Local Living Ecuador—Amazon Jungle - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour, especially in the Amazon?

  In the Amazon, you will spend four nights in a rustic jungle lodge, hosted by a local Quichua family in wooden huts or bungalows equipped with mosquito nets. Showers (without hot water) and toilets are shared and located outside the rooms. For the two nights in Quito, hotel accommodation is provided.

• Will I have access to internet or phone signal in the Amazon jungle?

  While staying at the Pimpilala Lodge in the Amazon, there will be no cellphone signal or Wi-Fi available, offering an authentic jungle experience. Electricity is also limited to a couple of hours per day.

• What kind of activities are included in the Amazon jungle portion of the tour?

  Activities in the Amazon include jungle walks to viewpoints and a waterfall, a natural mud face mask treatment, a cacao culinary experience and tasting, learning about medicinal plants, a canoe ride to the amaZOOnico Animal Rescue Centre, a shamanic healing ceremony, a mock jungle marriage ceremony, cycling to the nearby community of Shandia, and a blowgun demonstration and contest.

• Is there a minimum or maximum age requirement for this tour?

  This tour has a minimum age requirement of 12 years and a maximum age of 100 years.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour operates with a minimum group size of 1 person and a maximum of 16 people.

• How do we travel to and within the Amazon jungle?

  Travel to the Amazon jungle involves a public bus from Quito, followed by a private van or 4x4. Within the jungle, transportation is primarily by walking and motorized canoe for specific excursions.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• Will there be a tour guide accompanying the group?

  Yes, the trip is accompanied by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, along with local Quichua guides in the Amazon.

• What is the physical rating of this tour and what does it entail?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. This means travelers should possess an average level of fitness and mobility, being able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• Are there any health considerations I should be aware of, especially regarding altitude?

  The adventure travels to high altitude (over 8,000 feet/2,440 meters). While most people adapt with minimal effects, everyone reacts to altitude differently. It is recommended to consult your physician for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure and carry a first aid kit.

• What currency is used in Ecuador, and what are the recommendations for bringing money?

  The local currency in Ecuador is the US Dollar (USD). It is recommended to bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than $100, as larger bills can be difficult to exchange. A combination of US dollar cash and credit/debit cards is best, but be aware that a 5-10% fee usually applies for credit card purchases.

• Is tipping expected during the tour?

  Tipping is customary in Latin America and is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from $5-10 USD per day, and for your CEO, $30-40 USD per person per week as a guideline.