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The expedition begins in the Ecuadorian Andean village of Alao. From there we hike to the 4.000m high Andean pass at the Laguna Negra (Black Lagoon), which is situated directly below the enormous massif of the Altar Volcano.
From here we descend the foothills of the eastern Andes, passing through mountain cloud forest and finally through the subtropical rainforest. On our way we follow the Rio Palora which we cross about 2 days before the end of the expedition. We trek through the rainforest to the small jungle village of Palora.
The highlight of the tour is the huge diversity of flora and fauna in the region. It is likely that the animals come to the river to drink, to wash themselves or just to lounge on the riverbanks where the rapid waters prevent too much heavy waterside growth.
The animals that reside in this part of the forest include andean tapirs, spectacled bears, monkeys, parrots, toucans and even rare predatory cats like the ocelot, puma or the jaguar.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Quito - Riobamba - Alao - Laguna Negra
Departure from Quito and travel to the small Indian village Alao (via Riobamba) that we will reach after 5-6 hours drive. On our way we get to see the life of the Indigenous who still pursue agriculture according to traditional methods. From Alao we hike to Cusniparcha at the base of the Andean pass of the Laguna Negra. Here we will set up our camp. -/L/D
Day 02: Laguna Negra - El Placer
Today we hike to the Laguna Negra and cross the pass at an altitude of about 4.000m. The lagoon is situated at the foothills of the enormous massif of the Altar (5.320m) where we can take in the spectacular view of its nine snow-covered peaks. From the windy and cold highlands of the Andes we descend in just a few hours through the mountain forest to the mountain cloud forest. In El Placer (The Pleasure) you get to relax in the nearby thermal spring. We will spend the night in El Placer in a spacious hut. B/L/D
Day 03 - 11: Rio Palora - Jungle Crossing
After leaving El Placer we follow a small path, which disappears in the national park near the collection of huts called Guamboya. From here we follow the Rio Palora through valleys of virgin mountain-rainforest descending to the subtropic areas of the foothills in the Amazon rainforest. Cutting our paththrough the dense vegetation we hike along the noisy river, where we may spot some of the timid inhabitants of this unique natural paradise. In the evening we set up our tents close to the river.
On the 11th day we cross the river and hike through tropical forest in the direction of Palora. It is likely that we will pass the first isolated huts of Shuar-Indians who settled here. B/L/D
Day 12: Palora - Puyo - Quito
Today we reach Palora which is a small jungle town located about 2 hours from Puyo. From here we drive via Puyo, Baños and Ambato back into civilization to Quito. On this 8-hour drive we will pass through the spectacular terrain that changes in different climate zones- from the tropical rainforest to the Sierra - a dignified conclusion to our adventure. B/L/-
Price 2009:
USD 2,270. - per person with minimum 4 people
USD 2,715. - per person with minimum 2 people
USD 4,875.- with one person
Included: private 4WD transportation, expedition English speaking guide, all meals included in this itinerary, collective camp equipment such 1 or 2-person tents, kitchen gear etc., cook, porters, entrance to the National Park, first aid
Not included: international flight, accommodation and food supply in Quito, International flight airport tax (USD 41.- per person), sleeping bag, personal items, tips, travel insurance.
What to bring with you: sleeping bag, sun glasses, sun block, rain wear, torch, hat, rubber boots, trekking shoes, warm clothing, water bottle, camera and film (400 ASA).
Note: The tour may be delayed due to unforeseen obstacles (e.g. rivers we cannot cross because they are flooded). Therefore you should plan one or two reserve days after the tour. The countryside is often very unpredictable. For this tour it is essential that you are in very good shape and are prepared to work in a team!
A maximum of 8 participants
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If you need any additional information please write us:
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South America 
