Other Adventures
Not Birds
Beyond the Binoculars: Adventures That Aren’t Birds (But Are Still Awesome)
Sure, we’re big on feathers, flight calls, and field guides — but sometimes you’ve just gotta put the binoculars down and take in your surroundings. In the Quijos Valley and beyond, the fun doesn’t stop when the bird list does. Paddle whitewater rapids, learn the fine art of cheese making from local farmers, explore hidden caves, soak in hot springs, and discover the wild side of Ecuador you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re here for the thrill, the taste, or the “I can’t believe I did that” stories, we’ve got you covered.
Rafting/ Kayaking
Whether you’re chasing the warm, jungle-scented waters of the Amazon in Tena or the cool, emerald torrents of the Quijos River near San Francisco de Borja, rafting here is pure adrenaline with a side of jaw-dropping scenery. The Quijos Valley is famous for its technical whitewater, icy Andean headwaters, and big-water rapids that’ll have you grinning (and maybe screaming) all the way down. Over in Tena, it’s all about jungle rivers, lush canyon walls, and spotting toucans while you paddle. Either way, you’re in for a splash-soaked adventure you’ll never forget.
Local Fare
Around here, meals aren’t just about eating—they’re about storytelling, tradition, and a dash of culinary bravery. You might savor maitos de tilapia, an Amazonian classic where fresh-caught fish is wrapped in bijao leaves and slow-cooked over coals until it’s smoky perfection. Feeling adventurous? Try chontacuros—plump palm grubs roasted until crispy outside and buttery inside, a true jungle delicacy. And no Ecuadorian food journey is complete without encebollado, the tangy fish-and-yuca stew that locals swear by as the ultimate comfort (and hangover) cure. Whether you stick with the classics or venture into the wild side, your taste buds are in for a trip of their own.
Milk and Cheese!
Rise and shine—it’s time to trade your binoculars for a milk pail. Around here, dairy farming is still a way of life, and our neighbors are happy to share it with curious visitors. You’ll start the morning learning how to hand-milk a cow (it’s all in the fingers), then head into the kitchen to turn that fresh milk into delicious, squeaky-fresh cheese. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about life in the Quijos Valley and the changing role of dairy in the community. The best part? Sitting down to taste the fruits (or curds) of your labor while the Andean breeze rolls through.
Caves
When you’ve had your fill of sunshine and mountain views, it’s time to head underground. The most popular option? Cavernas Jumandy near Archidona—a sprawling network of limestone caves steeped in history and legend. Local lore says the Jumandy warrior once hid here while resisting Spanish conquest, and today you can follow in his footsteps (with a flashlight, of course). Expect narrow passages, dramatic rock formations, and pools of crystal-clear water where you can take a refreshing dip. Whether you’re here for the geology, the history, or just to feel like an explorer, this subterranean adventure delivers.
Hot Springs anyone?
Just an hour up the road, Papallacta is where the mountains literally let off steam. Tucked high in the páramo at nearly 3,300 meters, these natural hot springs are the perfect place to soak your bird-weary bones. You can slip into steaming mineral pools surrounded by misty peaks, or wander the short trails to spot hummingbirds and orchids before hopping back in the water. Whether you want a day pass dip or a full spa treatment, Papallacta is pure Andean magic; relaxation with a view.
Keep Exploring
From hot springs in the páramo to caves under the jungle canopy, the Quijos Valley is just the beginning. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking in mineral pools, or wandering into the Amazon, there’s always more waiting just down the road.