Travellers aged 17 and under get 20% off family trips from 1 January 2026
Ecuador Family Holiday





A fun-filled family adventure from the Andes to the Amazon
Take the family into the heart of the Amazon on this seven-day adventure, starting and finishing in Quito – the capital of Ecuador. Explore Pailon del Diablo Waterfall, learn how to protect local wildlife at a wildlife rescue centre and hike to Limpiopungo Lagoon for panoramic views of the Cotopaxi Volcano – Ecuador's second-highest peak. On this family adventure, there's plenty of opportunities to relax and immerse yourselves in nature. Whether it’s cruising down the Rio Misahualli on a motorised canoe, relaxing in natural hot springs in Banos or spotting local wildlife on a night jungle walk in the Amazon – you and your family are bound to have an amazing getaway!
Start: Quito, Ecuador
End: Quito, Ecuador
- Duration
- 7 days
- Group size
- 2 to 16
- Minimum age
- 5 years old
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Original
- Theme
Our themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- Family
- Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Travellers 17 years and under get 20% off the adult price.
Why you'll love this trip
- Explore the Amazon Rainforest during the day and under the starry night sky. Join a local Indigenous guide and listen carefully as they point out local bird species and teach you about the incredible plant life that thrives here.
- Visit a wildlife rescue centre in the Amazon rainforest. See local wildlife like howler monkeys and macaws and learn about what can be done to help protect them.
- Hike to Limpiopungo Lagoon for panoramic views of the Cotopaxi Volcano – Ecuador's second-highest peak and the tallest active volcano in the world!
- Cruise along the Rio Misahualli on a motorised canoe to and from your eco lodge accommodation on the edge of the Amazon Rainforest.
- Chase waterfalls and adrenaline in Banos. Discover the region from the top of Pailon del Diablo Waterfall, then maybe relax in the natural hot springs during your free time.
Itinerary
We’re in the process of figuring out how much CO2-e this trip generates. In the meantime, learn more about our climate commitment.
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 5 pm tonight in Quito – Ecuador’s capital, which sits high in the Andean foothills at an altitude of 2850 m. If you arrive early, maybe visit the Church of the Society of Jesus (Compania de Jesus), join a market discovery Urban Adventure or take a walk down the famous Calle La Ronda – Quito's oldest street. Tonight, maybe join your fellow travellers and their families for dinner – a great way to get to know each other.
- La Cartuja Hotel or Similar (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Quito - Complimentary arrival transfer
- Quito - Ballet Folklorico Ecuatoriano de Jacchigua - USD40
- Quito - Market Discovery Urban Adventure - USD99
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information for each member of your family. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
The complimentary arrival transfer today is only available if you’re arriving on day 1 or if you’ve booked pre-trip accommodation through Intrepid. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.
This morning, travel to the Amazon Jungle – the world’s largest tropical rainforest, spanning eight South American countries. On the way, stop at Guango Lodge near the hot springs of Papallacta. Here, you’ll see some of the 14 species of hummingbirds that call this region home. Then, take a motorised canoe through the rainforest to your eco lodge. When you arrive, sit down for dinner with your family, then set off on a night walk through the jungle. Be sure to pack your flashlight and camera for the best chance of seeing local wildlife like fishing bats, owls and toads.
- Itamandi Eco Lodge or Similar (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Amazon Jungle - Guided night walk
Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.
Fuel up on breakfast this morning as you have a big day of adventures ahead. First, you’ll hike into the rainforest with a local Indigenous guide leading the way. Listen carefully as they point out local bird species and teach you about the incredible plant life that thrives here. After lunch, you'll visit a nearby animal rescue centre. Learn more about the local wildlife and what can be done to help protect them. Tonight, join your group for dinner at a local restaurant.
- Itamandi Eco Lodge or Similar (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Amazon - Guided rainforest hike and visit to animal rescue centre
Say goodbye to the Amazon as you take a motorised canoe out of the jungle. Then, board a private vehicle and travel to Banos. When you arrive, join your local leader on an orientation walk around town. The rest of the day is then free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe explore the Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfall Route) by bike, relax in the natural hot springs or discover the religious sites like the Basilica of Our Lady of Holy Water.
- La Floresta Hotel Baños or Similar (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Banos - Orientation walking tour
- Banos - Hot springs - USD5
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Travel out of Banos town this morning to the entrance of the Devils Cauldron, where you’ll visit Pailon del Diablo Waterfall. The 80 m waterfall has a mighty strength that showers anyone in its path – so be sure to bring a waterproof jacket! When you reach the top, take in the surrounding views over the region. After, travel back to Banos where you’ll have the afternoon free for you and your family to spend as you like.
- La Floresta Hotel Baños or Similar (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Banos - Pailon del Diablo Waterfall
- Banos - Swing at the End of the World - USD2
- Banos - Route of the waterfalls - USD2
Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.
This morning, drive along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to the Cotopaxi National Park. When you arrive, head out on a hike to Limpiopungo Lagoon for panoramic views of the Cotopaxi Volcano – Ecuador's second-highest peak and the tallest active volcano in the world! As you walk, look for wildlife like condors, deer and spectacles bears. Later, return to Quito this afternoon. Tonight, maybe join your group tonight for one last meal together and toast to an amazing adventure.
- La Cartuja Hotel or Similar (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Cotopaxi - Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Your hiking time will be approximately 2 hours.
As there are no further activities, your adventure comes to an end this morning. If you’d like to explore Quito some more, and it’s recommended you do, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
- Breakfast
- Otavalo - Day tour to the Otavalo Indigenous market, Condor Park & Mitad del Mundo - USD90
Inclusions and activities
Destinations
EcuadorMeals
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
Transport
Private vehicle, motorised canoe
Accommodation
Hotel (4 nights), Eco Lodge (2 nights)
Included activities
- Quito - Complimentary arrival transfer
- Amazon Jungle - Guided night walk
- Amazon - Guided rainforest hike and visit to animal rescue centre
- Banos - Orientation walking tour
- Banos - Pailon del Diablo Waterfall
- Cotopaxi - Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park
Optional activities
- Quito - Ballet Folklorico Ecuatoriano de Jacchigua - USD40
- Quito - Market Discovery Urban Adventure - USD99
- Banos - Hot springs - USD5
- Banos - Swing at the End of the World - USD2
- Banos - Route of the waterfalls - USD2
- Otavalo - Day tour to the Otavalo Indigenous market, Condor Park & Mitad del Mundo - USD90
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Why choose us
We’re adventure travel experts with decades of experience and proud to run trips in over 100 countries.
We keep our group sizes small and our experiences big, so you can get more out of your travels.
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Before you book you should know
- This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the Medical and health information section of the Essential Trip Information for more detail.
- Temperatures in the Amazon can fluctuate from daytime humidity to night-time chill. Insects, especially mosquitoes, are common. We recommend tropical-strength insect repellent and light cotton clothing that covers your arms and legs, with warmer layers for the evening.
- This trip includes jungle hikes, which can be strenuous due to the humidity. A decent level of fitness is required to feel comfortable when exploring the jungle.
- While the minimum age on this trip is 5 years we advise you to read through the itinerary carefully to ensure this trip is right for your family. Most children that travel on Family trips are between the ages of 10 and 14 years.
La Cartuja Hotel
Leonidas Plaza N20-08 y 18 de Septiembre
Quito
ECUADOR
Phone: +593 2523577
Description
La Cartuja Hotel is a charming boutique property with spacious rooms, wifi and a central courtyard to relax in. It is located within walking distance to restaurants, shops and attractions.
Instructions
Intrepid can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure.
If you have a confirmed arrival transfer, you’ll be met in the Arrivals Hall by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. Please ask them who they’re picking up to confirm you’ve met the correct transfer representative. In case of flight cancellations, changes, or unforeseen delays, please contact our local office on the number in the ‘Problems and emergency contact information’ section.
Alternate joining points
Alternate joining point 1
For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.
21 Jun 2026 (GLFA260621)
Vieja Cuba Hotel
La Niña N26-202 & Av. Diego de Almagro
Quito
ECUADOR
Phone: +593 22906729
Description
Hotel Vieja Cuba is a charming 3-star hotel located in La Mariscal neighborhood in Quito, it offers a blend of modern confort and rustic decor. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring near cafes, restaurants and tourstic attractions, ATM´s. It is located approx 20 minutes by car to Quito´s Old Town. Rooms are equiped with private ensuite, cable TV, free WI-FI.
Instructions
Intrepid can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure.
If you have confirmed an arrival transfer, you’ll be met as you exit the International Arrival Hall by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. If you cannot find your transfer representative, or if your flight is delayed, please call our local operations team on +593 99 401 4877. Neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment.
If you are making your own way to the joining point hotel, taxis ranks are available outside the airport entrance. Exit the International Arrivals Hall and walk through the airport exit gates. You will find available taxis (yellow color). Taxi fare to your hotel in town will cost approx. $ 25 in total. These taxis won't use a meter, but generally charge a fixed fare.
Alternatively, you can use Uber ride-share app. We recommend downloading and setting up the app, including payment information, prior to departing your home country.
Alternate joining point 2
For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.
12 Jul 2026 (GLFA260712), 26 Jul 2026 (GLFA260726), 09 Aug 2026 (GLFA260809)
Hotel Casa Q
Mariana De Jesús E7-74 and La Pradera,
Quito
ECUADOR
Description
Casa Q is a modern and eco-friendly boutique hotel located in a quiet, safe area near La Carolina Park and the city’s financial and commercial district, just a short distance from Quito’s historic center. The hotel features comfortable rooms decorated with local artisan touches, a rooftop terrace with city views, a library, and a cozy lounge. Guests enjoy amenities such as free Wi-Fi, buffet breakfast, and cultural events.
Instructions
Intrepid can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure.
If you have confirmed an arrival transfer, you’ll be met as you exit the International Arrival Hall by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. If you cannot find your transfer representative, or if your flight is delayed, please call our local operations team on +593 99 401 4877. Neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment.
If you are making your own way to the joining point hotel, taxis ranks are available outside the airport entrance. Exit the International Arrivals Hall and walk through the airport exit gates. You will find available taxis (yellow color). Taxi fare to your hotel in town will cost approx. $ 25 in total. These taxis won't use a meter, but generally charge a fixed fare.
Alternatively, you can use Ubber ride share app. We recommend downloading and setting up the app, including payment information, prior to departing your home country.
Hotel Adress: Mariana De Jesús E7-74 & La Pradera
Dates and prices
Learn more about pricing
Learn more about pricing
June 2026
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Important notes
1. FAMILY TRIPS: Please note that these trips are for adults and children travelling together and there must be at least one child under 18 with you.
2. CHILD AGE: The minimum age for children on this trip is 5 years old.
3. CHILD PRICE: Children aged 17 years and under at time of travel on this trip, are eligible to receive 20% off the full adult price.
4. SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: A single supplement is available for adults wishing to have a private room to themselves. The single supplement applies to all nights and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
Essential Trip Information
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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