4-Day Amazon Safari in Archidona with Indigenous Visit and Canoes

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Discover Kuyana Island along the Guitarracocha Trail with a scenic viewpoint
• 02 Spot Amazonian birdlife from orioles to kingfishers on the lodge's nature trails
• 03 Visit the Ushpayacu waterfalls and walk through lush jungle landscapes
• 04 Create local dishes like maito and chontacuro, and make your own chocolate
• 05 Explore a lagoon by non-motorized canoe and continue on the Napo River by motorized canoe
• 06 Experience an indigenous community through traditional dance and cultural insights
• 07 Delve into the jungle's nocturnal ecosystem on a guided night walk
• 08 Plant a tree as part of the Hollin River reforestation project

Embark on the Amazon Safari Experience in Archidona for four days of rainforest nature, wildlife, culture, and comfort. Explore Kuyana Island and the Guitarracocha Trail, discover waterfalls and birdlife on guided walks, and travel by canoe through the Amazon landscape. Immerse yourself in local traditions with a visit to an indigenous community and a hands-on cooking class featuring regional dishes and chocolate making. The journey ends with a meaningful tree-planting activity as part of the Hollin River reforestation project.

Embark on the Amazon Safari Experience in Archidona for four days of rainforest nature, wildlife, culture, and comfort.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

City Archidona

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Arrival at the Lodge and Kuyana Island Exploration

• As you step into the lodge, a delightful native beverage will be waiting to quench your thirst and set the tone for your adventure.
• Your journey begins with a captivating exploration of Kuyana Island and the mesmerizing Guitarracocha Trail. The trail's name carries ancestral significance, as it is said that at night, the echoes of guitars can be heard near a small water formation.
• As you tread this path, you will uncover the secrets of Kuyana Island and reach a breathtaking viewpoint that gifts you majestic panoramic views.
• The trail also offers the perfect opportunity for a refreshing dip by the tranquil banks of the Hollin River. Rated 2.5 out of 5 in terms of challenge, this trail promises around 1.5 hours of moderate adventure.
• As the sun sets and the day's explorations come to an end, you will be treated to a mouthwatering dinner crafted from the freshest local ingredients, offering a delectable fusion of flavours that will surely delight your taste buds.

2

Day 02

Birdwatching, Ushpayacu Waterfalls, and Cooking Class

• Rise and shine for an early start on your second day in the Amazon, where nature's symphony awaits.
• Set out on the lodge's enchanting nature trails to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Amazonian birdlife in action. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of vibrant colours and diverse bird species, from orioles to kingfishers, as their melodic songs fill the air. Rated at a comfortable level 2 out of 5 on our difficulty scale, this birdwatching experience is accessible to most guests and typically lasts around 1 hour.
• Embark on a guided walk to the Ushpayacu waterfalls, a natural wonder that captures the essence of the Amazon. The estuary, formed by interconnected water sources and springs, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lush jungle.
• As you journey, you will be treated to breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, and animals. Rated at a moderate 3.0 out of 5 in difficulty, this experience lasts approximately 3 hours.
• And that is not all - get ready to become a culinary maestro yourself in a delightful cooking class. Create and savour a range of local dishes, including maito and chontacuro, guided by our experts. The sweetest treat awaits as well: making your very own chocolate, a true indulgence in the heart of the jungle.

3

Day 03

Lagoon Safari, Indigenous Community Visit, and Night Walk

• Get ready for a thrilling Amazon Safari that begins with a non-motorized canoe excursion to a mesmerizing lagoon. Here, an incredible spectacle unfolds as numerous bird species reveal themselves amid the lush surroundings. Playful monkeys and other fascinating creatures join this picturesque scene in their natural habitat.
• But the adventure continues - hop aboard a motorized canoe and navigate down the Napo River, eventually arriving at an indigenous community.
• Immerse yourself in their world with a traditional dance and gain insights into their unique culture and way of life. Rated at level 2.5 out of 5 on our difficulty scale, this journey is accessible to most guests and promises approximately 6 hours of exploration.
• As the sun dips below the horizon, embark on a guided night walk, delving into the secrets of the nocturnal ecosystem that thrives in this region.
• Discover the enigmatic creatures that come to life after dark and immerse yourself in the captivating mysteries of the jungle. Rated 2.0 out of 5 in difficulty, this experience typically lasts around 1 hour, offering a glimpse into the jungle's hidden nocturnal wonders.

4

Day 04

Breakfast and Hollin River Reforestation Project

• Fuel your final day with a scrumptious breakfast, a delightful fusion of locally sourced ingredients that will set the tone for your day of meaningful experiences.
• But the day offers more than just culinary delights - become a part of our Hollin River reforestation project. Embrace the opportunity to make a lasting impact as you join hands in planting a tree. Through this act, you contribute to the preservation and restoration of the Amazon's natural beauty. It is a chance to leave a positive mark on the environment and help ensure the legacy of this incredible ecosystem for generations to come.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• 3 nights' accommodation in the Amazon Sustainable Lodge (private bathroom in the cabin)
• All trips and canoe journeys accompanied by a bilingual naturalist guide (English and Spanish)
• All mentioned meals, water, coffee, and tea
• Canoe transfer during all excursions

What's Not Included

• Travel insurance
• Excursions and optional activities
• Transportation from Quito to the lodge and back to Quito
• Drinks and meals not mentioned above
• Everything not included in the described program

What to bring

• Long-sleeved shirts
• T-shirts and cotton socks
• Shorts, sandals, or walking shoes
• Rain ponchos (raincoat) and a sweater
• Swimwear and a towel
• Hat or cap
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• Personal documents

Know before you go

• Before entering sensitive environments, clean your footwear to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Do not collect or disturb flora or fauna, or their habitat.
• Do not feed wildlife; it can harm their health and encourage problematic behavior.
• Remain on designated paths and trails.
• Practice good "bush toilet" etiquette (ask us for specific guidance).
• Respect fire restrictions in place; if campfires are permitted, ask us how and where.
• Reduce waste - from food to paper, remember to take only what and as much as you need, and bring reusable items such as a water bottle, coffee cup, and carry bag.
• Dispose of waste responsibly - pack out what you take in - and use local recycling facilities where available.
• Be waterwise - your participation in the activity should not place additional stress on water-scarce environments.
• Respect others using the area so that their experience and access are not compromised.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Archidona, Ecuador

Tour start

Archidona, Ecuador

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.