Papallacta (Ecuador) | Quito (Ecuador) | Tena (Ecuador)
The following are Ecuador Family Journey: Volcanoes And The Amazon tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
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Welcome to Quito-your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travelers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead.
Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader 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.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Begin at the Yaku water museum for a visit with one of the local experts, who will guide you through the interactive and playful exhibits that encourage reflection on the importance of water to life and to our planet. It's a great way for the family to learn about environmental conservation in an entertaining and memorable way. Continue to the historical centre of Quito for a walking tour of some of the city's important and historical sites like the main plaza and the beautiful church of La Compania.After lunch at a local restaurant, stop at a local artisanal chocolate shop for some samples and to learn about the cacao and chocolate making process. The earliest people known to have used the cacao plant are the ancient Mayo-Chinchipe people of what's now Ecuador! Enjoy the rest of the day and evening with free time to explore or to relax.
Dedicated to the topic of water, Yaku is an interactive museum that strives to give visitors a strong attachment to this liquid gold through a variety of educational and playful experiences. Visit with a local expert guide and recognize the value of water to life on our planet as you wander through different exhibits like the ecological trail or the Mediagua eco-friendly house.
Your Expedition Leaders will lead the group on a downtown walking tour of Quito. Walk past important city landmarks like, the Main Square and Compania de Jesus.
Visit Yumbos artisanal chocolate shop and learn about the processes of creating chocolate from fermentation to final product, all demonstrated live here. Learn all about cacao, where chocolate comes from, and specifically how it's made. The earliest people known to have made use of the cacao plant were the ancient Mayo-Chinchipe living in what is now Ecuador. Taste some of these delicious sweet treats to cap off the experience.
Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon and evening free to do as you please with your family. Explore more of Quito together and choose to partake in some of the locally offered optional activities.
After breakfast, travel north to the Middle of the World where you'll stop for pictures at the iconic Ciudad Mitad del Mundo monument located at the equator line-a family photo opportunity that you'll cherish forever. Continue to the Intinan museum to learn about the significance of our planet's equator with fun experiments like seeing if you can balance an egg on a nail or walking along the equatorial line with your eyes closed. After playing scientist, have a delicious lunch overlooking the crater of Pululahua Volcano then travel to the village of Papallacta, nestled in the mountains. Take the rest of the day to soak in the hotel's restorative thermal springs. The warm, mineral-rich waters are perfect for relaxing and letting the kids splash around at the end of the day.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Quito and Papallacta. Stop along the way to the Mitad del Mundo complex and the Intinan Museum.
25 Kms. (16 miles) north of Quito marks the exact Middle of the World, latitude 0o. Here you can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. Visit the Intinan site museum (pathway of the sun) which shows the diversity of Ecuador's native groups. On the 00?00'00" line at the museum, you will have the opportunity to interact with phenomena that occur in nature which can only be tested on the magnetic equatorial line. The private experience includes an in-depth look at Ecuadorian culture with clever map booklets and numerous interactive exhibits for the entire family to enjoy. Witness the complex Coriolis Effect with demonstrations like watching water go down a drain with no whirlpool, or eggs balancing on the head of a nail, and even the loss of muscle strength felt when standing precisely on the equator line. Later, head up to Pululahua crater view point, which is one of the two inhabited volcanic calderas in the world and have lunch overlooking the crater.
Spend time enjoying the soothing warm waters of the Papallacta Hot Springs. The pools vary in temperature and are perfect to relax your body as you circle through and admire the views of the Antisana Volcano in the distance.
Enjoy a day in Papallacta to take advantage of the hotel's hot springs and pools created by the area's high volcanic activity, and combined with the glacial meltwater, creating the perfect natural spa. The area was discovered by the Incas, and recognized for its fertile volcanic soil, high altitude and cold year-round weather. You can also enjoy other optional activities like going to the spa or hiking nearby trails where it may be possible on clear days to see the imposing Antisana Volcano. Regroup in the evening for a delicious dinner at the hotel.
Spend time enjoying the soothing warm waters of the Papallacta Hot Springs. The pools vary in temperature and are perfect to relax your body as you circle through and admire the views of the Antisana Volcano in the distance.
Take advantage of free time in Papallacta and choose to partake in the many amenities and activities offered by the lodge. Enjoy another calming soak in the mineral pools as a family or hike in the gorgeous surrounding landscape with a guide along the Island or River trails.
Travel by private vehicle from Papallacta out of the mountains and into the Amazon Jungle. Hop on a motorized canoe for a short ride to your rainforest lodge where you'll fill up on lunch before a visit to a local Kichwa family, and discover how daily life blends traditional indigenous knowledge with modest modern changes. Learn about local cooking, taste freshly prepared chicha, and experience how hunting is taught through blowgun practice-complete with a balsa wood target waiting for your best shot. Return to the lodge for a free evening and delicious dinner of local ingredients and drift to sleep with the sounds of the forest around you.*There may be activities available at the lodge that are not part of this itinerary
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Climb in and move swiftly through the water to the next stop.
Enjoy time to discover how daily life blends traditional Kichwa knowledge with a few modest modern techniques. Learn about local cooking, taste freshly prepared chicha, and experience how hunting is taught through blowgun practice-complete with a balsa wood target that is waiting for your best shot.
Take advantage of a few hours of free time at the lodge located along the bank of the Arajuno River. From the balcony of your cabana, you can relax in a hammock or deck chair and observe hummingbirds, or visit the open-air lounge with a pool and full-service bar.
After breakfast at the lodge, head out with your local guide on a jungle hike to discover the incredible biodiversity of the rainforest. Learn about the fascinating plant life and its traditional medicinal uses, with knowledge that has been passed down through generations, while immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the jungle.Following the hike, enjoy an exhilarating tubing adventure on the Arajuno River. Float downstream on an inner tube for a relaxing and peaceful journey while taking in the beauty of the surrounding rainforest and its natural scenery along the riverbanks.Return to the lodge for another delicious lunch and some time to relax during the warmest part of the day.In the afternoon, visit the "Chocolate House" and discover the journey of cacao from fruit to artisanal chocolate in a hands-on experience led by local experts. Watch the transformation unfold as freshly harvested beans are roasted, ground, and melted into a rich and flavorful treat-an intimate celebration of tradition and local culture. The remainder of the evening is free to relax at the lodge.*There may be activities available at the lodge that are not part of this itinerary.
Get a hands-on jungle experience in the Cosano Reserve, a private rainforest just across the river from your hotel. The old-growth rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity and is home to many species of tropical birds, monkeys, and unique plant life. From the lookout point, you can follow the paths of the Arajuno and Napo Rivers as far as you can see.
Enjoy a float down the Arajuno River on a peaceful and relaxing inner tube ride. Your guide will accompany you in a motorized canoe to bring you back to the end of the run.
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.
Enjoy free time at the lodge between today's activities to further experience the gorgeous jungle environment right outside your rooms.
Your day begins with a hike through the jungle to the Misicocha Reserve. Trek along footpaths through secondary forest, keeping an eye out for wildlife like monkeys and tropical birds while learning more about the flora and fauna from the expert local guide. Make stops at areas of higher ground for scenic panoramic views across the jungle canopy before a gentle ride downstream on a balsa wood raft. In the afternoon after lunch and some time to relax, head to the Butterfly House to learn about the care of the butterflies and enter the "winged room" where hundreds of butterflies, in a multitude of colours, flutter about. The rest of the evening is free to relax at the lodge and to enjoy another hearty dinner of fresh, local ingredients.*There may be activities available at the lodge that are not part of this itinerary.
Hike through secondary forest on paths of different lengths and difficulty. Walk through creeks and up hills to reach scenic viewpoints as you enjoy the fresh morning air as a family.
Reached by a short walk through a quiet riverside community, this living exhibition offers an up-close look at a variety of local butterfly species. Observe how they are carefully fed and raised, and gain insight into the remarkable process of metamorphosis that shapes their transformation.
Spend free time at the lodge in the Amazon surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
Enjoy an early breakfast buffet at the lodge before transferring back to civilization by canoe and private vehicle. Continue to Quito and arrive at your accommodations outside the city. Enjoy a free afternoon to utilize the activities at the hotel. Tonight, sit down for a final group dinner together and share stories of your once-in-a-lifetime family journey to Ecuador and to the Amazon Jungle, creating unforgettable memories for all.
Climb in and move swiftly through the water to the next stop.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Spend free time enjoying the amenities at the hotel property in Quito like the pool or horseback riding.
Depart at any time.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Ecuador Family Journey: Volcanoes And The Amazon tour:
km. 65 via Quito - Baeza
Papallacta, Ecuador
Luis Cordero 444
Quito, Ecuador-170143
Manuel Burbano 6-66 Y, Quito, Quito, 170905, Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador
Tena, Ecuador
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Ecuador Family Journey: Volcanoes And The Amazon tour:
Max 20
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, QuitoYour Family Journeys Moment: Yaku Water Museum with a Local Expert, QuitoYour Hands-On Moment: Mitad del Mundo Stop & Private Visit to the Intinan museum, QuitoYour Local Living Moment: Kichwa Family Visit, Tena. Complimentary arrival transfer. Historical walking tour of Quito. Mitad del Mundo and the Intinan Museum visit. Lunch overlooking the crater of Pululahua Volcano. Papallacta thermal pools. Amazon rainforest jungle (3 nt) stay. Guided jungle walk. Local community visit and taste of regional specialties. River tubing. Chocolate house visit. Misicocha Reserve Jungle Trek. Butterfly House Experience. Free time in Quito, Papallacta, & the Amazon Jungle. All tips included for activities and meals, except for Expedition Leaders and porterage. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Visit a local artisanal chocolate shop and learn about cacao and the plants' significance to the area's indigenous people. Explore the Yaku Water Museum with a local expert and learn about the history of how water is used in the city with interactive exhibits and activities. Set out on wildlife walks and canoe excursions through the rainforest with expert guides during a 3-night stay in the Amazon Jungle.
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (3 nts), jungle lodge (3 nts), hot springs resort (2 nts).
8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally, food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your Expedition Leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Two National Geographic Expedition Leaders throughout, local guides.
All National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by two of our National Geographic Expedition Leaders. The aim of the Expedition Leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense; you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private van, motorized canoe, walking.
Please note that on your National Geographic Family Journeys trip the minimum age is 7 years.
Please note that the Quito international airport (UlO, Mariscal Sucre) will be closed on the following dates in 2026 for preventative maintenance on the runway: April 11; May 9, 16 & 30; June 6; September 5, 12 & 26; October 3 between the hours of 2am and 2pm. As well as October 17 between the hours of 6am and 6pm. For passengers flying in or out of Quito on these dates, please double check flight schedules with your airline in case of changes. Internal flights within Ecuador and Galapagos will be adjusted accordingly and any changes to schedules will be communicated at the welcome briefing.Prices are based on double occupancy; all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will accommodate triples/quads whenever possible. Please call for further details.Family Journeys are designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child in order to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Amazon:o Knee-length sockso Loose-fitting, light coloured hiking pantso Loose-fitting, light coloured long-sleeved shirtso Pack liners to waterproof bags Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a medium-sized soft suitcase, duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.Rubber boots are very good for hiking in the rainforest, they help protect feet from plants and insects close to the ground as well as deep water. The lodge offers the use of boots as a courtesy to our guests, available from size 5 to size 12.How to keep things dry: We recommend that passengers bring zip-lock plastic bags or dry sacks for your lenses and camera equipment. A waterproof backpack will also help you to protect your camera gear or anything else you wish to keep completely dry. The humidity is high in the rainforest, however, if you follow the advice about packing appropriate belongings it should not be an issue.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.