Day 1 Guango Cloudforest Reserve (L,D)

Today we travel up into the Eastern Andes, crossing the continental divide and journeying onto the stark and beautiful high grassland paramos of the Papallacta region of Ecuador. On clear days, the views of the snow-capped Antisana Volcano are staggeringly breathtaking.

Our tour starts with a morning of “forest-bathing”, in the lovely Guango Cloudforest Reserve. Beginning at the lodge, we follow an easy trail through the trees, on the lookout for colourful birds and wildlife, until we reach a hidden waterfall. Looping back around and walking along the river trail it brings us back to where we started.

Lunch in Guango Reserve with hammock time to watch the resident hummingbrids do their thing.
In the afternoon your private guide will drop you off at Termas Papallacta.

This afternoon you will have access to the Termas Papallacta Spa, a relaxing open-air experience surrounded by dramatic Andean mountains. This area includes five thermal pools each with varying temperatures, bubbling waters and massaging water jets. There is also a polar pool and poolside loungers and umbrellas.

An extensive menu of treatments and massages is also available in the spa, extra costs apply.

Dinner and overnight in Termas Papallacta.

Day 2 Termas Papallacta Spa Day (B,L,D)

Today you have a free day in Termas Papallacta, once again with access to the Termas Papallacta Spa included. Enjoy a full day of rest and relaxation. Treat yourself to a chocolate body wrap or hot stones massage (extra costs apply).

Lunch, dinner and overnight in Termas Papallacta.

Day 3 Termas Papallacta (B,L)

This morning you can enjoy the thermal pools at the hotel or if you are feeling more energetic venture out for an easy self-guided walk along the river trail. The trailhead can be found in the valley behind the hot springs (a 5 minute walk from the hotel) and offers a fun, pretty and in some parts exhilarating experience. You walk up one side of the river, cross the bridge at the top and return along the opposite bank. The hike takes around 40 minutes in total.

Lunch included in Termas Papallacta

In the afternoon your driver will pick you up for your private transfer back to your Quito hotel, where the tour ends.

Hotels:

4 Star: Termas Papallacta (with photos)