Welcome to Quito, Ecuador’s vibrant capital city, built on top of ancient Incan ruins. Known as the “light of America,” Quito boasts one of the best-preserved historic centers in Latin America, earning a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The day begins with a guided city tour, including a visit to the Equator at the Intiñan Museum where you can stand on the line that divides the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Quito is rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it the perfect introduction to Ecuador.

Accommodation: Ibis Hotel (or similar) | Quito
Included Meals: Dinner

Leave the bustling city of Quito behind and hop on a scenic journey toward Tena, Ecuador’s gateway to the Amazon rainforest. As the landscape transforms into lush greenery, you’ll get to enjoy views of rolling hills and winding rivers, setting the tone for an epic upcoming adventure in nature. Tena is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and is a prime location for white-water rafting. For those seeking a different experience, a visit to a local hummingbird sanctuary offers a chance to see these tiny vibrant creatures up close.

Accommodation: Selina (or similar) | Tena
Included Meals: Breakfast

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Tena. Right in the heart of the Amazon, visit a local indigenous community, gaining insight into the daily life of the people who call this region home. A visit to a shaman, playing soccer with local children, and connecting with the community provide a deep cultural experience. If you’re looking to give back you can bring extra school supplies or treats for the children, a thoughtful gesture that will be much appreciated. The evening features a delicious dinner of locally sourced ingredients and traditional Ecuadorian dishes.

Accommodation: Selina (or similar) | Tena
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart Tena and head to Baños, an adrenaline lover’s paradise. Known as the “adventure capital” of Ecuador, Baños offers activities such as zip-lining and canyoneering, set against the backdrop of lush valleys and dramatic waterfalls. The area is also home to the active Volcán Tungurahua, adding an exciting natural element to the region’s adventures. After a day of thrills, enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian barbecue followed by a salsa dancing session with a local instructor.

Accommodation: Hotel Napolitano Apart (or similar) | Baños
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Baños offers a range of adventurous optional activities today, from horseback riding to ziplining and canyoneering. If you’re looking for an exciting aerial adventure, the zipline experience includes rock climbing, aerial bridges, and high-speed rides through the sky, providing the ultimate thrill. If you’re maybe less inclined toward heights, no worries, horseback riding and canyoneering offer equally exciting alternatives. No matter the choice, Baños delivers.

Accommodation: Hotel Napolitano Apart (or similar) | Baños
Included Meals: Breakfast

Travel back to Quito for a final night in the capital. Take the opportunity to further explore the charming city or enjoy a relaxing evening before you finish up your journey. A traditional Ecuadorian dinner marks the last evening in this incredible country, allowing you to reflect on your adventure through the diverse landscapes of Ecuador.

Accommodation: Ibis Hotel (or similar) | Quito
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

It’s time to finish up your tour after breakfast in Quito. Say goodbye to your crew, or you can choose to extend your adventure with additional tours to the Galapagos Islands or Peru.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Supplier cancellation and refund policy:
Refunds will be processed according to the following time frames:

Cancellations between 1-7 days incur a 75% fee.

Between 8-21 days incur a 50% fee.

Between 22-59 days incur a 25% fee.

Cancellations 60 days and over you can transfer your deposit to another trip for free with FlexDeposit.

Please see our Terms and Conditions page for Happy Travels specific cancellation and refund policy.

Ecuador has a tropical climate, though conditions vary by altitude. In Quito, expect subtropical highland weather with daytime temperatures around 70°F (21°C) and cooler nights at 50°F (10°C). The country experiences a dry season from June to September and a wet season from October to May. The rainforest stays warm year-round, averaging 84°F (29°C), while coastal areas are hot and rainy from January to April.

Included in the cost are essential travel elements such as accommodation, transport, and meals (breakfast is typically offered daily, along with selected authentic meals). Included Experiences feature must-see attractions and activities. You’ll also benefit from expert Contiki staff support throughout the trip. Special requests, such as birthdays or proposals, can often be accommodated with prior communication.

Contiki trips offer a great degree of flexibility so certain elements are not included in the base price. Flights to and from the trip’s starting and ending points must be arranged separately. Some experiences and activities require additional costs and are available as Free Time Add-Ons. Meals outside of included options and travel insurance are also not covered.

The weather can be quite unpredictable, so it’s important to pack appropriately. Please bring these items with you:

– Comfortable walking shoes with good traction
– Teva-style sandals (thongs or flip-flop sandals are not suitable for hikes)
– Swimming (bathing) suit & towel
– Light to medium fleece jacket
– Gore-Tex (or similar) rain jacket
– Shorts, T-shirts, Long pants, Long-sleeve shirt, Hat or cap
– Sunglasses (preferably polarised)
– Socks (athletic style socks for walking & hiking)
– First aid & medication – aloe vera gel, sunblock or sunscreen of the highest SPF possible, insect repellent, hand sanitiser or gel, moisturising cream, pain relief (e.g. aspirin etc for headaches or muscle pain) motion sickness medication
– Reusable water bottle
– Plastic Ziplock bags (to protect valuables from drizzle, rain etc)
– Passport
– Travel insurance documents

Tipping is not mandatory in Ecuador, but a 10% service charge is often included on restaurant bills. If satisfied with the service, it is common to tip around 12% of the total bill. Tipping is appreciated but not expected.

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Ecuador. We recommend sticking to bottled water, even when brushing your teeth. Bottled water will be widely available during the trip for convenience.

Each traveller is allowed 1 piece of hand luggage and 1 suitcase or backpack. The maximum dimensions for checked luggage are 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a weight limit of 20kg (44lbs). Pack light, as luggage may need to be carried or walked over short distances.

You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).

ATMs are available in many areas of Ecuador, though fees may apply. In more remote or rural locations, it is advisable to carry cash as ATM access may be limited.

Group sizes for Latin America tours are considerably smaller – as low as 12 or up to 25 travellers max. Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.

The Trip Manager is responsible for organising the trip and providing essential information, fun facts, and local food recommendations. They ensure the trip runs smoothly, addressing any concerns or issues. The Trip Manager also offers cultural and historical insights, delivering informal talks when relevant.

Contiki are leaders in organised youth travel, offering incredible travel experiences for young people between 18 and 35 years old since 1962. With over 60 years of expertise, Contiki specialises in creating memorable, social, and immersive journeys. The brand focuses on two core values: “Make Every Moment Count” and “We’re About People”. The “Travel Together” philosophy embodies the spirit of shared travel experiences, connecting people with destinations, cultures, and the environment in meaningful ways.

Contiki tailors travel experiences specifically for 18-35-year-olds, ensuring fun, dynamic itineraries that bring together like-minded people. This age range fosters connections that feel instant, creating a social travel environment that blends adventure and new friendships.

Contiki revolutionises hassle-free travel. From solo adventurers to groups, every trip is meticulously planned, ensuring that every detail, from accommodation to transport, is taken care of. This allows travellers to enjoy stress-free experiences, while adding personalised activities during their free time. Each journey is led by an expert Trip Manager who provides hands-on support, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Contiki is committed to sustainable travel practices, working towards a low-carbon future with its four-point Climate Action Plan. Since 2022, all Contiki trips are carbon natural, contributing to environmental sustainability. The company is on a journey to Net Zero, prioritizing carbon reductions and supporting environmentally conscious travel.

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Contiki tours, covering cancellation, medical expenses, personal injury, loss of property, and adventure activities. It’s essential to ensure the policy covers all the activities included in the trip.

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

We endorse the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade that all travellers take out travel insurance. If you already have Travel Insurance please understand that it is your responsibility to ensure that your Travel Insurance covers you for all of the adventure style travel you have booked with us.