The trip surpassed my expectations. An outstanding country with a huge variety of scenery, peoples, culture and experiences. The trip was well paced yet packed with experiences. Great stuff and incredible value for money.Mountains, check. Rainforest, check. Wildlife & Birds, check, Great food, check. Cities, check. Photo opportunities, check. I came away inspired to go back and to see more. Thanks Exodus!
- What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
It is difficult to pick out one moment on this trip, so I have to resort to two.
The first one was the long descent from Quito via the Papallacta Pass down to the Rainforest. A stunning journey with changing landscapes, changing weather and temperatures and changing people as the day went on. The long journey was punctuated by a tasty yet unexpected lunch in the hills and culminated in a transfer to a long boat for a high speed transfer on the brown waters of the Amazon Basin to our rainforest lodge, to be greeted by large groups of monkeys swinging throught the trees. Really made me realise why I love to travel.
The second one was provided by one our group. An older gentleman who I spent time talking to and listening to his life and experiences. Made you realise that your life is in your hands and you can do so much with your time to help others and still have a fulfilling life of your own.
- What did you think of your group leader?
Our tour leader Fabian is a real character. Like a loveable rogue and friend, he was full of stories and anecdotes and clearly showed a passion for his country, bringing things to life and painting pictures with his words.
He was also full of practical advice and dealt well with the group. Really enjoyed him leading us and he helped to make the trip come alive with his humour and knowledge.
- Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Be prepared for all weathers and take your walking boots. It will be hot and cold, dry and humid, wet and changeable, so lots of thin layers and waterprrofs plus good footwear.
For the rainforest, cover up well, especially on the night walks and have bite cream and bite prevention with you at all times.
Take your own plug for sinks
US adapter for electricity
Take all of your US dollars in cash - no notes bigger than US$20s
Take lots of plastic bags with you, useful for putting damp clothing and mucky boots in
Meal portions are generous in general so beware over ordering
Be aware of altitude sickness - coca tea and aspirin at the ready - I suffered with this.
A bit of basic Spanish will really help, so brush up on your vocabulary
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
On this trip you have to go for it. The itinerary is packed to the gunnels with things to do and there are also long periods of travelling. Grab every chance you can to exlpre and do things and plan to fill your free time.
Be ready with your camera at any time to try and catch the birds and wildlife, people and places. Ecuador is another world to the UK once you are out of the city centres and just begs to be snapped and explored.
The only downside of the trip is that you are no longer able to ride on the top of the Devil's nose train, so ignore the pictures printed in the brochure or on line. Instead you take the journey in the comfort of a carriage. Not quite the all action adventure you may imagine, but better you know before you go tham find out on arrival.
from 18 reviews.
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