Ecuador: The Amazon, Cloud Forests & Crater Lakes

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

Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Expand your knowledge of local food production and learn everything there is to know about cacao. If it's in season, collect cacao pods from the nearby plants and learn about the history of cacao in Ecuador. While the plant has been harvested since the early 16th century, the late 19th century saw the beginning of the Ecuadorian cacao boom. The plant remains a key export and is fundamental in supporting local communities across the country. Roast and de-shell the beans, then re-heat the beans with milk and cinnamon into a fondue to be eaten with local fruits. When finished, enjoy a fire-side traditional jungle snack.

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.

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. Leave Shandia community knowing your visit is creating opportunities for a new generation in the community and contributing to the preservation of their culture.

Take advantage of free time to enjoy the activities available at the lodge.

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.

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.

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Enjoy free time in Baños, a town famous for outdoor activities. Visit the local hot springs, or simply relax in town.

There's plenty to see and do in Baños, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like hiking, canyoneering, and relaxing in the hot springs. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. There will be a stop along the way at a community artist workshop.

Nestled in the heart of Tigua, you will find a vibrant gallery that celebrates the local indigenous art of the region. Visit here and see the beautiful works of Julio Toaquiza, a pioneer in Tigua's artistic community. The kaleidoscope of colors and intricate designs that tell stories of the Andes and its people. Each piece reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Tigua community, making it not just an art gallery, but a living museum of the traditions and values that shape this beautiful region. Meet local artisans, learn about their techniques, and consider participating in a workshop to create your own piece of art.

This popular hike down to Quilotoa's crater is relatively short, but steep. It offers gorgeous views and a chance to experience the mesmerizing water up close. The way down is shorter, but steep and the ascent back up can be more challenging due to the high altitude. Once down at the crater choose to relax by the water or maybe rent a kayak for a unique experience while here in Ecuador.

The Guayama Grande Community Tourism Cultural Center offers travellers a meaningful experience where they can learn about the culture and lifestyle of the area's indigenous peoples, while also supporting the sustainable development of this centre. Enjoy the landscape's natural beauty surrounded by mountains. Start with a visit to the bee farm and learn about the honey extraction process. Then, spend time at the ceramic art project featuring works of art created by local communities. Feel welcome by the community and leave with a deeper connection and appreciation of this land and its people.

Free time will be had back at the accommodations. Choose to hang out as a group or head into town for a night of fun, laughter, and some cold beverages. You can also choose to hike again in the area or find a stunning view of the crater as the sun begins to set.

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

Set off on an orientation walking tour with your CEO of La Carolina Park. This large, 165-acre urban park can be found in the heart of Quito. It features a botanical garden with diverse ecosystems, including high-altitude Andean grasslands, cloud forest, wetlands, and Amazon. Walk around a bit and get a sense of its immense size and importance as a recreational space for locals within the city. Then choose to enjoy extra time here yourself if you desire.

The night is yours in Quito. Find a local spot for a delicious dinner on your own and maybe dance the night away with your travel family by your side. What are your best dance moves?

Enjoy a night out on the town with your travel friends and truly let your hair down in the lively Ecuadorian city of Quito.

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.