Enjoy a maravelous tour in the deep of the Cuyabeno Reserve, we offer this Cuyabeno campsite manage directly for the local indigenous community.
We offer an intimate encounter with the enchanting pink dolphins in their natural habitat. Navigate the serene waters, visit indigenous communities, and witness the rich biodiversity that thrives in this lush paradise. From camping amidst nature's wonders to exploring remote regions, each day unfolds new marvels, including river navigation, wildlife observation, and learning about the survival skills of the native people. The trail promises an unforgettable experience, blending adventure with the tranquility of the Amazon's untouched beauty.
What to expect about Cuyabeno Reserve?
- An exquisite and immensely diverse biological haven.
- Venturing into untouched rainforest realms, sparsely visited by travelers, home to indigenous communities.
- Routine expeditions in pursuit of fauna such as Macaws, Parrots, Toucans, Monkeys, River dolphins, Caimans, and Anacondas.
- Observing wildlife is subject to elements like climatic conditions and fortune.
Rainforest Terrain
- Leisurely walk through pristine woodlands on indigenous-forged paths.
- Certain regions may necessitate crossing over uneven and mud-filled landscapes.
- Predominantly level topography with scant physical exertion required.
- Utmost duration of walking exploration is roughly 3 hours consecutively.
Rainy Rainforest Climate
- In the verdant rainforest, a generous deluge bestows approximately 4,000 mm (12 feet) of rainfall annually.
- Anticipate the embrace of copious rains at unforeseen moments amidst your canoe voyages.
- Whether propelled by engines or the strength of paddles, our canoes offer an unsheltered communion with nature.
Canoe and Transportation
- Luxurious motorized vessels, or paddle canoes adorned with plush cushions and safety vests.
- Belongings assuredly shielded from the elements.
- Availability of chilled beverages throughout voyage.
- Superior, featherweight, and secure vessels for the appreciation of nature's splendor.
SERVICES
Staff
Our friendly staff form the backbone of the Lagartococha Campsite experience, and are always available to cater to any special needs you may have.
Meals
offers meals with elaborate gourmet menus by professional chefs, a mix of national cuisine and international catering service for vegetarians or vegans are available provision if required
Environment
Respect for the environment through commitment to the human and natural environment A responsible tourism operation with natural and human resources, which are fragile and sensitive to being affected
Electricity
Electricity is provided by solar panels.
Electricity is provided from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for lighting and to recharge the batteries (110 AC).
Boots & Ponchos
Rubber boots (only up to # 43)
Water
including purified bottled water
Activities
Learn about the different ecosystems and their balance in the rainforest. Take night walks to observe insects, spiders, snakes, amphibians and listen to nocturnal animals.
Coffee Station
Purified drinking water is always available at the hostel, as well as coffee, hot chocolate or tea. And some snacks
LAGUNA GRANDE WILDERENESS ESCAPE
5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS
$795
Per person
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Morning: Departure from Coca/Lago Agrio for a 2-hour drive to “Tierras Orientales” Village by the Aguarico River. Begin your Amazon Rainforest journey on a motorized canoe downstream along the scenic white water river.
Midday: Enjoy a delightful lunch at the farm of a Kichwa family.
Afternoon: After lunch we continue our journey to the eco-lodge. Look out for diverse wildlife, including pink and grey Freshwater Dolphins. Receive a warm welcome from our staff upon arrival.
Evening: Embark on a short walk to observe giant insects, spiders, snakes, and savour the Amazon’s vibrant nocturnal sounds. Return to the Lodge for dinner.
Morning: After breakfast, journey upstream via motorized canoe along the Cuyabeno River to “Puerto Montufar.” and commence a remarkable paddling experience downstream along the Aguas Negras River. Spot wildlife such as Monkeys, Parrots, and Macaws during the approximately 5-hour journey. Enjoy a picnic lunch and optional swim.
Afternoon: Venture on a hike through the primary forest, encountering the towering Kapoc tree. Return for leisure time at the lodge. Later, embark on a nocturnal wildlife exploration on the Cuyabeno River by motorized canoe. Look for Night birds, Snakes, Bats, Caimans, and Frogs.
Evening: Return to the Lodge for dinner.
Morning: Early breakfast, 6am depart for the Laguna Grande
Afternoon: Picnic Lunch at an ideal spot on the banks of the Laguna Grande. Spend the afternoon on the Laguna Grande. Cool down in the cool waters of the Laguna Grande.
Late Afternoon: Commence our return journey. Be sure to look out for elusive large animals approaching the river banks for a drink of water.
Evening: Dinner and rest.
Morning: Take a morning motorized canoe trip to “Saladero” (Salt Licks) where Parrots gather for minerals. With luck, witness this natural spectacle. After breakfast, embark on a rainforest hike, exploring the rich ecology. Return to the Lodge via a relaxing 40-minute paddle and enjoy a refreshing swim.
Lunch: Experience “Maito,” a traditional Kichwa dish consisting of wrapped fish meat, palmito, Yuca, seasoned with salt in bijao leaves.
Afternoon: Leisure time at the camp. In the late afternoon, paddle downstream on the Cuyabeno River, enjoying the stunning sunset over the landscape. Return to the Lodge for a sumptuous farewell dinner.
Morning: early morning birdwatching. After breakfast depart for Tierras Orientales.
Afternoon: Arrive at Tierras Orientales for your onward journey transportation.
GROUP ADVENTURERS
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
$999
Per person
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• Morning departure from Lago Agrio/Coca City.
• A scenic 2-hour drive to Tierras Orientales, our last road-accessible point before the Amazon.
• Board a motorized canoe at Tierras Orientales village for a 3.5-hour journey to Playas de Cuyabeno.
• Accommodation allocation, Lunch
• Freshen up, swim in the cool Aguarico waters, and embark on a community walkabout.
• Evening welcome cocktail and dinner.
PADDLE CANOE EXCURSION
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
$1200
Per person
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Discovering the Amazon
- 11:00 AM: Depart from either the Cuyabeno Bridge or Aguas Negras Bridge (departure point confirmed 2 days prior based on water level).
- Motorized Canoe Journey: Glide through the dark waterways, encountering monkeys, macaws, and possibly pink river dolphins.
- Lunch in the Community: Savor indigenous flavors prepared by our skilled chef.
- Sunset at the Grand Lagoon: Swim in warm waters, sip wine, and spot nocturnal caimans.
- Dinner: Under the jungle canopy.
Visit the Indigenous Siona Community
- Shaman Wisdom: Learn ancient secrets from the Shaman, including their mystical properties.
- Paddling Adventure: Navigate 15 km to the first campsite, surrounded by the symphony of jungle sounds.
Discover Hidden Lagoons
- Hidden Lagoons: Paddle 20 km, discovering secluded lagoons and wildlife wonders.
- Caiman Spotting: As dusk settles, seek out these elusive reptiles.
- Nightfall: Jungle whispers and starlit skies.
Jungle Day Walk
- Jungle Flora: Trek into the heart of Amazonian greenery, marveling at towering Saber trees.
- Campsite Oasis: Arrive at 5:00 PM, dinner served at 6:30 PM
Arrive at the Indigenous Kichwa Community
- River Confluence: Paddle 20 km, merging with the Aguas Negras River. Birdwatch up close.
- Kichwa Community: Explore their unique world—comfortable amenities, intriguing history, and vibrant culture.
- Dinner: Amid stories shared by firelight.
Homeward Bound
- Homeward Bound: Depart for Tierra Orientales at 9:00 AM.
- Arrival: Noon, memories etched in the Amazon’s lush tapestry.
Notes:
- Three meals a day, complimentary soft drinks.
- Jungle night walk awaits.
- Itinerary adapts to weather and your desires.
- If needed, a motorized canoe rescue awaits.
Feel the pulse of the rainforest as you embark on this unforgettable journey!
PINK DOLPHIN TRAIL
6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS
$1500
Per person
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Introduction to the Amazon Rainforest:
Lago Agrio/Coca to Playas de Cuyabeno
- Morning departure from Lago Agrio/Coca City.
- A scenic 2Hr drive to Tierras Orientales, our last road-accessible point before the Amazon.
- Board a motorized canoe at Tierras Orientales village for a 3.5Hr journey to Playas de Cuyabeno.
- Accommodation allocation, Lunch .
- Freshen up, swim in the cool Aguarico waters, and embark on a community walkabout.
- Evening welcome cocktail and dinner.
Exploring Zancudococha Lake
- Breakfast at 8 am.
- Continue downstream along the Aguarico to Zancudo Kichwa Native Territory.
- Explore Zancudo (Iripari) Lake—a birdwatcher’s paradise.
- Refreshing swim, sunset, and perhaps a glass of wine.
- Night walk to uncover Amazon’s nocturnal secrets. Dinner rest.
Lagartococha Campsite
- Early morning birdwatching. Breakfast at 8am.
- Hike through the marvelous primary Amazon rainforest.
- Learn about indigenous plant use and spot wildlife.
- Navigate downstream to Lagarto Cocha river, the Ecuador-Peru border.
- Reach Delfin Cocha Lake, abundant with Pink River Dolphins.
- Swim with these enchanting creatures. Dinner rest.
Flooded Rainforest Exploration
- Dawn birdwatching. Breakfast at 8am.
- Venture deeper into the rainforest—macaws, herons, toucans, and monkeys await.
- Visit a remote Secoya indigenous community.
- Cassava bread-making—an ancient tradition.
- Guided jungle walk with a Secoya native. Dinner, rest.
Marvel at Pink River Dolphins
- Breakfast at 8am. Explore the stunning Flooded Forest and its lagoons.
- More Pink River Dolphin sightings.
- Afternoon downtime at the campsite.
- Try your hand at piranha fishing.
- Sunset, sipping your favorite beverage. Dinner rest.
Farewell
- Early breakfast.
- Navigate downstream along the Lagarto Cocha river.
- Rejoin the Aguarico river and return to Tierras Orientales.
- Farewell and onward journey to Coca/Lago Agrio.
FAQ
THE TOUR INCLUDES:
- Canoe transportation from Puente de Cuyabeno - Nicky Amazon Lodge - Puente de Cuyabeno
- Accommodation in double room with private bathroom
- All meals according to the program (The tour starts with the lunch of the first day and finish with the breakfast of the last day)
- Free water, tea & coffee.
- Excursions and activities according to itinerary
- Bilingual English/Spanish speaking Naturalist Guide.
- Rubber boots (only up to # 48)
- water poncho
NOT INCLUDED:
- Transportation Quito - Puente de Cuyabeno - Quito
- Visit to indigenous Community - entrance fee $10.00 per person
- Other alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks
- Personal expenses and tips
Lightweight pants and long sleeved cotton shirts are ideal for walks in the forest. However, if you are more comfortable wearing short sleeves, remember that exposed skin may need a light dousing with insect repellant.
During the rain, full waterproof clothing can be uncomfortable as it often gets you wet with sweat instead of water, but rain ponchos are recommendable for tropical cloudbursts. Plenty of ponchos are available at no charge if you do not have your own, and we also supply rubber boots up to men’s size 14 for walks in the forest interior.
Comfortable shoes (or sandals), shorts and t-shirts are fine for walking on boardwalks and around the Lodge during meals and free time. And don’t forget your bathing suit!
- Passport
- Binoculars
- Flashlight and batteries
- Camera, memory and flash
- Insect repellent
- Sun protection (cream / sunglasses / hat or cap)
- Light long pants and long-sleeved shirts for walks
- Shorts, short sleeve shirts and swimsuit for the Lodge
- Comfortable shoes and extra socks
- Small day backpack
- Plastic bags to protect cameras, binoculars, batteries, etc... from rain
- For children under 4 years and 11 months, a 100% discount on the tour rate is applied upon presentation of their passport.
- Important to consider: Children must travel accompanied by their parents and under their full responsibility, taking into account all the risks involved in this type of excursion.
- For families traveling with children, it is recommended that they take into account a private tour with a guide and canoe, so the service will be more personalized and parents will be able to manage the activities according to their interest. The important thing for us is that Every family enjoys their trip better.
- Regarding the TRANSPORT transport from Quito to Cuyabeno Reserve, the lodges are offering a semi-private bus for tourists.
- The bus costs 30 usd each way, and departs everyday from Quito at night (23:00 PM) to Cuyabeno bridge on the following days: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
- all the guides arrive on Cuyabeno bridge with their canoes for meeting clients and start the trip**
- The bus return departs from Cuyabeno Bridge around 11:00 am after the tour. The guide of the lodge will leave you in this meeting please on time for the trip back to Quito.
- The cost is $30 usd for the ride to Quito, and operate on the following days : Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday
