Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Hit the ground running on this thrilling adventure through Quito, Tena, and Baños. Your students will take a dip in the Papallacta volcanic hot springs, hike through lush, tropical jungle, and go white water rafting down the Napo River! Your class can also look forward to visiting a local wildlife rescue, learning from the Indigenous Kichwa community, and browsing the La Mariscal artisanal craft market.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Quito
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 2
Quito guided sightseeing tour
Independence Plaza, Palacio de Carondelet, San Francisco Church visit, Mitad del Mundo visit
Day 3
Travel to the Upper Amazon Basin region via Papallacta
Papallacta volcanic hot springs visit
Visit the town of Papallacta to relax in its mineral-rich thermal pools, which range from icy cold to scalding hot. Renowned for their high sulfate content, these pools are believed to offer a variety of health and beauty benefits.
Cross over the Eastern Andes and descend into Tena
Day 4
School visit
Amazon jungle hike
Covering nearly two billion acres, the Amazon is home to over 2.5 million insect species, and that is just the beginning. Thousands of fish, birds, mammals, and reptiles also inhabit this vast rainforest, making it the most biodiverse place on Earth. Journey into the heart of the Upper Amazon Basin and enjoy an afternoon hike through its lush tropical jungle.
Indigenous Kichwa community visit
Day 5
Napo River white water rafting guided excursion
Located in the heart of the Amazon Basin, the powerful Upper Napo River carries you and your licensed guide on a thrilling white water adventure through the jungle. As you travel fifteen miles downriver, take in the lush tropical landscapes of the Ecuadorian rainforest.
Day 6
Travel to the cloud forest town of Baños
Balsa wood workshop and handicrafts demonstration
Pailón del Diablo waterfall excursion
About half an hour outside the town of Baños lies the powerful Pailon del Diablo, also known as the Devil’s Cauldron waterfall. Hike near its roaring mouth and take in the lush cloud forest vegetation and native wildlife. Be sure to bring a rain jacket as the spray is part of the experience.
Explore the Río Pastaza Canyon
Day 7
Church of the Virgin of Agua Santa visit
Set on a hillside beneath the billowing smoke of Tungurahua, Ecuador’s largest active volcano, this Gothic-style basilica was named after a vision of the Virgin Mary seen in the nearby waterfalls of Baños. It has become a place where both tourists and locals come to thank her for her many miracles and to ask for her blessing. Built from volcanic rock, the interior of the impressive church features paintings of the Virgin’s miracles, including saving the basilica from multiple volcanic eruptions.
Tungurahua Volcano
Admire views of Tungurahua Volcano, one of Ecuador’s many active volcanoes.
Day 8
Travel to Quito
Day 9
La Mariscal artisanal craft market visit
A visit to La Mariscal market is a must for anyone looking for a souvenir or a gift to bring home. Filled with crafts and specialties from across Ecuador, the market dazzles with displays of blankets, paintings, jewelry, bags, flutes, chocolate, and more.
Day 10
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 5 Days in the Galápagos Islands
Fly to San Cristóbal Island and visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the Galápagos’ unique ecosystems. Hike to Tijeretas Bay to spot frigatebirds, rays, and sea lions, followed by a snorkeling adventure. Relax at Playa Mann, then visit La Galapaguera to see giant tortoises and hike to scenic El Junco Lake, the islands’ only freshwater lagoon. Continue with a snorkeling excursion at La Lobería Beach, known for its vibrant marine life. Travel by boat to Santa Cruz Island for a guided visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, home to vital conservation efforts. Conclude your extension with a trip to Baltra Island to explore the dramatic Twin Craters before flying back to Quito to begin your journey home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from Ecuador
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.