45-minute transfer to the Equator line, the exact point where the northern and southern hemispheres converge. Guided by our expert, delve into the heart of this geographical marvel by first visiting the renowned Middle of the World monument. Built in the 17th century by the French, this iconic structure stands precisely at the equatorial line, inviting you to straddle both hemispheres for an unforgettable photo opportunity. Then, a brief 15-minute walk will take you to the Inti Ñan Museum, where an array of interactive exhibits awaits. Immerse yourself in captivating displays showcasing the equator's influence on gravity, water drainage, and the enduring cultures of this region. Engage in hands-on experiments to show the equator's significance in everyday phenomena and explore indigenous artifacts that unveil the ancient reverence for this celestial line. Following the enriching museum tour, embark on a 1-hour return transfer to Quito's old town, ready to embark on your next captivating activity. Restrooms are available at the Inti Ñan museum.

Directly departing from the Inti Ñan Museum, a 1-hour transfer takes you to the vibrant Central Market of Quito, the starting point for your culinary tour.

Accompanied by your guide, traverse through bustling market stalls, engaging with local vendors and discovering the rich variety of fresh produce, herbs, and spices used in Ecuadorian cuisine. During the market visit, you'll pick up the essential ingredients for our upcoming recipe. Following this, a brief 15-minute transfer leads to Altamira, a restaurant nestled within a colonial building. This restaurant boasts a dedicated studio for cooking classes, focusing on Ecuador's most cherished dishes. Led by expert chefs, immerse yourself in a hands-on session crafting a traditional 3-course menu. Once your culinary masterpieces are ready, delight in a memorable lunch alongside your fellow travelers, relishing the flavors of your own creations. Following lunch, a short 20-minute transfer returns you to your hotel, allowing time for refreshment before continuing your exploration of Quito.

It's time to savor your own creations! Lunch features a delightful 3-course menu: starters include manioc tortilla and zesty shrimp ceviche. For the main course, choose between fish or shrimp served with coconut sauce, accompanied by potatos filled with cheese and meat. Conclude with a delightful dark chocolate dessert soup. Please note, beverages are not included and can be purchased at the venue. Additionally, the menu may vary based on seasonal availability of products.

In the early afternoon, a quick 20-minute transfer will whisk you away to the historical heart of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site with centuries of culture and architectural splendor. Your journey begins at the vibrant Plaza de la Independencia, also known as Plaza Grande, a bustling square steeped in history. Here, the Cathedral of Quito stands proudly, showcasing a fusion of Gothic, Baroque, and Moorish influences in its stunning facade and intricate interiors, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual heritage. Just steps away lies La Compañía de Jesús, a true gem among Quito's churches. This Jesuit marvel captivates with its opulent Baroque style, adorned lavishly with intricate gold leaf detailing throughout its ornate interior. Wandering through these architectural wonders, the cobblestone streets and colonial buildings transport you back in time, immersing you in the city's rich past. After exploring the main attractions of the old city, a transfer will return you to the hotel, granting you free time to savor dinner at your leisure. Please note that this tour covers a leisurely 0.5 to 1 mile on flat cobblestone streets.

Overnight in Quito.

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After a hearty breakfast and hotel check-out, embark on a captivating journey along the Volcano Avenue, a scenic route tracing the majestic Andes Mountain range. Along the way, be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring views of iconic snow-capped volcanos such as Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, Cayambe, and Antisana, among others. After approximately 2 hours, a planned stop awaits at Cotopaxi National Park. Following lunch, your journey continues with an additional 2.5 hours to reach the charming town of Baños de Agua Santa. Gas station stops will be available for restroom breaks as needed. Please note that there may be an additional charge for using these facilities.

After a captivating 2-hour journey along the Volcano Avenue, your adventure at Cotopaxi National Park begins. The vehicle will take you to the parking lot, perched at an altitude of 13,000 feet, where professional mountain bike guides await your arrival. Upon reaching the parking lot, a comprehensive safety briefing and equipment check will be conducted. We'll provide you with a mountain bike, helmet, gloves, and knee and elbow protection, ensuring you're fully equipped for this exhilarating ride from high altitudes. The experience unfolds amidst stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Andean highlands, lush paramo grasslands, and the rugged terrain of Cotopaxi. This thrilling 16-mile trail winds through gravel paths and rugged terrain, blending adrenaline descents with leisurely and flat sections. While a basic knowledge of cycling is necessary for this activity, a support car will accompany the group, ensuring your comfort and providing water during the ride. Following the biking tour, freshen up at the restrooms located at the park's entrance, and then savor a well-deserved lunch. Afterward, your journey continues towards Baños de Agua Santa, where you'll arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon.

Following the biking adventure, enjoy a well-deserved break to relish a complete packed lunch. Typically, it includes a main dish such as pasta and salad, with a dessert like a brownie. Water will be available during lunchtime. Please note that the specific lunch spot will be determined by the guide on-site, considering weather conditions. Following lunch, continue your journey onward to Baños de Agua Santa.

Overnight in Baños de Agua Santa.

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After your breakfast, embark on a 30-minute transfer to the mesmerizing 'Pailon del Diablo' waterfalls. Upon arrival at the gate, a short and enchanting hike awaits through cloud forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna, including orchids, ferns, and an array of bird species. The trail gives sneak peeks of the rushing river below, building excitement for the amazing view up ahead. One of the tour's highlights is the suspension bridge spanning the gorge, providing an exhilarating vantage point to admire the sheer power and beauty of Pailon del Diablo. Crossing this bridge offers stunning panoramic views up and down the river. The cascading waterfall's force, creates a dramatic and captivating ambiance. Vibrant vegetation adorns the surrounding cliffs, adding to the enchanting scenery. Close to the waterfall, there is a restaurant, offering restroom facilities and the option to purchase snacks and beverages. Throughout this tour, you'll cover a comfortable 2.5-mile walk on easy trails, stairs, and bridges. Upon concluding the visit, a transfer will whisk you directly to the 'End of the World Swing.'

A 40-minute transfer from Pailon del Diablo waterfalls leads you to a spectacular property atop a hill boasting unparalleled views of the mountain range. This is your chance to capture an incredible photo while swinging on the edge of a steep hill, overlooking the active Tungurahua volcano. And yes, it gets even more epic—the swing is attached to a cozy treehouse. Once there, enjoy free time to take turns on the swing with your fellow travelers, wander the surroundings, or simply relax in the gardens, soaking in the impressive views. After everyone has had their swing moment, a 30-minute transfer will return you to the hotel, granting you leisurely time for lunch at your own pace. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the town at your leisure. Kindly note there's only one swing available, so everyone will take turns! While waiting for your turn, feel free to explore other viewpoints on the property.

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After breakfast and hotel check-out, begin a picturesque journey from the Andes to the Amazon, following a scenic route that leads to your hotel in Tena. Gas station stops will be available for restroom breaks as needed. Please note that there may be an additional charge for using these facilities.

Upon arrival at your hotel in mid-morning, take some time to freshen up and settle in. Later, embark on a brief 15-minute transfer to Misahualli, nestled in the dense rainforest along the Napo River in the Amazon jungle. Once there, join your guide for a jungle hike along well-maintained trails that wind through the lush rainforest, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Amazon. These trails cater to varying difficulty levels, accommodating both beginners and seasoned hikers. Your knowledgeable guide will lead the way, introducing various plant and animal species while offering insights into the rich ecology of the Amazon. The length of the hike will be tailored to the group's interests but typically covers approximately 1 to 1.5 miles. Should the rain create muddy terrain, you will be provided rubber boots for your comfort. Following this introductory hike, return to the hotel to savor a well-deserved lunch.

Lunch will be served at the hotel restaurant, offering stunning views overlooking the Napo River. The meal includes a main course and dessert, accompanied by one soft drink. Additional beverages are available for purchase at the venue.

After lunch, enjoy a brief 5-minute transfer to the Tiyuyacu community, a native group residing amidst the Amazon rainforest. This community belongs to the Kichwa nationality, where members primarily speak the Kichwa language. Your local guide will facilitate communication and offer insight into local words and customs. Ecuador is home to 14 indigenous nationalities, and the Kichwa community resides in the Amazonia region. Engage in an immersive experience with community members, delving into their traditional customs. Learn about ancestral gold-washing techniques, discover the diverse methods of preparing yucca, explore their use of medicinal plants, and more. This insightful visit will last approximately 1.5 hours before returning to the hotel. Please note that restroom facilities may not be available during the visit. It's important to be respectful toward the locals by asking for permission before taking photos. If you have any queries, always feel free to ask your guide for assistance.

Dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant, offering stunning views overlooking the Napo River. The meal includes a main course and dessert, accompanied by one soft drink. Additional beverages are available for purchase at the venue.

Overnight near Tena.

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a 50-minute transfer to the banks of the Jatunyacu River, where your experienced rafting guides await. Begin with a comprehensive safety briefing before gearing up with the necessary equipment. No prior experience is required for this Level 3 river adventure, known for its enjoyable mix of rapids and calm stretches. As the rafts navigate downstream, the breathtaking Amazon landscapes unfold, offering a mesmerizing backdrop of towering trees adorned with vines and vibrant foliage. The sights and sounds of the rainforest add to the exhilaration of the journey. After about 2 hours of paddling, pause at the river's edge for a delightful lunch experience within a local community. Following lunch, resume the rafting journey, enjoying another hour of floating until reaching Puerto Napo, where showers and changing facilities are available. A 40-minute transfer will then whisk you back to your hotel, leaving the rest of the day free for your leisure. Please note, this activity has a weight limit of 375lb, and all necessary gear such as helmets, lifejackets, splash jackets, and paddles will be provided for your adventure.

During the rafting adventure, we'll make a stop at a riverside community where locals will serve a buffet-style lunch accompanied by beverages. Tables and benches will be provided for seating, and restroom facilities will be available during the lunch break. After enjoying your meal, the rafting activity will continue.

Dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant, offering stunning views overlooking the Napo River. The meal includes a main course and dessert, accompanied by one soft drink. Additional beverages are available for purchase at the venue.

Overnight near Tena.

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After breakfast, join the group at the hotel's wellness area for an immersive journey into the world of cocoa, an iconic treasure of the Ecuadorian Amazon. This hands-on experience invites you to explore with all your senses. Holding the cocoa pods in your hands, dive into the rich world of flavor, discovering the process from pod to seed, understanding the art of drying, and roasting the seeds in a pan, filling the air with the delightful aroma of cocoa. Next, you'll use a mill to grind the roasted seeds. Finally, the ground cocoa will be mixed with milk and sugar, allowing each passenger to tailor the taste to their preference. The highlight? You'll savor your own creation, indulging in chocolates accompanied by fresh fruits. Following this delightful cacao adventure, it will be time to check out from the hotel and embark on your transfer to Papallacta.

After the cacao experience and hotel check-out, begin a scenic journey from the Amazon to the charming town of Papallacta. Gas station stops will be available for restroom breaks as needed. Please note that there may be an additional charge for using these facilities.

Upon your arrival at Papallacta Thermal Hotel, you'll check in and settle into your cabin. Be sure to grab your robe and flip-flops as you prepare for a serene afternoon indulging in the therapeutic thermal pools. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Andes Mountains, this eco-friendly hotel offers a harmonious retreat to culminate your journey. Your cabin includes a private thermal pool, providing an intimate space for a tranquil soak. Additionally, the hotel features communal pools, perfect for mingling with fellow travelers. For those seeking further relaxation, the spa and wellness area offer a range of rejuvenating treatments at an extra cost. Immerse yourself in this serene environment, relishing the calming waters and embracing the stunning vistas, a perfect conclusion to your trip.

In the evening, meet your fellow travelers at the hotel restaurant for your final dinner. Enjoy a delightful 3-course set menu featuring traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. Please note that a glass of wine is included. Additional beverages can be purchased at the venue. Keep in mind that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed hotel. In the evening, meet your fellow travelers at the hotel restaurant for your final dinner. Enjoy a delightful 3-course set menu featuring traditional Ecuadorian cuisine. Please note that a glass of wine is included. Additional beverages can be purchased at the venue. Keep in mind that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed hotel.

Overnight in Papallacta.

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.