Upper Blanco Season: Highly recommended to use a wetsuit. We can
provide it, the price is $ 5.00 per person which has to be paid before
the trip.
THE LONG RUN (1 day)
The Ríos Toachi and Blanco are a fantastic introduction to the rivers of Ecuador. Flowing off the coastal side of the Andes they have some of the longest navigable sections of whitewater in the country. Combine this with the sights and sounds of the forest environment we pass through and you are guaranteed a day to remember.
The day starts when we pick you up from your hotel or from our Meeting Point at Crossroads Café and Hostal (6.30am corner of Foch y Juan León Mera). We travel west down through beautiful cloud forest to the shores of the river. The trip will take about 3 hours.
Before setting off we will fit you with life jackets and helmets, give you a comprehensive safety briefing and train each crew in the paddling techniques needed to navigate our way down the river. Once on the river you can expect both the action of thrilling white-water and the tranquillity of drifting silently through tropical rainforests. So while you’re guaranteed to get wet you’ll also have the opportunity to be absorbed by the sounds of the forest and to see wildlife up close from our mobile “viewing platform”. Rafting time approx. 3½ hrs. (NB.From March to May we usually run the upper Blanco river – 43km, approx. 4½ hrs).
During the trip we’ll stop by the side of the river for a delicious picnic lunch including fresh tropical fruits and served with soft drinks, juice and water. At the end of the trip we celebrate a fun day on the river with a few ice-cold beers and return to Quito (approx. 6.30-7.00pm).
River Grading: III - IV (Depending on the time of year).
Includes:
Professional guides, top of the line rafting equipment, a delicious lunch plus snacks and beers, transport ex Quito, and a safe, fun trip!
What to bring:
Swimsuit/shorts, T-shirt, tennis shoes/river sandals, sunglasses (with retention strap), baseball cap, sunscreen, insect repellent, towel, dry change of clothes. NB. During the months of March to May we highly recommend the use of a wetsuit.
The Ríos Toachi and Blanco are a fantastic introduction to the rivers of Ecuador. Flowing off the coastal side of the Andes they have some of the longest navigable sections of whitewater in the country. Combine this with the sights and sounds of the forest environment we pass through and you are guaranteed a trip to remember.
Day 1 starts when we pick you up from your hotel or from our Meeting Point at Crossroads Café and Hostal (6.30am corner of Foch y Juan León Mera). We travel west down through beautiful cloud forest to the shores of the river (approx. 3hrs).
Before setting off we will fit you with life jackets and helmets, give you a comprehensive safety briefing and train each crew in the paddling techniques needed to navigate our way down the river. Once on the river you can expect both the action of thrilling whitewater and the tranquility of drifting silently through tropical rainforests. So while you’re guaranteed to get wet you’ll also have the opportunity to be absorbed by the sounds of the forest and to see wildlife up close from our mobile “viewing platform”. Rafting time approx. 3 and half-hours.
During the trip we’ll stop by the side of the river for a delicious picnic lunch including fresh tropical fruits and served with soft drinks, juice and water. At the end of the trip we celebrate a fun day on the river with a few ice cold beers and return to our hosteria alongside the river - the sound of the waters a constant reminder of our adventure. In the afternoon there’ll be time to hike in the surrounding rainforest or just relax by the pool. In the evening we can relive our experiences as we enjoy a delicious dinner and a few celebratory drinks.
Day 2 we’ll head back to the river for more whitewater action but also have the chance to catch our breath and take in the splendor of the surroundings. Return to Quito (approx. 6.30-7.00pm).
River Grading: III - IV (Depending on the time of year).
Includes:
Professional guides, top of the line rafting equipment, accommodation in twin cabins, meals from lunch Day 1 to lunch Day 2, snacks, celebratory beers, transport ex Quito, and a safe, fun trip!
What to bring:
Swimsuit/shorts, T-shirt, tennis shoes/river sandals, sunglasses (with retention strap), baseball cap, sunscreen, insect repellent, towel, dry change of clothes.
Safety kayaker. Tour recommended for people with experience
DOWN RIVER RUN (1 day – class IV)
Depart from Crossroads Café and Hostel, 6:30 am. Drive to Baeza. On arrival you’ll be issued with wetsuits, life jackets and helmets. After a short drive to the put-in the Trip Leader will give a thorough safety briefing and conduct a swim test. Then you’ll split into groups for an intensive in-boat paddle practice with your guide. Once we set off we’re straight into the action but with some easier rapids to warm up. Along the way we’ll stop for a riverside picnic lunch. In the afternoon we’ll raft through the first canyons of the Quijos running big, technical rapids. At the end of the day we celebrate a fun day on the river with a few icy cold beers and return to Quito (approx. 7:30 pm).
River Grading: IV
What to bring:
swimsuit/shorts, spray jacket, tennis shoes/river sandals, sunglasses (with retention strap), baseball cap, sunscreen, insect repellent.
Includes:
Professional guides, expert safety kayaker for every two boats, all rafting equipment, wetsuits, transport, lunch.
Not included:
Breakfast, additional alcoholic drinks, personal expenses, tips.
THE HEADWATERS RUN (2 days - OVER 50KM, CLASS IV+)
Day 1 Depart from Crossroads Café and Hostel, 7am. Drive to Baeza. On arrival you’ll be issued with wetsuits, life jackets and helmets. After a short drive to the put-in the Trip Leader will give a thorough safety briefing and conduct a swim test. Then you’ll split into groups for an intensive in-boat paddle practice with your guide. Once we set off we’re straight into the action but with some easier rapids to warm up. Along the way we’ll stop for a riverside picnic lunch. In the afternoon we’ll raft through the first canyons of the Quijos running big, technical rapids. At the end of the day we pull the boats into shore and take a short ten-minute walk up to the lodge where we have cold beer, hot showers and a good meal waiting for us. O/n lodge. (L, D).
Day 2 After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast we’ll pull on our wetsuits again and head back to the river for a lot more whitewater action. Today you should be prepared for one of the most exciting days of your life. And to top it off you’ll be doing it all in one of the most beautiful parts of Ecuador. This river is set to become a legend. From the take-out we’ll head back to Quito stopping at Papallacta Hot Springs for a well-earned soak in the volcanically heated mineral waters. Arrive approx. 8pm or spend a night at Papallacta. (B, L).
River Grading: IV-IV+
What to bring:
For on the river: swimsuit/shorts, spray jacket, tennis shoes/river sandals, sunglasses (with retention strap), baseball cap, sunscreen, insect repellent.
For off the river: dry change of clothes (long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a light jumper), shoes/boots, personal items (i.e. Toiletries / medication).
Includes: Professional guides, expert safety kayaker for every two boats, all rafting equipment, wetsuits, transport, meals as stated and shared accommodation.
Not included:
Additional alcoholic drinks, personal expenses, tips, and entry to Papallacta Hot Springs.
Departures: Saturdays from September to February. Other days with a minimum of 6.
A journey down the Río Upano is a very special experience. Rafting the Upano we witness the many moods and changing character of a jungle river. We set off on a shallow and braided river having to choose a route where the waters divide into numerous channels. The pace steadily increases until the river plunges into the magnificent Namangosa Gorge. Here we tackle rapids up to grade IV+ in the midst of virgin rainforest and the spectacle of dozens of waterfalls cascading from the lip of the gorge. Finally, the river broadens and deepens to become a calm but powerful giant on it’s way to meet the Río Amazonas. One of the highlights of this trip is the night we spend camped by a Shuar settlement. Here we have the opportunity to visit a traditional farm and learn about the Shuar way of life.
Day 1: Fly Quito-Macas (14.00). Drive to our put-in and first night camp. Orientation briefing from the trip leader and meet the guides.
Days 2–4: We begin with a comprehensive safety briefing and instruction in paddling techniques. Then we’ll launch our rafts - laden with camping equipment and fresh supplies - onto the jungle waters. During the days we’ll take time out from the action to explore the edge of the jungle, venture up to cascading waterfalls or simply drift through the calmer stretches in awe at our surroundings. At night we’ll camp on sandy beaches by the side of the river and enjoy an excellent meal in this most extraordinary ‘restaurant’.
Day 5: After a relaxing morning in our final camp we raft a short distance to the take out point and drive back to Macas. Overnight in Macas.
Day 6: In the morning you can explore this small jungle town that offers great views across the Upano valley and also the local market which is the center of commerce for the valley. Afternoon flight back to Quito (15:00).
River Grading: IV – IV+
What to bring:
For on the river: swimsuit/shorts, T-shirt, tennis shoes/river sandals, sunglasses (with retention strap), baseball cap, sunscreen and lip balm, insect repellent, water bottle (1litre), thermal top, light rain jacket.
For off the river: long-sleeved shirt, long pants (not jeans), light jumper/fleece jacket), shoes/boots, personal items (i.e. toiletries/medication), sleeping bag, Thermorest or sleeping pad, headlamp or torch, small towel, plastic bags for wet gear.
Includes:
Professional guides, complete rafting and group camping equipment, all meals on the river (i.e. from dinner Day 1 to lunch Day 5), transport from Macas to the river and back, 1 night accommodation in Macas.
Not included:
Flight (or bus) Quito-Macas-Quito personal expenses, meals in Macas.
The Upper Rio Napo is also known locally as the Rio Jatunyacu, which means “BIG WATER” in Quichua. “Big” is probably the best word to describe this river - BIG WAVES and BIG FUN! A great trip for both beginners and experts alike, it has the perfect combination of exciting rapids, calm pools, and fabulous jungle scenery to delight everybody. Being the headwaters of one of the two rivers that form the mighty Amazon River, this is a rafting adventure that should not be passed up! No previous rafting experience is necessary.
Includes:
Professional guides, top-of-the-line rafting equipment, transportation to the river and back to Tena, a delicious riverside lunch, and unsurpassed safety.
This course starts with the basic techniques of whitewater kayaking and builds on those techniques with lots of on-river time. More advanced techniques are introduced each day as your confidence in whitewater increases. By the end of the course you should be ready to read and run grade III rapids (under supervision of more experienced paddlers!).
Program:
Day 01: Meet in Tena. The morning will be spent learning basic paddling techniques and safety procedures. Lunch. In the afternoon we will practice balance and edging techniques. Discussion of river reading.
Day 02: The emphasis today will be on moving into, out of and across the current and practicing techniques learned on Day 1. Lunch. Introduction to Eskimo roll.
Day 03: Practice Eskimo roll. Rapid running. Emphasis on balance and edging techniques.
Day 04: This day will be spent running lots of rapids to bring all your newly learned skills together. Emphasis will be on perfecting technique, reading whitewater and river running skills. And of course having loads of BIG fun!
Included:
Kayaking instruction, all equipment, transport during the course, lunch.
Not included:
Transport ex Quito, accommodation and meals except lunch.
Day 1: Arrival at Hakuna Matata at 1 p.m. or earlier by taxi (included) from Archidona.
Lunch in our famous Restaurant Pangaea.
After lunch you can choose between two options for your jungle excursion:
Option 1:
HORSEBACK RIDING WITH GUIDE(S)
This unforgettable excursion is suited for both beginner and experienced riders. Accompanied by our professional guide and on well trained horses you'll take a very varied ride of about three hours.
The trip goes through rivers and streams, along sloping hills and amongst rich flora. During the ride you can enjoy wonderful views. This entire excursion takes place on the private property of Hacienda Hakuna Matata.
Option 2:
HIKE WITH GUIDE(S)
An experience in itself is the guided (bilingual naturalist guide) walk from some three hours. The medicinal properties of plants and trees, insects and age-old customs are explained by our professional guide. Walking through private jungle, secondary forest and fields, step by step you’ll get closer to that unique wisdom that distinguishes the indigenous people of the area from the non-natives.
Dinner in Restaurant Pangaea.
Overnight stay in cabaña for 2 persons with private bathroom and hot shower.
Day 2: INTRODUCTION TO THE ECUADORIAN AMAZON JUNGLE. DAY TRIP
Early in the morning -after breakfast- you’ll leave Hakuna Matata for a two hour drive. In a small native village on the banks of the Río Arajuno, you’ll board a ‘canoa a motor’ and navigate the Arajuno, Napo and other rivers.
Unlike the traditional tours that are organized in this area we designed an extra value alternative! During this Amazon excursion a whole range of activities are offered. Depending on weather conditions, number of participants and specific interests of the group, your guide will put together the route.
Rich flora, in primary and secondary forest, and fauna, in the form of birds, insects, amphibians and reptiles, will be introduced by our professional guide(s) during walks and canoe trips. Explanations of the use of medicinal plants, trees and herbs by the native people will be given. Tubing on one of the quiet rivers through primary forest is a spectacular experience. Lunch will be served on the trip.
Return to the hacienda at about 6 p.m.
Dinner in Restaurant Pangaea.
Overnight stay in cabaña for 2 persons with private bathroom and hot shower.
Day 3: RAFTING CLASS III - III+
Early morning breakfast in Restaurant Pangaea. Afterwards, a 25 minute drive to Tena and then into the jungle takes us to the start of our rafting adventure on the Upper Napo river also known as the Jatuyacu river, which means “Big Water” in Quichua. BIG is probably the best word to describe this river: big waves and tons of fun! This jungle river shows no signs of contamination as it flows from the Llanganates National Park – an extremely rugged and uninhabited mountain range believed by some to be the hiding place of Inca gold.
On arrival at the river we’ll receive a brief explanation about the trip and important safety measures that must be considered. Then we’ll be ready to start our adventure. An amazing journey for beginner and expert rafters awaits; a perfect combination of exciting rapids and calm natural pools, not to mention the wonderful surrounding jungle scenery. The Napo river, being one of the principal tributaries of the great Amazon River, is an adventure that´s a must when visiting our lodge! No rafting experience is necessary to enjoy this ride.
At noon, we’ll have a freshly prepared picnic lunch on the river bank, and then continue our tour. Before dusk, we’ll drive back in Tena after a day of great adventure filled with adrenaline and excitement. At 5pm you will depart for Quito.
PROGRAM INCLUDES:
• Lodging in cabin with private bathroom and hot water
• All visits and excursions as detailed
• English Speaking guide
• All meals during program as specified
• Full day rafting excursion with professional rafting guide(s), specialised rafting equipment, safety kayak, transport from/to the Lodge, picnic lunch by the river and all safety measures.
• All local taxes
NOT INCLUDED:
• Transportation Quito / Archidona / Quito (by public transportation)
• Drinks
• Tips
• Personal expenses
• Any other service not specified in the program
• Minimum 4 people
Day 1: Arrival at Hakuna Matata at 1 p.m. or earlier by taxi (included) from Archidona.
Lunch in our famous Restaurant Pangaea.
After lunch you can choose between two options for your jungle excursion:
Option 1:
HORSEBACK RIDING WITH GUIDE(S)
This unforgettable excursion is suited for both beginner and experienced riders. Accompanied by our professional guide and on well trained horses you'll take a very varied ride of about three hours.
The trip goes through rivers and streams, along sloping hills and amongst rich flora. During the ride you can enjoy wonderful views. This entire excursion takes place on the private property of Hacienda Hakuna Matata.
Option 2: HIKE WITH GUIDE(S)
An experience in itself is the guided (bilingual naturalist guide) walk from some three hours. The medicinal properties of plants and trees, insects and age-old customs are explained by our professional guide. Walking through private jungle, secondary forest and fields, step by step you’ll get closer to that unique wisdom that distinguishes the indigenous people of the area from the non-natives.
Dinner in Restaurant Pangaea.
Overnight stay in cabaña for 2 persons with private bathroom and hot shower.
Day 2: INTRODUCTION TO THE ECUADORIAN AMAZON JUNGLE. DAY TRIP
Early in the morning -after breakfast- you’ll leave Hakuna Matata for a two hour drive. In a small native village on the banks of the Río Arajuno, you’ll board a ‘canoa a motor’ and navigate the Arajuno, Napo and other rivers.
Unlike the traditional tours that are organized in this area we designed an extra value alternative! During this Amazon excursion a whole range of activities are offered. Depending on weather conditions, number of participants and specific interests of the group, your guide will put together the route.
Rich flora, in primary and secondary forest, and fauna, in the form of birds, insects, amphibians and reptiles, will be introduced by our professional guide(s) during walks and canoe trips. Explanations of the use of medicinal plants, trees and herbs by the native people will be given. Tubing on one of the quiet rivers through primary forest is a spectacular experience. Lunch will be served on the trip.
Return to the hacienda at about 6 p.m.
Dinner in Restaurant Pangaea.
Overnight stay in cabaña for 2 persons with private bathroom and hot shower.
Day 3: RAFTING CLASS III - III+
Early morning breakfast in Restaurant Pangaea. Afterwards, a 25 minute drive to Tena and then into the jungle takes us to the start of our rafting adventure on the Upper Napo river also known as the Jatuyacu river, which means “Big Water” in Quichua. BIG is probably the best word to describe this river: big waves and tons of fun! This jungle river shows no signs of contamination as it flows from the Llanganates National Park – an extremely rugged and uninhabited mountain range believed by some to be the hiding place of Inca gold.
On arrival at the river we’ll receive a brief explanation about the trip and important safety measures that must be considered. Then we’ll be ready to start our adventure. An amazing journey for beginner and expert rafters awaits; a perfect combination of exciting rapids and calm natural pools, not to mention the wonderful surrounding jungle scenery. The Napo river, being one of the principal tributaries of the great Amazon River, is an adventure that´s a must when visiting our lodge! No rafting experience is necessary to enjoy this ride.
At noon, we’ll have a freshly prepared picnic lunch on the river bank, and then continue our tour. Before dusk, we’ll drive back in Tena after a day of great adventure filled with adrenaline and excitement.
Return to Hakuna Matata Lodge. Dinner in Restaurant Pangaea.
Overnight stay in cabaña for 2 persons with private bathroom and hot shower.
Day 4: BEACH AND RIVER
After breakfast you can visit the Pre-Columbian rock carvings (petroglyphs) and natural pools that are located only a few steps away from your cabaña! There are also marked trails with different levels of difficulty where you can do a short hike or just relax on the white sandy beach which invites sun worshippers and enjoy the crystal clear water of the Rio Inchillaqui.
Lunch in Restaurant Pangaea. After lunch, transfer to Archidona to take return transport to Quito.
PROGRAM INCLUDES:
• Lodging in cabin with private bathroom and hot water
• All visits and excursions as detailed
• English Speaking guide
• All meals during program as specified
• Full day rafting excursion with professional rafting guide(s), specialised rafting equipment, safety kayak, transport from/to the Lodge, picnic lunch by the river and all safety measures.
• All local taxes
NOT INCLUDED:
• Transportation Quito / Archidona / Quito (by public transportation $ 6 p/way)
• Drinks
• Tips
• Personal expenses
• Any other service not specified in the program
• Minimum 4 people
Ecuador Extensions 
