Ecuadorian Amazon
The rainforest of the Amazon of Ecuador, whence spring rivers which flow down to the Amazon proper, is conveniently accessible from Quito. Following a short flight and canoe trip you arrive at La Selva Lodge to begin your jungle adventures.
Day 1: Arrive into Quito and transfer to a hotel near the airport.
Day 2: A 35min flight takes you over the snow-capped Andes to Puerto Francisco de Orellana, known locally as Coca.
On arrival, it is a short transfer to the docks where motorised dugout canoes are waiting to take you down the Río Napo, the largest river in the Ecuadorian Amazonia. Head deep into the rainforest - with opportunities to spot an array of wildlife along the riverbanks – to the reserve where La Selva Lodge is situated (2hrs). It's a few minute walk through jungle followed by a dugout canoe ride (15 mins) to La Selva Lodge.
Day 3: In the morning you get to experience the jungle from a unique viewpoint, you can climb the observation tower 30m to the canopy above the forest. Your naturalist and indigenous guides will help you spot the colourful birds of the Amazon, maybe even certain primates. There are guided walks to explore the reserves various trails to observe different mammals and birds, discover the fascinating flora and learn about the rainforest. A nocturnal boat ride will let you experience the rainforest from a different perspective.
Day 4: Waterborne adventures include a trip to a parrot lick, where the colourful and agitated birds gather to feed. Visit an indigenous community to learn about the people of the area before visiting one of the most captivating lagoons in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Here there are many chances to see different species of monkeys and birds. Once the sun has set, head out on a nocturnal walk to enjoy the creatures and sounds of the Amazon Jungle which emerge at night.
Day 5: Transfer by boat back to Coca and catch a flight to Quito to begin your tour.
Breakfast daily, full board days 2-4.
This extension has been designed to fit in before your group tour to Ecuador however it can easilly be tweeked to fit onto the end of a tour, just ask your travel expert.
4 days from £1,633pp
