Included: An experienced, certified AJ adventure trip leader with extensive knowledge of the area and local guides 8-day Ecuador multisport adventure and all the activities as outlined in the itinerary 3 hours hiking in Cotopaxi National Park in the Andes 3 hours biking in the Llanganates National Park 4 hours white-water rafting on Jatunyacu River in the Amazon rainforest 3 hours canyoning at Pimpilala waterfalls Bird watching and hiking exploration in the cloud forest Soaking in Papallacta hot springs 5 hours trekking the loop of Cuicocha Crater Lake Share time with local indigenous people in the Amazon, making chocolate Accommodation for 7 nights, based on double occupancy, as in the itinerary Private & comfortable land transportation Meals as outlined in the itinerary (7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner) Black Diamond trekking sticks Bikes for Day 3 (Trek X Caliber MTB (hydraulic disc brakes, front Rock Shock suspension), Bontrager helmets, full finger gloves) Rubber boots, ropes, and harnesses for canyoning Aire and NRS 7-people rafts, NRS life jackets, NRS paddles, and splash jackets for rafting Add-ons Single occupancy room (available at checkout) Not included: Flights to Ecuador Airport transfers Meals not outlined in the itinerary Guide, drivers, and hotel gratuities — optional Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout

How fit do I need to be?

If you’d like to join this multisport adventure in Ecuador, a basic level of fitness is required . Keep in mind that you’ll be hiking, biking, canyoning, and rafting during the course of a week , meaning that this will be a very active vacation! Still, all these activities aren’t particularly exhausting nor do they require specific skills, so this adventure is beginner-friendly! Check out the itinerary for day-by-day activities and distances, and see if you’re comfortable with it all.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag) Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Fleece Hat Buff Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket and pants Shorts Tennis shoes Binoculars Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For these Ecuador multisport adventures, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 16:1. It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 16 participants. Solo travelers can share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. If there’s no one to share a room with, paying the single occupancy fee will later on be required. Ecuador multisport adventures can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the adventure on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this Ecuador adventure tour is based on twin-share rooms , but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee . You can add it to your booking at checkout. Solo travelers are welcome —they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. If there’s no one to share a room with, paying the single occupancy fee will later on be required.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Ecuador multisport tour is Quito, Ecuador. To get there, most people fly into Quito Airport (UIO) . From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach the city. Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 6pm in the hotel lobby.

What about Ecuador's entry requirements?

All travellers entering/departing Ecuador and the Galapagos must complete the Customs Registration Form (FRA) digitally and in advance. This is a mandatory requirement by Ecuador’s National Customs Service (SENAE). Failure to present the FRA may result in penalties. How to complete the FRA: Visit the official website: https://www.aduana.gob.ec/ Go to: Servicio al Ciudadano → Para viajeros: Formulario de Registro Aduanero Create an account using your ID or passport number and a password. Complete the form (entry or exit) with your personal information and, if necessary, declare any goods. Once submitted, you’ll receive a QR code which you must present during customs control. The FRA can be submitted up to 3 days before your travel date.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

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QUITO | ECUADOR

Ecuador Multisport Adventure

8 days | Easy | 5.00

From $1,590 ()

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This 8-day active adventure is a deep dive into the heart of Ecuador, and each new day brings something different and unique in its own way. Landscapes and views shift dramatically here—from the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the steamy depths of the Amazon rainforest, we’ll hike, pedal, canyon, and raft. One day we’ll be exploring the otherworldly Avenue of Volcanoes, the other we’ll be relaxing in the hot springs of Papallacta. But it’s not all about the views—we’ll also meet an indigenous family in the Amazon, learn about their customs, food, knowledge, and lifestyle. All those searching for an active holiday blended with culture, this is an incredible chance to find out what makes Ecuador truly one of a kind!

Adventure Highlights

Hiking, cycling, canyoning, rafting: Truly unique adventure in Ecuador, the land of contrasts, which we’ll discover with all kinds of activities
Cultural immersion: Learn about traditions, customs, and way of life of local people
Cotopaxi hiking: Hike the slopes of one of the world’s highest active volcanoes

Duration

8 days

Season

Year-round

Group size

Up to 16 people

Accommodation

Standard, Comfort, Luxury: Hotels & homestays

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Ecuador is a land of contrasts, and this 8-day active adventure reveals its stunning diversity! From the Andean highlands to the lush Amazon basin, each day brings a new thrill. We’ll start by hiking volcanic peaks and biking through cloud forests, then embrace the vibrant culture of Quito before heading into the wilds of the Amazon. We will explore rainforests, raft along white-water rivers, and explore ancient Inca ruins. All activities are organized, all accommodations and logistics arranged—all you’ve got to do is show up!

Day 1: Welcome to Quito!

Welcome to Quito! The largest and best-preserved colonial city in the Americas was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Often considered the Cultural Capital of South America and the second most important city of the old Inca Empire, Quito offers much to explore. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the day discovering the historic old town and surrounding areas—your guides can help organize a day trip if you’d like. In the evening, one of our trip leaders will meet you at the hotel for a welcome briefing, with plenty of time to go over details and answer any questions about the adventure. Our first day is designed for information and acclimatization.

Accommodation: Sheraton Quito Hotel or similar

Day 2: Trek in Cotopaxi National Park

After breakfast, we head south from Quito along the stunning Avenue of Volcanoes, passing through colorful Andean fields and reaching elevations of up to 12,000 feet (3,657 meters). Upon arriving at Cotopaxi National Park, we’ll hike around the Limpiopungo Lagoon at the foothills of the Rumiñahui Volcano, where we’ll enjoy some of the best views of Cotopaxi—the highest active volcano in the world. In the afternoon, we continue our journey toward Llanganates National Park, also known as the sacred mountain, before arriving in the town of Baños, located at the gateway to the Amazon. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant nightlife with cocktails and dancing.

In case the weather and physical conditions are good, you may trek to the Basecamp and the maximum elevation would then be 16,000 ft (4,880 m).

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 4 miles (6.4 km), 3 hours
Elevation gain: 1,200 feet (366 meters)
Minimum elevation: 12,700 feet (3,870 meters)
Maximum elevation: 13,850 feet (4,222 meters)
Accommodation: Casa de Luis or similar
Trekking activity level: Moderate, the trail is on dirt surrounded by bushes and grass, at high elevation (make sure you drink a lot of water or coca tea)

Day 3: Biking in the cloud forest in Baños

This morning, we’ll cross from Llanganates National Park to the Pastaza River Canyon by mountain bike, taking in the beauty of the cloud forest’s unique climate. The route leads us through Andean farms and a dramatic canyon filled with waterfalls. As we descend into the jungle, we’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Baños, a town famously nestled at the base of the Tungurahua Volcano, which has remained active since 1999 and is the region’s main attraction. In the afternoon, we’ll have time to explore the town and visit the Swing at the End of the World—the site of the winning photo from National Geographic’s 2014 photo contest.

In case you want to avoid the uphill, there will always be the support of our transportation, and our driver will be happy to give you a ride until you decide to join the biking group.

Meals: Breakfast
Biking: 20 miles (32.18 km), 3 hours
Elevation gain: 500 feet (152 meters)
Minimum elevation while biking: 5,500 feet (1,676 meters)
Maximum elevation while biking: 10,450 feet (3,185 meters)
Accommodation: Casa de Luis or similar
Biking activity level: Moderate, the first 45 minutes uphill, the rest downhill, on cobblestone, dirt roads, and asphalt

Day 4: Canyoning in the Amazon

This morning, we’ll head out on the Route of the Waterfalls. Our first stop is the Bride’s Veil waterfall, where we’ll cross the Pastaza River by tarabita (cable car), then hike down to Pailón del Diablo—the second highest waterfall in Ecuador. Afterward, we’ll journey deeper into the jungle within Llanganates National Park. “Llanganates” means “beautiful mountain” in the local indigenous language. Legend has it that 600 years ago, the Incas hid their golden treasures here, and many explorers have searched—some even vanishing in the dense, untouched jungle. As we hike through the tropical rainforest and climb several waterfall canyons, a local native guide will share insight into the incredible flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. We’ll spend the night at a basic jungle lodge run by a Kichwa indigenous family.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Amazon Homestay

Day 5: Rafting & relaxing in hot springs

We start the day by getting our gear ready for an exciting paddle on the wild waves of the Jatunyacu River, just a five-minute drive from the homestead. The beauty of this river, nestled in the Amazon rainforest, will both inspire and amaze you. After a thorough safety briefing from our rafting guides, we’ll begin our Class III rafting adventure, known for its crystal-clear waters and thrilling rapids. Along the way, we’ll enjoy fun games and explore one of the canyons. Our journey ends with a riverside picnic prepared by our guides. We then drive back up into the Andes to Papallacta, where we’ll spend the night and unwind in the soothing volcanic hot springs, surrounded by cool mountain air.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Termas Papallacta

Day 6: Otavalo market — Sacha Warmi local community project

In the morning, we will visit the vibrant Otavalo Market, where the Otavalo Indigenous people, dressed in their traditional blue ponchos, white trousers, and long braided hair, showcase their rich culture. You will have the opportunity to learn about their daily activities, traditional cuisine, and native language while exploring their renowned handicraft market. This market offers a stunning array of goods, including beautiful textiles, alpaca throws and rugs, knitted clothing, native paintings, ceramics, jewelry, tapestries, and more—all at bargain prices.

For lunch, we will visit Pijal, a small village nestled in the heart of the Andes, to explore one of AJ’s sustainable projects, Sacha WarmiKuna (“Women of the Mountain”). This remarkable initiative, developed by AJ in collaboration with local women, aims to support their families and empower women in the community by providing them with an alternative source of income beyond housekeeping. During your visit, you’ll experience an unforgettable cultural encounter, immersing yourself in the traditions and skills of South American women. You’ll participate in preparing “Aji,” a signature spicy salsa that is a cornerstone of their identity, and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch featuring fresh ingredients harvested that day from nearby organic fields. Additionally, you’ll learn about their intricate weaving process and have the chance to give back by purchasing handmade scarves directly from the artisans.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Las Palmeras Inn

Day 7: Cuicocha Crater Lake Trek

Today, after a healthy breakfast, we’ll take a short drive to the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve, home to the stunning Cuicocha Crater Lake. Our adventure begins with a trek around this still-active volcano, where your guide will point out many beautiful flowers along the trail. After the hike, we’ll enjoy a boat ride to the center of the crater, providing a unique opportunity to observe volcanic activity and witness bubbles rising from the heart of the caldera.

Meals: Breakfast and picnic lunch
Hiking: 9.3 miles (4.82 km), 4.5 hours
Elevation gain: 1,300 feet (457.2 meters)
Minimum elevation: 10,400 feet (3169.92 meters)
Maximum elevation: 1,550 feet (472.4 meters)
Accommodation: Sheraton or similar
Hiking activity level: Moderate, on a lovely trail around Cuicocha Crate lake by a cloud forest, the trail can be a bit muddy

Day 8: Departure

It’s time to say goodbye after breakfast! Buen viaje!

Meals: Breakfast

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Ecuador Multisport Adventure

Adventure Brochure

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What others say about this adventure

5.00 (2 reviews)

Michael Conway

Amazing experience. Our trip to Ecuador was truly a once in a lifetime experience thanks to our guide. I’m already looking at returning and booking another excursion with AJ. Highly Recommended!!!

Mark

Marcello and Joilo were fantastic hosts. Very thoughtful, knowledgeable and fun to spend time with. This company made the most of our time, I recommend using them if you are adventurous, willing to try new things and you want to experience something out of the ordinary.

Show all reviews

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, certified AJ adventure trip leader with extensive knowledge of the area and local guides
  - 8-day Ecuador multisport adventure and all the activities as outlined in the itinerary
    
    3 hours hiking in Cotopaxi National Park in the Andes
    
    3 hours biking in the Llanganates National Park
    
    4 hours white-water rafting on Jatunyacu River in the Amazon rainforest
    
    3 hours canyoning at Pimpilala waterfalls
    
    Bird watching and hiking exploration in the cloud forest
    
    Soaking in Papallacta hot springs
    
    5 hours trekking the loop of Cuicocha Crater Lake
    
    Share time with local indigenous people in the Amazon, making chocolate
  - Accommodation for 7 nights, based on double occupancy, as in the itinerary
  - Private & comfortable land transportation
  - Meals as outlined in the itinerary (7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner)
  - Black Diamond trekking sticks
  - Bikes for Day 3 (Trek X Caliber MTB (hydraulic disc brakes, front Rock Shock suspension), Bontrager helmets, full finger gloves)
  - Rubber boots, ropes, and harnesses for canyoning
  - Aire and NRS 7-people rafts, NRS life jackets, NRS paddles, and splash jackets for rafting
Add-ons
- - Single occupancy room (available at checkout)
Not included:
- - Flights to Ecuador
  - Airport transfers
  - Meals not outlined in the itinerary
  - Guide, drivers, and hotel gratuities — optional
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
If you’d like to join this multisport adventure in Ecuador, a basic level of fitness is required. Keep in mind that you’ll be hiking, biking, canyoning, and rafting during the course of a week, meaning that this will be a very active vacation! Still, all these activities aren’t particularly exhausting nor do they require specific skills, so this adventure is beginner-friendly!

Check out the itinerary for day-by-day activities and distances, and see if you’re comfortable with it all.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Fleece
  - Hat
  - Buff
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket and pants
  - Shorts
  - Tennis shoes
  - Binoculars
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

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Group sizes and pricing
- - For these Ecuador multisport adventures, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 16:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 16 participants.
  - Solo travelers can share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. If there’s no one to share a room with, paying the single occupancy fee will later on be required.
Ecuador multisport adventures can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the adventure on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this Ecuador adventure tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

Solo travelers are welcome—they can either share a room with another same-gender solo traveler at no extra cost, or guarantee a private room by paying a single occupancy fee. If there’s no one to share a room with, paying the single occupancy fee will later on be required.
The starting point of your Ecuador multisport tour is Quito, Ecuador. To get there, most people fly into Quito Airport (UIO). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach the city.

Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 6pm in the hotel lobby.
All travellers entering/departing Ecuador and the Galapagos must complete the Customs Registration Form (FRA) digitally and in advance. This is a mandatory requirement by Ecuador’s National Customs Service (SENAE). Failure to present the FRA may result in penalties.

How to complete the FRA:
1. 1. Visit the official website: https://www.aduana.gob.ec/
  2. Go to: Servicio al Ciudadano → Para viajeros: Formulario de Registro Aduanero
  3. Create an account using your ID or passport number and a password.
  4. Complete the form (entry or exit) with your personal information and, if necessary, declare any goods.
  5. Once submitted, you’ll receive a QR code which you must present during customs control.
The FRA can be submitted up to 3 days before your travel date.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits

Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

Basic
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
- - If cancelled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If cancelled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If cancelled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.

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