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Signature: Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest & Andean Highlands
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Length
7 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Quito (Ecuador)
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Ends in
Quito (Ecuador)
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Available Tour Start Dates
SEP 12, 2027 to OCT 20, 2029
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
National Geographic
Exceptional exploration led by renowned experts, offering rare, private access to the world's most storied sites - all defined by an unparalleled level of service and comfort., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$6,399.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Venture from the historic streets of Quito to the deep, pulsing green of the Amazon rainforest before ascending into the dramatic Andean highlands. Encounter ancestral embroidery traditions, marvel at volcanic peaks, and unlock the secrets of the Equator alongside dedicated experts. Immerse yourself in the authentic soul of Ecuador.
Visited During Tour
Anangu | Angochagua | Providencia (Ecuador) | Quito (Ecuador)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Signature: Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest & Andean Highlands tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code SEQQNS-11880
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Day
1Quito
Welcome to Ecuador. Your expedition begins in Quito, a high-altitude capital nestled amid towering, cloud-shrouded Andean peaks. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel to settle in. This evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader, National Geographic Expedition Expert, and fellow travellers for an engaging welcome that sets the stage for your upcoming exploration. Follow this with a celebratory welcome dinner at your hotel.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Arrival Transfer
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. 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.
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Day
2Quito
Awake to the morning light illuminating the UNESCO World Heritage historic centre. Navigate the iconic Plaza Grande, a square flanked by the Presidential Palace where the city's political pulse beats strongest amidst the fragrance of roasted coffee. Wander the historic San Francisco Church and Convent before stepping into the Antiguo Circulo Militar. Here, join a local artisan collective specializing in masapan. Paint traditional hummingbird figures alongside local women, directly supporting their community livelihood. As night falls, travel to the Intinan Solar Museum for a private, after-hours tour. Try your hand at interactive experiments right on the Equator line, standing precisely between two hemispheres.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Quito City Tour & Masapán Workshop
Discover the many layers of Quito on a curated journey through its historic heart, where grand colonial architecture, artistic heritage, and living traditions come together. Begin in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, exploring the ornate San Francisco Church and Convent or the "Escorial of the Andes." Continue to Plaza Grande, the historic centre of Quito's political and civic life, surrounded by landmarks including the Presidential Palace and Cathedral. Next, step into the world of local craftsmanship as we join a local artisan collective specializing in Masapan (marzipan). Under their guidance, you will paint traditional figures. This is more than a craft; it is a tactile connection to Quito's living heritage, where your participation directly supports the preservation of ancestral techniques and community livelihoods. Conclude with a thoughtfully curated lunch inspired by the flavours and biodiversity of the Andes.
Free Time
Enjoy some free time to relax at the hotel or head downtown to explore Quito at your own pace.
After-Hours Visit to the Intiñan Museum
Step beyond the exhibits and into the living history of the Intinan Museum during a private visit led by a local host who once called this area home. Gather around a traditional fogon for a demonstration of handmade corn tortillas while listening to stories about the museum's origins, the land around it, and the people who have helped preserve its cultural heritage.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle, with transfers to and from the Intinan Museum on the outskirts of Quito.
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Day
3Quito to the Amazon Jungle
Leave the highlands behind and catch a flight inland to the sprawling Amazon Jungle. Board a motorized boat to glide along the wide Napo River, watching the vegetation thicken into an impenetrable wall of deep green as you enter the Yasuni Biosphere Reserve. Arrive at your lodge on the pristine shores of Lake Garzacocha. Later, step into the rainforest with a naturalist guide under the soft light filtering through the high canopy. Marvel at ancient mahogany trees towering over four centuries old and listen to the jungle as it shifts from day to night. Return to the lodge for dinner, relaxing to a symphony of wild, nocturnal sounds.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plane
Sit back and enjoy the views from above on a short flight between Quito and Coca.
Canoe
Travel by motorized canoe through the lush scenery of the mighty Amazon Jungle down the Napo river to your lodge stay in the jungle.
Amazon Wildlife Excursions
Settle into the Amazon lodge and prepare for exhilarating excursions over the next couple of days into the rainforest to try and spot birds and wildlife. Learn from the naturalist guides about the diverse plant life and about the indigenous communities who call the jungle home.
Matapalo Charapa Trail
Named after the striking strangler fig, this short trail offers a glimpse into the remarkable diversity of the surrounding forest. Walk beneath the canopy alongside mahogany trees that have stood for more than 400 years, while your guides share their knowledge of the flora and fauna found along the way. As soft light filters through the trees, the forest comes alive with the transition between day and night, offering the chance to spot both diurnal and nocturnal wildlife.
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Day
4Amazon Jungle
Rise early and travel along the river to a vibrant parrot clay lick. Witness a mesmerizing display as hundreds of colourful parrots and parakeets gather to feed on mineral-rich soil. Continue to the indigenous community of Pilche to learn about their daily life, traditional dress, and culinary customs sourced from the forest. In the afternoon, ascend a spectacular 120-foot observation tower, climbing above the treetops to spot canopy birds and primates through a telescope. Watch a breathtaking sunset paint the sky before venturing onto the Tucaneta Trail for an evening walk. Your guides reveal the secret world of amphibians, insects, and mammals that emerge only when darkness falls over the rainforest.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Parrot Clay Lick and Pilche Community Visit
Today, return to the Napo River and travel by motorized canoe to a clay lick, one of the most fascinating displays of the wild world. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets gather here to feed on mineral-rich soil, an essential part of their diet. Bring your binoculars for a closer look at this remarkable wildlife spectacle. Continue to the Indigenous community of Pilche, where you'll learn about daily life and the deep connection between the community and the surrounding forest. Discover traditional clothing, foods, cooking methods, and the many ways the forest provides for everyday life. Meet the community, ask questions, and, if you're feeling adventurous, sample traditional food and drinks as local hosts share their ancestral knowledge and culture.
Observation Tower and Tucaneta Trail Nocturnal Walk
After a 15-minute walk through the forest, reach an observation tower that rises 120 feet above the canopy. From this vantage point, your Naturalist and Native guides will help you spot colourful birds and, with luck, perhaps even primates moving through the treetops. As the sun sets over the forest, settle in and take in the changing landscape. As darkness falls, the forest awakens with the sounds of nocturnal wildlife. With your flashlight and camera, set out on a guided night walk, where you may encounter amphibians, insects, reptiles, birds, and mammals as they emerge from the shadows.
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Day
5Amazon Jungle to the Andean Highlands
Travel by motorized boat out of the rainforest to catch your flight back to Quito. From there, drive north along the dramatic Avenue of the Volcanoes, stopping for a traditional lunch amidst the mountain scenery. Arrive at an historic estate situated within a vast, 4,000-acre working farm. Surrounded by dramatic peaks and cloud forests, this hacienda offers total immersion into its rural heritage. Settle in before taking a private tour of the property with a member of the family that has owned the grounds for generations. Conclude the afternoon with a tasting of artisanal local cheeses typical to the region. Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table dinner featuring fresh, local ingredients before relaxing by the fireside.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Canoe
Travel again by motorized canoe back to civilization from your lodge in the Amazon to Coca.
Plane
Fly from Coca back to Quito this morning as the adventure continues.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle as you transfer from Quito to Hacienda Zuleta. Stop for lunch on the way.
Private Tour of Hacienda Zuleta and Cheese Tasting
Discover the history and traditions of Hacienda Zuleta on a guided tour of the property. Learn about the estate's heritage, its connection to the surrounding landscape, and the traditions that have shaped life here over generations. Conclude with a tasting of the hacienda's renowned cheeses with one of the property owners.
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Day
6Andean Highlands
Immerse your senses in the vibrant colours and sounds of the Otavalo Market, renowned for its handmade textiles, intricate ceramics, and wooden musical instruments. Gain insights into the market from the President of the Zuleta Embroidery Association and visit a local artisan workshop for a private cultural exchange. Discover the rich history and storytelling woven into every traditional design, and participate in a hands-on demonstration of this delicate cultural heritage. Return to the historic hacienda to enjoy a peaceful afternoon at your own pace, perhaps strolling the green pastures. In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a grand farewell dinner, celebrating the rich traditions and unforgettable encounters of your Ecuadorian experience.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Otavalo Market and Workshop Visit with the Head of the Zuleta Weaving Association
The Otavalo Market is known for its artisanal products, handmade by local artisans and master craftsmen. You can find everything from intricate ceramics to musical instruments made with wood from the nearby cloud forest and various textiles and clothing items. Continue from the market to the workshop of local artisans for a cultural exchange and to learn about the history and storytelling of the traditional embroidery of the region. Take part in a weaving demostration of Zuleta embroidery to witness the traditional techniques and cultural patrimony that the designs play in the indigenous cultures of Ecuador's highlands.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Enjoy some free time at Hacienda Zuleta. Relax and unwind with a soothing spa treatment (at additional cost) or take a refreshing dip in the pool, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Andean countryside.
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Day
7Angochagua/Quito
After breakfast, drive to the historic Hacienda La Compania, a beautifully preserved private home held by the same family for five generations. Begin your visit at their rose farm, Rosadex, to see where the estate's spectacular blooms originate. Wander a vibrant showroom displaying dozens of exquisite rose varieties before enjoying a traditional snack in the old hacienda building. After lunch on the property, continue your drive back toward the capital to check into a comfortable hotel located near the airport, where the tour ends. Take advantage of the convenient day-use rooms to relax and prepare for your evening departure flight.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Hacienda La Compañia
Step into the history of La Compania, a beautifully preserved hacienda originally owned by the Jesuits and now cared for by the same family for five generations. Begin your visit at the nearby Rosadex rose farm, where you'll discover how the exquisite roses that adorn the hacienda are grown. Continue to a showroom showcasing a selection of the estate's 58 rose varieties before visiting the "Old Hacienda," where you'll enjoy a traditional local snack.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest & Andean Highlands tour:
Group Size
Max. 16, Avg. 12.
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, QuitoSignature Moment: Otavalo Market and Workshop Visit with the Head of the Zuleta Weaving Association, Otavalo. Arrival transfer. Welcome Dinner. Historic Quito walking tour. Marzipan workshop with a local artisan collective. Internal flights. 2 days of wildlife-spotting activities from the Amazon lodge. Local community visit in the Amazon. Guided tour of Hacienda Zuleta and cheese-tasting with one of the family members of the estate. Visit the Hacienda La Compania Rose Plantation. Farewell Dinner. Departure transfer. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Explore the Intinan Museum after hours with a private tour and equatorial experiments, Paint traditional figures with a local artisan collective inside a historic building, Search for rainforest wildlife alongside expert naturalist guides in the canopy, Spend two nights at an active, historic estate and working farm in the highlands, Explore Otavalo's famous market and an embroidery workshop with a local association leader
What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?
Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation in all our departures. To safeguard your well-being, your National Geographic Expedition Leader will kindly request to verify your physical policy details before you may officially join your fellow travellers.When choosing your coverage, please ensure your policy includes full medical protection, featuring a strict minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. For complete peace of mind while exploring, we also strongly advise securing comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings. If you intend to rely on insurance provided through your credit card, you must supply formal proof of purchase—such as a credit card statement or receipt in your name—along with explicit confirmation from your banking institution regarding the participating insurer, exact policy limits, and their dedicated 24-hour emergency contact number.
Accommodation Summary
Hotel (2 nts), Amazon Lodge (2 nts), Historic Hacienda (2 nts)
Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Group Leader
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout, Local Guides
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites—delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.
International Flights
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.
Transportation
Private vehicle, plane, motorized boat, canoe, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Checklist
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.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?
When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.
Service Level
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?
To ensure a seamless and elevated experience throughout your National Geographic Signature departure, gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage.On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.For the independent moments on your itinerary, tipping is generally not expected across Central Asia. However, should you wish to reward exceptional service during independent dining or activities, a modest gratuity of 3–5% is entirely appropriate and warmly received by local community members.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.