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Amazon Tours in Ecuador

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43 Ecuador Amazon Rainforest tours with 79 reviews

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Melissa Amazonian Region Ecuador travel expert at TourRadar

5 Days Amazon Lodge Cuyabeno Reserve

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• Christmas & New Year

“The accommodations were also very nice. We would highly recommend the trip.”

• Local Living

“Going into the jungle and meeting the Quechuan family and doing all the activities was amazing.”

“The whole team was incredible, providing me with a tour that was nothing short of amazing.”

“The truth is that I came back very happy with this tour. I recommend them.”

“Exploring Ecuador's great nature revealed breathtaking scenic views that left me in awe of this country's beauty.”

“The eco lodge was comfortable and the chef prepared amazing meals. I would highly recommend this tour.”

• In-depth Cultural

• Go on jungle walks
• Navigate through the Napo River
• Discover the Ecuadorian Amazon

“The itinerary was varied and well-balanced. The tour from the organisational point of view was excellent.”

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How to get the most out of a trip to the Ecuadorian Amazon

Apr 15, 2023 • 5 min read

One of the world’s most extraordinarily diverse environments, the Ecuadorian Amazon offers white-water rafting, bird watching, forest walks and more © Bailey Freeman / Lonely Planet

In Lonely Plan-It, we take you step by step through how we put together some of the most complicated travel adventures – so you can recreate them yourself with ease. Here, Bailey Freeman shares the steps to planning an incredible adventure to the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Despite its small size, Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse places on the entire planet – and a visit to its Amazon region is the feather in the cap of any person who wants to see the natural world at its most astonishing.

I visited the Ecuadorian Amazon – also known in-country as the Oriente – for my work as a travel writer and was pleasantly surprised how accessible the region was for travelers. Still, there are still several things to keep in mind as you plan your trip. 

Here’s our guide to planning the perfect visit to the Ecuadorian Amazon, an incredible place of cultural and environmental beauty. 

Step 1: Decide what activity you want to do

Plan your route around what interests you the most. 

The Amazon is home to a wealth of adventure: white-water rafting, wildlife watching, forest walks and more. It’s best to decide on your main priorities prior to your arrival, as different access points offer different experiences. 

If you’d like to marvel at the biodiversity of Ecuador’s famous Parque Nacional Yasuní , the town of Coca will be your starting point. Want to go rafting on tributaries to the mighty Amazon River? Start in Tena or Macas instead. Visiting the hot springs at Baños and want to tack on some Amazon adventure? Puyo would be a good place to put on your radar.

Step 2: Choose a home base 

Whether you choose a jungle lodge or a hostel, adventure awaits. 

Accessing the edge of the Amazon in Ecuador is pretty easy, as roads are well maintained and Amazon travel hub towns aren’t too far from Quito . But things get a bit more complicated once you start to head deeper into the forest. If you’re looking for convenience, we recommend choosing a jungle lodge that can serve as an all-in-one adventure coordinator. These atmospheric hotels offer transport to their location, meals and tours, often specializing in experiences unique to their region of forest. For example, I crashed at the Cabañas San Isidro , a launchpad hugely popular with birders. Other great options are Achuar-owned Kapawi Lodge and the Añangu-owned Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge .

If you don’t have the budget for a full lodge experience, don’t worry: you can opt for a wallet-friendly hostel or hotel in towns like Tena and Coca and book individual operators offering experiences à la carte. You’ll have to plan a few more logistics yourself, but you’ll still get to experience the majesty of the Amazon. 

Step 3: Pick the right time of year to go

Find what works best for you, but expect some rain. 

Due to its location along the equator, Ecuador doesn’t really experience substantial swings in weather with the seasons. That said, some months in the rainforest are wetter than others, so it doesn’t hurt to look at the calendar before you hit the road.

The Amazon experiences a rainy season February through September. While the sogginess may put off some travelers, more rain means better waterway navigability, more spottings of water-loving creatures and cooler temperatures. The cons? The potential for washed-out trails and more mosquitos. The term “dry season” is relative as rain is still common – yet the period from October through January does provide some relief from the moisture (and mosquitos), more access to hiking paths and warmer temperatures. 

Step 4: Pack smart

You'll need proper gear for exploring this region. 

In brief: pack for sun, rain and lots of bugs. In addition to staples like good (waterproof) hiking boots, water/adventure sandals and bug spray, we also recommend breathable long-sleeve shirts and long pants: you may be a bit hot, but it’s better than being a walking buffet for biting bugs. You’re going to want to protect your belongings from rain and a potential tumble into the Amazon’s rivers, so a dry bag for electronics or a waterproof daypack will come in extremely handy. Finally – and we can’t emphasize this enough – slather on the sunscreen. Ecuador sits at the equator, the part of the Earth that receives the most intense sun exposure, so those who are prone to sunburning will need to apply hourly. Pick an eco-safe and water-resistant option. 

Step 5: Be respectful

There are many ways to help protect this incredible place. 

The Amazon is one of our planet’s biggest treasures, so visiting with respect is absolutely essential. On the environmental side, make sure you pack out any and all trash, and opt for eco-safe bug spray and sunscreen options. While on your nature walks, remember to look around for – but never touch – all the incredible plants and animals you’ll encounter. 

The Amazon is also home to thousands of Indigenous communities, some of which work with tourism projects throughout the region. When you visit, they are your hosts. While every group is different and we can’t speak for them, here are a few general guidelines. Don’t take pictures of anyone unless permission is given to do so, especially children. Be kind and respectful about the elements of their culture they share with you, and be sure to support their communities in the ways they request (in particular, don’t bring “‘donations” like toys or toiletries unless specifically asked to). 

If I could do it all again…

I’d slow down . While it’s tempting to hop from activity to activity, half the magic is spending time in such a storied and ecologically essential place. Include some time for unhurried wanderings or hammock naps. You won’t regret it. 

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Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Adventure Travel , Ecuador

Ecuador Amazon Rainforest Guide – Local Living in the Most Diverse Biosphere on Earth

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

From local living to jungle trekking this Ecuador Amazon Rainforest guide has everything you need to know to prepare for your trip.

When we boarded a local bus that would take us into the fringes of the tropical Ecuador Amazon Rainforest, we knew we were going somewhere extraordinary.

Whoever you are with, you’ll soon become a tribal force of friends, willingly ready to cut yourselves off from bustling civilisation and wrestle with the fears of land completely off-limits to your knowledge and comforts.

You’ll help one other and talk about life to the stillness of the Amazon jungle, cut only by the sounds of what lives and breathes within it. You’ll leave with a lifetime of memories about a patch of the Earth that’s incomparable to anywhere else.

After four hours, the long highways and clunky town roads gave way to small, winding gravel passages that snaked through a mass of green. Dense forests surrounded us, trees pushed into the sky and without the roads and the tiny houses that lined the way, we would have been completely lost.

The small town of Tena hummed with life – the main hub for those who live further within the density of the jungle – but it wasn’t long before we rattled off in a 4 x 4 truck for another 45 minutes. To meet our local family hosts, in the community called Pimilacha.

The area of the Amazon in Ecuador is just one small part of the extensive Rainforest as a whole, but the biggest of all six regions of Ecuador. Not many people know that the Amazon is in Ecuador too, yet despite it only filling a ‘tiny’ space in the country with less than 800,000 people living within it, it still makes for a big journey, filled with adrenalin, exploration, and adventure.

The size of the Amazon Rainforest is mind-boggling, being one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, encompassing an area of over 2.5 million miles across nine countries in South America – Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, French Guiana, Peru, and Suriname. This makes it the most important rainforest in the world, spanning around 40% of the entire continent.

With vast biodiversity that is said to cover just under one-tenth of the earth’s landmass, the Amazon holds thousands of different species of animals and plants, beautiful landscapes woven together by rivers, lakes, seemingly infinite swaths of dense rainforest, as well as some of the world’s last remaining indigenous tribes.

According to this extensive list of facts about the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest, there are over 1,400 different animal species, including 200 mammals, 121 reptiles and nearly 600 bird species. And that’s not including the 70,000 types of insects and the 1,000 species of trees.

It’s exactly this untouched landscape status, filled with half of the world’s known species, and that so much of it remains completely uninhabited and unknown, that attracts the more curious who want to peer in and try to understand it.

Longboat trip on the Amazon River in Ecuador

Why go to Ecuador to Visit the Amazon?

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Since it’s such an extensive region, it becomes hard to pinpoint which country has the best benefits regarding a trip to the Amazon. With nine different countries sharing a part of the Amazon rainforest, you might think you’ll miss part of the adventure if you only stay in one country. Yet, it’s good to consider choosing a country with plenty of services and regular tours into the Amazon as the best option.

Truly remote parts of the Amazon are either off-limits, impossible to get to, or would simply take multiple days to reach.

Travel to Ecuador is about seeking pristine nature, with the Galapagos or the Amazon Rainforest being the core trips that the budget is allocated to. Quito is simply the landing ground for such wider adventures in the country.

When outsiders visit the Amazon, they often travel to its fringes, where infrastructure and the commodity of lodgings allow, yet it still provides enough off-beat landscape to experience its true density and for a visitor to feel right in the heart of the rainforest. The Ecuador Amazon region is not different in that offering.

That’s because the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador is home to the most diverse biosphere on earth – Yasuni National Park and Biosphere Reserve. It’s one of four national parks in the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador, whose UNESCO World Biosphere status makes it a special place for those adventurers who love watching wildlife and learning about nature.

My first trip could have been a long day trip only touching the sides of this eco bowl, but instead, I wanted immersion. Choosing the G Adventures Local Living Ecuador – Amazon Jungle trip , I got to live with a local family for five days and experience the Amazon from those most connected with it.

Local Living in the Ecuador Amazon Rainforest

In the Ecuadorian Amazon, the community of Pimilacha (meaning butterfly in native Quechua) is small but big on welcoming outsiders to understand the way of life here. There are around 25 families, with two working in the tourism industry to host visitors.

The family I lived with has been working with G Adventures for 25 years. In fact, the company’s first tour was to this very place after founder Bruce Poon Tip visited the head of the household and Sharman, Delfin and saw the potential in bringing travellers and communities together for the greater good.

Exploring with Delfin

Quechua culture and traditions are kept alive, communities continue to flourish, and travellers are provided with a unique experience at a local level in an Amazon lodge, in a more remote destination. All the good of travel, without the harmful social impact.

Our local house in the Ecuador Amazon Rainforest

The Ecuador Amazon Lodge for travellers

The family members are all involved in tourism, especially the two sons. Other family members live in the city of Tena, as what often happens when the populations disperse and later generations leave to go to high schools and universities that do not exist out in the jungle hinterland.

The main family house is where you’ll eat and spend the evenings relaxing, with the group residing in the secondary building right next to it in what are predominately twin rooms. Each day we were presented with a delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner, cooked by the mother and daughter, which included native products like plantain and yucca – much needed fuel after a day spent exploring.

Typical Ecuador Amazon lodge in the jungle

Nights spent in the Ecuador Amazon by candlelight.

Our Amazon lodge bedroom

You quickly get to learn about life in the Amazon jungle. Each day we got to interact with the family, with the two sons and Delfin being the leaders in exploration, armed with a machete and a lot of knowledge.

Jungle bush walks and the education of our surroundings became a daily ritual, with lessons in how to use a blowgun, coffee and chocolate making sessions being an added cultural extra. We were even taught how to prepare and cook grubs before daring one another to take this culinary rite of passage.

Learning how to use a blowgun.

Ecuadorian chocolate making in Amazon jungle.

Who dares to try the bush grubs?

The mother taught how us to make Chicha, a typical practice where the women of the household chew on yucca before spitting it out, kneading it and letting it ferment overnight. Surprisingly, the taste of this particular form of natural jungle alcohol isn’t so bad, and of course, there is a non-fermented version available for visitors.

Browse dates and book your Ecuador Amazon homestay here .

Making chica with travellers in Ecuadorian Amazon.

Culture, Adventure, and Nature in the Ecuador Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest summons up images of remote tribes. Ecuador has nine indigenous communities that live in the rainforest and two or three tribes that choose to live in isolation, living as their ancestors did thousands of years ago. This is not our place to disrupt a social hierarchy and remote way of life.

Many of these tribes are deeper within the Amazon, where it would take days for those who live on its fringes to reach them. If you want to experience and learn about the indigenous tribes of the Amazon, you can from the locals you live with, since core parts of the culture and traditions have been passed on, even if these communities now live differently.

Jungle walks teach you about basic survival, hunting and the medicinal properties of plants; daily life teaches you about the coexistence with nature and the respect of the rainforest’s other (animal) inhabitants; Shamanic culture teaches you about how humans can harness the power of nature and go back to our basic instincts and tranquillity.

You might get to experience the Ecuadorian Amazon Shamanic culture firsthand, learning how they blend medicinal herbs, nature, and their faith in spirits to heal and lead their tribes. If you’re interested in this mysterious healing culture, there are excursions that can take you to traditional villages and take part in this fantastic experience.

At my local family home, we were given an introduction to the shamanic practice one evening by candlelight. We witnessed songs and chants, the concept of oneness with nature and how part of this tied in with rituals and ceremonies such as weddings.

Understanding Sharman practice in the Ecuador Amazon.

I was lucky in that I got to have a one-on-one experience with Delfin; a curiosity in a form of healing that goes to the very core of what we are and what a lot of us have lost touch with – nature.

In an empty hut, I sat on a wooden floor with my back facing Delfin. Spatters of cleaning oils rapidly flew through the air as they were lightly spat on me, followed by the deep breaths of the Sharman who then continued with chanting. As he chanted he used a small batch of leaves to tap me lightly on the head and in a rhythm. The first taps were on my head before making a circular motion from the head around the shoulders.

He sang. His voice was the only one I heard in the stillness of the Amazon, overriding the nature surrounding us. His song was in unison with the movement of the leaves, before placing his mouth to my head, breathing in with a swift sucking motion. Together, this is all a part of a process used to draw out and read energy via the head.

When Delfin had his reading, he closed the ceremony by spitting more cleaning oil before pouring some into my hands, which I was asked to smell with long-drawn breaths, rub on my face and sweep through my hair. I was told of my intense stress levels, and how to breathe deeply every morning to take energy from the sun.

I was told that in order to see more intensely, one would have to go through the rituals of using Ayahuasca, although that is a controversial issue since many travellers have been lured to unregulated Ayahuasca retreats with often dangerous consequences. The practice of Ayahuasca with tourists is illegal in the Amazon of Ecuador.

If you’re looking for the thrill of adventure and exploring the nature of the rainforest, the Amazon has plenty of activities. Whether it’s kayaking in the streams of the Amazon River, wildlife watching or trekking the jungle by foot with a guide, you’ll have an experience of nature at its most raw.

Our days were spent walking through the jungle to the sound of monkeys who followed our every move out to viewpoints across the famed Amazon River, or learning about medicinal plants and survival with knowledge Delfin continues from his forefathers.

Jungle trekking in the Ecuador Amazon Rainforest

Deep into the jungle.

Jungle treks in Ecuador are best experienced via a small group tour with a local guiding the way. 

Plant rope – one of the essential survival tools in the Rainforest.

Making natural paints from stones in the Amazon

Finding unique Rainforest plant species.

We bathed in the stream behind our house and covered our faces with the natural clay found in the foundations of the rich jungle beds and trekked to jungle waterfalls. We rode carefree in the backs of trucks to go and swim in lagoons and boarded river longboats in search of wildlife and a glimpse into the vast depths of the Amazon Rainforest.

Jungle stream bathing in Ecuador Amazon.

Longboat ride through the Amazon Rainforest waterways is a rite of passage.

Natural jungle clay face masks.

Swim in an Amazon lagoon

On our final day, we went water rafting on the Jatunyacu River – a faster flowing tributary that commanded a lot of energy. Even after water rafting in Europe and Asia, this grade three level put us all through our paces. It was an extra excursion offered as part of our overall tour . 

Go water rafting in the Amazon of Ecuador.

Rafts were flipped and tipped, ours hit a giant rock, and many of us embraced the waters, all the while realising we were mere specks of life in a place of such raw earth significance. Really, we all wanted to get in – because we were deep within a trail of the mighty Amazon River. This was a once in a lifetime race against nature, a fast-flowing picture book of the swathes of Rainforest we passed on either side and a chance to delve into the waters of one of the world’s most incredible eco-systems.

Although Ecuador has access to one the smallest pieces of the Amazon Rainforest, it has the most diverse ecosystem of them all, with a wealth of plants, animals, and sights to see in Ecuador’s national parks and reserves.

Despite limited infrastructure certain parts of the Amazon are accessible and open for exploration at the hands of local guides who know the waters, nature and the seasons. One of the main ways we got to learn about the wildlife in the Ecuador Amazon wasn’t just from observing on jungle walks or lingering silently on the longboat watching the rustling of the leaves in front of us, but by visiting the Animal Rehabilitation Centre.

Monkeys in the Ecuador Amazon Rainforest.

Entering the Animal Rehabilitation Centre.

The animal care centre, one of the core projects G Adventures supports, has been in operation for 25 years, helping to rehabilitate over 3,000 animals and releasing 1,500. Therefore visiting is a core part of the Ecuador Amazon trip itinerary to learn about animal welfare.

Many animals are unable to be released due to the fact they simply wouldn’t survive. Most of these animals were once taken as pets, and when domesticated often get depressed and die or attack humans. Others were captured and abused, hunted for meat and skin or Illegal trafficking.

Wildlife rehabilitation in the Ecuador Rainforest.

Walking through jungle trails and often drenched in the rain this forest is known for, this is the opportunity to get up close to some of the region’s wildlife, both rare and often hidden.

The Ecuador Amazon Rainforest has the most diverse ecosystem of all countries.

There’s no touching of the animals, nor any close contact with the enclosures, both due to the fact that they are rehabilitated to as wild a condition as possible and also not to be in contact with creams and perfumes from humans which can harm them. There’s no interaction with sound, especially with the parrots. Any animals that are roaming free outside of protective enclosures are never handled, as it is paramount not to humanise them. For example, if one monkey thinks humans are nice and then comes across a hunter, they will think the hunter is also nice.

Amazon tortoise.

Ecuador is one of the countries actively protecting the jungle of the Amazon. This animal rehabilitation centre is just one part of that, with other laws being set in place to protect other aspects of the rainforest including confiscated land and jail time if anyone is caught cutting down trees and other forestation.

Despite Ecuador tourism drives bringing in income to the area, there are billions of dollars worth of oil being underneath the Ecuadorian Amazon, especially in Yasuni National Park and Biosphere Reserve. There is an ongoing debate about future drilling and how this will affect the Rainforest and its future preservation.

Tips for an Amazon Adventure

Even if you’re a seasoned traveller seeking a new adventure or new to this kind of offbeat destination, Amazon travel requires some planning. Preparing for a trip to the Amazon might bring images of Indiana Jones and other movie characters, but the reality is much simpler, as these tips on accessibility, difficulty and preparation show. However, there are plenty of options for every traveller and services to accommodate you comfortably, while still feeling unique, remote and in touch with nature.

While the best time to visit Ecuador is between the dry season of June-September, the weather in Ecuador’s Amazon is mostly the same during the whole year, where you can expect plenty of rain and high humidity.

Prepare for the wet weather in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Local guides explain that both the dry and rainy seasons (dry meaning a little less rain, rather than no rain at all!) have their particular benefits, as you might get to see different animals in each season or sight rare flowers that only bloom during a given season.

Although thousands of tourists visit this area every year, you can expect little to no traffic of tourists in the area. Amazon lodges, experiences, and trips are all seemingly very spread out.

Longboats are the main form of transportation to Amazon destinations.

Unlike other countries, access to the Amazon from Ecuador is straightforward. Take a flight directly to the capital of Quito, and in only five hours by bus or van, you can get to the border of the rainforest at the city of Tena. There are actually six cities based here: Coca, Lago Agrio, Orellana, Papallacta, Puyo and Tena, but Tena is seen as the main and most used gateway.

The Expreso Baños local bus from Quito to Tena.

You can get to Tena by public buses that go as cheap as $6 per trip, but you might miss some of the natural landscapes that decorate the trip. If you can find an affordable taxi or van to travel you or your group to Tena, you might be able to stop to take pictures and enjoy the beautiful sights between Quito and Tena.

If you’d like to go deep into the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve, you can also take a domestic flight from Quito to Francisco de Orellana Airport in Coca to stay in an eco-lodge and stay right in the middle of the jungle.

My local bus ticket to Tena and the transport beyond were all included in my Amazon trip .

A Taxi in Tena will get you into the heart of Amazon Rainforest. 

It is not at all advised to travel alone in the Amazon  since this is unknown territory that is easy to get lost in. There is a reason so many thousands of travellers come here in small groups and with a local guide.

Do not embark on long jungle hikes alone since the majority of trails are not clearly marked. If you want to go on an extra excursion, ask the local you are staying with who will most likely oblige and be proud to show you more of their home.

Don’t venture anywhere at night without a flashlight . We saw some unwelcome visitors in the form of giant spiders and a scorpion in our bathroom.

Even if travelling solo in the Amazon, it is best to stay at a registered lodge with adequate set-up for visitors , so that people know where you are.

The difficulty of your journey to the Amazon depends entirely on your preference and planning. If you’re going to participate in sports activities or trekking through the jungle, the trip might require plenty of stamina and might prove difficult for the inexperienced.

However, if you’re going to stick to your guide and follow your tour as planned, you’ll find that although it can be tiring due to the weather and long trips, the journey is accessible and achievable by everyone.

How difficult is it to travel to the Ecuador Amazon?

The Amazon rainforest is not a destination without risks so you must prepare accordingly . Although the cases of yellow fever, dengue, and other diseases have lowered in recent years, you must always consult with your doctor about the vaccinations recommended and required to travel to Ecuador.

According to the CDC (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention) , it is recommended to get your Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations (on top of your routine MMR) as there is a risk of these via contaminated food and water.

Proof of a yellow vaccine vaccination is regularly listed as one of the Ecuador   Entry Requirements . Even though I wasn’t asked for it upon arrival you may well be. Yellow Fever is also recommended if you are travelling to the Andes Mountains in areas of high elevation.

To avoid any chance of catching a disease brought about by insects, such as mosquitoes, you might want to stock up on insect repellant creams or lotions . I took anti-mosquito shower gel and repellent with me, alongside my everyday medications, and painkillers.

The tap water in the Ecuador Amazon is not safe to drink , and it is recommended to also not drinks from the rivers and streams, which may contain waterborne diseases and parasites. Purified water will likely to provided to you by your hosts, but just in case bring water purification tablets with you or an instant purifier filter like a Lifestraw , a UV light SteriPen water purifier  or a  reusable filter water bottle like Water-to-Go (Use the code BECKI20 at checkout for a 20% discount).

Heading to the Amazon jungle? Be prepared.

Packing for the Amazon isn’t so difficult, but you’ll need layers for the changes in temperature, light pants and long sleeve shirts of light fabrics for cover in the jungle, lighter clothing for the hot and humid parts of the day and waterproof clothing layers for when those sunny days instantly turn into the frequent rain where the forest gets its name.

With my host family, mosquito nets were provided for each bed in our rustic accommodation and rubber boots were mandatory for walks in more dense areas of the jungle, with enough pairs for every member of the group.

• A pair of light khaki green trousers , that can be rolled up when humid and be long enough to tuck into the rubber boots provided on jungle walks.
• A pair of black leggings / comfy yoga pants / lounge pants for the evenings , and also worn while my daytime trousers were drying.
• 2 x t-shirts and 2 x tank tops , always with the aim in mind to have one to wear while the other is drying out.
• 1 jumper (I had a traditional Ecuadorian wool style purchased in Quito) especially when the temperature dropped at night.
• A light waterproof jacket (it’s not incredibly cold when it rains).
• Swimwear ( I had a green leaves print bikini , which fit the surroundings!) for spring and lagoon swims and water rafting.
• A pair of sports shoes ( I’m a Vivobarefoot fan ) for excursions that were not jungle treks.
• A pair of flip-flops or sandals for use in the afternoons when relaxing, in the evening and/or in the shower.
• Underwear to last you for one week and a light pair of Pyjama pants.
• Toiletries and a quick dry travel towel as there is nothing available on-site and if one towel is provided, it doesn’t always dry quickly.
• A head torch for the evenings when the lights go out after a certain hour.
• Earplugs if you find it hard to sleep to the sounds of jungle nature. Although if you can get used to it, it’s beautiful.
• A reusable filter water bottle like Water-to-Go (Use code: BECKI20 at checkout for a 20% discount). Ideal for when you are out on long walks, small treks and day trips. Don’t take and leave plastic!
• A full portable charger ( Anker is my go-to power brand ) and spare batteries for your camera , as everyone is usually vying for limited electricity and plug sockets.

However, should you be in need of an emergency item or any amenities, there is a chance to make a trip into Tena on the way back from a day trip, which we did one day to stock up on snacks and any essentials.

There are a handful of Amazon Rainforest tours from Ecuador and group travel is the primary way in. Often being on an organised trip or in a group often seems taboo, but that’s not true. Not only is it pretty much impossible to find your way around the Ecuador jungle without such small group guidance, without my fellow travellers my time in the Amazon wouldn’t have been the fun, unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity it was.

Without G Adventures we wouldn’t have had access to the family we lived with and the experiences they shared with us in their homeland, and to know we were spending our money ethically and it going to the right people and projects.

See booking details for Local Living Ecuador – Amazon Jungle small group tour .  It’s a seven day round trip that starts and ends in Quito, with five days based in the Amazon jungle staying with the Quichua family. The price includes accommodation, transport, food and excursions. Our water rafting trip was an optional extra we all choose to do as our final hurrah in this wild adventure.

Groups are kept small and as much as it’s rare to get along with each person on a trip when compacted into a few days and in such a remote place, we did, leaving the Amazon with more than just survival skills and a better understanding of the Amazon people. Don’t be too quick to agree with the notion that being amongst others can ruin the raw experience. More often than you realise, it can actually enhance it.

READ MORE: Solo Travel vs Group Travel

The G Adventures tour group in Ecuador Amazon and a lifetime of memories

My trip was part of a brand partnership with G Adventures to encourage travellers to explore the planet in a meaningful way and to help change people’s lives through travel. All opinions and experiences remain my own. 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

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Ecuador Amazon: 8 Things to Know Before Visiting the Amazon Rainforest

Are you thinking about visiting the Ecuador Amazon ? In this post, we’ll cover 8 things you should know before you visit Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest.

You’ll learn about yellow fever risk, the climate, accommodations, safety, and more.

Many people travel to the Ecuadorian Amazon to see the animals, so before we get started let’s watch a short video highlighting some of the animals you may see on your trip.

Animals of the Ecuador Amazon video

Now we’ll talk about some things that will help you get prepared and excited about your trip.

Ecuador Amazon: 8 Things You Should Know Before You Go

The Ecuadorian Amazon (el Oriente) is home to one of the most bio-diverse places on the planet . More than 10,000 tourists enjoy Amazon jungle tours each year.

Will you be one of them? If so, check out this list before you travel.

To get started let’s look into yellow fever, malaria, and dengue risk in the Ecuador Amazon.

1. Is there yellow fever, malaria, and dengue in the Ecuador Amazon?

This may be at the top of your list of concerns when visiting the Ecuador Amazon, but the facts may surprise you.

Yellow Fever in the Ecuador Amazon

Because some countries require you to have a yellow fever vaccine before travel if you’ve been in Ecuador, you may think there is a high risk of contracting the disease.

According to a report  ( opens pdf report ) based on information from the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization dated March 16, 2017 there was one confirmed case of yellow fever in 2017 in the Province of Sucumbios. The last reported case was in 2012 in the province of Napo.

So the answer is yes, there is a risk of yellow fever . Is yellow fever common in the Ecuador Amazon? Apparently not.

More reading:  Buyers Guide to the Best Sun Protection Hats

You may be wondering if you should get a yellow fever vaccine before you travel. That should be discussed with your doctor . Going to a doctor who specializes in international travel, perhaps at a travel clinic, is recommended.

To keep up with current vaccine recommendations check out the Ecuador section on CDC.gov. You’ll notice that the yellow fever vaccine is recommended for travel to specific provinces in the Ecuador Amazon.

If you’re not traveling to the noted provinces ask your doctor what they recommend. This will help you determine the risk and what you’re comfortable with .

Keep in mind that if you’ll be traveling on to certain countries after your stay in Ecuador you may be required to show a yellow fever vaccine certificate to enter, regardless of the provinces you’ve visited.

Check this list to see if your travel plans could be affected.

While these laws exist, we haven’t heard of them being enforced , but that may change during an outbreak. It’s best to contact the embassy of each country you’ll be visiting to check their requirements.

Malaria and Dengue in the Ecuador Amazon

There is a risk of Malaria and Dengue in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

While you’ll want to take precautions like limiting outdoor activity in the evening, wearing long sleeves, long pants, and using insect repellent, you’ll also want to consider taking medication . Unlike malaria, there are no anti-dengue drugs.

Discuss the area you’ll be traveling in, precautions, and the medications available with your doctor.

Malaria, dengue, and yellow fever are contracted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. And while the risk is not high in the Ecuador Amazon, there is a risk, so you should follow these recommendations to protect yourself. You should also stay informed about the current situation and watch for outbreaks. Some travelers decide to get vaccinated and/or take medication, some do not. It’s up to each individual to decide what’s best.

2. Is the Ecuador Amazon Biologically Diverse?

The Ecuador Amazon is home to (what is called by many) the most bio-diverse place on earth: Yasuni National Park .

Yasuni National Park covers an area of 9,820 square kilometers and boasts thousands of species, including:

• 596 species of birds (including harpy eagles and scarlet macaws )
• 150 amphibian species
• 382 species of fish (like the payara )
• 200 species of mammal (including pygmy marmosets – the world’s smallest monkey)
• 121 reptile species (like the emerald tree boa )
• 100,000+ species of insects

Yasuni also holds many world records including 3 world records for woody plant species and 4 for documented liana and tree richness. Learn more about Yasuni National Park in our huge guide .

It is believed that this amazing biodiversity is due to the unique location of Yasuni.

The park is located between the Curaray and Napo rivers, at the base of the Andes mountains, near the equator.

There is oil in this area of the Amazon (seven billion dollars worth) and there is an ongoing debate about oil drilling and how it could affect Yasuni.

More reading: Guide to Squirrel Monkeys in the Amazon

3. What is the Climate Like in the Ecuador Amazon?

The Ecuador Amazon is part of the Amazon rainforest which stretches from Brazil, through Venezuela, Columbia, Bolivia, and Peru. It’s hot, humid, and rains pretty much every day.

On average this area receives about 3200 – 3500 mm of rain per year. The temperature averages around 23-25 °C.

The dry season usually begins in December and ends sometime in March. But don’t let the term “dry season” fool you, it just means that it rains a little less than the rest of the year.

It does not rain all day long, but you will usually see rain at least once each day. The forest never dries out.

So make sure you bring lots of waterproof travel gear and quick-dry activewear clothing! Probably the most important piece of gear is a waterproof bag. Here’s our guide to choosing the best waterproof dry bag .

4. Is it Safe to Drink the Water in the Ecuadorian Amazon?

No, it’s not safe to drink tap water or the water in lakes, streams, or rivers in the Ecuador Amazon.

There could be waterborne diseases and parasites in the water which could make you very sick and ruin your trip.

It’s only safe to drink purified bottled water while traveling in the Ecuadorian Amazon. You should make sure to brush your teeth with bottled water as well. And be careful not to get water in your mouth while in the shower.

You may want to consider bringing a water purifier with you. A great option is the self-filtering water bottle.

Each filter will filter up to 100 gallons (640 refills) of municipal water and up to 25 gallons (160 refills) of lake and river water. I love mine – it’s lightweight and fits nicely in my backpack.

It’s a good idea to bring along a portable water filter . They are a little expensive but worth it to avoid a stomach illness.

5. Is it Safe to Travel in the Ecuador Amazon?

If you follow some simple safety precautions you should be able to stay safe and healthy during your trip to the Amazon in Ecuador.

• Visit a travel clinic so you can be informed about vaccines you’ll need
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites
• Don’t drink the water or use ice cubes
• Only eat properly prepared (thoroughly cooked) food, including fruit rinsed in purified water
• Keep an eye on your luggage and follow practical steps to avoid pick-pocketing in tourist areas
• Travel with a group
• Stay in an air-conditioned highly rated hotel or lodge

Read more safety tips for shopping and sightseeing abroad.

6. Are There Indigenous Tribes in the Ecuadorian Amazon?

The Huaorani, Shuar, and Kichwa are the three main indigenous tribes in the Ecuador Amazon.

In Ecuador’s Amazon, the Huaorani or Waorani tribe is known as the warrior tribe . Their language is very different than the other languages spoken in the Amazon basin.

There are 5 groups of the Huaorani tribe living in voluntary isolation in the Yasuni area. They are the most vulnerable   tribe living in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

The Shuar are the largest tribe. They make the much-talked-about drink, chicha . This is also the tribe that used to make shrunken heads, some of which can be seen in the Banco Central Museum in Cuenca.

The Kichwa tribe in the Amazon are similar to the Quechua of the Andes, they speak the same language but with a differing dialect. Their traditional dress differs as well.

Many of the lodges in the Ecuador Amazon offer excursions that include visiting local indigenous tribes.

7. Are There Nice Places to Stay in the Amazon in Ecuador?

There are some very nice places to stay in the Ecuador Amazon.

5 Best Ecuador Amazon Lodges

According to this article by Lonely Planet, here are the top 5 places to stay:

• Kapawi Ecolodge and Reserve
• Napo Wildlife Center
• Sacha Lodge
• Yachana Lodge

Have fun checking them out and don’t forget to read about them on TripAdvisor.

If you’ve stayed in any of them, please let us know how your experience was by commenting on this post.

8. How Do You Get to the Ecuador Amazon?

To get to the Amazon in Ecuador you will most likely fly into Quito. Then you’ll catch another flight or take a bus to one of the main cities in the Amazon.

From there you will probably go by canoe to your lodge. Your travel agent or the lodge you book with will fill you in on the exact details of how to get to your destination in the Amazon.

Learn more about things to do in Quito and  5 travel insurance options for travelers and expats.

Learn about the 12 Longest Rivers in South America and the World’s 16 Largest Rainforests

Ecuador’s Amazon and You

Have you visited the Amazon in Ecuador? If you have please share your experience by commenting on this post. If you have questions that were not answered here, feel free to ask them below.

Learn more about Ecuador travel , and the best tools for learning Spanish . 

Traveler, Writer, Entrepreneur

Hi, I'm Dena Haines . And I'm co-founder of Storyteller Travel . I love to cover food, animals, and destinations around the world.

I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech .

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I love the information about the Amazon and Ecuador. We’re traveling there, soon to Quito, Tena, Quilotoa Lake, Galapagos, and more. What gifts can we take for the locals? All suggestions appreciated.

Great information. I found it concerning seeing the oil tankers being constantly shipped up and down the river. Especially considering the incredible animals you can find here. I hope tourism helps spread the word of how important these areas are. To quote Edward Wilson: “Evolution required about 10 million years to restore the predisaster levels of diversity. Faced with a waiting time that long, and aware that we inflicted so much damage in a single lifetime, our descendants are going to be — how best to say it? — peeved.”

Hi Dena, Sensational review here. Really enjoyed it. I had no idea that Ecuador contained a national park that is the most bio diverse region on earth. Awesome. I loved seeing many of these same creatures when living in a remote jungle in Costa Rica, 3 hours away from humans. Sloths, monkeys, toucans, parrots, and so much more. When you spend even a few days in the jungle – let alone 6 weeks like we did – it changes you in a wonderful way. All about getting back in harmony with nature, and its infinite perfection. Thanks for the excellent share Dena. Ryan

Wow! Sounds like you had an amazing experience Ryan. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the post! 🙂

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How To Explore the Amazon in Ecuador

Adventure Activities in the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador

We jumped into the Amazon rainforest for a weekend stay at Gaia Lodge and joined their 3 days/2 nights itinerary. Activities in the Amazon are plentiful and there’s more than enough to keep you occupied for at least 3 days but up to a week or more. I’d recommend reading the set itineraries ahead of time to see how many days you need to do all the Amazon rainforest activities on your wish list. Here are our highlights from our weekend in the Amazon:

Canoeing Along the Rio Napo

There’s nothing else like a canoe ride along one of the Amazon’s wide rivers. Flanked by dense jungle on either side, a canoe ride through the Amazon gives you ample chance to spot wildlife amongst the sprawling branches. You’ll have a guide with you who knows the favourite spots of the local wildlife and to help point out those hard-to-see animals.

During our motorised canoe ride down the Rio Napo and its tributaries, we saw three species of monkey – woolly monkeys, spider monkeys and squirrel monkeys. A flock of yellow-tailed birds flew overhead in a pointed arrow as we sailed along the waters. The river is laden with caiman but locals say you won’t see these crocs lurking during the day, as they only hunt along the river banks at night.

Hiking in Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest

The Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest is hot and humid, but the best way to truly feel like an explorer is to go on foot. This region is one of the most bio-diverse parts of the world and a hike through the rainforest gives you the opportunity to see the flora and fauna up-close.

Community Tourism Visit to the Kichwa

Where the Napo and Arajuno rivers meet is Anaconda Island, inhabited by local Kichwa indigenous families. Here you can learn about local customs and take a swig of chicha , a traditional white, milky beverage made from yuca. It’s got a fermented, slightly sour taste to it, not dissimilar from kefir.

We (unsuccessfully) tried out using a blowgun for the first time. But we were suitably impressed with our guide’s ability to hit the wooden target! A short walk from the house where we tried chicha, we followed a jungle path to the swamps where we saw caimans, as well as a variety of plants and pink bananas!

Community Tourism Visit to Ceramic Makers

In the nearby town of Ahuano, local craft makers practise a variety of different handicrafts. We visited the family of ceramic makers to see their pottery in action. We were amazed by the skill as we watched pots and bowls being made and shaped by hand! Visiting community projects like this one is a great way to contribute and support locals through purchasing a small handicraft.

Butterfly Farm in Ahuano

There’s a gorgeous butterfly house located in the town of Ahuanco with 20+ species of local butterfly. It’s by far the best butterfly house we’ve ever visited, teeming with mariposas of all kinds. This was an unexpected but very pleasant addition to our Amazon itinerary.

Amazoonico Animal Rescue Centre

The animal rescue centre, Amazoonico , is located along the river banks and can be easily reached by motorised canoe from Ahuano or any of the Amazon lodges in this area. It is one of the most highly regarded conservation projects in the Amazon and is staffed by volunteers from around the world. We had a wonderful volunteer from Germany as our guide when we visited the project.

The animals here were previously held captive as ‘pets’ and have heartbreaking back stories. The animals here are brought to the project to rehabilitate them for release into the wild. However, there are a few animal which are not able to return to the wild due to their condition. Animals you may see at the project include tapirs, ocelots, macaws and monkeys.

All proceeds from visits to Amazoonico support the maintenance and reintegration of the animals to the wild. Proceeds from visitors are the only source of funding for the project.

Wildlife in the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador

The Napo River is a brilliantly bio-diverse area of the Amazon rainforest and you’ll have a significant chance of spotting wildlife here. The Napo River is a tributary river of the Amazon River and along its banks you can find rainforest inhabited by wildlife. Here’s a run down of some of the best wildlife you can see in Ecuador’s Amazon. We’ve included only the monkeys that we saw during our three-day stay at Gaia Lodge.

• Woolly Monkey – Woolly monkeys are medium-sized monkeys with brown to orange fur. They defend their territory against other monkeys aggressively. There’s a semi-wild colony of woolly monkeys on an island near the Amazoonico Rescue Centre .
• Squirrel Monkey – These adorable little monkeys live in huge groups of up to 50 animals. Wild populations of squirrel monkeys live along the Napo River.
• Spider Monkey – Spider monkeys are one of the largest monkeys you can see in the Amazon. They have prehensile tails, which means that their tail is as useful as a third arm. Spider monkeys are often hunted by humans and sold as pets. A spider monkey mother will fight to the death to protect her young, so the mothers are usually killed by hunters. You can spot spider monkeys in the wild along the Napo River.
• Gael’s Tamarin – These tiny monkeys are seen and heard from Gaia Lodge. They live in large groups and spend time foraging both on the ground and in the trees. There are several types of Tamarin in the Amazon.

Other Mammals

• Tapir – The tapir is the largest animal of the Amazon rainforest. Sadly, they are endangered due to hunting and deforestation. It takes a long time for a baby tapir to reach adulthood, which makes it hard for tapir populations to recover. You’re unlikely to see a tapir in the wild as they are nocturnal. You can see semi-wild tapirs at Amazoonico Rescue Centre.
• Jaguar – Jaguars are the largest type of cat to live in the Amazon. There are also ocelots and jagarundis. Jaguars are extremely rare and you are unlikely to see one in the wild. Jaguars are often killed by farmers as they have been known to eat a farmer’s livestock.
• Caiman – Adult caimans normally hunt at night. Locals swim in the rivers of the Amazon during the day, but they get out of the water before it gets dark! You can see juvenile caiman in the wild during the day at Isla Anaconda.
• Anaconda – The anaconda is the world’s largest snake. It’s not poisonous, but it can be dangerous to humans. You can see an anaconda at Amazoonico Rescue Centre. It’s unlikely to ever be released into the wild as – as you can imagine – the locals object to having this snake released near their village.

Best Amazon Lodge in Ecuador

There are a few different options for Amazon lodges in Ecuador but we loved our stay at Gaia Lodge . It was important for us to choose an Amazon lodge within easy distance to Quito so that we could take a weekend trip and avoid flying (which we avoid as much as possible for environmental reasons).

Tamarin monkeys parade through the trees right outside the front of the cabins at Gaia Lodge at sunrise and sunset. One evening, reading our books on the hammocks outside our cabin door we heard the pitter-patter of tiny feet running across our cabin roof, only to see tamarins leaping through the air from the cabin to the trees. It was an incredible sight.

After days-out in the jungle, come back to the lodge for a hot shower (not a given at Amazon lodges!) and a filling meal. The cooks and volunteers working in the kitchen created some great dishes, including quinoa soup, roasted potatoes with salsa, a passion fruit mousse that makes my mouth water thinking about it now and fresh fruit juices.

By night, fall asleep to the humming of cicadas and the soothing sounds of the jungle. The cabins at Gaia Lodge keep cool inside thanks to jungle-friendly design and building materials which contribute to passive cooling. There’s no need for air conditioning inside the cabins because of their design.

Amazon Lodge Prices

Prices of Amazon lodges vary substantially . The more rural you go, the more expensive the lodges can be and the higher the travel cost to reach them. We felt Gaia Lodge provided an excellent value for money option for budget and mid-range travellers in Ecuador.

Ecuador Amazon Tours

Amazon tours in Ecuador range from 2 days / 1 night to 5 days / 4 nights or longer. We wouldn’t recommend going for less than 3 days / 2 nights. Otherwise the journey to the Amazon doesn’t feel worth it and it’s likely your itinerary would feel rushed.

The 3 or 4 day options give you enough time to have a full Amazon experience and spot some wildlife. If you want to really soak in jungle vibes and relax in the jungle, then 5+ days is the right amount of time for you.

Activities on Amazon tours vary depending on the lodge who you book through. We read a lot of Amazon tour itineraries before opting for Gaia Lodge who we felt had the best itinerary offering for a 3 days / 2 nights trip to the Amazon from Quito.

• 3 days / 2 nights – Our pick! We loved this length program for a full, long weekend itinerary including canoe ride, chocolate-making class, short jungle trek, indigenous community visit, butterfly farm visit and Amazoonico rescue centre visit.
• 4 days / 3 nights – For a real Amazon adventure! Additional activities on this itinerary include a night walk through the jungle to spot frogs and a jungle walk to the Rio Blanco waterfalls.
• 5 days / 4 nights – For the true Amazon experience! Additional activities on this itinerary includes an experience learning about gold panning and local fishing, a visit to Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island) which is excellent for bird-lovers, a Shaman visit at an indigenous community to cleanse bad energy and a trip to the Selva Viva Reserve.

Volunteer in Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest

Love the idea of visiting Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest? Amazingly, you can also volunteer in the Amazon!

Whilst staying at Gaia Lodge, we met two volunteers from Argentina who had found the opportunity through Worldpackers . They absolutely loved volunteering at Gaia and planned to stay a few months. They helped out around the lodge, running a chocolate making class we attended and assisting with meal prep, as well as working on the website and social media.

Volunteering is a great sustainable option for visiting the Amazon. Volunteers at Gaia Lodge stay 4-8 weeks. The length of the volunteering program here means volunteers have time to dedicate to connecting with the local community and the team working at the lodge, many of whom are Kichwa indigenous.

If you’re interested in volunteering in Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest or looking for other volunteering opportunities in Ecuador and South America, check out the Worldpacker’s website . Use my promo code: CHARLIEONTRAVEL for $20 off your membership .

You can find the Amazon volunteering opportunity at Gaia Lodge in the Amazon rainforest here .

How to Get From Quito to the Amazon

You can reach the Amazon rainforest within five hours from Quito. There are multiple options for reaching the Amazon, depending on the part of the Amazon you choose to visit. If you’re visiting an Amazon lodge which is located near Tena, you can travel by road. For more rural lodges, you may need to fly from Quito.

We stayed at an Amazon lodge near the town of Tena. Here are the three main options to reach this area of Ecuador’s Amazon:

Bus from Quito to Tena

Public buses from Quito to Tena run every hour from the Quitumbe terminal in the south. Buses cost $8. From Tena, there are buses every hour to Punta del Ahuano. Buses cost $1.50. Here you need to cross the river by canoe, which takes about a minute and then take a taxi to your lodge or otherwise meet a representative from your lodge at this point. The trip takes 5-6 hours.

Shuttle from Quito to Tena

A semi-private shuttle picks you up at your door in Quito and takes you to the river’s edge at Punta del Ahuano for $30 each way. Shuttle departures from Quito are 5:00AM and 5:00PM (Mon-Fri) and 6:00AM and 5:00PM (Sat-Sun). For the return leg shuttle depart from Ahuano at 3:45AM and 3:45PM (Mon-Fri) and 4:45AM and 3:45PM (Sat-Sun). You’ll need to take a 1-minute boat to cross the river and then a taxi to your lodge or otherwise meet a representative from your lodge at this point. Your lodge can usually book the shuttle for you.

Private Transfer from Quito to Tena

A private transfer to most lodges direct from Quito or Mariscal Sucre airport is possible to organise. The transfer departs any time before 5PM but cannot depart after this time due to night time road closures on the route to the Amazon due to landslides. A private transfer usually costs around $150 with a maximum of 4 people. The journey takes approximately 4 hours. Your lodge can usually book the private transfer for you.

What To Bring to the Amazon Rainforest

The weather in the Amazon rainforest can vary. It’s likely you’ll experience humid, muggy weather with some rain showers. Here’s our recommended kit list for an Amazon rainforest trip:

• Long trousers – mosquito bites are common so it’s better to keep you legs covered.
• T-shirts or shirts .
• Light rain jacket – rain showers are common but due to the warmth and humidity you won’t want a padded jacket.
• Hiking boots – recommended for jungle hikes, although your lodge may provide you with welly boots. A decent pair of trainers would also be fine unless you’re doing a longer hike.
• Sandals – recommended for walking around your lodge. Many lodges have a no-shoe policy indoors so you’re often taking your shoes on and off.
• Sun hat or cap – even when cloudy, you’ll want to protect your face from the sun.
• Sunglasses.
• Day backpack – to carry water and your essentials.
• Water bottle .
• Mosquito repellent.
• Sun protection .

Packing for a longer trip? Read our full travel packing list here .

This blog post was written in collaboration with Gaia Lodge and Worldpackers , who kindly invited us to visit the lodge, meet the Worldpackers volunteers there and explore Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest.

Charlie Marchant

Colombia Travel Costs

Quito food guide.

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We’re Charlie and Luke — UK travel bloggers, adventurers and storytellers. We travel slow and write about sustainable travel . We want to make responsible travel choices and help you do the same. Get to know us .

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Cuyabeno wildlife Reserve

EXPLORE THE RAINFOREST WITH BAMBOO LODGE,

WHERE EVERY STEP IS AN ADVENTURE,

AND EVERY MOMENT IS A DISCOVERY.

Embark on a Journey through the Amazon Rainforest

3 days & 2 nights jungle short trip, 4 days & 3 nights rainforest tour, 5 days & 4 nights amazon journey, it’s time to discover the amazon with bamboo lodge.

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of the Cuyabeno Reserve in Ecuador. Let our expert guides lead you through lush greenery and introduce you to the diverse wildlife that calls this place home.

Staying at Bamboo Lodge, you not only experience the wonders of the amazon rainforest but also contribute to responsible eco tourism and community support.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism ensures that your experience is truly special. We cater to a maximum of 28 guests, guaranteeing personalized service that will make your journey exceptional. With our passionate expert guides by your side, you’ll explore the Amazon jungle, revel in comfortable accommodations, savor local cuisine, and partake in exciting jungle expeditions.

Come, be a part of this unique experience, and together, let’s explore the wonders of the Amazon rainforest while preserving its magic for generations to come. Book your adventure with Bamboo Lodge today.

what’s included in our tours

Transportation.

By shuttle bus and canoe from and back to Lago Agrio

Meals & Drinks

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, non alcohlic drinks

Accommodation

In our beautiful suites or our comfortable standard rooms

Tour program

All activities with a professional amazon guide

Jungle equipment

Rubber boots, rain poncho & life jacket for the duration of the tour

In all rooms and common areas

To ensure the highest level of personalized service, we limit our accommodations to a maximum of 28 guests at any given time. Explore our range of room options to select the perfect fit for your preferences and needs.

top tower suite

Matrimonial, family suite, standard room, what we’re all about, top notch guides & dedicated staff.

Our expert guides and dedicated staff are the foundation of our Amazon experience. With extensive knowledge of the Cuyabeno Reserve, our passionate guides provide a safe and informative exploration. Meanwhile, our attentive staff ensure top-quality service throughout your stay.

Best Location

Our lodge is perfectly situated just 150 meters from Laguna Grande, nestled between the Tierrafirme and Igapo Forests. This ideal location provides easy access for exploring the Amazon rainforest and observing the diverse wildlife that calls it home.

Value for money

Sustainability.

The lodge is primarily constructed using bamboo, one of the most sustainable materials on earth. Our solar panel system provides 24-hour energy, and all water is treated using biodigesters and tri-cameral systems.

Community Support

We actively support the Siona communities and work closely with them. We donate school materials, provide first aid courses, give Christmas gifts for children, and more. Additionally, all canoe transportation is provided by the indigenous people.

Exceptional Bamboo Suites

Our bamboo suites are the perfect place to unwind after exploring the jungle. They offer a unique and eco-friendly experience. Enjoy the peace and quiet from your private balcony or relax in our common areas. Come back to a clean and comfortable space to fully recharge for your next adventure.

Raise awareness for protection

We are convinced that by sharing our love and passion for the rainforest with our guests in an honest and sincere manner, we can raise awareness about the importance of protecting this beautiful paradise.

Additional Services included

You won’t have to pay extra for breakfast before the tour, a comfortable waiting area including pool and showers at Hotel Arazá, lunch after the tour, coffee and hot chocolate during the tour and more.

Explore the Amazon with us

Embark on an incredible Amazon journey in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador. Discover the mesmerizing beauty of this extraordinary wilderness by reserving your stay at Bamboo Lodge. Join us now and experience the Amazon like never before.

Guest comments

A huge thanks to all of our guests for visiting Bamboo Lodge! We appreciate your comments and love to share our Cuyabeno paradise with you.

[email protected]

  +593 98 822 4044

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Bamboo Amazon Tours – Ecuador

Explore the amazon rainforest with bamboo lodge,, where every step is an adventure, and every moment is a discovery..

Your journey into the heart of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, where adventure and wonder merge into a lifetime experience.

3 days & 2 nights

Explore the Wild: Get a glimpse of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve on our 3 days Short Trip

4 days & 3 nights

Discover the Amazon:  A 4-Day Journey into the Heart of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

5 days & 4 nights

A unique Amazon adventure with Bamboo Lodge: A 5-day experience that lasts a lifetime.

included in our tours

Our room feautures

Balconies with jungle view

Suites with king size beds and handmade furniture

Luxury bathrooms

Your accommodation in the jungle.

Though our tour may be slightly more expensive than others in the area, you’ll receive a much better service, top-notch guides, incomparable accommodation, delicious food and the assurance that the people serving you are being compensated fairly.

You won’t have to pay extra for breakfast before the tour, a comfortable waiting area including pool and showers at Hotel Arazá, lunch after the tour, coffee and hot chocolate during the tour and more. 

Get In Touch

1-877-500-1929 [email protected]  

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Be amazed by our Amazon Rainforest Tours in Ecuador!

The Amazon occupies about 45% of Ecuador‘s territory, making it the largest of the 3 main regions of this country. It is considered one of the largest ecologies of the world and also one of the most diverse. The amazon ecosystem, particularly its tropical rain forest, is one of the richest and most complex communities of plants and animal life in the world. The region is characterized by a huge and diverse amount of flora and fauna, with extraordinary variations in their habitats and micro habitats. Exploring the magic of the Amazon by foot or canoe allows travelers to discover countless species of birds, reptiles, monkeys, insects and sweet water dolphins and gives them the opportunity to visit the indigenous communities which have inhabited these lands for over 10,000 years.

This tour is the best way for you to explore the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle, and live unforgettable experiences. Scientists around the world consider the Amazon Rainforest one of the twenty five “Hot Spots” on the planet that must be preserved for the earth’s survival.

We let you explore the Amazon Rainforest in a remarkably exciting yet secure way, and ensure that you have numerous stories worth writing home about!

Amazon & Coastal Ecuador – 12 Days

Ecuador Amazon Ecuador Coastal

Cultural Relax Wildlife

A great itinerary for those who want to visit the amazing Amazon rainforest and enjoy the beaches and coastal region of the country.

Andes & Amazon Adventure – 10 Days

Ecuador Amazon Ecuador Andes

Cultural Multisport Wildlife

Discover the most beautiful country in South America. Visit one of the most diverse Rainforests in the World and explore the Andes of Ecuador.

Nature Ecuador – 11 Days

Ecuador Amazon Galapagos

Explore one of the most diverse, unique and richest rainforest environments and discover the beauty of Galapagos Islands.

The Best of Ecuador – 15 Days

Ecuador Amazon Ecuador Andes Ecuador Coastal Galapagos

Visit all the regions of the country and learn why Ecuador is described as the country of the 4 worlds due to its diversity and uniqueness.

The Best of Mainland – 15 Days

Ecuador Amazon Ecuador Andes Ecuador Coastal

Explore the three distinctively different mayor areas of the mainland portion of Ecuador in a unique and exciting trip.

The Indian Trail – 10 Days

Explore Quito, home of the first Indian communities: the Quitus, and the travel south to Ingapirca, the most important religious and political complex of the Incas in Ecuador.

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Check Availability of La Selva Amazon Lodge Here

La selva amazon eco-lodge, the spirit of the rainforest.

Located within Ecuador’s Yasuní Biosphere Reserve and on the borders of the famous Yasuní National Park — one of the most biodiverse areas of the planet — La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat was among the first Amazon rainforest lodges in Ecuador and today is still regarded as the premier eco lodge in Ecuador’s Amazon basin.

Uniquely located on the shores of stunning Lake Garzacocha, a full 70 km into the rainforest from the nearest urban center, the lodge is a veritable cocoon of comfort and luxury, offering breathtaking views of the incredible life in the Amazon from wherever you are.

La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat is Golden Experiences & Travel’s latest acquisition, marking its expansion across the four regions of Ecuador as a full-service luxury travel company.

The impeccable reputation of Golden’s products, our commitment to excellence, and our profound understanding of the needs of the luxury sector ensures that our guests enjoy enchanting, distinctive and redefined products and adventures in the most remote and privileged places on our planet.

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A Sustainable Lodge

With premium confort.

Caring for rainforest wildlife species is one of the pillars of Golden Sustainability, our multi-faceted sustainability program that we channel our efforts through to care for the delicate ecosystem and pristine reserve where the Lodge is located. La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat is signed its commitment to carbon neutrality, joining our sister company Golden Galapagos in reducing our carbon footprint and preserving the Amazon rainforest for future generations to cherish.

– Swipe to explore –

Wellness and Spiritual

Our remote location and specialized spa services create a heightened sense of relaxation and connection with the unique wonders of the forest.

Enjoy our yoga sessions with expert teachers, having an invigorating select spa treatment after of day of wonder, or simply relaxing to the incredible symphony of nature in the heart of the Amazon.

Disconnect from the outside world and connect with spirit of the amazon jungle with our ceremonies and spiritual packages overlooking the waters and energy of the lake…

Epicure Cuisine

Amazon flavors and sensations.

Overlooking the glassy waters of Lake Garzacocha, our main lodge and restaurant will become your favorite place to spot birds and other wildlife, exchange stories with other guests or simply relax, cocktail in hand, before enjoying the dishes prepared by our passionate team of talented chefs, a gastronomic experience to remember: international cuisine coupled with the finest Ecuadorian ingredients and influences.

Staterooms in the Jungle

Premium and genuine hospitality.

La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat offers 16 spacious luxury suites, three scenic premium rooms overlooking the lake, and four sumptuous family staterooms. Our luxury suites and premium rooms have rainforest showers and private balconies, while the family staterooms have extra-large bathrooms, hammock, and large decks equipped with hot tubs.

The design of the lodge is inspired by the architecture native to the area, and the soaring ceilings and unique layout of the rooms and the lodge help to keep everything cool, even when the renowned Amazon sun is at its hottest.

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Connect with Magic Wildlife

Deep in the amazon.

From your base at La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat, set out to explore Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest and its people, accompanied by our English-speaking naturalist guides and indigenous guides, whether paddling by canoe, kayaking on the lake, walking along trails, birdwatching or seeking out incredible wildlife encounters, enjoying fascinating night walks to discover rare nocturnal species, climbing canopy towers and visiting native communities.

See Our Programs

Promotions & Combinations

Enjoy special offers.

Be sure to check out our special promotions for Amazon rainforest tours, as well as the option to combine your journey to our Amazon ecolodge with a cruise to view the fabled wildlife of the Galapagos Islands or a chance to discover the wonders of Peru.

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Ecuador Amazon Highlights

Enjoy unique experiences.

Deep within the Amazon rainforest lies La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat, an extraordinary destination that immerses guests in the wonders of nature.

Towering trees, vibrant foliage, and captivating sounds of birds surround you. Guided by an experienced team, explore the jungle’s marvels through treks, canoe rides, and wildlife encounters. Witness the astonishing biodiversity and raw beauty of the Amazon, forging lasting connections with nature all while being responsible with the environment. Memories of this extraordinary experience will linger with you beyond your departure!

Wildlife Viewing

You don-t have to be an expert! With the help of our specialist naturalist and native guides, you’ll soon be spotting parrots, monkeys, toucans, caimans, frogs and much, much more.

Birding at La Selva

Bird life is exceptionally diverse at La Selva and one of the highlights of our Amazon ecolodge — even if you’re not a serious birder, you’ll soon become a bird-lover of some of our 600+ species.

Responsible Tourism

We believe in responsible tourism and are proud of the mutually-beneficial relationships we have created with local communities. Interact with local wildlife as well as local people in a sustainable way.

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Blog, News & Events

Winner of South America’s Leading Eco-lodge at World Travel Awards 2024

La Selva Eco Lodge & Retreat has proudly achieved the coveted 2024 World Travel Award, a reflection of its extraordinary […]

Romantic experiences in the Amazon Rainforest

Experience an extraordinary adventure where you can rekindle your love in a stunning jungle paradise. La Selva Ecolodge and Retreat, […]

La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat is a paradise of natural beauty and cultural richness

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Ecuador Amazon Tours

Ecuador Amazon tours offer a unique chance to unlock some of the untouched secrets of this raw and pristine forest that occupies a third of the country to the east of the Andes. Begin your adventure with a short 30 minute flight from Quito across the Andes to the jungle city of Coca, known as the gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon ever since Francisco de Orellana first navigated the river on his 1541 expedition.

From here take a luxurious Ecuador Amazon river cruise along the River Napo, and watch colorful toucans, macaws and tanagers on excursions to hidden clay licks that fringe the water, or ride in motorized and dugout canoes to a remote Ecuadorian rainforest lodge like the La Selva Lodge overlooking Garzacocha Lagoon or the Napo Wildlife Center on the banks of Añangu Lake, deep in the Yasuní National Park and the territory of the indigenous Kichwa people. Wildlife tours in Ecuador’s Amazonian Oriente are humming with life and boast a sweeping biodiversity.

Ecuador Cloud Forest & Amazon

Galapagos & Amazon

Quito To Amazon

Galapagos & Cotopaxi Expedition

Manatee Amazon Explorer

La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat

Mashpi Lodge

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The Top 5 Amazon Tours from Quito

Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest has broken world records for animal life. And this is one the best places on Earth to visit if you’re even a little bit interested in nature.

As you walk through the lush jungle, it’s as if every section is alive with fascinating animals and plants. Brightly colored macaws fly over the canopy, curious monkeys follow you through the trees and lightning blue butterflies hover above the waterways.

In the following post, you can find a guide to the top Amazon tours from Quito — including short video intros to the experiences and detailed tour summaries.

Jump straight to the Top Amazon Tours from Quito

Introduction to Quito & El Coca, Ecuador

Quito is Ecuador’s capital city. And this is where you will arrive when first setting foot in the country.

Home to fascinating museums, different galleries and high-rated restaurants, it’s also where you travel from to visit the Amazon.

The following Amazon Rainforest lodges and Amazon River cruises can all help with your flights from Quito. And from this large city, they will arrange your short flight to the jungle town of Puerto Francisco Orellana, known locally as ‘Coca’.

This jungle town is where you can enjoy high-rated Amazon tours. And you will experience one of the highest levels of animals and plants in Amazonia. Ecuador’s Amazon frequently wins records for wildlife.

Combined with the Amazon tours, this offers you a fantastic experience.

Amazon Cruise or Rainforest Lodge?

The Amazon tours you can enjoy include comfortable wildlife lodges and deluxe cruises. Both offer professionally guided tours, comfortable accommodation and delicious meals.

An advantage of a cruise is that they offer a more hotel-like base to return to after your jungle expeditions. You will also travel deep into Yasuni National Park and visit different rainforest sections. A lodge, however, can offer more connection to the rainforest. See the animals walking below the lodge walkways and hear the troops of monkeys crossing through the canopy above.

A recommended cruise to take you into the incredible Yasuni National Park is the Manatee Amazon Cruise. For a quick intro, click the video below.

The Manatee Amazon Cruise

The Manatee Amazon River Cruise is a fantastic cruise for adventures into the wonderful Yasuni National Park, one of the ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport, private assistance at Quito airport. | 4, 5, 8 days

Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest

There are two main protected areas in Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest. These are the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and Yasuni National Park. There are also different private reserves. And these are in connected rainforest providing fantastic wildlife sightings.

The Yasuni National Park

The Yasuni National Park has become world famous. This is because it has one of the world’s highest levels of Amazon Rainforest animals and plants.

The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covers just under 1 million hectares of tropical forest. And it contains an incredible richness of plants and animals. The park protects around 600 bird species and several different monkeys. There are also a record breaking diversity of reptiles and amphibians.

The Top Amazon Tours from Quito – Introductions

The following lodges and cruises can help with your flights from Quito to the Amazon Rainforest.

And here is our selection of the top rainforest tours from Quito, Ecuador.

The Sacha Lodge

Because the lodge has been here for a long time, the wildlife is familiar with people on the walkways. This means you can enjoy incredible wildlife from the comfort of the lodge itself, before you even head out with your guide to explore the trails.

From the lodge, enjoy guided tours in the surrounding rainforest. You will find many different plants and animals.

Enjoy the canopy tower to see colorful birds. And your guide will bring the bird spotting scope to find many different species. You will also enjoy the canopy walkway for an incredible rainforest experience. The canopy walkway is 94 feet (30 meters) above the forest floor. And it extends 940-feet (275-meter) through the rainforest. This is a great place to spot different birds and monkeys.

Rooms at the Sacha Lodge have been positioned between the trees. And you can see troops of capuchins and squirrel monkeys crossing in the canopy above the lodge.

There are 26 rooms in total, which are composed of single, double and triple rooms.

Each accommodation has private bathrooms with hot water. The other buildings at Sacha Lodge include the restaurant and bar. There is also the lounge area where you can sit while enjoying a cocktail, tea or coffee.

In addition to monkeys and reptiles, the Sacha Lodge is a great place to see rainforest birds. For example, 587 species have been recorded on guided tours. This is an impressive 37% of all the birds you can find in the country.

To check availability for your travel dates, send the lodge a request using the button below.

Located in a 5000 acre private ecological reserve, Sacha Lodge provides a safe and comfortable base for you and your ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, selection of guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport. | 4, 5 days+

The Manatee Amazon Cruise is a deluxe cruise for Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest. Not only confined to the cruise vessel, enjoy guided exploration of the Amazon. Head out on forest walks and skiff expeditions to see a diversity of animals and plants.

In addition to wildlife walks, visit the canopy tower to see over the rainforest. And you will also see the Yasuni Claylick to watch parrots gathered at the clay.

On your tours, enjoy seeing a diversity of wildlife. The animals you will find include several different monkeys and different birds. See toucans, colorful parrots and caiman crocodilians. The cruise also offers kayaking and camping opportunities.

The vessel itself offers 10 Standard Cabins and 4 Deluxe Cabins. The Deluxe Cabins are at the front of the vessel. All of the cabins are air-conditioned to keep you comfortable on your stay.

You will then enjoy delicious meals in the fantastic restaurant and bar. This provides beautiful panoramic views of Amazonia. In addition to the dining room and suites, the Manatee features an observation deck and outdoor Jacuzzi.

For more information and to check availability for your travel dates, send the Manatee cruise a request using the button below.

The Anakonda Amazon Cruise

The Anakonda Cruise is the sister vessel to the Manatee above. The Anakonda provides a fantastic experience of the Amazon as you travel down the Napo River.

Enjoy exploring the rainforest of the Yasuni National Park region. And you will be led by professional guides through the rainforest. Enjoy forest walks to see a diversity of different monkeys, toucans, parrots and more.

You can choose from 4, 5 and 7 night itineraries aboard the Anakonda Cruise. Of course, the longer you spend in the Amazon the more wildlife you will see.

In addition to guided walks and skiff expeditions in Amazonia, enjoy other attractions. Visit the Yasuni claylick to see parrots, climb a tall canopy tower to fantastic views. And you can also enjoy an optional glamping experience. There are also kayaks on the vessel to paddle around Amazonia led by your guide.

The Anakonda offers 18 very comfortable suites with en-suite modern bathrooms. These then include 4 Deluxe Suites, which have their own private balcony.

Click the video below for a quick introduction.

In addition to the suites, the Anakonda features a spa room, al fresco lounge, indoor dining hall, bar-salon and a Jacuzzi. If you would like to purchase souvenirs from your travels, the vessel also has a small boutique store.

Throughout the vessel, you will find large floor-to-ceiling windows. This means you don’t miss any wildlife as you’re relaxing onboard.

The Anakonda Amazon Cruise provides an immersive and unique experience of the Amazon Rainforest. Enjoy large and comfortable beds, a ...

La Selva Lodge

La Selva Lodge & Spa is one of the most luxurious Amazon lodges in the rainforest. The lodge offers luxury accommodation and fantastic guided tours of Amazonia.

Enjoy exploring the rainforest on rainforest walks and boat tours. Spot several different monkeys, colorful birds, fascinating reptiles, tree frogs and more.

La Selva Lodge itself is composed of nineteen spacious suites. And these include Family Suites, Scenic Suites and Superior Suites. These are assigned according to group size and availability.

In addition to the suites, La Selva Lodge features a restaurant and bar. There is also the canopy tower, lounge area, small shop and spa. The entire lodge is then nestled on the beautiful Garzacocha Lake.

The Family Suites are the largest suite option. These differ from the other categories with the addition of a hot water tub on the private deck. Enjoy the extra spacious bathrooms, hammocks and very comfortable king-sized bed. The suite then includes two additional beds.

The Scenic and Superior Suites are then very similar. Both categories feature a king bed or two double beds with luxury linen. They also offer a private bathroom with a rainforest shower. The Scenic Suites have beautiful lake views. And the Superior Suites are slightly larger.

Your bathroom includes a rainforest shower with hot running water and toiletries. There are then bathroom amenities, such as hairdryers and towels.

In La Selva Lodge restaurant, you will enjoy delicious meals. Your meals will be ready for when you return to the lodge from your guided rainforest excursions.

In addition to the wildlife trails and boat tours, you will also visit the Yasuni Claylick. See different colorful parrots gathered at the clay.

The many trails take you past giant trees, lakes and see many animals. The trails have been designed to take you past the best areas for rainforest wildlife and scenery.

La Selva is committed to responsible tourism and is Rainforest Alliance certified.

To check availability for your dates, send La Selva Lodge a request using the button below.

I wanted to let you know that we had an amazing experience at Le Selva! The service, accommodations, guides, tours, ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport. | 4, 5 days+

Amazon & Galapagos Combination Tours

Imagine a journey where the wonders of nature unfold before your eyes in two of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s an expedition into the heart of Ecuador’s wild, where every step is an adventure, and every moment is a memory in the making.

Ecuador offers you two incredible wildlife-rich destinations, both the Amazon and Galapagos Islands, where you can see the wild world before human influence.

We have selected two experiences to give you the best experience on a combination Amazon and Galapagos tour. One is land-based with a day aboard a yacht of island exploration and one is a luxury island-hopping cruise to different Galapagos islands. You will then visit one of the premium rainforest lodges in Ecuador for an incredible guided expedition into Amazonia.

Land-based Experience Explore the Amazon and Galapagos on the Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour. This journey combines the Sacha Lodge for the Amazon Rainforest & Scalesia Lodge on Isabela Island in the Galapagos.

Your adventure begins on the enchanted shores of Isabela Island, the largest in the Galapagos archipelago. Here, amidst the playful sea lions and the majestic tortoises, you’ll discover a forgotten world where nature reigns supreme.

From the azure waters of the Galapagos, you’ll transition to the emerald depths of the Amazon Rainforest. Imagine waking up at the comfortable Sacha Lodge to the symphony of the jungle before enjoying delicious food and heading off to explore the incredible wildlife.

Click on the Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour bubble below to learn more.

The Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour

Enjoy a seamless journey to combine two of Ecuador’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions. And over 11 days, you will ...

Includes: all meals at Sacha Lodge & Scalesia Lodge, half-board at Finch Bay Hotel, accommodation, all guided excursions, transfers from & to Galapagos & Coca airports, Galapagos & Coca air tickets

Luxury Galapagos Cruise & Rainforest Lodge If you prefer a cruise to travel from island to island exploring the Galapagos, we recommend combining the luxury Ocean Spray catamaran or the even more luxurious Elite vessel with your rainforest experience at La Selva Lodge & Spa .

The lodge and vessels are owned and operated by the same umbrella company and can help you create an incredible luxury Galapagos & Amazon combination tour.

To learn more, send your request to either La Selva Lodge , the Ocean Spray or the Elite using the tour bubbles below.

The Ocean Spray Cruise

Aboard the Ocean Spray Cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey through the mesmerizing Galapagos Islands. The 16-passenger luxury ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all guided excursions, captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, transfers from & to Galapagos airport. | 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14 days

The Elite Galapagos Cruise

The Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all guided excursions, captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, transfers from & to Galapagos airport. | 4, 5, 8 days

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Home » Amazon Rainforest

Amazon Rainforest Lodges and Tour Options

Expeditions

Napo Wildlife Center

A unique amazon rainforest lodge of ecuador. in the heart of biodiverse yasuni national park, napo wildlife center puts a luxurious spin on their eco-lodge, featuring a restaurant, bar, 10 huts and 8 deluxe suites, each with private porches and bathrooms with hot running water. hiking, canoeing, and wildlife exploration are just a few of the highlights of the 4-5-day stay here..

La Selva Lodge

La selva jungle lodge enjoys the closest location to the renowned yasuni parrot clay lick and offers guests luxurious accommodations including suites and bungalows with private jacuzzis in addition to a bar and several social areas. from canoes or on foot, naturalist guides will tirelessly point out the many species of monkeys, birds, and other rainforest animals on daily excursions..

Kapawi Ecolodge

With over 20 years of experience in the ecuadorian amazon, kapawi ecolodge hosts 20 cabins with private balconies, bathrooms, and hammocks as well as a bar & restaurant. explore the surrounding achuar territory by foot or by kayak & motorboat, accompanied by expert naturalist guides..

Napo Cultural Center

Originally known as the as yasuni kichwa ecolodge, the napo cultural center hosts 12 spacious staterooms with private hot-water bathrooms, balconies, and hammocks. as the name suggests, guests enjoy a unique cultural experience visiting a local indigenous community and exploring the amazon rainforest wildlife..

Sani Lodge enjoys its private location on more than 40,000 hectares of pristine rainforest, where guests can relax in the comfort of thatched-roof cabanas with private bathrooms. A nature walk or canoe ride will acquaint visitors with the 1,500 species of trees, 550 species of tropical birds, 13 species of monkeys as well as 1,000 species of butterflies.

Itamandi Ecolodge

Accessible only by canoe, the itamandi lodge provides an immersive and eco-friendly amazon rainforest experience. it is the only lodge in tena with access to the popular parrot clay lick, and also allows visitors to canoe the arajuno river and visit the amazoonico wildlife rescue center, in addition to other engaging activities..

Powered by solar energy, the innovative Jamu Lodge in the Cuyabeno Reserve features 9 cabanas with multiple rooms, each with private facilities. Visitors have opportunities to go on nature hikes, canoe, visit a local indigenous community, and swim in a tranquil lagoon.

Caiman Lodge

The wildlife and culture of the amazon's cuyabeno reserve are at the heart of trips to caiman lodge. paddle the laguna grande in search of monkeys visiting the shoreline and the caiman for which the lodge is named; then explore the jungle for the hundreds of bird species or visit the local siona indigenous community to learn about their way of life..

Experience the Amazon jungle from a different perspective, aboard the Anakonda for a 4, 5, or 8-day river cruise. The vessel features a 360-degree observation deck, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and multiple indoor & outdoor social areas, plus three canoes and 10 kayaks for daily land and river excursions.

The Manatee Amazon Explorer offers 4, 5, and 8-day cruises through the Ecuadorian rainforest. Onboard, guests enjoy air conditioned cabins with private facilities, a sun terrace, and several dining & social areas. River kayaking, visiting local indigenous communities, and wildlife exploration highlight this Amazon cruise.

Huaorani Tribes Expedition

Disconnect from the troubles of the world as you visit the remote huaorani tribe deep in the ecuadorian rainforest. the huaorani expedition trip immerses explorers in the rich biodiversity of the natural world as you get to know the way of life in the deep corners of the amazon, including jaguar tracking, cooking, caiman spotting, and piranha fishing., planning your trip - when to visit the ecuadorian amazon basin.

An ideal destination to visit at any time of the year, the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest is one of the most-diverse natural refuges in the world, with several protected areas and Yasuni National park which is known to be the most diverse place in the world when measured by square-meter, the Amazon Rainforest of Ecuador is definitely one of planet Earth's lungs.

When planning a visit to such a unique place in the world, you want to make sure you have the perfect time, and that everything works smoothly for you and for your travel partners, that is why at Ecuador and Galapagos Insiders, our team of local Amazon Rainforest destination experts and tour guides, have put together the best travel guides and tips for planning your adventure to the Ecuadorian Amazon Basin properly.

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An Invitation

to Journey to the Heart of the World

Explore your Curiosity

Kapawi Ecolodge is an award-winning indigenous community ecotourism enterprise in the Amazon Rainforest of Ecuador that offers conscious and responsible travelers the opportunity to engage in authentic cultural experiences with people of the Ecuadorian Amazon, in an unspoiled rainforest setting, while directly supporting the sustainable development of the Achuar indigenous nation.

TRANSFORMATION

"Kapawi Lodge is so gorgeous, so tranquil, so immersive it astounds me it could even exist. To build an ecolodge so far from the nearest infrastructure could only be achieved by an organization decided to sustainability. Unique in all the world."

-Sean Jewell

"By the time my visit there was over I felt restored and very grateful. I highly recommend this Ecuador Amazon lodge as a retreat from the hectic pace of modern life and for its great exposure to the Achuar tribal life."

-Kim Bronsan-Meyer

"I came home from Kapawi Ecolodge with a deeper connection to nature and a newfound mission to be more active in my work to create sustainable solutions for the current environmental crisis like the Achuar did."

OUR VISION + MISSION

This Amazon eco lodge of Ecuador is 100% owned and operated by the Achuar Indigenous community. All revenue generated from ecotourism goes towards supporting the community, preserving their culture and protecting the Amazon rainforest.

SUPPORT INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES ​

CONNECT WITH

A primary part of our mission is to invite our guests to reconnect with nature, discover the abundant Amazon Rainforest wildlife, learn new ways of environmental stewardship, and ultimately contribute to the protection and respect of the Amazon Rainforest.

PROTECT THE

For the past 25 years, the Achuar have worked in partnership with Kapawi Ecolodge's guests to conserve and protect the Sacred Headwaters region of the Ecuadorian Amazon from extraction and deforestation industries.

Discover the Amazon at your own pace through our flexible 4, 5 and 8-day Amazon tours.

Learn more >

OUR EXPERIENCES

No two Kapawi experiences are the same. Your time with us can be spent on the Amazon river, hiking,  culturally  immersed or deep in our wellness activities.

Explore the grounds of our award-winning Ecuador Amazon Ecolodge.

Learn more >

Our story begins with an Ecuadorian ecotourism pioneer and a call from the Amazon Rainforest's Achuar Indigenous Nation

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Things to do in

Top Activities and Attractions in Amazon

The amazon rainforest.

Welcome to the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest remaining tropical rainforest. More life hums, buzzes, chatters and bubbles here than anywhere else on the planet. One Amazonian tree can host more ant species than all of the British Isles put together, one hectare of forest boasts about as many frog species as all of North America, and the great expanse of the jungle contains more than twenty percent of the earth’s vascular plant species. Here you can find a monkey small enough to sit on your fingertip, an eight pound toad, a spider that eats birds, and the world’s largest snake, the 30-foot anaconda.

Moreover, forty percent of all of all the earth’s fresh water flows through the Amazon basin; more water than in the basins of the next six biggest rivers combined! In the Amazon river there are islands as big as Switzerland and otters bigger than men, and at certain points along it you can be in the middle and see neither shore. It snakes and swivels thousands of miles and draws in water from over 1500 water sources, including the Rio Napo in Ecuador, one of its primary tributaries plants are found in this equatorial swath of green.

This rainforest is home to thousands of indigenous inhabitants, who make up nearly 200 distinct nations, including the  Siona, Secoya, Cofan, Shuar, Zaparo, Huaorani, and Quichua . The indigenous tribes that live in Ecuador’s rainforest are the ancient keepers and guardians of the world’s biological heritage – having lived there for more than 10,000 years, they know its trees, its animals, and its rhythms better than anyone.

From the Amazon come some of our favorite foods: avocado, black pepper, Brazil nuts, cayenne pepper, cashews, chocolate (cacao), cinnamon, eggplant, figs, ginger, sugarcane, vanilla, and yams. The rainforest also produces many medicines, such as quinine for malaria; curare for multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease; as well as many industrial products, including latex, resins, timber, oil, and other minerals.

Ecuador, with its 2% share of the Amazon (know as the Oriente), provides unparalleled opportunities for experiencing the magic of the rainforest. Not only does it have one of the world’s best developed infrastructures for rainforest tourism, but most destinations are accessible within a day’s journey from Quito, including:

• Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
• Huaorani Protectorate
• Yasuní National Park

Although the Amazon basin occupies about a third of Ecuador, most rainforest excursions into amazonian reserves leave from the eastern transportation hubs of Tena, Puerto Francisco de Orellana (Coca), and Nueva Loja (Lago Agrio). The basic jungle activities available in each region do not vary much, although considerations like cost, distance from Quito, and abundance of wild life do differ. Below are some guidelines for planning your trip to the Amazon.

Nueva Loja ( Lago Agrio ) is the northernmost hub in Ecuador’s Amazon region, and is the capital of Sucumbíos Province. It is the gateway to a number of lodges in Cuyabeno Reserve  and  Limoncocha Biological Reserve , known for its less developed tourism industry, vast diversity of wildlife, and relative cost-effectiveness. The bus ride to  Lago Agro  from  Quito  is between eight and ten hours. From there to the mouth of the reserve is another three hours by truck or van, and from the mouth of the reserve to the lodges is about two hours in a dug-out canoe. Plan about a day of travel in both directions.

A starting point for excursions into  Yasuni National Park and Huaorani Reserve,   Limoncocha Biological Reserve  and portions of  Cuyabeno Reserve ,  Coca is about a 10-hour bus ride from Quito. It is located in the province of Orellana, at the junction of the Coca and Napo Rivers. As with  Lago Agrio , the lodges accessible via  Coca  are surrounded by a plethora of flora and fauna. In general, lodges in  Yasuni National Park and near the Napo River tend to be slightly more expensive than those in Cuyabeno .

Only a four to six hour bus ride from  Quito ,  Tena  has highly developed tourist infrastructure outside of national parks and reserves. It’s relatively easy to stay in a hostel or hotel in  Tena  and take day trips into the jungle without paying park entrance fees and really “roughing it”. The wildlife that surrounds  Tena  is, not surprisingly, less diverse and abundant than in the more remote areas outside of  Lago Agrio  and  Coca .  Tena  is also a starting point for Jatun Sacha Biological Station, Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park, and Misahuallí.

Whether you are looking for a luxury lodge with three-course meals and hot showers, a mud-up-to-your-knees trekking and camping adventure, or something in between, Ecuador has program to meet your needs. See our list of recommended  rainforest tour operators  and stay in one of our recommended  rainforest hotels or lodges.

You can learn more about indigenous forest peoples and the rainforest itself by joining one of the many community-based ecotourism programs offered in the Ecuadorian Amazon or by  volunteering  with one of the many non-profits working in the region.

Explore the most popular things to do in Amazon

Explore the secrets behind amazon.

Ecuador Birding Tours

Ecuador Rafting & Kayaking Tours

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• Ecotourism in Ecuador

Provider Spotlight

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Galapagos Tour Experts – Adventure Life  Specialize in  luxury Galapagos cruises , and  land-based Galapagos tours . Adventure Life can help you design the perfect  trip to Ecuador . As seen in Outside Magazine, NatGeo, and the New York Times.

Voyager Galapagos Tours  haS excellent  Galapagos cruise deals & last-minute offers , and  land-based Galapagos tours (aka Island Hopping).

Galapagos & Ecuador Insiders  use their local expertise to assist you in planning the perfect  Galapagos cruise  or  Ecuador tour  for your precise budget, needs, and interests.

Latin Trails  craft customized journeys to the  Galapagos Islands , the Ecuador mainland,  the Amazon rainforest,  and Peru. They operate the highly-rated Galapagos cruising yacht:  Seaman Journey and the  day tour yacht the Galapagos Hopper.

Andando Tours  – Pioneers in Galapagos tourism. Two generations of sailing and shipbuilding showcase unparalleled knowledge in creating the most unique Galapagos Cruises. Owners & Operators of  S/S Mary Anne  &  M/Y Passion.

Gulliver Expeditions  – Learn more about our  Ecuador Tours ,  Peru Tours ,  Ecuador Climbing  Expeditions,  Galapagos Land Tours , and  Machu Picchu Tours . Gulliver Expeditions offer fantastic travel experiences since 2005.

Surtrek Galapagos Cruises – has offered exceptional custom-designed trips to the Galapagos for over 20 years. They now bring their brand of off-the-beaten-path trips to other countries in South America such as  Peru’s Machu Picchu ,  Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats , and  Chile’s Atacama Desert .

ViaNatura  – provides excellent value Galapagos cruises on the  Monserrat yacht , a luxury cruise experience on the  Hermes yacht , and a variety of  tours in Ecuador and Peru.

Exclusive Galapagos Cruises , part of the  EQ Touring group  – specializes in  private Galapagos yacht charters . They can help your group find the perfect yacht that matches your needs at a price negotiated by a true insider who has been doing charters in the Galapagos for decades.

Explore more destinations related to Amazon

Here are some of the most popular places to visit in amazon.

Lago Agrio (Nueva Loja)

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AMAZON RAINFOREST LODGES

Rainforest lodges provide a complete rainforest immersion. Our packages cover everything, from lodging to bilingual guides, meals, and transport, ensuring a front-row experience in this mesmerizing ecosystem. Explore our lodges in different rainforest regions, choose your spot, and leave the rest to us.

AMAZON RAINFOREST CRUISES

Amazon cruises provide a distinctive rainforest exploration by covering the vast Amazon region via the Amazon River in 4 to 8-day trips, akin to Galapagos tours. Enjoy diverse daily activities at different locations. Be aware that tour lengths and routes can be restricted in periods of low rainfall when river levels drop.

Amazon Cruises

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Ecuador Amazon Rainforest Highlights

The Cuyabeno Reserve

Like out of a postcard, Ecuador Amazon Rainforest displays surreal landscapes at every turn, an exceptional experience you have to be part of first hand. Unspoiled nature and the wilderness of the rainforest sets the perfect tone to disconnect yourself from your daily routine and submerge yourself into a natural paradise full of wildlife and adventure.

Experience Wildlife

You can feel wildlife in the atmosphere, a mixture of sounds fill the air, rain droplets making their way through leaves, distant sounds of birds chirping away, and the water flowing through different rivers & creeks, home to pink dolphins and other exotic creatures. Tucans, Sloths, Anacondas, Caimans & much more are all out there, spotting them can be challenging, their colors are easily camouflaged with the background at times, which can fool even the keenest of eyes.

Visit Local Communities

A few lodges in the Ecuadorian amazon are a prime example of true Eco-tourism, operated and owned or jointly owned by indigenous communities, these lodges welcome you to be part of their homes and territory during your stay.  You will experience firsthand guidance from locals of the area, learn their customs, eat their meals, but most importantly support their way of living with your visit, an option definitely worth considering that will enhance your overall amazon experience.

Amazon Discovery

Whether if you are staying at a lodge of traveling through the amazonian river in a cruise, discovering the amazon is one of the most rewarding parts of your tour. Specialized naturalist guides will take you through different parts of the jungle where you will discover ancient trees with different types of foliage’s, a variety of plants with healing properties, observe trails of animals that have been in the area, swamps, rivers you can swim in, and a lot more.

Parks, Reserves & Provinces

Ecuador Rainforest Amazon Frog

Park & Reserves are certain parts of the rainforest that have shown great promise in diversity, wildlife & exhibit exceptional characteristics. This holds true to many parts of the rainforest found in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Parks & Reserves main purpose are to protect & safeguard their delimitation’s in order to maintain these regions as pristine & untouched as possible. The Province of Tena is not a park nor a reserve, but it’s a feature packed region that carries many benefits & well known for a great amazon excursion.

The Cuyabeno is an outstanding reserve located in primary rainforest comprising unique ecological characteristics found nowhere else in the world, mainly attributed to its proximity with the Andes. With a network of permanent and semi-permanent rivers, inundated forests, creeks and swamps, the reserve holds numerous ecosystems providing the perfect environment for different types of large amazon mammals such as Tapirs, Capybaras, Pumas, Giant Otters, among others. With over 500 species of birds and over 300 species of fish, anacondas, caimans and the once endangered pink dolphins – the reserve is without a doubt a true amazon experience.

Yasuni National Park

The Yasuni National Park holds world records like no other place, its relatively small size carries an unimaginable diversity of species and flora in outstanding levels – holding the title of the most bio diverse spot in the world. Established in 1979, this exceptional natural hotspot located in the province of Orellana and Pastaza was declared as the Yasuni National Park in an effort to preserve the integrity and richness of the area. The park captured the world’s attention, in 1989 it became listed in the UNSESCO as part the world’s heritage sites. To put it in perspective some impressive records are: 1 hectare of Yasuni’s park holds the same amount of trees & insects found in all of North America.

Tena (Capital of Napo)

Tena, the capital of Napo is a small little city well regarded for its rivers and secondary jungle, visitors will be able to arrange a number of daily activities directly in its main square. A few lodges found in the area are easily accessed with land transport & offer short tours with affordable rates & a great variety of activities including white water rafting & horseback riding, a combination that wouldn’t be possible in primary rainforest,  without a doubt a fantastic approach to the amazon region. Tena is also well known for white water rafting, Tena & Pano rivers converge in the area, setting the perfect environment for some adrenaline packed rafting, these can easily be arranged as day tours from Quito.

Amazon Rainforest Transportation

Canoe in Ecuador Rainforest

From getting there to transport used to mobilize you in the amazon surroundings, the means of transport in the amazon can be limited to land only, to a combination of various methods. Every lodge will approach this differently based on the region you’re entering, level of deepness and a few other factors. One way or another getting there is part of the fun, you will be amazed as you transition from an Andean setting to the wilderness of the Amazon.

Commercial Airlines

Commercial flights are limited to lodges located in the surroundings of Lago Agrio, Coca or Macas, the latter been the destination less frequently used. Lago Agrio, officially known as Nueva Loja is home to the Cuyabeno reserve in primary rainforest, a commercial flight provides quick access with flight time of about 45 minutes. Coca, officially known as Puerto Fransisco de Orellana is the most popular destination for taking a commercial flight to start an amazon tour, home to Yasuni National Park, it also provides quick access from the main capital to Coca & Napo river where several lodges can be accessed. Flight time is the same 45 minutes as Lago Agrio, do be aware that your flight is only part of your travel.

Buses & Land Transport

Buses can take you to all starting points (Main Provinces & Towns) for amazon tours, the only downside been the time required to get there. For primary jungle tours in Coca & Lago Agrio your bus ride will be about 8 hours. Buses are available during day or night, taking a day bus would the best way of enjoying the view. Cost wise you will save quite a bit as bus fares will be from $8 to $10 per way – versus a round flight that can cost up to $180. In the case of transport to Tena, buses are your only option other than hiring private transportation or taking a cab, as there is no commercial airport in Tena. Land Transport is required for most if not all lodges, regardless if you took a bus or a plane, taking you further into the amazon before boarding a canoe.

Small Planes & Canoes

Some lodges are located in such remote areas that getting there by any other means would be time consuming not allowing you to get started with your activities on day one. Small aircrafts transport passengers deep into remote primary jungle, adding an exceptional wow factor as you fly over the amazon basin to reach your lodge. These tours will have a slightly higher cost in order to cover these additional expenses but are well worth it. Canoe rides is an activity you will have in your tour one way or another. For lodges built in river sides – long canoe rides (2 to 3 hours) are required to reach their facilities, and they are frequently used on a daily basis for the in and outs of your daily activities. Other lodges will offer canoe rides as part of their activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should i visit the rainforest in ecuador.

Visiting the rainforest in Ecuador presents an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. This paradise offers a rich array of experiences, from witnessing unique wildlife and plant species to engaging with indigenous cultures. The Ecuadorian Amazon is not just a rainforest, but a world teeming with life, offering a unique chance to explore untouched lands, encounter unique wildlife, and learn about rich cultures of the indigenous tribes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, or looking for a unique cultural experience, the Ecuadorian Amazon has something to offer you.

What activities can I expect in the Amazon Rainforest?

When visiting the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest, you can look forward to a range of thrilling activities. Jungle treks and canopy walks offer close encounters with the unique flora and fauna. For adrenaline junkies, white water rafting and horseback riding through the lush forest are available. You can also immerse yourself in local cultures by visiting indigenous tribes. Stay at community-operated lodges for an authentic experience. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching and spotting various species in their natural habitat.

Should I visit Cuyabeno or Yasuni?

Both Cuyabeno and Yasuni offer unique experiences. Yasuni National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is known for its biodiversity, with numerous species of birds and mammals. It’s also home to indigenous tribes. Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, on the other hand, is famous for its aquatic wildlife, including pink dolphins and caimans. It also offers a chance to interact with local communities. Your choice depends on your interests: if you’re a bird lover, go for Yasuni; if you’re into aquatic life, choose Cuyabeno.

What is the Amazon rainforest called in Ecuador?

The rainforest in Ecuador, often referred to as the ‘Oriente’, occupies a total area of 135,6000 km2. While this only represents a mere 2% of the expansive Amazon basin, it is a crucial part of the basin’s ecosystem. This particular Amazon rainforest lies within this large basin and plays an important role for both ecology and wildlife. Its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and indigenous cultures make it a vital part of the global ecosystem. This vast green expanse is home to a myriad of species, many of which are yet to be discovered, and it plays a key role in the world’s climate regulation.

How big is the rainforest in Ecuador?

Ecuador is home to the immense Amazon Rainforest, which covers an area of 5.5 million km2 across the vast expanse of South America’s Amazon basin. This rainforest, is a treasure trove of biodiversity and is known for its unique wildlife and plant species. It boasts being Ecuador’s largest region and a part of the larger network known as The Amazon Jungle, making it one of six vital components in this unique ecosystem. This rainforest, often referred to as the ‘lungs of the earth’, plays a crucial role in the global climate system by absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

What is the best time to visit the Ecuadorian Amazon?

Experience the Ecuadorian Amazon in its prime – head over during the dry season from June to September for optimal wildlife viewing and outdoor activities! This is when the rainforest truly comes alive, with animals emerging from their habitats and a vibrant display of flora and fauna. The weather during these months is also more conducive for exploration, with less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures. Whether you’re interested in bird watching, seeking out unique wildlife, or simply want to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the rainforest, this is the perfect time to visit.

What types of accommodations are available in the Ecuadorian Amazon?

Experience the Ecuadorian Amazon in a luxurious way with cruise options, eco-lodges, and lodgings managed by local communities for an experience that will linger long after you’ve gone! From the comfort of a luxury cruise, you can explore the depths of the rainforest while enjoying modern amenities and guided tours. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, eco-lodges provide a sustainable and responsible way to explore the Amazon while minimizing your environmental impact. These lodges are usually tucked away deep in the jungle, providing you with a unique opportunity to be close to nature.

What wildlife can I expect to encounter in the Ecuadorian Amazon?

The Ecuadorian Amazon is home to an array of creatures, from birds and mammals to giant otters and reptiles. You may encounter a plethora of bird species, including the vibrant scarlet macaw, the elusive harpy eagle, and the noisy toucan with its iconic beak. Mammals are abundant as well, with creatures like the stealthy jaguar, the playful capybara, and the curious squirrel monkeys. The waters of the Amazon are teeming with life too, including the playful giant otters and the mysterious pink river dolphins. Now reptiles, from the slow-moving, armor-clad tortoises to the swift and deadly anacondas.

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3 Days Cuyabeno tour

For those who are short on time the 3 days tour is an ideal length to visit the national park.

4 Days Cuyabeno tour

The most popular tour package in the Cuyabeno to explore the area.

5 Days Cuyabeno tour

The 5 days tour is an ideal time to spend in the jungle if you wish to spend more time in the nature.

​Caiman Lodge

Tour for 3 days $250 pp

Tour for 4 days $290 pp

Tour for 5 days $350 pp

Canangueno Lodge

3 days tour $240

4 days tour $270

5 days tour $340

Piraña Lodge 

3 days tour $250 pp

4 days tour $280

$20 extra fee for a premium suite room per person

NEW TOUR!!! 

Yasuni and Waorani Adventure camping tour

Join us on an exiting camping tour to the Yasuni national park. Ask for the departures. Minimum of stays 5 days. This tour lets you explore very rarely visited places in the jungle. You will be paddling and camping in very remote areas with your guide. You will also visit the Waoranis who are famous for their knowledge about the nature. This is the tour for you if you are looking for something truly special and unforgettable.

More info from here

Prices per person

4 nights 5 days $1000

5 nights 6 days $1250

6 nights 7 days $1500

It is possible to do this tour also as a private tour. Ask for the prices for the private tours. 

We offer a private shuttle bus from Quito to Cuyabeno-Quito price $30 per person per way.

For bookings and more information contact us directly by phone (WhatsApp) +593978656815 Wilmer, or by e-mail [email protected] or [email protected]  

Our private jungle tours

If you are looking for a more exlusive experince our tailormade private tours are for you. On a private tour you can focus on the activities you wish to do so you don´t need to follow  a premade schedule. You can also visit some of the more remote areas that are not much known by the tourists.

Here ares ome examples of the private tours available:

– Exclusive Deep Jungle Expedition

– Cuyabeno – Lagarto Cocha – Peruvian border

– Secoya territory

– Fishing Tour (Paiche) Arapaima Gigas Cichla ocellaris peacock bass (Tucunari)

Departures are open for the deep jungle expedition any day of the year. These tours are offered only as a private tour. 2 people minimum to start.

For more info ask us directly

Private tour for 4 days $ 1000 pp.

Private tour for 5 days $ 1250 pp

About the Cuyabeno Reserve

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is the second largest national park in Ecuador with total of 603,380 ha. The reserve has a variety of different ecosystems for example primary rainforest, swamps, floated and semi floated forest. The area has one of the highest level of biodiversity in the world so it is a good place for spotting wildlife.

The Cuyabeno river and the tributary (Ant River) make a river system which is fun to explore on a canoe. There are also a system of 14 lakes, perfect places to see the sunset.

Cuyabeno Reserve provides habitat for over 500 species of birds, 10 species of monkeys, anacondas, caimans, jaguars, pink river dolphins, manatees, fishes (for example arapaima and piranha), armadillos and many more animals. The Siona people is an indigenous tribe living on the area. On the community day you will visit the Siona tribe, learn how they prepare traditional yucca bread and meet a Shaman from the community. The Shaman will give a demonstration about shamanism and the healing traditions that the Siona´s have been practicing for a long time. Eco-tourism benefits the local Siona communities by giving them jobs.

Cuyabeno Reserve has two seasons. The rainy season is from March to August and the dry season is from September to February. Also during the dry season it can rain because the climate in the Cuyabeno Reserve is a tropical rain-forest. The tours are done all year round.

Booking your trip from us

If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in the Amazon jungle, Cuyabeno is the perfect place! Book a professionally guided jungle tour from us. We have many years of experience from tours to Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Experience the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador. Departures any day suitable for you, minimum 2 people on departing, if you are travelling alone ask for fixed departure dates.

You can send us an e-mail [email protected] or contact by WhatsApp +593978656815 Wilmer.

Come to visit one of the most beautiful spot in Ecuador with us, an experience you won’t forget! We will do our best so you can have an unforgettable experience in the paradise..

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Amazon rainforest tours

The Ecuadorian Rainforest is located in the eastern lowlands of Ecuador. During this wildlife and birdwatching tour we will walk through old huge kapok trees  spotting exotic birds, tropical frogs, reptiles such as black and white caiman, noisy monkeys like howler monkeys and spider monkeys. With some luck mammals such as giant otters, tapirs and others. On these expeditions we will also have the opportunity to visit native communities of the area, here  there are 6 different communities (Cofan, Siona-Secoya, Waorani, Achuar, Shuar and Quichua) most of them conserve part of their culture and try to live like their ancestors.

The Waorani Commu…

  This tour is made for adventure people, you have the chance to explore the Amazon with one of the most native cultures in this r...

Napo Wildlife Cen…

The Napo Wildlife Center is one of the most beautiful ecolodges in the Ecuadorian Rainforest. This ecolodge is a true ecotourism project...

Napo Cultural Ce…

With 12 ample and comfortable cabins, the lodge accommodates a total of 36 people, distributed in suites, doubles and triple rooms. It ...

Manatee Amazon Ex…

The Manatee is a different way to discover the incredible Amazon rainforest on which you will travel by the river onboard of a comfortab...

Anakonda Amazon C…

  Travel on board the M/V Anakonda, the only luxury ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest, and experience the Amazon in a most ...

Sani Lodge offers a full service - a first class jungle expedition with ecologically friendly tourism. Sani Lodge is owned and operated ...

La Selva Jungle L…

La Selva Jungle Lodge is located deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon region, a two and a half hour canoe trip from Coca city. This Lodge is si...

Galapagos from 1200 USD

Travel guide.

Adventure lovers will be keen to explore the Ecuadorian Amazon or to climb one of the country’s volcanoes. This tiny country packs a lot of punch and this travel guide can help you make the most of your trip.

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Tailor made.

We can combine cultural and natural destinations for small or large groups, to fit into the dates that you want to travel and that will satisfy the expectations of the most demanding travellers.

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Accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) all guides excursions: Bird watching, swimming & tubing, Kayaking & canoeing, fishing, Achuar community visit, land and air transportation...

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Ecuador +593 997 731 267

USA & Canada +1 305 897 1251

[email protected]

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Which parts of the Amazon to visit depending on your travel style

When we think of the Amazon , we often envisage Indiana Jones-style adventurists with Bear Grylls survival skills, but it’s not totally out of bounds for ordinary folk. Here are seven places every traveller can visit, writes Eibhlis Gale-Coleman.

If you ever want to be slapped in the face by the paradox of your insignificance , visit the Amazon Rainforest. It’s safe to say it’s massive, with 6.7 million sprawling square kilometres with corners in eight countries. Yet the region is a delicate balance of different ecosystems that demand our protection. It cradles rare wildlife like jaguars and pink river dolphins and houses up to 22% of the Earth’s plant species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

With such diversity, which region you pick is of great importance. These are seven spots to keep in mind.

Yasuni National Park, Ecuador

Yasuni National Park attracts the vast majority of Amazon tourism in Ecuador, where the eastern third of the country lies in the Amazon basin. As a result, it’s an optimal choice for those wanting a slick experience, with clockwork transfers to moderate-to-luxury-priced lodges along the Napo River.

Yasuni National Park’s wet season runs from December until June, facilitating better canoe excursions, flowering plants, and primate sightings.

The park houses 600 bird species plus mammals like tapirs, capybaras, and — for the luckiest among visitors — jaguars. However, i ndigenous cultural preservation is where Yasuni flourishes, with the Waorani Nation leading the way in celebrating their traditions and extensive botanical knowledge alongside tourists.

Getting there: Fly to Coca or take an overnight bus from Quito. From Coca, take a motorised canoe.

Why visit: Indigenous culture and upscale lodges.

Accommodation: La Selva Amazon Jungle Lodge

READ MORE: Local Peru women living in Machu Picchu’s shadow visit for the first time

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador

Just north of Yasuni National Park is the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, a quieter region of flooded wetlands along the narrower Cuyabeno River. Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve holds plenty of indigenous culture, including the Siona community, who have shared insights into shaman beliefs and rituals for decades.

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve has a quieter appeal and an abundance of budget-friendly lodgings . You can easily find three-day experiences, including meals and activities, for less than $500.

As a wetland complex, essentially a “flooded forest” ecosystem, Cuyabeno has unrivalled access to lagoons and creeks. This is perfect for spotting pink river dolphins, monkeys, birds and caiman. It’s well-suited to wet or dry season travel, although the wet season is better if you want to swim in its largest lagoon.

Access: Overnight shuttle from Quito to Lago Agrio, then a motorised canoe ride.

Why visit: Precious flooded wetland habitats.

Accommodation: Green Forest Ecolodge

Tambopata, Peru

Tambopata is Peru’s top candidate for Amazon tourism as the most convenient region of protected rainforest (at least by Amazon standards). If you’re hitting Peru for a whistlestop visit, Tambopata is the most realistic itinerary addition. With plenty of lodge options and structured tourism experiences, you can easily organise a three- or four-day tour.

As the second-largest Amazon region, the Peruvian Amazon is special due to its varied elevation, creating a cloud forest phenomenon. Shrouded in mist and cloud, this results in near-constant precipitation rather than a reliance on rainfall.

At Tambopata, you can spot wildlife like boas, macaws, caimans, and primates. There’s also Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, the world’s largest macaw clay lick, at Tambopata Research Centre.

Access: 30-minute flight or overnight bus from Cusco.

Why visit: Easy access to cloud forests.

Accommodation: Tambopata Research Centre

Manu National Park, Peru

Manu National Park is better suited to those who like a challenge. Unlike Tambopata, this region of the Peruvian Amazon is quite hard to access. It’s feasible enough through a guided tour, but it’s better for those with more time on their hands.

However, with superb altitude variation, Manu is a stunning place to witness cloud forests. And with wildlife like capybaras, primates and alligators, you’ll have plenty of incredible sightings.

Avoid the May to October wet season, where temperatures boom, and frequent downpours can make that long journey trickier.

Access: Take a bus from Cusco and a boat transfer. Alternatively, take a flight to Boca Manu or Puerto Maldonado and then a boat transfer.

Why visit: More remote terrain and spectacular wildlife sightings.

Accommodation: Treehouse Inn

Manaus, Brazil

Manaus is “the” place to experience the Brazilian Amazon. It’s a beautiful and practical choice, with a plethora of lodges and organised experiences.

Conservation biologist and Manaus expert Marcelo Goncalves de Lima emphasises its beauty, recommending a boat tour of Anavilhanas National Park, the world’s largest freshwater archipelago. Marcelo also recommends the Museu da Amazonia, a formal botanical garden, and sightseeing excursions to spot pink dolphins and primates.

“It is best to avoid the rainy season, from January to June”, Marcelo adds,” The rivers will be full as well, so you will miss the nice white sandy beaches of the Rio Negro and Tapajos”.

Access: Fly from Sao Paulo to Manaus.

Why visit: Flooded wetlands and established tourism infrastructure.

Accommodation: Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge

Cristalino Reserve, Brazil

Cristalino is the wallflower of the Brazilian Amazon, sitting on a private reserve of 11,000ha and accessible only by boat. Public reserves aren’t your only choices when visiting the Amazon Rainforest. Cristalino Reserve is a prime example of more exclusive areas you can access. Only open to guests of Cristalino Lodge, it experiences a pin-drop of foot traffic compared to Manaus.

Unlike Manaus, which is predominantly a wetland forest, Cristalino is a mixed forest reserve. As a quieter reserve, the likelihood of more elusive mammal sightings like jaguars also increases. Brazil holds 60% of the Amazon Rainforest, so researching these private reserves is worthwhile for more privacy and less condensed areas of tourism.

Access: Fly to Cuiaba and then Alta Floresta, followed by two hours by road and boat.

Why visit: Off-the-beaten track on a mixed forest reserve.

Accommodation: Cristalino Lodge

Leticia, Colombia

Colombia holds only approximately 10% of the Amazon Rainforest, but of that 10%, Leticia is the gateway. The border city has an international airport and borders Brazil and Peru. Unlike other options, Leticia sits directly on the banks of the Amazon River, not its tributaries.

The whole city lives and breathes an urban Amazon lifestyle, with parrots roosting amid the sound of motorbikes in its Santander Park and indigenous culture displayed at the Ethnographic Museum. It blends urban sightseeing with a launchpad for wildlife immersion experiences further along the river. Wildlife includes pink and grey dolphins, primates and even sloths.

Access: Fly from Bogota to LET Airport.

Why visit: Urban Amazon living.

Accommodation: Chunaki Ecolodges

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Eight Latin American countries have met to talk about the Amazon - this is why it's so important to protect it

While the Amazon is home to millions of people and contains one in 10 known species on Earth, it is also a crucial carbon sink for the climate. But having lost more than 85 million hectares, about 13% of its original area, the rainforest is under threat.

OSINT producer @OliveLineham

Wednesday 9 August 2023 16:57, UK

It's twice the size of India, spread across eight countries, a territory, and home to over 16,000 tree species - the Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

Today, leaders and representatives from the eight countries it spans met for the first time in 14 years.

But while they agreed on some unified environmental plans to protect it from deforestation, they fell short of a regional pact to stop it completely by 2030.

Here we explain why it's so important to protect the world's largest rainforest, the threats it currently faces and what was agreed - and what wasn't - at the meeting.

Colonised and exploited - how govts have viewed Amazon

Brazil covers two-thirds of the Amazon, but it also sprawls across Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and the territory of French Guiana.

It contains one in 10 known species on Earth, according to the World Wildlife Fund, has about 20% of the world's freshwater reserves and thousands of tree species which help create and sustain the ecosystem.

Alongside its contribution to biodiversity and serving as a home to millions of people, it is also a crucial carbon sink for the climate, playing a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide.

Protecting it is vital to reducing the impact of climate change because of the vast amount of climate-warming greenhouse gas it absorbs.

But governments have historically viewed it as an area to be colonised and exploited, with little regard for sustainability or the rights of its Indigenous peoples.

Deforestation and the politics

The main environmental threat to the Amazon is deforestation and politics plays into it.

The biome has lost more than 85 million hectares (211 million acres), or about 13% of its original area, according to the Monitoring of the Andean Amazon Pact.

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Most of that destruction has come in the past half-century and Brazil has been the main culprit. Cattle ranching and soybean crops have expanded dramatically due to new technology and the global demand for grain and beef.

Some 41% of deforestation in Brazil's Amazon has come in Para state, where so much land has been converted to run some 27 million cattle that it's the leading emitter of greenhouse gases among Brazilian states, according to Climate Observatory, a network of environmental non-profit groups.

Brazil's controversial former president Jair Bolsonaro, who led the country between 2019-2022, weakened Brazil's environmental enforcement agency and urged more commercial farming and mining in the rainforest, claiming it would help fight poverty.

An area of forest larger than the US state of Maryland was destroyed during the first three years of his presidency.

But tackling deforestation was central to Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's election campaign last year. He pledged to stop all Amazon destruction and preliminary government data suggests his methods might be working.

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon fell 68% in April from the previous year, preliminary government data showed in May.

How the Amazon helps absorb carbon dioxide

Climate change is made worse when plants that take up carbon are lost and so the Amazon functions as a massive device to store carbon.

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Atmospheric chemist Luciana Gatti, a researcher for Brazil's National Institute of Space Research, said deforestation leads to more greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and generally means reduced rainfall and higher temperatures.

"By deforesting the Amazon, we are accelerating climate change," Ms Gatti said.

Read more: Amazon alert: Crime and destruction in the rainforest Brazil moves to pave freeway through heart of Amazon rainforest

But it's not just deforestation, there are many more threats to the Amazon including environmental ones like large hydroelectric dams, especially in Brazil; illegal logging; mining; and oil drilling.

These can impact water contamination and disrupt of Indigenous lifestyles and underinvestment in infrastructure also means much of the sewage from homes in the rainforest dumps directly into waterways.

Summit fails to agree on individual deforestation targets

This week's two-day summit was held in Belem, Para's capital.

Presidents from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, Peru and Venezuela were present, while Ecuador and Suriname sent other representatives.

The final agreement, known as the Belem Declaration, gave the green light to a list of measures to bolster regional cooperation on deforestation, but failed to impose obligations on individual countries to meet their own targets.

Brazil had been calling for a regional pact to stop Amazon tree-cutting completely by 2030.

Currently, Bolivia and Venezuela are the only Amazon countries not to sign up to a 2021 agreement of more than 100 nations working towards that goal.

The agreement did however urge industrialised countries to do more to help preserve the rainforest and said the task of stopping the destruction of the rainforest cannot fall to just a few states when climate change has been caused by many.

Beyond deforestation, the summit also failed to fix a deadline on ending illegal gold mining, although leaders agreed to cooperate on the issue and to better combat cross-border environmental crime.

The final joint statement strongly asserted indigenous rights and protections, while also agreeing to cooperate on water management, health, common negotiating positions at climate summits, and sustainable development.

Related Topics

• Deforestation
• climate change