The Call of the Open Road…
In the modern industrialized world, getting a vacation can be a challenge in itself. Wanting an element of adventure or exploration can make a trip even more difficult to plan. However, discovering the unknown is a big reason why people love to travel. In the words of the legendary Hank Williams, “…when that open road starts callin’ me / There’s somethin’ o’er the hill that I got to see…”
Travel the Amazon
In this case, we’ve found it best to follow the experts, or rather, the explorers. In fact, 5 different websites have featured our Ecuador Amazon Adventure in their list of “5 Historical Routes That You Can Follow Today.” We’re thankful that La Oferta, The Active Times, Getaways For Grownups, and Group Travel Leader have chosen to feature this exciting trip. “Despite the fact that indigenous people had been living in the Amazon for at least 10,000 years, the Amazon River was “discovered” by a Spanish explorer and conquistador, Don Francisco de Orellana.” This trip was included because of it’s similarity to the explorer’s quest for gold and cinnamon down the Amazon River in the 1500s.
Follow the Amazon River
Encountering indigenous tribes, natural wonders and foreign territory brought opportunity, exploration and adventure – then and now. We have more modern amenities available than in de Orellana’s day, but many guests see our trip down the amazon as stepping back in time. Though certain areas of the Amazon have been stripped of its natural resources over the years, it is still one of the most pristine ecosystems in the world. Exotic animals like pink river dolphins, howler monkeys and colorful birds are teeming in this expansive wilderness and the territory we visit is still untouched by modern resource exploitation. From the capital city of Quito to deep in the Amazon Rainforest, this trip will impress even the most experienced travelers.
Cultural Exchange at it’s Finest
When de Orellana was traveling down the Amazon, he encountered remote indigenous tribes led by women who resembled the Amazons of Greek mythology. On our Ecuador Amazon Adventure, we’ll meet “the Achuar, a tribe of 6,000 indigenous people still living traditionally in small Amazon communities along the Ecuadorian and Peruvian border.” Participating in traditional ceremonies and learning about natural biodiversity from the locals will provide guests with a first hand look at this incredible culture and it’s home.
Join us in Ecuador!
The opportunity to visit the Amazon is a once in a lifetime experience. This trip is more than a vacation, it’s a chance to learn about history, nature and culture from people who have stayed true to their roots. Travel the Amazon with Gondwana Ecotours.
