Expedition into the amazon jungle, to Cotopaxi volcano and Limpiopungo Lake
ECUADOR
May 2 - 11, 2026
Ecuador
Tour to ecuador
May 2 - 11, 2026
Ecuador
Tour to ecuador
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Ecuador four worlds volcanoes rainforests Andean culture tribal civilizations Quito Inca capital high-altitude city Pichincha Cotopaxi Limpiopungo Lake Andean birds silence of space Quilotoa crater lake supervolcano Andes Amazon Achuar people jungle villages propeller planes river jungle biosphere mythology coexistence living world expedition adventure
Ecuador is a country where four worlds converge in a single journey: towering volcanoes, tropical rainforests, Andean culture, and tribal civilizations.
High-altitude Quito—the ancient Inca capital and one of the highest cities on Earth—is surrounded by volcanoes like Pichincha and Cotopaxi. Nearby lies the icy Limpiopungo Lake, where you can hear not only the calls of Andean birds, but the silence of space itself. Even higher is Quilotoa, a lake filling the crater of an extinct supervolcano.
And where the Andes end, another civilization begins—the Amazon. A world inhabited by the Achuar people and other guardians of the forest. We will reach their villages aboard small propeller planes. Here, the river is more important than the road, and the jungle is more than just forest—it's a biosphere, a mythology, and a school of coexistence with the living world.
Join us on this expedition!
High-altitude Quito—the ancient Inca capital and one of the highest cities on Earth—is surrounded by volcanoes like Pichincha and Cotopaxi. Nearby lies the icy Limpiopungo Lake, where you can hear not only the calls of Andean birds, but the silence of space itself. Even higher is Quilotoa, a lake filling the crater of an extinct supervolcano.
And where the Andes end, another civilization begins—the Amazon. A world inhabited by the Achuar people and other guardians of the forest. We will reach their villages aboard small propeller planes. Here, the river is more important than the road, and the jungle is more than just forest—it's a biosphere, a mythology, and a school of coexistence with the living world.
Join us on this expedition!
SCHEDULE AND COST:
Dates: May 2 - 11, 2026
*This itinerary connects seamlessly with the expedition to Peru (April 25 – May 2, 2026) and the expedition to the Galapagos Islands (May 11 – 15, 2026).
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 12
Price per person:
*10% early booking discount (in case you book before December 2, 2025)
**Children under 12 receive a 10% discount (this can be combined with the early booking discount).
All-inclusive except for:
Supplement for single occupancy: USD 550 (single rooms are provided throughout the itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to Ecuador
Day 1. May 2, 2026 (Friday). QUITO
We arrive in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, a city located at an altitude of 2850 meters above sea level. Quito is one of the highest cities in the world, famous for its well-preserved historic center. It was the first city in the world to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. After a transfer of about an hour, we check into the hotel. This day is free to acclimatize to the altitude, explore the surroundings, and enjoy the colonial city atmosphere.
Accommodation: Ikala Quito, Junior Suite room
Meals: none
*Recommended flights:
– LATAM Chile via Lima, departing from Cusco on May 1 at 6:05 AM, arriving in Quito at 12:20 PM on May 2,
– or any other flight from Cusco to Quito arriving at any time on May 2,
– or any other flight from any city arriving in Quito at any time on May 2.
Day 2. May 3, 2026 (Sunday). QUITO
After breakfast at the hotel, we have a full day exploring Quito. We start with a ride on the TelefériQo — one of the highest cable cars in the world, which takes us up to about 4000 meters above sea level. From here, on the slopes of Pichincha Volcano, there is a stunning view of the city and the surrounding majestic volcanoes: Cotopaxi, Antisana, and Cayambe.
Next, we visit Quito’s historic center, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial centers in Latin America. We will visit the famous San Francisco Church, one of the oldest churches in South America, and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús, renowned for its magnificent golden altar. Around the main Plaza Grande are the main buildings of the country: the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the City Hall. We also visit the finest example of colonial art in the city — the Jesuit temple with a facade covered in intricate carvings.
Quito, founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city, has the most well-preserved and least altered historic center in Latin America despite the 1917 earthquake. The architecture and rich interiors exemplify the Quito Art School, combining Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish, and indigenous arts. We will visit the Pre-Columbian Museum and have lunch in Quito’s central square.
In the afternoon, we go to Mitad del Mundo — the equator line. Here we visit the Intiñan Museum, where you can learn about the culture of Ecuador’s indigenous peoples and perform interesting equator-related experiments, like watching water swirl in different directions on either side of the equator line.
After an extended day (about 10 hours), we return to the hotel.
Accommodation: Ikala Quito, Junior Suite room
Meals: breakfast
Day 3. May 4, 2026 (Monday). QUITO – SHELL – KAPAWI (AMAZON)
Early morning departure from Quito. We travel south through a picturesque valley and take a new bypass road, leaving the city plateau behind. The route passes through high mountain valleys, volcanic silhouettes, and Andean towns: Tambillo, Latacunga, Ambato, Baños. The trip will take several hours.
Arrival in Shell at 11:00. Representatives of the Achuar people — the guardians of these lands — will meet us. Together, we board a small plane to fly over the vast carpet of rainforest to Kapawi Ecolodge. Upon arrival — check-in and a light jungle walk with local guides. Here we will first hear the sounds of the forest: buzzing, whistling, rustling — and learn to read the Amazon ecosystem like a living map. The walk lasts one to two hours, depending on weather.
In the afternoon, you may choose your own rest: swim or paddle right from the lodge dock, relax in a hammock by the water, or slowly get acquainted with camp life in the main zone where the bar, dining room, and lounge are located.
Dinner is prepared with local ingredients: fresh, aromatic, and with Amazonian character. After dinner, a meeting with the guide to discuss plans for tomorrow and first steps toward understanding Achuar culture.
Meals included: breakfast (breakfast boxes), lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
*Note: The Amazon climate is variable and may affect our schedule. If flying to the lodge is impossible on this day due to weather, we will accommodate you in a comfortable hotel in Puyo, the nearest town (only 10 minutes from Shell). The flight will be postponed to the next morning. Similarly, if weather prevents timely departure from Kapawi, you will stay an extra night at the lodge at no extra charge.
Day 4. May 5, 2026 (Tuesday). THE ACHUAR PEOPLE
Today we start getting acquainted with the Achuar tribe — known in Russian ethnography as the Jívaro (Hivaro). This legendary people of western Amazonia are among the most warrior-like tribes in history. They practiced the ritual of shrinking enemies’ heads — tsantsas — believing it preserved the defeated soul and strengthened the victor.
Studies suggest up to 70% of Hivaro men died in battle — the highest recorded warrior mortality rate in the world. These facts made the Hivaro a symbol of defiance and strength in Amazonian culture. Before dawn — the Wayus tradition begins around 4 AM in a special hut by the pier. It is not just tea. Wayusada is a ritual of awakening, inner cleansing, and family conversation. Each morning, the Achuar gather to drink a bitter Wayusa infusion, share dreams, and talk about the future. This is a priceless chance to touch the morning spirit of the people.
After sunrise — a walk along the river or jungle trails searching for birds, monkeys, and signs of nocturnal guests. Breakfast at 8:00 AM, outdoors, under the calls of toucans.
After breakfast — the jungle through Achuar eyes. We go deep into the jungle to understand how roots and crowns become medicine, food, tools, weapons, and homes. Our guide is a knowledge bearer, passing wisdom from generation to generation.
Lunch at the lodge.
In the afternoon — kayaking on the Kapawari River. We explore bays and lagoons searching for the pink river dolphin, a sacred creature in Achuar mythology. The water is calm as a mirror. Sometimes dolphins appear, sometimes not. But the journey is worth it.
After dinner — an evening jungle walk. The Amazon does not sleep. It changes skin. At night, frogs with acid colors, armored insects, and nocturnal predators take the stage. The walk lasts about an hour.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
Day 5. May 6, 2026 (Wednesday). ACHUAR COMMUNITY WAYUSENTSA
Early morning — optional Wayus ceremony. New dreams, stories, and conversations help deepen understanding of Achuar culture and worldview. After Wayusada, a boat trip to parrots on the Pastaza River. Usually, 4-6 different parrot species feed early in the morning on minerals and nutrients in the soil: chestnut macaws, dark-headed parrots, and Amazon parrots are commonly spotted from the boat. After returning — breakfast on the shore. Everything served is grown and gathered by local communities.
After breakfast, a visit to the Wayusentsa community — the heart of the Achuar people, about an hour by canoe. This ancient riverside village has about 180 inhabitants. We walk through the village and hike to a waterfall — about a two-hour route.
On the way back, a traditional wood-fired lunch with local ingredients and stories about the meaning and spirit of food. Optional opportunity to support the community by purchasing handmade crafts, fabrics, and jewelry. Return to the lodge by sunset. If weather permits, we watch the sunset from the water — drifting silently in a boat without a motor. Or by the campfire on the shore. Every evening at Kapawi, a fire is lit. Some come to warm up, others to quietly sit by the water, others go swimming in the Kapawari River. It’s safe and always accompanied by our guides.
After dinner — optional night boat ride.
A quiet, almost meditative journey upstream on the Kapawari. We drift in darkness to see the sky and listen to the jungle. Sometimes we spot caiman eyes reflecting in the water, bats, and night birds.
Note: Participation in ayahuasca ceremonies can involve psychological and physiological reactions. We strongly recommend consulting a doctor or specialist before deciding.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
Day 6. May 7, 2026 (Thursday). KAPAWI
After two full days of jungle, river, and community life immersion, today is free. The jungle is a living organism, changing every hour: maybe the fig trees are ripe, and wild fauna gathers; maybe a traditional ritual or festival is happening in a nearby village where we can participate.
You may spend the morning in a Wayus ritual, explore the jungle, float on the river, or dive into everyday community life. In the evening, when dusk colors the sky, we gather to share impressions and discuss important topics.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
Day 7. May 8, 2026 (Friday). KAPAWI – SHELL – BAÑOS
The morning begins with usual activities: an early walk, morning Wayus ritual, or nature watching. Breakfast at the lodge and then departure — around 10 AM we travel by boat upriver to the village of Kusutkau. From there, a short flight to Shell, arriving about 50 minutes later. Then we return to Baños.
In Baños, we walk to the "Pailón del Diablo" waterfall ("Devil’s Cauldron") — named after the cauldron-like shape of the waterfall and its turbulent water. We walk on suspension bridges and safe trails to see the waterfall from various angles.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Miramelindo Hotel
Day 8. May 9, 2026 (Saturday). BAÑOS – COTOPAXI
Breakfast at the hotel. We start with a sightseeing tour of Baños — a small tourist town with about 20,000 inhabitants, located at 1826 meters elevation. The climate is subtropical, with an average temperature around +20°C.
Baños is known for its hot springs and numerous waterfalls. Around the town stands the 5016-meter-high Tungurahua volcano. During the tour, we visit the main waterfalls of the region: Manto de la Novia, Agoyán, Casa del Árbol, and La Virgen — the latter within the town limits.
We will also visit the "Swing at the End of the World," and those interested can zipline over the Pastaza River canyon for an extra fee.
Lunch in a local cafe. In the afternoon, transfer from Baños to Cotopaxi National Park — about 2 hours. Overnight at around 2900 meters. Daytime temperature about +20°C, nighttime about +10°C.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Cuello de Luna Hotel 3*
Day 9. May 10, 2026 (Sunday). COTOPAXI – QUILOTOA – QUITO
Today promises an exciting journey into nature and culture! We begin by heading to Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador’s heart. Here, the majestic Cotopaxi volcano rises 5897 meters, and Limpiopungo Lake shines under the sun. The park covers 33,393 hectares, featuring volcanoes and highland landscapes where temperatures range from 18-20°C during the day to 3-4°C at night.
Records of Cotopaxi’s activity date back to 1534 when conquistadors arrived at what is now Ecuador. We will walk along Limpiopungo Lake, home to many birds, including 24 species of wetland birds, 15 migratory species, and the rare white-necked ibis — only about 100 exist. The most common mammal here is the wild rabbit. Four bio-regions can be distinguished within Cotopaxi National Park.
Then we visit the village of Tigua, famous for its art. At a local workshop, you can see and buy unique “naïve” style artworks painted on sheepskin. It’s a great chance to learn about local culture and bring home original souvenirs.
Next, we continue west to the Central Andes of Ecuador, traveling the “Pukili Path” route, passing through Quilotoa village. At the Quilotoa volcanic crater at 3914 meters, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the crater lake. Depending on mood and time, you can descend to the lake on mules or paddle a kayak. After a full day, we return to Quito. Dinner and overnight in Quito.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Ikala Quito 3* Junior Suite
Day 10. May 11, 2026 (Monday). QUITO – RETURN FLIGHT (OR FLIGHT TO THE GALÁPAGOS)
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Quito airport for the flight home.
Or, for those continuing to the Galápagos Islands, flight to Galápagos (Baltra airport). Flights to Galápagos are available between 6 and 8 AM, arriving at Baltra no later than 10:00 AM.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: none
Recommended international flights:
– Copa Airlines to Panama, departure from Quito at 14:52
– Avianca to Bogotá, departure at 10:15 AM
– Iberia to Madrid, departure at 18:05
– LATAM Chile to Bogotá, departure at 7:12 AM
– or any other suitable flight departing Quito on May 11
Recommended Galapagos flights:
– LATAM Chile from Quito at 6:51 AM, arriving in Baltra at 9:23 AM
– or any flight arriving in Baltra no later than 10:00 AM
Note: Weather conditions in the tropical rainforest are unpredictable and may cause flight delays. We recommend keeping one extra day in Quito after your stay at the lodge before continuing your travels or returning home, to avoid missing your connecting flight.
* Visits and excursions are subject to change depending on local conditions (road conditions, ferry/airline schedules and actual weather). If some visits and/or tours could not be realized due to external reasons, they will be replaced if possible.
*This itinerary connects seamlessly with the expedition to Peru (April 25 – May 2, 2026) and the expedition to the Galapagos Islands (May 11 – 15, 2026).
Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
Number of participants: 6 – 12
Price per person:
- USD 3,890 with 12 participants, or
- USD 4,090 with 10 – 11 participants, or
- USD 4,450 with 9 participants, or
- USD 4,650 with 7 – 8 participants.
*10% early booking discount (in case you book before December 2, 2025)
**Children under 12 receive a 10% discount (this can be combined with the early booking discount).
All-inclusive except for:
- International flights to and from Quito,
- Medical insurance,
- Meals not specified in the program.
Supplement for single occupancy: USD 550 (single rooms are provided throughout the itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour to Ecuador
Day 1. May 2, 2026 (Friday). QUITO
We arrive in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, a city located at an altitude of 2850 meters above sea level. Quito is one of the highest cities in the world, famous for its well-preserved historic center. It was the first city in the world to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. After a transfer of about an hour, we check into the hotel. This day is free to acclimatize to the altitude, explore the surroundings, and enjoy the colonial city atmosphere.
Accommodation: Ikala Quito, Junior Suite room
Meals: none
*Recommended flights:
– LATAM Chile via Lima, departing from Cusco on May 1 at 6:05 AM, arriving in Quito at 12:20 PM on May 2,
– or any other flight from Cusco to Quito arriving at any time on May 2,
– or any other flight from any city arriving in Quito at any time on May 2.
Day 2. May 3, 2026 (Sunday). QUITO
After breakfast at the hotel, we have a full day exploring Quito. We start with a ride on the TelefériQo — one of the highest cable cars in the world, which takes us up to about 4000 meters above sea level. From here, on the slopes of Pichincha Volcano, there is a stunning view of the city and the surrounding majestic volcanoes: Cotopaxi, Antisana, and Cayambe.
Next, we visit Quito’s historic center, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial centers in Latin America. We will visit the famous San Francisco Church, one of the oldest churches in South America, and the Church of La Compañía de Jesús, renowned for its magnificent golden altar. Around the main Plaza Grande are the main buildings of the country: the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the City Hall. We also visit the finest example of colonial art in the city — the Jesuit temple with a facade covered in intricate carvings.
Quito, founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca city, has the most well-preserved and least altered historic center in Latin America despite the 1917 earthquake. The architecture and rich interiors exemplify the Quito Art School, combining Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish, and indigenous arts. We will visit the Pre-Columbian Museum and have lunch in Quito’s central square.
In the afternoon, we go to Mitad del Mundo — the equator line. Here we visit the Intiñan Museum, where you can learn about the culture of Ecuador’s indigenous peoples and perform interesting equator-related experiments, like watching water swirl in different directions on either side of the equator line.
After an extended day (about 10 hours), we return to the hotel.
Accommodation: Ikala Quito, Junior Suite room
Meals: breakfast
Day 3. May 4, 2026 (Monday). QUITO – SHELL – KAPAWI (AMAZON)
Early morning departure from Quito. We travel south through a picturesque valley and take a new bypass road, leaving the city plateau behind. The route passes through high mountain valleys, volcanic silhouettes, and Andean towns: Tambillo, Latacunga, Ambato, Baños. The trip will take several hours.
Arrival in Shell at 11:00. Representatives of the Achuar people — the guardians of these lands — will meet us. Together, we board a small plane to fly over the vast carpet of rainforest to Kapawi Ecolodge. Upon arrival — check-in and a light jungle walk with local guides. Here we will first hear the sounds of the forest: buzzing, whistling, rustling — and learn to read the Amazon ecosystem like a living map. The walk lasts one to two hours, depending on weather.
In the afternoon, you may choose your own rest: swim or paddle right from the lodge dock, relax in a hammock by the water, or slowly get acquainted with camp life in the main zone where the bar, dining room, and lounge are located.
Dinner is prepared with local ingredients: fresh, aromatic, and with Amazonian character. After dinner, a meeting with the guide to discuss plans for tomorrow and first steps toward understanding Achuar culture.
Meals included: breakfast (breakfast boxes), lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
*Note: The Amazon climate is variable and may affect our schedule. If flying to the lodge is impossible on this day due to weather, we will accommodate you in a comfortable hotel in Puyo, the nearest town (only 10 minutes from Shell). The flight will be postponed to the next morning. Similarly, if weather prevents timely departure from Kapawi, you will stay an extra night at the lodge at no extra charge.
Day 4. May 5, 2026 (Tuesday). THE ACHUAR PEOPLE
Today we start getting acquainted with the Achuar tribe — known in Russian ethnography as the Jívaro (Hivaro). This legendary people of western Amazonia are among the most warrior-like tribes in history. They practiced the ritual of shrinking enemies’ heads — tsantsas — believing it preserved the defeated soul and strengthened the victor.
Studies suggest up to 70% of Hivaro men died in battle — the highest recorded warrior mortality rate in the world. These facts made the Hivaro a symbol of defiance and strength in Amazonian culture. Before dawn — the Wayus tradition begins around 4 AM in a special hut by the pier. It is not just tea. Wayusada is a ritual of awakening, inner cleansing, and family conversation. Each morning, the Achuar gather to drink a bitter Wayusa infusion, share dreams, and talk about the future. This is a priceless chance to touch the morning spirit of the people.
After sunrise — a walk along the river or jungle trails searching for birds, monkeys, and signs of nocturnal guests. Breakfast at 8:00 AM, outdoors, under the calls of toucans.
After breakfast — the jungle through Achuar eyes. We go deep into the jungle to understand how roots and crowns become medicine, food, tools, weapons, and homes. Our guide is a knowledge bearer, passing wisdom from generation to generation.
Lunch at the lodge.
In the afternoon — kayaking on the Kapawari River. We explore bays and lagoons searching for the pink river dolphin, a sacred creature in Achuar mythology. The water is calm as a mirror. Sometimes dolphins appear, sometimes not. But the journey is worth it.
After dinner — an evening jungle walk. The Amazon does not sleep. It changes skin. At night, frogs with acid colors, armored insects, and nocturnal predators take the stage. The walk lasts about an hour.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
Day 5. May 6, 2026 (Wednesday). ACHUAR COMMUNITY WAYUSENTSA
Early morning — optional Wayus ceremony. New dreams, stories, and conversations help deepen understanding of Achuar culture and worldview. After Wayusada, a boat trip to parrots on the Pastaza River. Usually, 4-6 different parrot species feed early in the morning on minerals and nutrients in the soil: chestnut macaws, dark-headed parrots, and Amazon parrots are commonly spotted from the boat. After returning — breakfast on the shore. Everything served is grown and gathered by local communities.
After breakfast, a visit to the Wayusentsa community — the heart of the Achuar people, about an hour by canoe. This ancient riverside village has about 180 inhabitants. We walk through the village and hike to a waterfall — about a two-hour route.
On the way back, a traditional wood-fired lunch with local ingredients and stories about the meaning and spirit of food. Optional opportunity to support the community by purchasing handmade crafts, fabrics, and jewelry. Return to the lodge by sunset. If weather permits, we watch the sunset from the water — drifting silently in a boat without a motor. Or by the campfire on the shore. Every evening at Kapawi, a fire is lit. Some come to warm up, others to quietly sit by the water, others go swimming in the Kapawari River. It’s safe and always accompanied by our guides.
After dinner — optional night boat ride.
A quiet, almost meditative journey upstream on the Kapawari. We drift in darkness to see the sky and listen to the jungle. Sometimes we spot caiman eyes reflecting in the water, bats, and night birds.
- Optional ayahuasca ceremony today (extra charge).
- We offer the chance to participate in a ceremony with an experienced Achuar shaman.
Note: Participation in ayahuasca ceremonies can involve psychological and physiological reactions. We strongly recommend consulting a doctor or specialist before deciding.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
Day 6. May 7, 2026 (Thursday). KAPAWI
After two full days of jungle, river, and community life immersion, today is free. The jungle is a living organism, changing every hour: maybe the fig trees are ripe, and wild fauna gathers; maybe a traditional ritual or festival is happening in a nearby village where we can participate.
You may spend the morning in a Wayus ritual, explore the jungle, float on the river, or dive into everyday community life. In the evening, when dusk colors the sky, we gather to share impressions and discuss important topics.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Kapawi Ecolodge
Day 7. May 8, 2026 (Friday). KAPAWI – SHELL – BAÑOS
The morning begins with usual activities: an early walk, morning Wayus ritual, or nature watching. Breakfast at the lodge and then departure — around 10 AM we travel by boat upriver to the village of Kusutkau. From there, a short flight to Shell, arriving about 50 minutes later. Then we return to Baños.
In Baños, we walk to the "Pailón del Diablo" waterfall ("Devil’s Cauldron") — named after the cauldron-like shape of the waterfall and its turbulent water. We walk on suspension bridges and safe trails to see the waterfall from various angles.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Miramelindo Hotel
Day 8. May 9, 2026 (Saturday). BAÑOS – COTOPAXI
Breakfast at the hotel. We start with a sightseeing tour of Baños — a small tourist town with about 20,000 inhabitants, located at 1826 meters elevation. The climate is subtropical, with an average temperature around +20°C.
Baños is known for its hot springs and numerous waterfalls. Around the town stands the 5016-meter-high Tungurahua volcano. During the tour, we visit the main waterfalls of the region: Manto de la Novia, Agoyán, Casa del Árbol, and La Virgen — the latter within the town limits.
We will also visit the "Swing at the End of the World," and those interested can zipline over the Pastaza River canyon for an extra fee.
Lunch in a local cafe. In the afternoon, transfer from Baños to Cotopaxi National Park — about 2 hours. Overnight at around 2900 meters. Daytime temperature about +20°C, nighttime about +10°C.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Cuello de Luna Hotel 3*
Day 9. May 10, 2026 (Sunday). COTOPAXI – QUILOTOA – QUITO
Today promises an exciting journey into nature and culture! We begin by heading to Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador’s heart. Here, the majestic Cotopaxi volcano rises 5897 meters, and Limpiopungo Lake shines under the sun. The park covers 33,393 hectares, featuring volcanoes and highland landscapes where temperatures range from 18-20°C during the day to 3-4°C at night.
Records of Cotopaxi’s activity date back to 1534 when conquistadors arrived at what is now Ecuador. We will walk along Limpiopungo Lake, home to many birds, including 24 species of wetland birds, 15 migratory species, and the rare white-necked ibis — only about 100 exist. The most common mammal here is the wild rabbit. Four bio-regions can be distinguished within Cotopaxi National Park.
Then we visit the village of Tigua, famous for its art. At a local workshop, you can see and buy unique “naïve” style artworks painted on sheepskin. It’s a great chance to learn about local culture and bring home original souvenirs.
Next, we continue west to the Central Andes of Ecuador, traveling the “Pukili Path” route, passing through Quilotoa village. At the Quilotoa volcanic crater at 3914 meters, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the crater lake. Depending on mood and time, you can descend to the lake on mules or paddle a kayak. After a full day, we return to Quito. Dinner and overnight in Quito.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Ikala Quito 3* Junior Suite
Day 10. May 11, 2026 (Monday). QUITO – RETURN FLIGHT (OR FLIGHT TO THE GALÁPAGOS)
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Quito airport for the flight home.
Or, for those continuing to the Galápagos Islands, flight to Galápagos (Baltra airport). Flights to Galápagos are available between 6 and 8 AM, arriving at Baltra no later than 10:00 AM.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: none
Recommended international flights:
– Copa Airlines to Panama, departure from Quito at 14:52
– Avianca to Bogotá, departure at 10:15 AM
– Iberia to Madrid, departure at 18:05
– LATAM Chile to Bogotá, departure at 7:12 AM
– or any other suitable flight departing Quito on May 11
Recommended Galapagos flights:
– LATAM Chile from Quito at 6:51 AM, arriving in Baltra at 9:23 AM
– or any flight arriving in Baltra no later than 10:00 AM
Note: Weather conditions in the tropical rainforest are unpredictable and may cause flight delays. We recommend keeping one extra day in Quito after your stay at the lodge before continuing your travels or returning home, to avoid missing your connecting flight.
* Visits and excursions are subject to change depending on local conditions (road conditions, ferry/airline schedules and actual weather). If some visits and/or tours could not be realized due to external reasons, they will be replaced if possible.
Cost includes:
- Charter flight Shell – Kapawi – Shell
- All transfers on the route: Mercedes Sprinter / Mitsubishi Rosa / Hyundai County depending on the number of passengers, traditional boats
- Accommodation in hotels (double occupancy)
- Accommodation in Kapawi Lodge (double occupancy), bungalows with bathroom, terrace, and solar power
- Breakfasts throughout the itinerary
- Three meals a day in the Amazon and meals as per the program
- Clean drinking water in the Amazon
- All excursions and activities according to the program
- Entrance fees and permits for visiting natural areas and communities
- Financial support for communities, payment for local guides
- Services of a Russian-speaking guide and Russian-English speaking team leader on the mainland, and an English-speaking guide and Russian-English speaking team leader in the Amazon
Cost excludes(to be additionally paid):
- International flights to and from Quito
- Medical insurance
- Visa (not required for Russian citizens)
- Meals not specified in the program
- Water and drinks outside the Amazon
- Soft and alcoholic drinks
- Personal expenses, souvenirs, tips
- Single room supplement
- Additional excursions and unlisted services
- Ayahuasca ceremony (on request)
To take with:
- Colored copy of passport and original
- Backpack, duffel bag/suitcase (allowed luggage for Amazon – 11 kg)
- Light daypack for daily outings
- 2–3 sets of clothes: pants, long-sleeve shirts, T-shirts
- Fleece jacket, light jacket, warm jacket for highlands
- Raincoat, shorts, swimsuit, sun hat or cap
- Trekking shoes, sneakers (*rubber boots available at the lodge up to size 44)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen
- Personal first aid kit: painkillers, antiseptics, antibiotics, medication for stomach upset, oral rehydration salts, necessary personal medicines
- Repellents, mosquito net, antimalarial prophylaxis (at participant’s discretion)
- Headlamp + batteries, flask or water bottle
- Waterproof document cover
- Photo and video equipment, extra batteries, memory cards, power bank
- Personal hygiene items: soap, shampoo (preferably biodegradable), toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, tissues
- Binoculars (preferably waterproof, 10×40)
- Snacks (chocolate, candy, etc.), notebook, pencil, book, pocket knife
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbs are tested by Mzungu himself and guided by seasoned team-leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - REASONABLE PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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