Ecuador packs a big punch for a small country; encompassing everything from the high Andes through humid cloud forest to the steamy Amazon jungle. A short flight from Quito to the town of Coca (officially known as Francisco de Orellana) on the Napo River swaps mountain peaks and colonial architecture for tropical rainforest where there are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Due to the country's compact size, Ecuadorian Amazon holidays are ideal for easy access wildlife viewing, especially as the Amazon's rivers, lakes, streams and marshlands support over 600 species of fish and more than 250 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the 'South American crocodile'; the caiman.

The Amazon holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

The Amazon Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

Ecuador Testimonials

5 reviews
4.9 / 5
"This was really a holiday of a lifetime and we thoroughly enjoyed everything that Original Travel had suggested. The week on board the boat in the Galapagos was fantastic. Each day, we said, "You cannot improve on yesterday", and then something new and more breathtaking happened. The wildlife was spectacular. The boat was really well set up with a wide variety of activities, and the guide and his crew were all outstanding. The information provided was thorough and well laid out, and the new service of providing check-ins before flights was brilliant."
Ian - Leeds
Published on 7th May 2024
"A highlight was obviously seeing the animals in the Galapagos in their natural habitat. The water in Costa Rica was beautiful and warm, and I thoroughly enjoyed the surfing lessons!"
Ian - Hampshire
Published on 3rd March 2024
"Pat was amazing, a true credit to Original Travel. He pulled together a fantastic itinerary and made insightful suggestions for things we could do that we hadn't thought of. He was generous with his time and expertise. We couldn't have asked for more. Would give 5+ if the ratings scale above allowed me to! The comms coming out of the UK are great. The app is particularly good. Some really lovely gifts awaited us at the hotels / on the boats courtesy of Original Travel. This was totally unexpected and very much appreciated. We had the holiday of a lifetime. We have zero complaints and wouldn't change a single aspect of our holiday. Give Pat a massive bonus! He's an incredible ambassador for your company and really knows his stuff. Truly outstanding. "
Victoria - London
Published on 5th February 2024

What is there to do in the Ecuadorian Amazon?

As you'd expect, activities and lodges are highly environmentally conscious with all excursions accompanied by experienced naturalist guides. An Amazon tour will have you exploring the rainforest on treks beneath the gigantic Amazon trees, along boardwalks crossing palm swamps and up observation towers for a close look at the forest canopy. Board silent dugout canoes to head up rivers and streams and enjoy early morning outings for bird watching. Parrots and macaws flit overhead while the mammals found here include armadillos, honey bears, sloths, tapirs, monkeys, and ocelots.

Best places to go in Ecuador



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