If you want to sample the region’s highlights without sacrificing some of its lesser-known gems, there’s no better way to experience Ecuador's dramatic scenery and colourful people. Visit the Amazon and a shaman apprentice for an incredible introduction to indigenous culture of the jungle. Staying in simple hotels and homestays and using public transport will keep you grounded in the local customs and culture. We'll travel from the "Avenue of the Volcanoes" to relaxing Pacific beaches and mountain hot springs. This adventure offers up a great combination of must-see highlights and free time to explore on your own.

Day 1 Quito
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Quito/Tena
Head down winding roads to the Amazon Basin and spend the night in Tena.

Day 3 Tena
Enjoy a free day in Tena, opt to visit an animal rescue centre or go whitewater rafting. Later, head to a local Quichua community in a small Amazonian village to spend two nights in rustic jungle huts. Enjoy nature walks and visits with the local shaman.

Day 4 Tena
Spend the day exploring the area around the Quichua community and learn more about local life in the jungle.

Day 5 Tena/Baños
Travel to Baños and enjoy the numerous outdoor optional activities available. Opt to go hiking, ziplining, or soak in the hot springs.

Day 6 Baños
Enjoy free time to experience all this adventurous town has to offer.

Day 7 Baños/Alausí
Travel to Alausí via Riobamba and take in the architecture of this local town.

Day 8 Alausí/Guayaquil
Board the train for an included excursion bound for the Devil's Nose. After, continue by bus to Guayaquil, the largest city in Ecuador.

Day 9 Guayaquil/Puerto López
Head to the beach town Puerto Lopez and Machalilla National Park. There are tons of activities in the area to take part in over the next few days.

Day 10 Puerto López
Enjoy free time to explore. Optional activities include a day trip to Isla de la Plata, hiking in Machalilla National Park, snorkelling or relaxing on the beach. Opt to go whale watching (when in season).

Day 11 Puerto López
Enjoy free time to explore. Optional activities include a day trip to Isla de la Plata, hiking in Machalilla National Park, snorkelling or relaxing on the beach. Opt to go whale watching (when in season).

Day 12 Puerto López/Quito
Spend another full day in Puerto López before an overnight bus to Quito.

Day 13 Quito
Arrive in the morning and enjoy a free day in Quito. Opt to take a city tour, ride the cable car up the nearby volcano or relax in one of the city's many cafés and restaurants.

Day 14 Quito/San Clemente
Travel to the indigenous community of San Clemente. Interact with the locals and learn about their traditional ways during a homestay. Opt to enjoy a cultural evening and show with typical food.

Day 15 San Clemente
Spend a full day here with optional hikes to learn about the area's medicinal plants or trek up the Imbabura Mountain. Interact with the locals and learn about their traditions.

Day 16 San Clemente/Otavalo
Head to Otavalo, famous for its market. Opt to visit the Peguche Waterfall and Cotacachi leather market or hike around Cuicocha Lake.

Day 17 Otavalo/Quito
Explore some more before travelling back to Quito in the afternoon for one final night out in the capital city.

Day 18 Quito
Depart at any time.