Epic Treks of the Andes and Amazon
Explore seven ecosystems in seven days where ancient trails, wild nature, and cultural depth converge.
Book now from:
$2.980
Time
7 Days
Small Group
2–12 travelers
Travel Style
Andean-Amazon Trek
Activity Level
Challenging
Overview
Seven days. Seven ecosystems. One extraordinary journey across the full vertical range of Ecuador.
This Ecuador trekking tour is immersive by design: from the volcanic crater lakes of Cuicocha and Pululahua to the Andean paramo of Cayambe-Coca, through the legendary Llanganates mountains, and down into the heart of the Amazon rainforest with Kichwa guides. Each day moves through a completely different landscape, altitude, and world.
Spot spectacled bears in cloud forest, condors over volcanic rims, monkeys in rainforest canopy, and vibrant macaws along river corridors. Soak in Papallacta hot springs between highland treks, a restorative ritual that Andean communities have practiced for centuries. Visit Otavalo market, cross the equator, and end on the slopes of Cotopaxi.
This is slow adventure travel at altitude: the kind of journey that changes how you move through the world long after you return home.
Trip Highlights
Trek
across seven distinct ecosystems in seven days: from volcanic paramo to Amazon rainforest, an Ecuador trekking experience found nowhere else
Hike
the crater lakes of Cuicocha and volcanic peaks of Pululahua and Cotopaxi, some of Ecuador's most iconic active adventure destinations
Spot
spectacled bears, condors, monkeys, and vibrant macaws across cloud forest, paramo, and jungle habitats
Descend
through the Cayambe-Coca cloud forest into the Amazon: a crossing that few Ecuador trekking tours ever reach
Walk
across Latitude 0 and descend into Pululahua's volcanic crater, a rare geobotanical sanctuary accessible only on foot
Soak
in the natural Papallacta hot springs after highland treks, a restorative nature-based wellbeing practice rooted in Andean ancestral tradition
Visit
Kichwa communities and experience the cultural depth of the Andes and Amazon through ancestral wisdom, local food, and guided forest walks
Be guided
by certified bilingual naturalists with deep regional expertise across all seven ecosystems
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1
Latitude 0°, Pululahua Volcano Hike & Geobotanical Reserve
Begin your trek at the equator line and descend into Pululahua’s volcanic crater, surrounded by montane forest and scenic views.
Day 2
Cuicocha Crater Lake Loop & Otavalo Market
Hike the rim of Cuicocha, a crater lake formed by ancient eruptions. Visit Otavalo for artisan crafts and cultural exchange.
Day 3
Cayambe-Coca Reserve, Hot Springs of Papallacta
Trek across the continental divide through cloud forests and páramo. Relax in natural hot springs nestled in the Andes.
Day 4
Descent into the Amazon, Kichwa Community Visit
Cross into the Amazon basin through Sumaco Biosphere. Explore trails with local Kichwa guides and take a night walk in the rainforest.
Day 5
Waterfall Route, Hacienda Stay in Baños Foothills
Journey past waterfalls along the Pastaza Gorge. Arrive at a historic hacienda in the Andes near Baños.
Day 6
Trek through the Llanganates Mountains
Hike into the legendary Llanganates range, home to hidden Incan treasures and unique biodiversity. Search for wildlife like spectacled bears.
Day 7
Cotopaxi National Park, Glacier Lake & Highland Wildlife
End your journey on the slopes of Cotopaxi and Rumiñahui Volcano. Visit Limpiopungo Lake and return to Quito.
Ready to take the high road into the wild?
Let the land tell its story—with every step you take.
What’s Included
- Accommodations in boutique haciendas, eco-lodges, and comfort-class hotels
- All meals as listed (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
- Certified naturalist/adventure guides (bilingual)
- Private ground transportation and all park entrances
- Safety equipment and logistics support throughout
Not Included
- International or domestic airfare
- Tips for guides and staff
- Hotel and restaurant beverages
- Personal expenses and optional activities
Additional Information
Effort Level
Challenging, suitable for experienced hikers comfortable with altitude and multi-day trekking
Group Size
2–12 travelers
Year-round departures (best months: June to October for clearer skies)
Travel Season
1,500 m, 4,200 m (4,900 ft, 13,800 ft)
Altitude
Layered clothing, daypack, hiking boots, rain gear, reusable water bottle, walking sticks, insect repellent, sun protection, headlamp
Suggested Packing List
Highland days 10–20°C (50–68°F); Amazon 24–30°C (75–86°F) with humidity
Water Temperatures
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