Southern Rainforest Tour

Gualaquiza, Ecuador

2D
2 Degrees Expeditions
  • Email address verified
5 reviews
Feb 17 - 21, 2025
Group size: 3 - 12
Southern Rainforest Tour
Gualaquiza, Ecuador

2 Degrees Expeditions
  • Email address verified
5 reviews

Feb 17 - 21, 2025
Group size: 3 - 12

About this trip

 

Discover the Wonders of Ecuador's Southern Rainforest
An Unforgettable Journey of Relaxation, Adventure, and Culture

Join us on a leisurely-paced exploration of Ecuador’s breathtaking southern rainforest. Designed for those who savor rich experiences without the rush, this tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and indulgence.

Day 1: Gualaquiza – "The Pearl of the Amazon"

Just a scenic three-hour drive from Cuenca, we’ll arrive at Gualaquiza, a lush paradise where waterfalls cascade, and pristine rivers flow. Savor the flavors of the region with a visit to a cacao farm, where you’ll learn the art of chocolate-making and taste the essence of Ecuador. Sample local gastronomic delights that showcase the vibrant flavors of the Amazon.

Day 2: Adventure & Tranquility

Ease into the adventure with a gentle yet exhilarating Class 2-3 rafting trip, perfect for beginners and nature lovers alike. Float through stunning landscapes before visiting an awe-inspiring botanical garden, where the vibrant flora of the Amazon captivates your senses.
Unwind in a charming riverside lodge, enveloped by the soothing sounds of nature.

Day 3: Zamora – Land of Waterfalls and Birds

Discover the enchanting Zamora, where nature takes center stage. Explore one of Jocotoco’s private reserves, nestled beside the Podocarpus National Park, home to countless bird species and majestic waterfalls. Relax in cozy cabins surrounded by the lush tropical rainforest, a setting so serene it feels like stepping into a painting.

Day 4: Cultural Gems on the Way Back

As we journey back to Cuenca, we’ll stop in Loja, Ecuador’s cultural capital, to uncover its rich artistic and historical heritage. Finally, experience the unique traditions of the Saraguro people, a proud Indigenous community renowned for their artistry and textiles, and enjoy a delicious farewell lunch.


Why Choose Us?
At our agency, we blend art and experience to craft journeys that nourish the soul and inspire the imagination. Whether it's the soothing rhythm of a rainforest river, the vibrant hues of cacao trees, or the heartfelt stories of the Saraguro people, every moment is designed to leave you enchanted.

Ready to create memories that will last a lifetime? Let us take you there.

What’s included

  • Professional guide
    Tour leader from Cuenca and Certified guides during rafting trips and attractions
  • Rio Vida Lodge
    Double rooms
  • Copalinga Lodge
    Double Cabins
  • Van Hyundai H1 o Staria
    Private transportation during the tour
  • Entrance fees
    For all attractions on itinerary
  • Most meals
    Except the ones not described on the itinerary
  • Rafting trip
    Optional and can be changed for all group to a different activity

What’s not included

  • Tips and Gratuities
  • Alcoholic drinks

Available Packages

The Southest Rainforest 5day4night trip
Deposit:$350
Available until January 24, 2025
$698
Deposit:$350

Available options

Single Supplement
$190

Itinerary

Day 1:
From Highlands to Amazon

 

Start your adventure with us at 8:00 AM from our conveniently located office at Esquina de las Artes in Cuenca. From there, we journey toward the breathtaking continental divide. Along the way, we’ll visit the renowned Tejedoras of Sigsig, where you can purchase an authentic Panama hat directly from the skilled hands of the weavers—a perfect keepsake for the trip.


From the summit at 3,500 meters above sea level, we’ll begin our descent to the enchanting La Joya waterfall. Here, you’ll enjoy a serene 20-minute hike through lush surroundings, followed by the chance to dip into its refreshing waters—a rejuvenating experience for body and soul.


Next, we head to the historic Hacienda La Aureliana. Delight in a farm-to-table Lunch featuring the flavors of Ecuador, followed by an exclusive tour of their cacao plantation. Learn the fascinating process of chocolate-making and create your very own chocolate bar to take home—a sweet reminder of your day.


As the day winds down, we’ll make our way to Nueva Tarqui, where you’ll check in at the charming Hotel Rio Vida. Dinner is yours to savor, whether you choose to dine at the hotel or explore the local cuisine in Nueva Tarqui.

Your Organizer


2D
2 Degrees Expeditions
5 reviews
We are a travel company located in Cuenca-Ecuador, where we develop and operate tours around beautifull Ecuador including the Galapagos Islands, and Peru, Colombia.

Reviews

A deluxe tour with a nice car, a highly-educated guide, and perfect English from the guides. They don't rush you, but they have everything planned perfectly so that you have a huge number of experiences packed into one tour. Everything we ever saw on youtube about these towns outside of Cuenca, the tour included them.
By Carl W for Gualaceo - Chordeleg - San Bartolo on Sep 22, 2024
I would call this the deluxe tour company in Cuenca. Everything is done for maximum safety and legality. The guides speak perfect English, are officially licensed, and have a deep personal respect for the ecology, history, and future of Ecuador. You can probably find cheaper tours, but you will miss the expert commentary of the highly-educated guides. You won't get the high reliability of this company and the excellent vehicles they use to transport you. Paying a little more for peace of mind is really a good investment in a poor country. We had a great time being shown around by someone who deeply cares about Ecuador and its conservation.
By Carl W for Cajas National Park Hike on Sep 22, 2024
Simply the best. This was a transition trip, because we were moving from one city to another city with all of our stuff. Felipe organized transportation of people and things like a champ. We have traveled with Felipe before, and he is such a delightful, kind, and knowledgable human. While traveling with a 4 year old and 3 month, you could find him playing or watching our kids near by so we can enjoy attractions. He was a SUPER guide. Felipe took us to the nooks and crannies of Ecuador that had social impact. I'm thankful that we got to spend time with him.
By Ryan H for Rachel+Ryan+Aidan+Olive´s Trip Cuenca to Quito on Sep 06, 2024
We had a great experience. Saw many interesting things for the first time. Enjoyed ourselves.
By Garry S for Galapagos 2 Islands on Jul 23, 2024
RM
This was an exceptional trip!!! All the details were accounted for, including transportation, transfers, tour guides, and hotel stays!! Felipe was a pleasure to work with & took into account personal needs and requests!!
By Raquel M for Raquel`s Peru-Bolivia Highlights 12 days 11 nights on Mar 05, 2024