Ecuador · Wildlife

4-Day Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve Tour with Culture and Canoe Rides

4 Days Round trip from Cuyabeno Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the stunning Laguna Grande by motorized and paddle canoe
  • 02 Take a guided nature walk along the Palma Roja trail to spot toucans, monkeys, and exotic flora
  • 03 Experience Amazonian sunsets and night walks to observe nocturnal wildlife
  • 04 Visit Siona and Cofan communities to learn about local culture and traditions
  • 05 Meet a traditional shaman and discover medicinal plants or participate in a healing ceremony

Embark on a 4-day adventure in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, journeying along the scenic Cuyabeno River, spotting playful monkeys and colorful tropical birds, and exploring the breathtaking Laguna Grande by canoe. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Siona and Cofan communities, learn about traditional healing practices, and witness the preparation of cassava bread. Enjoy guided nature walks, sunset views, and night explorations while staying in a comfortable Amazon lodge surrounded by pristine rainforest.

Embark on a 4-day adventure in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, journeying along the scenic Cuyabeno River, spotting playful monkeys and colorful tropical birds, and exploring the breathtaking Laguna Grande by canoe.

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
Cities Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Nueva Loja
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival and Canoe Journey into Cuyabeno

  • Arrive at "El Puente," the entrance to the reserve, and enjoy a fresh box lunch.
  • Board a motorized canoe for a scenic 2 to 3 hour ride along the narrow Cuyabeno River, spotting playful monkeys, colorful tropical birds, and lush rainforest scenery.

  • Arrive at Tapir Amazon Lodge and settle into your comfortable room surrounded by nature.

  • Savor a delicious dinner and attend an introduction session with your guide to learn about the lodge, the reserve, and the activities planned for your stay.

Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Amazon Lodge

2
Day 02

Laguna Grande and Palma Roja Trail Exploration

  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast.
  • Take a motorized canoe to the beautiful Laguna Grande, then switch to a paddle canoe to quietly glide through the flooded forest and observe unique plants and wildlife.

  • Continue to "Terra Firme" for a guided walk along the Palma Roja trail, where you may spot toucans, monkeys, and exotic flora.

  • Return to the lodge for lunch and a short rest.

  • Spend the afternoon back at Laguna Grande for more exploration, a refreshing swim, or to witness a breathtaking Amazonian sunset.

  • Enjoy a relaxed evening with a drink at the lodge, and join a night walk, weather permitting, to look for frogs, insects, and other nocturnal creatures.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Amazon Lodge

3
Day 03

Indigenous Culture and Rainforest Traditions

  • Start the morning with an optional early birdwatching session, followed by breakfast.
  • Embark on a paddle canoe trip to spot butterflies, monkeys, and tropical birds.

  • Visit Puerto Bolívar, home of the Siona people, and then travel to a nearby Cofan community to meet a traditional shaman.

  • Learn about medicinal plants and, after a local lunch in the shaman's backyard, take part in a healing ceremony if you wish.

  • Witness the traditional preparation of cassava bread with the Siona people.

  • Return to the lodge and, if possible, enjoy a sunset over Big Lake.

  • Conclude the day with dinner, a farewell cocktail, and a final night walk to observe the rainforest's nocturnal life.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Amazon Lodge

4
Day 04

Return Journey from the Reserve

  • Enjoy a final breakfast at the lodge.
  • Board the motorized canoe for a scenic ride back to "El Puente," surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Amazon one last time.

  • Depart with unforgettable memories of the reserve's breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unique wildlife encounters.

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight: Not applicable

Cuyabeno River, Laguna Grande, Palma Roja trail

Where this trip takes you

Cuyabeno River, Laguna Grande, Palma Roja trail

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Cuyabeno 2 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • 3 nights in a cozy Amazon lodge
  • Bilingual naturalist guides
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • All river transportation
  • Rubber boots provided
  • Purified water
  • Activities as per itinerary
  • Supports our conservation project

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel health insurance
  • Round-trip transportation (Quito - El Puente Cuyabeno - Quito)
  • USD 10 contribution to the Siona-Secoya Community
  • Meals not included in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Extra activities
  • Tips for the guide

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Cuyabeno, Nueva Loja, Ecuador
Tour start
Cuyabeno, Nueva Loja, Ecuador
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 4 days finish where they began, in Cuyabeno.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

USD 440 /person
Book This Tour

Estimated room rates

Single Room $440.00 — $616.00
Double Sharing $440.00

When

Travellers

Total