A multi-day journey through hot springs, jungle rivers, waterfalls and Andean volcanoes

This 6-day journey is designed to balance adrenaline, nature, and recovery. You’ll move through rivers, caves, waterfalls, rainforest and high-Andean landscapes, combining active adventure with moments of rest and immersion.

Each day offers a different way to experience Ecuador — physically, culturally, and sensorially — while maintaining a natural rhythm that allows you to enjoy each place without rushing.

You can choose between Adventure Class and First Class, depending on your preferred level of comfort.

Activities & Highlights

  • White-water rafting

  • Canopy zip-lining

  • Caving (Jumandy Caves)

  • Waterfall hikes and canyoning

  • Hot springs & natural spas

  • Trekking in Andean landscapes (Cotopaxi area)

  • Birdwatching and rainforest exploration

  • Local gastronomy experiences, including traditional dishes such as maito, potato soup, and regional specialties

PLACES

PAPALLACTA, TENA, MISAHUALLI, BAÑOS, COTOPAXI, PUYO

WEAR

Clothes for very cold and very warm, Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking boots, hat, jacket, sunscreen, swimsuit.

COST

$ 1,600 USD per person,  in Tourist Class accommodation

$ 2,200 USD per person, in First class accommodation.

INCLUDED

Escorted tour with driver guide english speaker
All adventure gear
Private Transportation
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
5 nights of accommodation

NOT INCLUDED

Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, personal expenses
Tips, Survenirs, additional drinks.

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Diego Altamirano
Galapagos Island Hopping 6-days

The Ecuador Adventure Loop – 6 Days/5 Nights.

ITINERARY ULTIMATE ECUADOR ADVENTURE 6D/5N 
Day 1: PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS – GUANGO BIRD RESERVE – JUMANDY CAVES.
Day 2: RAFTING JATUNYACU RIVER – MISAHUALLI
Day 3: ZIPLINING – BAñOS DE AGUA SANTA.
Day 4: TOUR ALONG WATERFALLS ROAD – DEVIL’S THROAT HIKE.
Day 5: CANYONING – BAÑOS SIGHTSEEN
Day 6: HIKE IN THE COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK – QUITO

DAY 1: Papallacta Hot Springs – Guango Bird Reserve – Jumandy Caves

In the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Quito and drive east toward the Amazon basin, crossing the high Andes and descending into lush cloud forest landscapes.

Our first stop is Papallacta, where we enjoy views of the surrounding páramo and hot spring area (short visit). We then continue to Guango Bird Reserve, a paradise for bird lovers and home to dozens of hummingbird species.

After lunch in Baeza, we head to the Jumandy Caves, named after the Indigenous leader Jumandy, who led resistance against the Spanish conquest. Inside the caves, we walk and swim through underground passages filled with impressive stalactites and rock formations. You may also enjoy a traditional clay facial treatment and rinse off beneath a small waterfall — a refreshing and playful way to connect with the environment.

Overnight near Tena.
Meals included:
Hostel class: L
Tourist & First class: B, L, D


DAY 2: Jatunyacu River Rafting – Misahuallí

After breakfast, we begin the day with an exciting rafting adventure on the Jatunyacu River (Class III) — one of the most scenic rivers in Ecuador. Expect fun rapids, big waves, and lush jungle surroundings. Lunch is served by the river.

In the afternoon, we visit Misahuallí, a riverside town near the Napo River. Here, we explore a local Kichwa community, observe daily life, and learn about traditional foods such as maito and chicha de yuca. You may also see capuchin monkeys in the central park and browse handcrafted souvenirs made by local women.

Overnight near Tena.
Meals included:
Hostel class: B, L
Tourist & First class: B, L, D


DAY 3: Ziplining – Baños de Agua Santa

After breakfast, we drive toward Baños de Agua Santa, passing through the Amazon foothills and the town of Puyo.

Along the Route of the Waterfalls, we stop for a thrilling ziplining experience featuring multiple cables stretching across canyons, rivers, and waterfalls, surrounded by tropical vegetation.

In the evening, enjoy free time in Baños. Optional activities include visiting the thermal baths, exploring the town, or enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Baños.
Meals included:
Hostel & Tourist class: B, L
First class: B, L, D


DAY 4: Waterfalls Road – Pailón del Diablo Hike

Today we explore the famous Avenue of the Waterfalls, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. We hike down to the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, one of Ecuador’s most powerful and iconic waterfalls, and cross suspension bridges and a cable car for spectacular canyon views.

Back in Baños, the afternoon is free. Optional spa treatments or a relaxing walk through town are great ways to unwind.

Overnight in Baños.
Meals included:
Hostel & Tourist class: B, L
First class: B, L, D


DAY 5: Canyoning – Baños City Time

After breakfast, we gear up for canyoning, one of Baños’ signature adventure activities. Guided by certified local experts, we rappel down waterfalls and navigate canyon routes in a safe and controlled environment.

The afternoon is free to explore Baños at your own pace — cafés, viewpoints, or simply resting after an active morning.

Overnight in Baños.
Meals included: B, L


DAY 6: Cotopaxi National Park

After breakfast, we drive back toward Quito, stopping at Cotopaxi National Park. We visit Limpiopungo Lagoon and enjoy views of Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, surrounded by classic Andean highland scenery.

After the visit, we continue to Quito and drop you off at your hotel.

Meals included: B

Activity Level: Moderate to Challenging
This journey includes rafting, canyoning, hiking, and ziplining. A good level of physical fitness is recommended to fully enjoy all activities.

Travel Style: Active Adventure – Custom Comfort

This journey is designed for active travelers who enjoy nature, movement, and variety. Accommodation is selected based on group size, travel style, and comfort preference — ranging from family-run lodges to comfortable boutique hotels.

We adapt the experience to couples, families, or small groups without compromising the essence of the journey.

Plan this journey

Have a question? Get in touch

This journey is part of our Signature Adventure collection and can be adapted to your pace, comfort level, and travel style.

If this experience resonates with you, feel free to reach out. We’ll review your ideas, answer your questions, and explore whether this adventure is the right fit for you.

Please use the form below to tell us a bit about what you’re looking for.

You can also reach us at:  info@barefootexpeditions.com

 

Thanks!

Your Barefoot Team

Hikers exploring the Andean highlands along the Adventure Loop with Barefoot Expeditions, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.
Papallacta Hot Springs
Papallacta Cabins
Canyoning banos
pailon del diablo banos
Making Chicha
potato soup
canyoning barefoot
Banos Casa del Arbol
tungurahua
Rafting Jatunyacu
antisana