Be part of an Ayahuasca Ceremony
Explore ancient caves for indigenous ceremonies
Explore the jungle by kayaking an Amazon River
Be part of the indigenous culture´s mysticism
Canyoning in the tropical rain forest
Make organic chocolate fondue with your hands
Hike in the Amazon Jungle searching for medicinal plants
Explore Baños City and relax at volcanic hot springs
Tasting local food and drinks
Lead by top adventure guides at every location
Sharing time with local indigenous people
Support sustainable travel to preserve culture and nature
In the realm of Kichwa shamans, Ayahuasca reigns as an emblem of profound cultural and spiritual significance. This sacred plant medicine is revered for its ability to facilitate healing, divination, and deep spiritual connection. At the heart of the Ayahuasca ceremony stands the shaman, an experienced healer and spiritual guide, who assumes a pivotal role in this transformative journey.
In the age-old traditions of the Kichwa people, the shaman becomes the conduit between the physical and spiritual realms by consuming Ayahuasca. Through this sacred brew, the shaman seeks to unlock insights into the body and spirit of the patient, delving into the depths of their being. By invoking spirits during the ceremony, the shaman embarks on a quest to diagnose and cure ailments, drawing upon the energies of water, wind, earth, mountains, trees, and lightning. The shaman’s enchanting songs and rituals serve as invitations to these spirits, igniting a mystical dance between worlds.
The Ayahuasca ceremony, an enchanting nocturnal affair, unfolds over the course of several hours. The shaman meticulously prepares the potent Ayahuasca brew by carefully boiling the leaves of the revered Psychotria viridis shrub and the sacred stalks of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine in water. Under the watchful guidance of the shaman, participants reverently partake in this elixir. As the brew takes hold, consciousness is altered, giving birth to profound visions, introspection, and emotional release that can traverse the boundaries of the soul.
Within the Kichwa tradition, Ayahuasca is regarded as a profound teacher and an unwavering disciplinarian. It is believed to bestow knowledge, healing, and spiritual guidance upon those who venture into its depths. The shaman, in their quest to master the art of shamanism with its profound healing and divination powers, may undergo rigorous training that involves daily consumption of Ayahuasca over several years. This arduous journey demands adherence to specific dietary restrictions and abstinence from sexual relationships—a path paved with discipline and sacrifice.
It is crucial to approach Ayahuasca ceremonies with the utmost respect and reverence, seeking the guidance of experienced shamans. These ceremonies provide a safe and supportive environment for participants to navigate the intensity and transformative nature of the Ayahuasca experience. Remember, Ayahuasca is a potent plant medicine, and its consumption should always take place under the supervision of qualified shamans or facilitators. It is not suitable for everyone, and individuals with specific medical conditions or those taking certain medications should exercise caution or refrain from partaking altogether. Prioritizing your safety and well-being is paramount when considering embarking on an Ayahuasca journey, and seeking counsel from qualified professionals is advised should any concerns or questions arise.
Caving
Canyoning
Kayaking
Ayahuasca ritual
Culture
Wildlife
Year around
18 years old
Full Itinerary
Arrival day in Quito
Overnight at Hotel Dann Carlton
No meals included
![](https://activexpedition.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Quito_Plaza_Grande.jpg)
Caving at the Temple of Ceremony in the Amazon
Later we will have a traditional lunch from the area, and then continue driving to Cotundo village, to find our lodge to spend the night.
Overnight at Huasquila Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
![](https://activexpedition.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Caving_-Temple_Ceremony_Amazon.webp)
Amazon canyoning – Medicinal plants learning – Relaxing pools
Overnight at Amazon Homestay
Meal included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
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Kayaking and paddling the Arajuno river – Meet a Shaman woman
We jump back on our kayaks to continue paddling down river until we reach a bridge where our driver will be waiting for us to take us to the lodge.
Overnight: Selina Tena lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
![](https://activexpedition.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Kayaking_The_Arajuno_River.webp)
Shaman Ayahuasca spiritual experience
Aya Huasca also written Ayahuasca o Aya Waska “in kichwa” is a sacred vine, considered “the mother of all plants” and a mediator and translator between the human and plant worlds, helping humans and plants to communicate with each other. The Ayahuasca Ceremony is a special journey to visions and revelations to be in harmony with itself.
Participants are safe and taken care of by their guide. After drinking, candles are blown off and everybody rests on comfortable mattresses in the ceremonial space, waiting for the effects to manifest.
A unique spiritual experience guided by a lifetime prepared shaman form the kichwa community in the Amazon.
Overnight at Shaman´s property
Meals included: Breakfast
![](https://activexpedition.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Shaman_Spiritual_Experience.webp)
Sacred waterfall and sharing experiences with Shaman
Overnight at Hotel La Floresta
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
![](https://activexpedition.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Sacred_Waterfall.webp)
Baños look ups - hot springs relaxing day and night of celebration
Overnight at Hotel La Floresta
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, farewell dinner
![](https://activexpedition.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Pailon_de_Diablo.webp)
Return to Quito
![](https://activexpedition.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Active_Ecuador_Activexpedition_8.jpg)
Airport transfers
Top Experienced Certified English-Speaking Guide. 2 guides for groups over 10 passengers
Groups: 1 free passenger for every 10 confirmed with payment passengers
Private Transport
Accommodation described for 7 nights
Meals according to the Itinerary
Water and snacks at all time
Paddling gear: NRS rafts, paddles and helmets
Canyoning: Black diamond poles, harnesses, helmets, ropes and rubber boots
All fees to reserves and museums
International or domestic flights
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips for guides and drivers
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Optional activities
Itinerary Disclaimer: Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
Visas and Passports: Make sure you check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel.
Accommodation: We strive to use charming places that are unique and provide stellar service.
Single Supplement Costs: Generally, this fee is not incurred as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room, but if you prefer not to share and have your own room, then there will be an associated fee.
Transportation: Driving time can take more than expected in Ecuador, as it is a small country with roads meandering through the Andes Mountains. We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group.
Level of Activity: This trip is considered as 3 out of 5. No prior experience is required, and your guides will always brief you about safety and proper use of gear on every leg of the trip; Canyoning in the jungle you can expect hiking on water and rocks, and also climbing into some small waterfalls, kayaking is class one, and there will be a transport support for the majority of the activities in the case that someone wants to take a break or just wants to relax.
Weather: In Ecuador the weather can be vary greatly depending on which side of the Andes you are traveling to, so it is highly recommended to come ready for all kinds of weather. When they say “Ecuador, All in One Place” they mean it! The altitude determines the temperature and the higher you go the colder it gets. Don’t let the geographic location of the country fool you. Even at a mere 15,000 feet the temperatures can feel like those of a winter in the northern United States. During a visit to the amazon region, in 4 or 5-day visit, you will often see more or less the same amount of rain and sunshine. The Rainier Season in the Amazon Runs from December to June, with temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F) and frequent rains throughout April and May. The Rainy Season has its pros because many plants have evolved to fruit and flower during the rainy season, a phenomenon which often attracts birds and primates to the water’s edge and grants visitors the chance to observe them more frequently. The Drier Season in the Amazon Lasts from July to November, with temperatures from 26°C (78°F) to 40°C (104°F), with less rain, though showers are still possible. The Dry Season also offers its own set of benefits, for its during this time that the water gets lower and attracts animals that you won’t often see during the rainy season. Beach nesting birds are everywhere, as there are more beaches present during this time.
Sustainability: We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough, so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero-waste tour operator and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so we are able to teach our guests about the rich culture Ecuador, all the while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples, we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
Guides: All our guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; this means they have a degree in guiding, so their knowledge and skills when leading a group are top-notch. Each guide has many years of experience and they all have taken additional courses for other outdoor activities as well as have International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, they are all extremely personable and strive to deliver travel experiences of a lifetime.
Health advices: No vaccinations needed for this trip.
We do recommend travelling light for this expedition. A duffel bag of 50 litters for your luggage and a backpack of 20 litters for daily activities should be sufficient. In Ecuador, the weather can change drastically especially when you are moving from the Andes to the Tropical rain forest.
Passport
Credit card
Two pairs of lightweight hiking pants
Two pairs of shorts
Two bathing suits
Three non-cotton T-shirts
One cotton T-shirts
One water T-shirt
One fleece
One rain jacket
One pair of tennis shoes
One pair of water sandals
One cap or hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Mosquito repellent
Camera
Head lamp
Optional binoculars
NOTE: Laundry is available almost at every location and is cheap, this helps traveling light too.
Read more, Terms & Conditions.
Regular Season Price based on number of guests for private departures:
2 - 3 guests
$2100/per person
All premium features
4 or more guests
$1800/per person
All premium features
We are ready to meet your needs and put together an unforgettable experience.