Upper Amazon Basin

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Baños Cloud Forest > Upper Amazon Basin

After an early rise and breakfast, transfer to Baños and embark on an exhilarating bicycle descent into the Amazon Basin.  Surrounded by the towering walls of the Rio Pastaza Canyon, you’ll pass the spectacular Manta de la Novia and Pailón del Diablo thundering waterfalls as you ride with your guide on a mix of dirt and paved roads. A hike lower into the canyon allows you an up-close look and a chance to get sprayed by the powerful Pailon del Diablo waterfall.  The dramatic rise in temperature and change in ecosystem is proof of your arrival into the tropical lowlands.  Afternoon transfer to Tena, a bustling jungle town that marks the confluence of two tributaries of the Amazon River.  Your charming river lodge located outside the town provides you with lanterns for lighting in the bungalows.

Day 2 - Baños Cloud Forest > Upper Amazon Basin

This morning transfer with whitewater rafts to the Class-3 rapids of the Upper Napo River.  This exhilarating river is one of the main tributaries feeding the Amazon River from the Andes mountains.  Your rafting guides will brief you on river safety and on the route that will carry you 15 miles down river.  You will join other travelers for this excursion.  Afternoon to relax at the lodge and optional nocturnal jungle walk.   

Day 3 - Upper Amazon Basin > Quito

After an early rise and breakfast, embark on a journey that will take you from the tropical lowlands (1,251 ft.) over the Cordillera Oriental (eastern highlands) to the base of the Andean highlands. Then begin an ascent into verdant cloud forest.  Notice the air get a little thinner and cooler while the vegetation adapts accordingly to the change in climate.  Stop for panoramic views of the snowcapped volcano, Antisana, at Guacamayo Pass (7,417 ft.).  After lunch in Baeza, ascend from cloud forest into the páramo ecosystem (moorland) and arrive in Papallacta (10,350 ft.).  Optional soak in the hot thermal baths of Papallacta before returning to Quito this afternoon.