Ecuador · Jungle Expedition

4-Day Cuyabeno Amazon Adventure with Zábalo and Ceibo Tower

4 Days Round trip from Cuyabeno Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Spot pink river dolphins, monkeys, and exotic birds on scenic journeys along the Cuyabeno and Zábalo Rivers
02 Join guided night walks to observe frogs, spiders, snakes, and other nocturnal wildlife
03 Witness colorful parrots and parakeets gathering at the clay lick at dawn
04 Climb the 28-meter Ceibo Tree Observation Tower for panoramic rainforest canopy views
05 Visit the Zábalo community to experience Cofan ancestral traditions and forest knowledge
06 Explore the Charapas Turtle Project, with the chance to release baby turtles into the river in season

Embark on a magical journey into the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, where the Cuyabeno and Zábalo Rivers reveal vibrant wildlife, serene blackwater lagoons, and lush rainforest. Spot playful pink dolphins and exotic birds, discover the inspiring Charapas Turtle Project, and visit the Zábalo community to learn about Cofan ancestral traditions and conservation efforts. As you explore the Zábalo River, recognized as the world's first Wilderness Quiet Park, you'll experience a rare sanctuary free from human noise while directly supporting local conservation.

Embark on a magical journey into the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, where the Cuyabeno and Zábalo Rivers reveal vibrant wildlife, serene blackwater lagoons, and lush rainforest.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Cities Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Nueva Loja

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Cuyabeno and Nocturnal Wildlife Walk

Arrive in Lago Agrio and travel by private transport to Tierras Orientales on the Aguarico River.
Enjoy a box lunch before boarding a motor canoe for a scenic ride through the rainforest, watching for pink river dolphins, monkeys, and exotic birds.
Arrive at the lodge and settle into your comfortable accommodation.
Enjoy dinner at the lodge.
Join a guided night walk to observe frogs, spiders, snakes, and other nocturnal wildlife.

Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Amazon Lodge

Day 02

Parrot Clay Lick and Ceibo Canopy Tower

Begin early with a canoe trip to a parrot clay lick to observe colorful parrots and parakeets in the morning light.
Return for breakfast at the lodge.
Take a guided forest hike to learn about medicinal plants and the Amazon's rich biodiversity.
After lunch, climb a 28-meter-high Ceibo Tree Observation Tower for sweeping views of the rainforest canopy.
Conclude the day with a short night walk to spot nocturnal insects and enjoy dinner at the lodge.

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

Day 03

Zábalo Community and Charapas Turtle Project

Enjoy breakfast before canoeing along the Cuyabeno and Zábalo Rivers, exploring blackwater lagoons and spotting river dolphins.
Visit the Zábalo community, where the Cofan people share ancestral traditions, forest knowledge, and conservation efforts.
Explore the Charapas Turtle Project, which protects and releases river turtles. Depending on the season, participate in releasing baby turtles into the river.
Return to the lodge for a welcome cocktail, dinner, and optional evening activities.

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

Day 04

Farewell to the Cuyabeno Rainforest

Begin the morning with a short forest walk or canoe ride to experience the awakening sounds of the Amazon.
Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge.
Travel back via canoe on the Cuyabeno and Aguarico Rivers and continue by land transport to Lago Agrio, arriving around midday.

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight: Not applicable