The Quijos river is set to become Ecuador’s premier white water trip with mile after mile of class IV-IV+ rapids and spectacular jungle scenery. Expect to run more white water in a day than you’d do in a week elsewhere. This trip is for experienced rafters that are confident swimmers.
Itinerary
Depart from Crossroads Café and Hostel, 6.30am on the 2 hour drive to Baeza. On arrival you’ll be equipped with wetsuits, life jackets and helmets. After a short drive to the start point, the Trip Leader will give a thorough safety briefing and conduct a swim test – we will not permit weak or non-swimmers to participate in this activity for their own safety.
You will then be 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 and in the afternoon we’ll raft through the canyons of the Quijos, running bigger, more technical rapids. 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 in Quito at approx. 8pm or there is an optional overnight stay at Papallacta.
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 (ie. toiletries/medication).
Price 2010
USD 95,- per Person with minimum 2 people
Included in the price:
Professional guides, expert safety kayaker for every two boats, all rafting equipment, wetsuits, transport, lunch, entry to Papallacta Hot Springs.
Not included in the price:
International flight, airport tax for international flights, personal expenses, tips, beverages, travel insurance.
Departures: Saturday and Wednesday
NB All guides are certified in First Aid, CPR, and wilderness First Response and Repair Kits. Your safety and satisfaction are our first priorities. \
On our tours we promote ecological awareness through education.
The equipment is of the highest quality. Type V coast guard approved personal flotation devices, and modern self-bailing rafts add a significant margin of safety and comfort for our guests. Paddleboats are our standard craft, where everyone participates by paddling.
