Private 5-Day Andes to Amazon 4x4 | LGBTQ+ Friendly
Napo Province, Ecuador
Explore the Andes and Amazon on a private 5-day tour from Quito. Visit Cotopaxi National Park, trek in the Quilotoa Loop, and immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest. Overlanding trip - Slow travel
Andes and Amazon 5-Day Private 4x4 Tour from Quito
This private 5-day 4x4 tour from Quito explores the Andes and Amazon, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Highlights
- Explore Cotopaxi National Park and hike around Limpiopungo Lagoon
- Visit the Quilotoa Loop region and trek in the Chugchilán highlands
- Optional activities include horseback riding, rafting, and hiking
- Immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest and learn about local culture
Description
Day 1: Quito to Cotopaxi National Park
Begin with a scenic drive from Quito to Cotopaxi National Park’s northern entrance near Machachi. Explore the Limpiopungo volcanic valley at 3,800 meters (12,470 ft), featuring wildlife such as wild horses and highland birds, with views of Cotopaxi Volcano. Choose an optional hike around Limpiopungo Lagoon or to José Rivas Refuge based on weather and acclimatization. In the afternoon, continue to Sigchos for an overnight stay in rural Andean accommodation.
Day 2: Quilotoa and Baños de Agua Santa
Discover canyon views, agricultural terraces, and indigenous communities. Optional activities include horseback riding to the western cloud forest, visiting cheese factories or local wineries, and tasting traditional foods. Hikers can take a 16-km (10-mile) trek in the Chugchilán highlands or bike the same route. Alternatively, hike around the Quilotoa crater lagoon before lunch in the community, then proceed to Baños de Agua Santa.
Day 3: Waterfall Route and Puyo
Choose from white-water rafting, trekking the “Smuggler’s Trail,” or visiting waterfall lookouts such as Pailón del Diablo, Manto de la Novia, and Agoyan. The route descends from the Andes through varying ecological microclimates into lush rainforest. In the afternoon, travel onward to Puyo in the Amazon basin.
Day 4: Amazon Rainforest
Engage with a local community, canoe along calm rivers, learn about medicinal plants, and experience cacao and chocolate making. Stay overnight in a jungle lodge near Archidona that offers privacy while enabling immersion in rainforest nature.
Day 5: Return to Quito
Return to Quito via the Papallacta highlands. An optional hot springs visit is available depending on time and weather. Transfer to your hotel or the airport concludes the tour.
Includes
- Private 5-day, 4-night 4x4 overlanding journey
- Visit to Cotopaxi National Park and Limpiopungo volcanic valley
- Optional hikes around Limpiopungo Lagoon or José Rivas Refuge
- Overnight stays in rural Andean and jungle accommodations
- Exploration of indigenous communities and Quilotoa region
- 16-km trekking in Chugchilán highlands
- Adventure activities in Baños de Agua Santa
- Canoe navigation and medicinal plant interpretation in the Amazon
- Cacao and chocolate experience
- Wildlife sounds at night
- Scenic return via Papallacta highlands
Excludes
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Important Information
- The tour involves high-altitude areas; gradual acclimatization is essential.
- The itinerary is flexible and customizable according to preferences and energy levels.
- Includes off-road travel and access to less crowded locations.
- The operator is LGBTQ+ friendly, providing a safe and respectful private experience.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring warm layered clothing for high altitudes, sturdy hiking shoes, and insect repellent. The ideal travel season is from June to September when the weather is drier. Book in advance to secure your preferred dates and activities.
