| Day 1, QUITO: Arrive in Quito.
Day 2, QUITO – AMAZON: Head through spectacular Andean scenery into the Amazon. We spend the 3 nights in a secluded jungle lodge on the world’s greatest ecosystem. (BLD)
Day 3-4, AMAZON: We have two full days in the Amazon to fully appreciate the diversity of this unique wilderness area. We explore on foot and by canoe, accompanied by a local guide. (BLD)
Day 5, AMAZON – BANOS: We take a morning bus to Banos, a lovely town situated in an idyllic location on the slopes of Tungurahua volcano. (B)
Day 6, BANOS: A full day to explore Banos and the surrounding area. There are a range of different options including hiking, riding horses into the mountains, exploring by mountain bike and relaxing in the hot pools for which the town is famous. (B)
Day 7, BANOS – RIOBAMBA: Morning bus journey to Riobamba at the foot of the Chimborazo Alps. The afternoon is free to explore the surrounding mountain scenery. (B)
Day 8, RIOBAMBA - CUENCA: Board the famous ‘Devil’s Nose’ railway for the journey across steep-sided ravines and rocky gorges to Alausi. Continue by bus to the old colonial town of Cuenca, stopping in Ingapirca, Ecuador’s finest Inca ruins. (Note: if the train is not running we will travel by bus instead). (B)
Day 9, CUENCA: Morning walking tour of this beautiful city. Its cobblestone streets, flowering plazas and whitewashed buildings with old wooden doors and ironwork balconies make it a pleasure to explore. (B)
Day 10, CUENCA - CAJAS NATIONAL PARK: Over 250 lakes separated by rocky ridges make Cajas NP one of the most beautiful natural spots in Ecuador, with abundant birdlife including the condor and many hummingbirds. We spend the day touring the park by bus and on foot. (B)
Day 11, CUENCA – QUITO: Last chance to buy an authentic Panama hat, originally made in Cuenca, before we fly back to Quito. (B)
Day 12, QUITO: Quito is one of Latin America’s most historically important cities with a wealth of architectural gems and the dramatic backdrop of the Pichincha volcano. The day is free to explore. (B)
Day 13, QUITO – OTAVALO: We set off by bus to Otavalo, a traditional Andean town with one of South America’s best markets. The afternoon is free to explore the town. (B)
Day 14, OTAVALO - ALTO CHOCO: Saturday is market day in Otavalo and the streets throng with stalls selling the brightly coloured textiles for which the region is famous. In the afternoon you will travel north by public bus to the Alto Choco Reserve. (BD)
Days 15-19, ALTO CHOCO: You spend the week volunteering and relaxing in the lodge amidst the beautiful surroundings. (BLD)
Day 20, ALTO CHOCO – QUITO: Say farewell to your hosts and return to Quito. (B)
Day 21, QUITO: Tour ends after breakfast. (B)
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As a volunteer you live and work in the community and develop a unique insight into another society - immerse yourself in a culture but still have a holiday.