Biking the Amazon $1810

Departure Date

Daily

Duration

5 days 4 nights

Views

1456

Maximum Seats

10
Overview

This expedition takes you to the Amazon rainforest, one of the most bio-diverse areas on the planet! Explore the splendor of this immense ecosystem by bike, chase waterfalls, visit animal rescue centers, and share time with indigenous tribes. Immerse yourself into the local culture while learning traditions from the Shuar and the Kichwa people.

Accommodation is provided at charming eco-lodges and hotels
white faced capuchin monkey, white fonted capuchin monkey, cebus albifrons
  • Biking off-the-beaten-path in the Amazon region

  • The Swing of the End of the World

  • Hike to Pailon del Diablo Waterfall

  • Share time with the local indigenous people, including the Shuar and Kichwa

  • Road biking to waterfalls and rescue centers

  • Wine tasting

  • Take a dip in mineral-rich volcanic hot springs in Baños

  • Stay at unique places in every location

  • Be led by top Activexpedition experienced guides every step of the way

  • Support sustainable travel that preserves culture and nature

  • Biking

  • Hiking

  • Culture

  • Wildlife

Easy To Moderated
Fitness Level 6

Day 2.- Biking Llangatantes

Day 3.- Entrance to the Amazon

Day 4.- Animals and Ancestors

  • Year around

  • 12 years old

Full Itinerary

Day 1

To new Heights—Soar above Baños

Today we head southbound passing rolling pastures of green and gold shadowed by the impressive peaks of surrounding volcanoes towards our first stop in Baños-- the door to the Amazon. During our first pit stop we take flight at the Swing of the End of the World, a place well known to wanderlust-filled individuals as it was featured in NatGeo Magazine in 2014. Fly high into the clouds towards the Tungurahua volcano, the gentle giant that watches over the town of Baños settled at its feet! Later in the day we will head back down riverside to Bridal Veil falls where we will have the chance to take a cable car over the Pastaza river canyon; truly a Jaw-dropping sight to behold.

Overnight: Standard: La Floresta Hotel or similar.
High End: Samari or similar.
Meals included: none.
Day 2

Biking in Llanganates National Park

In the morning after a full and nutritious breakfast we will go by car up through the mountains of the Llanganates National Park. Legend has it there is a hidden Incan treasure in this area. Although many explorers venture in trying to find it it has yet to have been found. We will start biking on asphalt road a bit up the hill to warm up and then descend about five thousand feet. Catch the light breeze as we go from the impressive heights of the majestic Andes down to the entrance of the lush Amazon Basin. Afterwards we will visit Pailon del Diablo Waterfall, the highest falls in the country, so we can refresh a bit.

Overnight: Standard: La Floresta Hotel or similar.
High End: Samari or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast.
Day 3

Entrance to the Amazon

Today we follow the pulse of the Amazon into the heart of the Pastaza province. Starting our day with a quick one-hour drive we will then hop on our bikes and make our way down a leisurely road towards a regional fish farm. Here we will be able to see one of the world’s largest freshwater fish. Holding the title of the biggest in the Amazon region the Paiche or “Arapaima” is a mind-blowing 10 feet long and a whopping 500 pounds. As it goes, this majestic beast is unfortunately endangered. One of the tasks at the farm is the propagation of the species for eventual release into the wild.

After our educational experience at the fishery we will continue to the Hola Vida waterfall. A 30-minute jaunt through the woods takes us to this spectacular single-drop falls. Gently crashing into a cool jade-green pool will be able to enjoy some time swimming and relaxing before mounting our bikes again to carry onwards to our next stop!

Our exploration takes us to a reserve run by a local family where we will enjoy a freshly made lunch of delicious regional cuisine. After lunch we will go up to the local mirador or lookout. This spot is perfect for enjoying a rest in one of its many hammocks or to bask in the view of the Pastaza River with its flowing veins bringing life into the region. In the afternoon we will visit the Shuar indigenous community; one of fourteen distinct indigenous groups in Ecuador. Here we will learn about their culture and traditions, which have been richly preserved despite the developments of the country over the last decade.

In the late afternoon we will drive to the banks of the Napo River where we will stay overnight.

Overnight: Standard: Selina Lodge or similar.
High End: El Jardin de Misahualli or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
Day 4

Animals and Ancestors

Todays adventure is truly special, as we will be spending time not only with local people but local wildlife too! Our ride takes us to AmaZoonico, a locally run animal rehabilitation center and NGO. Founded in 1993, the center focuses on the rehabilitation of animals that have been illegally taken from their natural habitat in order to be able to reintroduce them back into the wild. Here we will hike in the jungle to see a variety of species of animals that reside at the center including monkeys, tapir, and ocelots, among others.

After a morning spent learning about rescue, rehabilitation, and release of animals from the region we will head to visit a local family from another indigenous group here in Ecuador: the Kichwa. Here they will teach us about their culture and customs for an afternoon filled with captivating stories of their people before heading back to the lodge.

Overnight: Standard: Selina Lodge or similar.
High End: El Jardin de Misahualli or similar.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
Day 5

Hot Springs & Departure

Today is all about relaxing and unwinding! The morning calls for lounging poolside before packing up and heading for a drive back into the Andes towards our second stop at the world-renowned Papallacta hot springs. At the hot springs you can take a refreshing dip into varying pools of hot a cold volcanic waters, and reinvigorate your body, mind, and soul. If you so choose there are also optional services offered at the facility such as massages and facials, which can be reserved in advance. After an afternoon of full body recharge we will head back to Quito.

As you depart we thank you and wish you safe travels to wherever your final destination may be! If you wish to continue exploring more of Ecuador we can help you organize an extension trip to places you did not see during this trip. We thank you for choosing Activexpedition and hope to see you soon!

Meals Included: Breakfast

Let's design your adventure

    • Experienced & Certified English-Speaking Guide

    • Private Transport

    • Accommodation for 4 nights

    • Meals as listed in the Itinerary

    • Water and snacks

    • Reusable water bottle

    • Biking gear: Trek X-caliber, certified helmets and gloves

    • All fees to reserves and museums

    • International or domestic flights

    • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary

    • Tips for guides and drivers

    • Travel Insurance – mandatory

    • Airport Transfers

    • Itinerary Disclaimer: Even though we have a detailed itinerary changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or for safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned in 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 date of travel.

    • Accommodation: We strive to use small and 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, 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.

    • Gear: At Activexpediton we always make sure our guests have top of the line gear from well-known and reputable international brands as we understand that the best gear gives extra confidence to our riders. For biking we use Trek Xcaliber, Trek Top Fuel, and for protection we use Bontrager and Fox.

    • Level of Activity: This trip is considered as 3 out of 5, meaning you do not need to have much experience, however your guides will teach you how to ride on the varying terrain throughout the trip! The whole excursion will be mostly on paved roads and very short sections of gravel. Every ride is about 20 miles, and the elevation gain averages 500 feet a day. For those seeking larger elevation gain or a more challenging experience our guides will happily oblige to longer rides. There will always be transport support in the case that someone wants to take a break or just wants to avoid the uphill. Our drivers will be happy to show you the landscapes from the car.

    • Weather and Elevation: The year-round temperature averages 82°F (28°C), however nights can be cooler. Since Ecuador is located right on the equator, the country does not experience extreme weather changes aside from a slightly rainier and wetter season. 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 rainy season in the Amazon runs from December to June, with temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F) with frequent showers throughout April and May. The rainy season has its pros because many plants will have blossomed or grown fruit, which often attracts birds and primates, granting visitors the chance to observe them more frequently. The dry 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; during this time the water gets lower and attracts animals that you won’t often see during the rainy season. This is prime season for hitting the beach or river shore as well as bird nesting.

    • 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.

    • Heath Advisory: No vaccinations needed for this trip

    We do recommend travelling light for this expedition. A duffel bag of 50 liters for your luggage and a backpack of 20 liters for daily activities should be sufficient. In Ecuador, the weather can change drastically especially when you are moving from the Andes into the tropical forest therefor it is best to pack for a variety of climates.

    • Passport

    • Credit card

    • Two pairs of lightweight hiking pants

    • One pair of cold weather hiking pants

    • Two pairs of shorts

    • Three pairs of biking shorts

    • One bathing suits

    • Four synthetic material T-shirts

    • One cotton T-shirt

    • One bathing top or cover-up

    • One winter warm jacket

    • One fleece

    • One rain jacket

    • One pair of rain pants

    • Two buffs

    • One pair of hiking shoes

    • One pair of sneakers

    • One pair of water sandals or similar

    • Optional – biking shoes

    • One- or two-night outfits

    • One cap or hat

    • Sunscreen

    • Sunglasses

    • Mosquito repellent

    • Camera

    • Head lamp

    • Optional binoculars

    NOTE: Laundry is available almost at every location and is very economic. We recommend taking advantage of these offered services as it aids in travelling light.

    REGULAR SEASON PRICE BASED ON NUMBER OF GUESTS FOR SHARED DEPARTURES:

    DEALS - EARLY BIRD 2024

    $1629/per person

    • All premium features

    • Solo travelers are welcome on sharing room basis otherwise single supplement applies

    • Departures: September to December

    2 - 3 guests

    $1810/per person

    • All premium features

    • Daily departures

    4 or more guests

    $1170/per person

    • All premium features

    • Daily departures

    Go private

    Contact Us

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    • 7 am - 4 pm Monday through Thursday.
    • 7 am to 1 pm Fridays (US central) toll free or by skype.
    Otherwise, email us anytime. On average we provide quotes within 6 hours during business hours and the next day during off business hours. Privately guided trips allow you to be in control of all the details of your trip - departure times, accommodations, extra nights, extra activities, extra experiences - what you want and how you want it. If you want to go private or customize this expedition, contact us.
    Phone

    US & CANADA: +1 (919) 400-5824 EC: +593 (09) 5955-5556

    Email

    christian@activexpedition.com