Solo-ish Ecuador

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Duration: 7 days

Begins: Quito

Ends: Quito

Trip Code: SEQS

From

£749 per person

Angebot anfordern

or Call 01273 099433

    Dreaming of an adventure through Ecuador’s breathtaking landscapes and the heart of the Amazon but don’t want to go it alone? Good news: Ecuador’s irresistible charm is calling, and this Solo-ish adventure is your perfect ticket in. Stand right on the Equator at the Intiñan Museum, take in the towering beauty of Cotopaxi — one of the world’s highest active volcanoes — and soak in the magic of Baños with its cloud forests, waterfalls, and hot springs. Then, dive into the dense Amazon jungle, where warm hospitality and wild beauty await. Over seven unforgettable days, you’ll experience it all alongside fellow solo travellers who are just as ready for the adventure as you are.
    Is this tour for me?
    Travel Style
    Solo-ish Adventures
    For solo travellers only, get closer to your group-mates and the world on trips designed for connection.
    Service Level
    Standard
    Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
    Physical Rating
    3 - Average
    Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
    Trip Type
    Small Group
    Small Group experience; Max 16, avg. 14
    Age requirement
    12+
    All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
    What's Included
    • Your G for Good Moment: Shandia Biking & Community Experience, Shandia
    • Your G for Good Moment: Shandia Community Lodge, Shandia
    • Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
    • Dinner Party: Flavours of Ecuador Cooking Experience, Quito
    • We Day: Minca Community Chocolate Tasting, Quito
    • G Day: The Wild Landscapes of Cotopaxi & Baños, Cotopaxi National Park
    • Me Day: Baños Me Day, Baños
    • Your Wellness Moment: Papallacta Hot Springs Visit, Papallacta
    • Complimentary arrival transfer
    • Shandia Community Walk, Cacao Plantation Visit, & Chicha Tasting
    • Amazon Jungle Walk & Pimpilala Waterfalls Visit
    • Free time in Baños and the Amazon
    • Papallacta hot springs visit and soak
    • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
    Accommodations

    Hotels (4 nts) on a twinshare basis and Amazon Jungle Lodge (2 nts). If you are interested in purchasing your own room, please see below for the My Own Room option.

    Meals

    6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

    Allow USD95-125 for meals not included.

    Transportation

    Private vehicle, motorboat, bicycle, walking

    Staff & experts

    CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

    Day 1 : Dinner Party: Quito

    Arrive at any time. Enjoy an included arrival transfer to the start hotel in Quito where you will attend a welcome briefing with your newest travel companions. Then, head out on foot through the city streets to your hands-on cooking experience with the entire group. Listen to instructions from a talented local chef and enjoy stories throughout the lesson about the various ingredients and dishes you are working on creating. Witness the joy of sharing a meal prepared together and come away with new knowledge of Ecuador’s culinary tastes and traditions.

    Arrival Transfer

    Mariscal Sucre International Airport - Quito 0h45m - 1h 41km

    You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

    Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

    1h Evening

    Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. 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.

    Flavours of Ecuador Cooking Experience

    Quito 2h30m

    Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. Join your fellow Solo-ish travellers in an immersive cooking class led by an expert resident chef in Quito. Upon arrival to the class space there will be a brief explanation of what’s to come and then the group will rotate between three different prep stations. Signature dishes made will depend on the ingredients available, but some options might include shrimp ceviche, tamales, soups, and incorporate fresh local fruits throughout. Learn about the local history and preparation of these delicious foods, and sit down for a family-style meal of your tasty creations. You’ll leave with full stomachs and heads abuzz with new culinary knowledge to bring back home.

    Meals Included:

    Dinner

    Day 2 : We Day: Quito

    Today is all about the landscapes and communities of Ecuador. Start the day with a city tour of Quito and walk past important sites like the golden Compañia Church, San Francisco Square, and the Panecillo, a towering statue of the virgin of Quito. Then dive deeper into the meaning of community with an intriguing chocolate tasting experience through a locally-owned establishment that prioritizes the values of Minka, a tradition of collective labour that supports many social and infrastructure projects. Enjoy an included lunch afterwards featuring many traditional local dishes and continue to the Intiñan museum to explore the scientific riches only found on our planet’s equatorial line. Enjoy a free evening back in Quito.

    Quito City Tour

    Quito

    Take a tour of Quito to learn more about this beautiful city and its local culture. Visit the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stops at the golden Compañia Church, San Francisco Square, and the Panecillo, a towering statue of the virgin of Quito who looks out over a stunning view of the city.

    Minca Community Chocolate Tasting

    Quito

    With your incredible CEO at the helm, get to know the local community and your Solo-ish travel mates on a day packed full of interesting and engaging adventures. After your Quito city tour, the group will dive into the community concept of Minca at a family-operated gourmet chocolate establishment working to benefit locals with social and infrastructure initiatives. The chocolate here is among the richest and most flavourful in the world. The group will gain an understanding of the manufacturing process and taste cacao as it goes through various stages to reach the chocolate most are familiar with. Learn the history of Ecuadoran chocolate and how it is steeped in tradition. Minka focuses on honest and committed work allowing you to witness the community spirit that embodies this very enchanting region.

    Mitad del Mundo & Intiñan Museum Visit

    Provincia de Pichincha 1h15m - 1h30m

    Stop at the 'Middle of the Earth' to set foot on both sides of the Equator, for which the country of Ecuador is named. Visit the tall stone monument with a viewing platform and on-site museum (Intiñan Site meaning 'Pathway of the Sun') with interactive exhibits displaying the science and myths behind the equatorial line. You will have the opportunity to interact with phenomena that occur in nature which can be tested on the magnetic equatorial line. The centre also has displays highlighting the local indigenous cultures, as well as a small planetarium and a craft beer museum.

    Stop at the 'middle of the Earth' to set foot on both sides of the equator and see the Quitsato sundial.

    Private Vehicle

    Quito 2h

    Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Quito and the Intiñan Museum. It will take about an hour each way.

    Free time:

    Quito Evening

    Spend a free evening in Quito. Find a local spot to grab dinner on your own, or choose to relax and unwind at the hotel.

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch

    Day 3 : G Day: Cotopaxi & Baños

    Prepare to experience what G Adventures does best and enjoy an epic adventurous day in Cotopaxi National Park with a surprise G twist occurring somewhere along the way. Depart from Quito in the morning and enjoy a day immersed in the wilds of this high Andean ecosystem. Highlights include a visit to Limpiopungo Lake featuring picturesque views of the Cotopaxi volcano. If feeling up for it, travellers can hike up to the refuge at 4800m to get closer to the volcano, or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the lagoon. On the way out, visit an old military fortress built on a hilltop and offering 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. From here travel to Baños for an orientation walk through the abundantly green surroundings, and be on the lookout, for an unexpected surprise to cap off G Day.

    Private Vehicle

    Quito - Cotopaxi National Park 1h45m - 2h

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    The Wild Landscapes of Cotopaxi & Baños

    Cotopaxi National Park - Baños

    With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the world's coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to an 11. Prepare to fall in love with the untamed landscape of Cotopaxi National Park. If weather allows, enjoy a clear reflection of the volcano from Limpiopungo Lagoon. Travellers feeling extra adventurous can hike to the refuge at 4800m. Then it's time to jet off to the sights and sounds of Baños' subtropical highland climate at the base of the Tungurahua volcano. Keep a lookout for wildlife and your surprise G twist along the way.

    Private Vehicle

    Cotopaxi National Park - Baños 2h30m - 2h45m

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. There will be a stop along the way for travellers to enjoy an included lunch between Cotopaxi National Park and Baños.

    Baños Orientation Walk

    Baños 1h30m

    Enjoy an orientation walk in Baños with your CEO. Baños is a city in Ecuador's Tungurahua province, considered the gateway to the Amazon Basin and known for its hiking trails, hot springs, and active volcano to the south. Walk about the town, pass by The Church of Our Lady of Holy Water, and get the lay of the land.

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch

    Day 4 : Me Day: Baños

    It’s time for a day that belongs to you! The choice really is all yours. From spending the day doing an array of optional activities available like hiking to the Pailon del Diablo or soaking in the local hot springs. You’ll also have the option of joining your CEO for a visit to the famous Casa del Arbol perched on a hilltop overlooking epic views of the Tungurahua volcano on a clear day. Dinner will be on your own this evening amid the lush scenery of Baños.

    Baños Me Day

    Baños

    Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for a local activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

    Optional Activities - Day 4

    Hot Springs - Baños

    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.

    Horseback Riding - Baños

    Baños 4h

    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

    Baños 3h

    Head to the mountains for some amazing treks; Baños provides the perfect natural setting for outdoor adventure.

    Casa del Arbol Visit

    Baños

    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.

    Pailon del Diablo Waterfall Visit

    Baños 1h30m

    El Pailón del Diablo is located about 30 minutes outside of Baños. The Spanish name translates to "The Devil's Cauldron" in English. These powerful falls are 80m high and pull their strength from Rio Verde. The group will take a short walk to the falls before returning to the van. Total distance: 2km (1.3 miles) Total elevation: 148m (485ft)

    Whitewater Rafting

    Baños 5h

    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!

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast

    Day 5 : Baños/Tena

    Travel away from the misty green foliage of Baños to the lush Amazon Jungle and your community lodge stay in the rainforest. Here, you’ll enjoy the hospitality of the local indigenous people of Shandia and experience life in the jungle firsthand. Once you arrive the group will cycle through the community and discover the beauty of the area with a local member as your guide. Your lodge stay is operated by the people of Shandia, who are committed to providing guests with a sustainable and authentic experience. After the bike ride and delicious lunch, the group will embark on a village walk and tour the cacao plantation here. Learn more about the cultivation process and the traditional chicha drink, which you can try a taste of. This is followed by an included dinner at the lodge.

    Private Vehicle

    Baños - Shandia 3h

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    Shandia Biking & Community Experience

    Shandia 2h30m - 3h

    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 an hour and 45 minutes cycling from Pimpilala village to Shandia 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. Your time spent here is creating opportunities for a new generation in the community and contributing to the preservation of their culture.

    Shandia Community Walk, Cacao Plantation Visit, & Chicha Tasting

    Shandia 2h

    Enjoy a walk through the community Shandia and a visit to the cacao plantation here further connecting travellers to the local indigenous people and surrounding nature. While here you'll learn about the fermented drink known as chicha. This beverage is an important social drink throughout the Amazon Basin and is consumed in many parts of South America. It's often served at festivals or parties, and is also used in religious ceremonies. Try a taste after your walk through the area.

    Shandia Community Lodge

    Shandia

    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. Learn about their cultivation of cacao and 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.

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

    Day 6 : Tena

    Enter into the rainforest today during a jungle walk led by a member of the lodge’s community. Learn more about the plants and animals found in this region and how the indigenous people have been using them across generations. Finish the walk with a visit to the Pimpilala Waterfalls where you can choose to take a quick dip into the natural pool at the base if time allows. Travel back to the lodge for an included lunch and enjoy a free afternoon to relax and explore the property on your own. You can also choose to participate in any number of the other activities offered onsite. Come back together for a group dinner and celebrate your final night in the mighty Amazon.

    Amazon Jungle Walk & Pimpilala Waterfalls Visit

    Tena 3h

    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. Return to the lodge just in time for an included lunch.

    Free time:

    Tena Afternoon

    Take advantage of a free afternoon to relax in the jungle or choose to try some of the other community activities available through the lodge. Choose to walk to the nearby beach area along the river for local culture displaces like, the Yachak Ritual.

    Shandia Community Lodge

    Shandia

    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.

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

    Day 7 : Tena/Quito

    Enjoy one final breakfast at the Amazon lodge before transferring to Papallacta. Here, take some time to relax in the natural mineral hot pools with volcanic views before travelling back to Quito. The tour ends upon arrival at the airport. Please book onward travel from 8pm onwards.

    Private Vehicle

    Tena - Papallacta 3h30m

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    Papallacta Hot Springs Visit

    Papallacta 1h

    Soak in the natural hot springs the area is known for and let the mineral waters, which vary in temperature, soothe your body. Make your way through the circuit with views of the Antisana volcano in the distance. After an hour in the mineral springs, the group will have lunch together at the nearby restaurant featuring regional cuisine specialities.

    Private Vehicle

    Papallacta - Mariscal Sucre International Airport 1h 55km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast

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