• Parque Nacional Cayambe-Coca - Departure is scheduled for 7:00 am. Approximately 65 km (41 miles) east of Quito, the road leads to the high-altitude paramo at Papallacta, a habitat reminiscent of tundra. On clear days, the panoramic views of the surroundings and various volcanoes are stunning; a stop at the pass offers one of the best opportunities to photograph the snow-covered Antisana Volcano as it majestically rises above the mountains. The areas around Quito offer diverse opportunities to spot wild bears and other iconic wildlife, with a good chance of close encounters. Bears are often found in the cloud forests and paramos (highlands) around the Quito District. In the paramo, northeast of Quito, there is an increased likelihood of encountering bears and other Andean wildlife, sometimes close enough for excellent views and photographs. The area to explore includes the surroundings of two national parks with special natural feeding sites where bears are frequently present throughout the year.
• Rio Quijos Eco Lodge - Later, the journey continues towards one of the most remarkable ecosystems in the Tropical Andes, surrounded by forested mountains and traversed by a refreshing network of rivers that flow into the mighty Amazon basin. Today, different reserves in the Quijos Valley will be explored. An incredible variety of hummingbird species will make this an unforgettable experience. Green-backed Hillstar, Violet-fronted Brilliant, Peruvian-booted Racket-tail, Gorgeted Woodstar, Bronzy Inca, and Tawny-bellied Hermit, among other species, are commonly found in various locations within this valley. This area serves as a crucial continuous corridor between the Andes and the expansive tropical rainforest of the Amazon Region. Due to its equatorial location, steep Andean foothills, and proximity to the Amazon, the Quijos Valley area boasts one of the richest diversity records in the world.

• Lunch

• Gratuities

Venture into an unparalleled journey throughout different ecosystems in the Andean Eastern Slopes, from a high altitude tundra-like habitat to lush green vast mountainous rainforest. Witness the origin of the exceptional water path between the Andes and the refreshing network of rivers that actually flows to the mighty Amazon basin. This area acts as a very important continuous corridor between the Andes and the vast tropical rainforest of the Amazon Region. Due to its location on the Equator, the steep Andean foothills, and the close proximity of the Amazon, the Quijos Valley area hosts one of the richest diversity records in the world.
Our specialized guides will make sure that you get the best out of this day. They all know the right places to increase your chances to admire some of the most emblematic species of flora and fauna. You’ll even take time to search for Andean Bears along the way. An amazing diversity of hummingbird species will also make this a memorable experience.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.