Classic Ecuador Safari
A true Andes, Amazon & Cloud Forest Adventure; visit Cotopaxi's with its peak at a soaring 5,897 metres in height, spend time in the mighty Amazon Rainforest and immerse yourself in the lush nature of Ecuador's cloud forest.
What to expect
Exploring the 'Avenue of Volcanoes' in Zuleta Region
After landing in Quito this morning, you will be met by one of our representatives and transferred to the heart of Ecuador's 'Avenue of Volcanoes'. Spend the next few days enjoying the stunning setting of Zuleta Region, learning about the local condor conservation project, or enjoy hiking on the nearby trails with a chance to spot the elusive Andean bear. You can also go birdwatching, biking, stargazing or just sit back with a glass of wine and take in the fresh air.
Amazon Rainforest Adventures: From Coca to Your Jungle Lodge
Take your included flight to Coca, located in Ecuador's Amazon region. Upon arrival in Coca, you will be transferred by boat to your lodge in the Amazon rainforest, approximately two hours upstream. This is an area of primary rainforest and there are many great opportunities for spotting a variety of wildlife. Meet your expert guide and over the next few days, you will be able to choose from a range of excursions to experience life in the jungle and view some of the interesting flora and fauna that lives here. Napo lists over 560 species of bird and around 140 species of mammals. Optional excursions include visits to the clay licks (to be paid for locally), which are a vital source of minerals for the many varieties of parrot. There is also a canopy tower, which allows you to ascend through the different levels of the forest and various trails that you can explore as your guide is on hand to spot the wildlife and teach you about the unique eco system that is the Amazon jungle.
Immerse in the Mashpi Cloud Forest: Biodiversity and Natural Wonders
From Quito, you will be driven approximately 3 hours to the Mashpi Cloud Forest Reserve. This private rainforest biodiversity reserve is stunningly set, surrounded by forested mountains, with the spectacular Mashpi Lodge at its heart. Wake to the sounds of the dawning jungle before enjoying some of the excursions within the cloud forest. These may include forest walks, visits to nearby licks and leks to view some of the abundant bird species found locally, or walks to nearby waterfalls. Head on a two hour walk to the beautiful Copal Waterfall; well known for its moss-covered trees, bromelias and orchids this is a spectacular trail and ends at the spectacular waterfall which cascades over 50 metres to the ground.
Why book this trip?
Cotopaxi National Park
The snow-capped peak of Ecuador’s biggest volcano, and indeed the highest active volcano in the world, is visible in the distance from the capital, Quito. The national park and countryside that surround the majestic volcano offers excellent hiking, birding and scenic viewpoints as well as an insight into rural indigenous life through its colourful local markets.
The Amazon
Spend time in the mighty Amazon Rainforest with expert guides searching for caiman, primates, scarlet macaws, sloths, harpy eagle or even elusive wildcats.
Mashpi Cloud Forest Reserve
Immerse yourself in the lush nature of Ecuador's cloud forest, from your exclusive base, Mashpi Lodge.
Accommodation Highlights
Napo Wildlife Centre Eco Lodge
Located within the Yasuni National Park, deep in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Napo Wildlife Centre is an intimate lodge which provides guests with a truly authentic Amazon experience. The lodge contains just 10 large, luxury cabanas, providing its guests with optimum comfort and space, whilst emphasising the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Mashpi Lodge
Powered 100% by its own hydroelectricity and surrounded by exquisite rainforest bio-diversity its hard to believe the contemporary, sophisticated and intimate Mashpi Lodge is just 2 and a half hours from Ecuador’s bustling capital of Quito. Set in a 1,200 hectare private reserve on the western slopes of the Andes, your stay here is all about experiencing the wonders of the natural world. Designed to combine the highest levels of service and comfort, this modern lodge somehow manages to blend with its natural surroundings, becoming a luxury hideaway in the clouds.