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The expedition begins in the 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.
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 tour. 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 tapirs, spectacled bears, monkeys, parrots and even rare predatory cats like the ocelot or the jaguar.
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 drive to the small Indian village Alao (via Riobamba) that you will reach after 5-6 hours. On your way you get to see the life of the Indios who still pursue agriculture according to traditional methods. From Alao you 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 you 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 you 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. You will spend the night in El Placer. B/L/D
Day 03 - 11: Rio Palora - Jungle Crossing
After leaving El Placer you follow a small path, which disappears in the national park near the collection of huts called Guamboya. From here you follow the Rio Palora through valleys of virgin mountain rainforest descending to the subtropic areas of the foothills in the Amazon rainforest. Cutting your path through the dense vegetation you hike along the noisy river, where you may spot some of the timid inhabitants of this unique natural paradise. In the evening you set up your tents close to the river.
On the 11th day you cross the river and hike through tropical forest in the direction of Palora. It is likely that you will pass the first isolated huts of Shuar-Indians who settled here. B/L/D
Day 12: Palora - Puyo - Quito
Today you reach Palora which is a small jungle town located about 2 hours from Puyo. From here you drive via Puyo, Baños and Ambato back into civilization to Quito. On this 8-hour drive you will pass through the spectacular terrain that changes in different climate zones- from the tropical rainforest to the Sierra - a dignified conclusion of your adventure. B/L/-
Prices 2008/2009:
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 as 2-pers. tents, kitchen gear etc., cook, porters, National Park entrance fee, first aid
Not included: International flight, accommodation and food supply in Quito, international airport tax ( USD 41,-), 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, canteen, camera and film (400 ASA).
Note: The tour may be delayed due to unforeseen obstacles (e.g. rivers you cannot cross because they are flooded). Therefore you should plan one or two reserve days after the tour. The countryside is often very difficult and you also have to cross-rivers. For this tour it is essential that you are in very good shape and are prepared to work in a team! You can chose if you want to carry your personal equipment or hire an additional porter (optional).
A maximum of 8 participants
Expedition Sangay National Park - El Reventador Expedition
The Aguarico Trekking -
Amazon Headwaters with the Huaorani
If you need any additional information please write us:
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South America 
