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Ecuador's Amazon Jungle Adventure
Destination:
| Activities: Wildlife, Culture, Water Sports
The Amazon Jungle is known for its exceptional biodiversity and the peoples who have lived there for centuries. The trip starts and ends in Quito, Ecuador's capital which sits high in the Andean foothills at an altitude of 9,325 feet. From there we will journey to Tena via bus to take in the spectacular views. From there, you will arrive at the Itamandi Lodge via kayak or paddle board. You'll spend a couple days in the jungle learning about the flora and fauna as you walk on different trails, led by the local guide who knows the area intimately. You'll learn about the customs of the Kichwa community. And even if you're not a birdwatcher now, the chance to see birds in the forest and above the forest canopy may turn you into one.
This trip can be taken as an extension of our Galapagos trip or as an amazing adventure in its own right. Group size max: 10 participants
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the amazing biodiversity of the Amazon Jungle
- Kayak into your accommodations, and exclusive AGC experience
- Stay deep in the jungle, awaking to exotic bird calls
- Learn about the customs and culture of the people who have lived here for centuries
- Watch for birds, learn the medicinal uses of plants, and fish for piranha
Departures and Prices
| November 10 to November 14, 2025 |
| $1995.00 - Available |
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Inclusions
- A dedicated local guide in the Amazon and a customer service representative in Quito. There will also be an AGC guide if the trip is full.
- Double occupancy lodging
- All activities and meals as described on the itinerary
- Gratuities for lodge staff and Amazon guides
Not included: Travel to and from Quito, alcoholic beverages, gratuities for the AGC guide, travel insurance, meals not noted on itinerary, optional activities not on the itinerary.
NOTE: Travel insurance is NOT included, but it is required for this trip.
Trip Documents
Trip Info
Ecuador's Amazon Jungle trip is appropriate for women in good physical condition who want to spend 3 to 6 hours every day actively exploring the Amazon Jungle. None of the days are strenuous; however, the days are full, and some will involve early mornings. Please note, as in all international travel, flexibility is an absolute must and the ability to set aside our western expectations and enjoy the culture and country will make for a wonderfully enjoyable trip. Rating: 1 [2] 3 4 5
Our trip to the Amazon Jungle combines short hikes, cultural learning, and wildlife watching. All activities are at a moderate level.
We will spend one night at the Hotel San Jose de Puembo in Quito with an airport shuttle included to get you there with ease. In the Amazon we'll spend two nights at the Itamandi Lodge, an ecolodge accessed via the Arujano River in the Amazon Rain Forest. The rooms are double occupancy with ensuite bathrooms unless you have chosen a single supplement.
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
If you're just joining us, your trip starts in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ecuador's Capital City. At over 9,000 feet, Quito is the highest capital city in the world, and it is likely you'll experience some symptoms of breathlessness as you walk around. The hotel is conveniently located and we will have a transfer arranged for the group on Day 1. You'll meet your fellow travelers, your AGC guide, and a representative from our local partner for a trip orientation. We'll eat dinner tonight at the hotel as a group.
Overnight: Hotel San Jose de Puembo or similar (D)
Overnight: Hotel San Jose de Puembo or similar (D)
DAY 2
You'll first by driving from the Andes down to the upper Amazon Basin. Passing the Antisana Ecological Reserve and through the beautiful mountain sides until reaching the Arujano River in the community of Punin. The journey will take 2-3 hours, depending on the river's height, and the calm waters make it an easy route for beginners. Along the way, you'll stop at a local community to enjoy lunch and learn about the lives of the women and children there before continuing on to Itamandi Lodge.
Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed with your luggage waiting for you, ready to be taken to your room. You'll also be greeted with a refreshing drink and snack. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax—whether you choose to unwind by the pool or at the bar. In the evening, you can embark on a night excursion. A flashlight and camera are essential for this adventure, as you'll listen to the nocturnal sounds of fishing bats, owls, insects, tarantulas, toads, frogs, and possibly snakes. If the sky is clear, you may also have the chance to observe a stunning array of stars.
Overnight: Itamandi Lodge (B, L, D)
Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed with your luggage waiting for you, ready to be taken to your room. You'll also be greeted with a refreshing drink and snack. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax—whether you choose to unwind by the pool or at the bar. In the evening, you can embark on a night excursion. A flashlight and camera are essential for this adventure, as you'll listen to the nocturnal sounds of fishing bats, owls, insects, tarantulas, toads, frogs, and possibly snakes. If the sky is clear, you may also have the chance to observe a stunning array of stars.
Overnight: Itamandi Lodge (B, L, D)
DAY 3
After breakfast, you walk through the primary and secondary forests. This activity lasts about 2 - 3 hours. In the afternoon it is time to enjoy a cultural activity. An Amazonian Kichwa community passed us by and you will learn about their way of life and the interaction they have with the jungle. In this meeting, that part of the Amazon that is not found on maps will be shown: the Amazonian people in their daily lives. Part of our visit to the community consists of sharing the famous "chicha", a fermented yucca drink that has become part of their festivities and daily consumption. You will participate in the preparation of this drink and try some of the traditional dishes. You will end the visit with a traditional dance performed by the children of the community and you will also have time to buy some handicrafts made by the indigenous people of the area.
Overnight: Itamandi Lodge(B, L, D)
Overnight: Itamandi Lodge(B, L, D)
DAY 4
Early in the morning, you take a 15-minute canoe ride upriver to visit the Saladero de Parrots and appreciate a unique place where parrots and parakeets meet to obtain the minerals that will help them digest the fruits or seeds they have consumed. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets will approach the treetops and then descend on the clay wall to eat this mineral-rich soil. Binoculars are essential to enjoy this magnificent natural cooperation. Back in the lodge you will have breakfast before you will be brought back to the Arajuno bridge (ride in a motorized canoe for 20 minutes). *The visit to the Saladero de Aves depends clearly on the weather conditions.
You will be provided with a private transfer from Itamandi Lodge and back to Quito. On the way back you will stop at the Archidona "Mercado Municipal Gastronomico" where you can taste all kinds of local flavors native to the area. Afterward, continuing back into the Andes, you'll stop at a site only known to locals, where you will experience the caves of "Elefante". You'll be accompanied by your guide, plus a native guide who knows the caves like the back of their hand. You'll learn about their importance while feeling like you're on an exploration with National Geographic! Finally, you'll stop at Papallacta Hot Springs to spend the night to wash up and relax in the thermal springs.
Overnight: Papallacta Spa Hotel or similar (B, L, D)
You will be provided with a private transfer from Itamandi Lodge and back to Quito. On the way back you will stop at the Archidona "Mercado Municipal Gastronomico" where you can taste all kinds of local flavors native to the area. Afterward, continuing back into the Andes, you'll stop at a site only known to locals, where you will experience the caves of "Elefante". You'll be accompanied by your guide, plus a native guide who knows the caves like the back of their hand. You'll learn about their importance while feeling like you're on an exploration with National Geographic! Finally, you'll stop at Papallacta Hot Springs to spend the night to wash up and relax in the thermal springs.
Overnight: Papallacta Spa Hotel or similar (B, L, D)
DAY 5
We'll conclude our trip on this day if you've joined us for our short exploration of Ecuador's Amazon Jungle, after breakfast, we'll transfer out to the Quito Airport. Best to have a flight that leaves anytime after 8:30 pm. If you've decided to join us for Exploring the Galapagos Islands by Land, this is when your trip will begin!
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Where do we eat?
On Day 1 or Arrival Day, we will eat as a group at the hotel for dinner. On Day 2, breakfast is included at the hotel restaurant and then the rest of the meals are made and served at the Yarina Lodge. -
What dietary preferences or restrictions can you accommodate on this trip?
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register. -
I will be coming by myself. Do I need to pay a single supplement?
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
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