Central and South America

Exploring the Ecosystems of Ecuador

Duration:
11 Days
Price:
From $2,995
Interests:
Student Travel
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Cloud forest near Mindo
Blow gun practice in Ahuano village
Blue-footed booby on Isla de la Plata
Isla de la Plata is also known as Silver Island
La Casa de Suizo on Rio Napo
Rescued Ocelot at Amazoonico
Quito, Ecuador's capital
Rio Napo sunset
School visit
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Organize This Trip

About this trip

While known for the Galápagos Islands, the often-overlooked mainland of Ecuador is a dream for educators and students looking to bring concepts of culture and biodiversity alive. Immerse yourself in diverse indigenous cultures and unique wildlife in the Amazon, explore cloud forest ecology at Mindo Reserve, discover the species of the Galápagos at a fraction of the cost at Isla de la Plata, and hike through tropical dry forest at Machalilla National Park. Along the way, your students will contribute to service projects and meet with local conservationists and researchers to gain a deeper understanding of Ecuador’s natural and cultural heritage.

Highlights

  • Compare and contrast several distinct ecosystems, including rainforest, cloud forest, and tropical dry forest.
  • Experience full immersion in Amazonian Indigenous culture at a Quichua community.
  • Learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of injured wild animals at the Amazoonico Center.
  • Travel by boat to Isla de la Plata and observe many of the species associated with the Galápagos, like Blue-footed Boobies, sea lions, and even whales.
  • Participate in a beach clean-up effort working with local volunteers at Los Frailes Beach.
  • Work alongside NGO researchers and help collect data on marine biodiversity.
8 Travelers

$3,595

Land Cost

Group size

Book 7 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

16 Travelers

$3,150

Land Cost

Group size

Book 14 travelers and 2 group
leaders travel for free

24 Travelers

$2,995

Land Cost

Group size

Book 21 travelers and 3 group
leaders travel for free

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Custom-tailored Trips

At Holbrook Travel we can customize any itinerary to meet the needs and goals of your group.

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Meals included

Other travel providers cut costs by not including meals, leaving you to coordinate where your group will be eating. We arrange meals for your group that are both delicious and typical of the local cuisine

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Quito
Day 1
Arrive in Quito late in the evening. Transfer to Hotel. Welcome to Ecuador, one the 17 countries in the world declared as Mega diverse. Despite its small size Ecuador possesses an extraordinary biodiversity; it has the largest number of plants, invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish and mammals per square kilometer in the world and is the second country with the highest diversity of endemic vertebrates. Settle in at the hotel and rest in preparation for tomorrow's journey to Antisana.
Rincon de Puembo
Quito
Day 2
This morning have breakfast and an orientation to the program and then check-out of the hotel and depart to Antisana Ecological Reserve. Antisana is situated along the edge of the Amazon prairie forming a corridor that connects Cayambe-Coca Reserve and the Sumaco Napo Galeras National Park. Today receive an introduction to the ecosystems of Ecuador while exploring some of the parks almost 300,000 acres of flora and fauna. The park consists of a variety of ecological zones ranging from páramo to lowland rainforest and boasts spectacular views of the snow-capped Antisana Volcano, the fourth highest peak in Ecuador with an altitude of almost 19,000 feet. Later this afternoon transfer to Papallacta, situated on the along the entrance of the Amazon basin, for overnight. Dinner at the hotel this evening and time to enjoy the on site thermally heated hot springs.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Termales de Papallacta Cabinas
Amazonia
Day 3
After breakfast transfer to Casa del Suizo. The drive provides several stops to photograph the lush green valleys and sparkling waterfalls along the route from the scenic highlands into Amazonia. The road ends at Punta Ahuano, a tiny port town on the Napo River, where canoes will be waiting. After taking a 15 minute ride downstream, arrive to Casa del Suizo in time for lunch. In the afternoon, discover traditional Quichua culture in the village of Ahuano, where a local host will show you how to make the beverage chichi and demonstrate spiritual cleansing rituals. Before dinner, participate in a blowgun target shooting contest. This evening have an orientation with a local naturalist and prepare for tomorrow's activities.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa del Suizo
Amazonia
Day 4
Begin with breakfast before boarding a dugout canoe and traveling approximately 20 minutes down the Napo River to Cosano for a rainforest hike. As you walk through the primary rainforest, observe tropical birds and wildlife and learn about the surrounding vegetation. The guides will demonstrate traditional hunting traps used by natives to catch animals. Next visit Amazoonico, a center seeking to rehabilitate and reintroduce wild animals victims of traffic to their natural habitats, take care of those who can't be released and offer environmental education to visitors. Once at the center you will enjoy a talk about the different threats wild animals face and the work the center does in order to release animals back in their natural environment. Environmental Education activities will be held during your visit. Enjoy box lunch in the jungle. In the afternoon continue to a local community where you will learn about the chocolate, starting with the process to cultivate the cacao and how to transfer it into chocolate. This evening discuss today's observations and prepare for tomorrow's journey to the cloud forest.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa del Suizo
Amazonia
Day 5
Start the day trekking through primary and secondary forest trails, observing different species of birds, insects, and plants. The guides will point out plants that are used as medicine and in construction. After a picnic lunch, set up transects for biodiversity counts. Follow the steps of de Francisco de Orellana, who, in the XVI century, discovered the Amazon River using the same technique that indigenous communities have used during centuries to build a raft. Build your own raft! And navigate through the river accompanied by your local guides who will assist you through this adventure. In the afternoon you can visit the Mariposario to see a variety of butterflies. Or enjoy a safe canoe ride to see Caimans. This evening discuss today's observations and prepare for tomorrow's journey to the cloud forest.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa del Suizo
Quito
Day 6
This morning final activities exploring Casa del Suizo and then after lunch return to Quito. Later this afternoon have an orientation to prepare for the cloud forest tomorrow.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Rincon de Puembo
Mindo Cloudforest
Day 7
This morning transfer to the mist shrouded realm of the Mindo Cloudforest. Check-in at Sachatamia Lodge and Reserve. This private, ecological reserve protects a combination 300 acres of pristine cloudforest, recuperated forest, and forest undergoing processes of reforestation. Tonight have an evening discussion to compare and contrast the cloud forest and rainforest ecosystems.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Sachatamia
Machalilla
Day 8
Depart Sachatamia and head to the Pacific coast. Be prepared for a long journey, as the driving time is approximately 7 to 8 hours including stops en route. Along the journey you will witness a transition in the vegetation, from cloud forest to tropical humid forest and finally to tropical dry vegetation at Machalilla National Park. En route stop at a modern agro business farm to learn about the plantation and harvesting process in the coastal region of Ecuador. Continue to the charming town of Ayampe on the Pacific coast. This evening your local naturalist will help prepare students for important observations and other activities tomorrow.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Finca Punta Ayampe
Machalilla
Day 9
Early wake up to join the volunteers of Equilibrio Azul to monitor fishery activities at the beach. Learn about the artisanal fishery and the destructive fishing practices that still handled by some local fisherman. Help volunteers to collect all the necessary information and data for their research. Continue to the NGO headquarters to enjoy a typical costeño breakfast. Continue to visit the Machalilla National Park one the largest tropical dry forest on the coast of Ecuador. Arrive at Los Frailes beach to Help local volunteers with beach cleaning Return to the hotel to freshen up. Dinner at the hotel. Enjoy an integration night with the volunteers, learn to dance Salsa!
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Finca Punta Ayampe
Machalilla
Day 10
Begin with a drive to Puerto Lopez, where you will board a boat and take a two hour journey to Isla de la Plata. Isla de la Plata, also known as Silver Island, is nicknamed the poor man's Galápagos because many of the iconic species of the islands can be found here, including Red-footed Boobies, Blue-footed Boobies, and sea lions. Upon arrival, begin a hike and explore the flora and fauna. After a boxed lunch, participate in whale and dolphin watching during the return to the mainland. This evening continue the discussion on conservation efforts in Ecuador and compare and contrast ecosystems while integrating human population effects.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Finca Punta Ayampe
Day 11
Visit Escuela de Ayampe to sample local education. Donate any school supplies brought on the trip and experience a traditional dance performance by local school children. This afternoon drive south along Ruta del Sol towards Guayaquil.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
8 Travelers

$3,595

Land Cost

Group size

Book 7 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

16 Travelers

$3,150

Land Cost

Group size

Book 14 travelers and 2 group
leaders travel for free

24 Travelers

$2,995

Land Cost

Group size

Book 21 travelers and 3 group
leaders travel for free

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Travel protection, post departure coverage, excludes trip cancellation
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Trip cancellation coverage
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Aug 1, 2024 - Dec 31, 2025. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Ecuador. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure.

For visits fewer than 90 days, visas will be issued upon arrival in Ecuador. Tourists may be required to provide evidence of return or onwards travel.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Ecuador for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Ecuador (unless you are arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccine is required).

The CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Ecuador.

Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Ecuador, especially east of the Andes at elevations below 7,546 feet. The CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine if you are traveling to these areas.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that malaria is a risk in certain parts of Ecuador, primarily at elevations below 5,000 feet. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. There is no vaccine to prevent against malaria. In some areas of Ecuador (particularly in parts of the Ecuadorian Amazon), the CDC recommends the use of anti-malarial drugs combined with mosquito avoidance; in other regions, they recommend mosquito avoidance only. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later). If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, please consult your physician.

Dengue Fever & other insect-borne illnesses

The CDC warns that dengue fever is a potential risk in Ecuador. In addition, locally transmitted cases of Zika virus, chikungunya, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against mosquito bites. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Upon arrival at locations of high elevation, shortness of breath and a pounding heart are normal responses to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors, these symptoms can deteriorate into altitude sickness. Headache, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite are standard symptoms. Staying hydrated and well rested is important to adjust to the altitude. Avoiding heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arriving to altitude can help. Over-the-counter medications are also available to help prevent or alleviate symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid sleep medications, as they can slow breathing and respiration, which aid in getting the blood oxygenated while sleeping. Participants who take blood pressure medications should discuss this with their doctor as the medication can drop pressure too low at times.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. The rainy season in the Ecuadorian Amazon is October to May, but it can rain at any time. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

At higher elevations, warm clothing is strongly recommended. Temperatures can get quite chilly, especially at night and early in the morning. Consider packing a warm underlayer, as well as a warm, protective outer layer.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection, suitable for layering
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection; warmer long pants for the cooler highlands
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s)
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – You’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes or boots suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. You may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes for the beach.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and in consideration of your fellow travelers.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics
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