Elusive condors, rare orchids, pristine jungle, ecological accommodation, breathtaking volcanic mountain scenery and all-day hikes. If this is what you are after on your trip to South America then the community eco tourism project, Ecoalbergue Volcanos, is the place for you.

Situated within the lush, tropical Amboro National Park these basic yet comfortable thatched cabins have been constructed using local materials. All meals are included as are the daily activities which include informative nature hikes where you learn about the native flora and fauna of the rainforest. The ecological footpaths have been created by the local community and are in keeping with the natural environment, so as to minimise your footprint on the area.

To stay here you need to take an active, 2 day guided tour from Santa Cruz.

On the first day, after transferring 1.5 hours from Santa Cruz to Bermejo, you will take a 2 hour hike to reach the cabins. You will need to be wearing waterproof hiking boots as you will be crosing the river 12 times during this hike. After lunch you will be hiking to the Viewpoint Hill Hut for stunning panoramic views over Amboro National Park and the volcanic, mountainous area. Here you will hope to see condors and some medicinal species of orchids and plants. The 1.5 hour trek home is quicker as it is downhill and you will not return to the campsite until the evening around 8.30pm.

On the second day you will be hiking all day along an ecological footpath to the Curial, a viewpoint where you we will be able to observe the volcanoes and jungle up close. The trail is long yet diverse and skirts the mountains and takes you along river beds. You will have the chance to see the tracks of some of the medium sized jungle mamals such as jochis, tatuces and mountain cats. After returning to the campsite you will leave Ecoalbergue at 5pm to head back to Santa Cruz.

Facilities:

Lodging, all meals, local guides, ecoturístico circuit, mules to carry luggage.