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Napo Cultural Center Eco-lodge
Discover the magic of the Amazon
Explore the Amazon with guided tours and uncover the cultural richness of the Kichwa Añangu Community. Experience a unique adventure in the heart of the Ecuadorian jungle.
Highlights
Observation Towersoffer a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the vastness and diversity of the rainforest from above
BirdwatchingImmerse yourself in the essence of the Amazon rainforest
Yasuní WildlifeEncounter Witness the astonishing Amazonian biodiversity as colorful birds,playful monkeys
Cultural ExperienceDiscover the richness of cultural diversity
Itinerary
Day 1
After a 30-minute flight over the Eastern Andes Mountain Range to reach Coca, take a 10-minute drive and covered boat ride to the Napo Cultural Center. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a traditional Wayusa drink and provided with information about the hotel’s services. After settling into comfortable rooms overlooking the jungle, visitors can do various activities such as a hike to an observation tower to observe the fauna and enjoy an Amazonian sunset, or a sunset kayak ride along the Napo River. Finally, guests return to the hotel to refresh, rest and enjoy dinner.
Day 2
After breakfast, embark on a motorized canoe journey to the Parrot Clay Lick in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve. During the ride, various species of parrots can be observed. Then, walk the Parakeet Trail to observe up to 5 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws at the clay lick. The site also attracts mammals such as monkeys and jaguars.
The morning concludes with a visit to the Kury Muyu intercultural interpretation center, managed by women from the community, where you can learn about Kichwa culture and purchase handmade crafts. After lunch, take a boat excursion on the Añangu stream to observe wildlife. In the afternoon, board a catamaran on the Napo River to learn about the legends and traditional songs of the Kichwa community while enjoying snacks roasted over the fire.
Day 3
To conclude your experience, you have the option to participate in the guayusada ritual, starting early at 4:30 am. During this ritual, the Kichwa Añangu community shares the sacred guayusa, transmitting their ancient knowledge. The experience includes traditional songs and the possibility of a mamakuna interpreting your dreams. Afterward, you will return to enjoy breakfast while the staff collects your luggage for the return journey to El Coca in comfortable motorized canoes, providing you with the last opportunity to appreciate the landscape of the Ecuadorian tropical rainforest.
Day 1
After a 30-minute flight over the Eastern Andes Mountain Range to reach Coca, take a 10-minute drive and covered boat ride to the Napo Cultural Center. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a traditional Wayusa drink and provided with information about the hotel’s services. After settling into comfortable rooms overlooking the jungle, visitors can do various activities such as a hike to an observation tower to observe the fauna and enjoy an Amazonian sunset, or a sunset kayak ride along the Napo River. Finally, guests return to the hotel to refresh, rest and enjoy dinner.
Day 2
After breakfast, embark on a motorized canoe journey to the Parrot Clay Lick in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve. During the ride, various species of parrots can be observed. Then, walk the Parakeet Trail to observe up to 5 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws at the clay lick. The site also attracts mammals such as monkeys and jaguars.
The morning concludes with a visit to the Kury Muyu intercultural interpretation center, managed by women from the community, where you can learn about Kichwa culture and purchase handmade crafts. After lunch, take a boat excursion on the Añangu stream to observe wildlife. In the afternoon, board a catamaran on the Napo River to learn about the legends and traditional songs of the Kichwa community while enjoying snacks roasted over the fire.
Day 3
Start the day by enjoying the sunrise during breakfast and visit sustainable community projects to learn about the Kichwa worldview. Explore trails in the terra firme forest, observing the diversity of flora and fauna, including ceiba trees and monkeys. After lunch, take a hike to the second observation tower to spot birds and other species. In the evening, relax and enjoy a typical Amazonian dinner, featuring dishes like maito and chontakuru (roasted chonta worms). After dinner, participate in an exciting night walk to observe insects, reptiles, and mammals active during the night.
Day 4
To conclude your experience, you have the option to participate in the guayusada ritual, starting early at 4:30 am. During this ritual, the Kichwa Añangu community shares the sacred guayusa, transmitting their ancient knowledge. The experience includes traditional songs and the possibility of a mamakuna interpreting your dreams. Afterward, you will return to enjoy breakfast while the staff collects your luggage for the return journey to El Coca in comfortable motorized canoes, providing you with the last opportunity to appreciate the landscape of the Ecuadorian tropical rainforest.
Day 1
After a short flight to El Coca and a brief transfer, you will be welcomed at a private dock with refreshments and a boxed lunch. From there, a boat will take you to the Napo Cultural Center to immerse yourself in the culture of the Kichwa Añangu Community. After receiving information about the lodge, you will head to your cabin overlooking the jungle and can rest before the first afternoon activity. Enjoy a walk to an observation tower to spot birds and monkeys, followed by options such as a kayak ride. Later, return to the lodge to freshen up before dinner.
Day 2
After breakfast, embark on a motorized canoe journey to the Parrot Clay Lick in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve. During the ride, various species of parrots can be observed. Then, walk the Parakeet Trail to observe up to 5 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws at the clay lick. The site also attracts mammals such as monkeys and jaguars. The morning concludes with a visit to the Kury Muyu intercultural interpretation center, managed by women from the community, where you can learn about Kichwa culture and purchase handmade crafts. After lunch, take a boat excursion on the Añangu stream to observe wildlife. In the afternoon, board a catamaran on the Napo River to learn about the legends and traditional songs of the Kichwa community while enjoying snacks roasted over the fire.
Day 3
Start the day by enjoying the sunrise during breakfast and visit sustainable community projects to learn about the Kichwa worldview. Explore trails in the terra firme forest, observing the diversity of flora and fauna, including ceiba trees and monkeys. After lunch, take a hike to the second observation tower to spot birds and other species. In the evening, relax and enjoy a typical Amazonian dinner, featuring dishes like maito and chontakuru (roasted chonta worms). After dinner, participate in an exciting night walk to observe insects, reptiles, and mammals active during the night.
Day 4
Wake up to the singing of Amazonian birds and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then, venture into the upland forest along the Samona trail with rubber boots. Experience the thrill of being like Indiana Jones as you walk among centuries-old ceiba trees, accompanied by capuchin monkeys, woolly monkeys, and sakis. Observe insects under the leaves and appreciate the fauna of the dense forest.
Continue the adventure by exploring a stream of black waters, marveling at the biodiversity of flora and fauna. After enjoying a refreshing drink and a exquisite lunch, embark on a tour of nearby islands to spot birds.
In the evening, you’ll have the option to participate in a night walk for a unique experience or simply relax and enjoy the comfortable facilities.
Day 5
To conclude your experience, you have the option to participate in the guayusada ritual, starting early at 4:30 am. During this ritual, the Kichwa Añangu community shares the sacred guayusa, transmitting their
Day 1
After a 30-minute flight to Coca and a brief transfer by car, you will be welcomed at a private dock with refreshments and a boxed lunch. You will board a covered boat for an exciting two-hour journey on the Napo River. Upon arriving at the Napo Cultural Center, you will be greeted by the Kichwa Añangu Community with the traditional wayusa drink. After receiving information about the hotel, you will head to a comfortable room with jungle views. After some rest, you will participate in a walk to an observation tower to spot birds and monkeys, or you can choose a sunset kayak ride on the Napo River. Later, return to the hotel to freshen up and rest before dinner.
Day 2
After an early breakfast, the day begins with an exciting motorized canoe trip to the Parrot Clay Lick in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve. During the journey, various species of parrots can be observed. Then, a walk along the Parakeet Trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the parrot clay lick, where up to 5 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws can be spotted, along with mammals such as monkeys and jaguars.
The morning continues with a visit to the Kury Muyu intercultural interpretation center, managed by women from the community. Here, visitors learn about Kichwa culture, music, dances, and the traditional use of natural resources. There is also a crafts store to support the community.
After lunch at the community center’s restaurant, an exciting boat excursion is made on the Añangu stream, where monkeys, caimans, and giant otters can be observed. The day concludes with a unique activity on the Napo River aboard an ancestral catamaran, where legends and traditional songs of the Kichwa community are learned while enjoying snacks roasted by local women.
Day 3
Start the day by enjoying the sunrise during breakfast and visit sustainable community projects to learn about the Kichwa worldview. Then, explore one of the trails in the terra firme forest, observing wildlife and endemic trees of Yasuní.
Return to the hotel for a delicious lunch and a well-deserved rest before embarking on a hike to the second observation tower, offering ideal views to spot birds, howler monkeys, and squirrels.
In the afternoon, relax and prepare for a traditional Amazonian dinner featuring dishes such as maito, grilled fish wrapped in bijao leaves, and chontakuru, roasted worms from the chonta palm, for those with adventurous palates.
After dinner, join an exciting nighttime lantern walk, where you can observe different types of insects, reptiles, and mammals active during the night, including some monkeys.
Day 4
Wake up to the singing of Amazonian birds and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then, venture into the upland forest along the Samona trail with rubber boots. Experience the thrill of being like Indiana Jones as you walk among centuries-old ceiba trees, accompanied by capuchin monkeys, woolly monkeys, and sakis. Observe insects under the leaves and appreciate the fauna of the dense forest.
Continue the adventure by exploring a stream of black waters, marveling at the biodiversity of flora and fauna. After enjoying a refreshing drink and a exquisite lunch, embark on a tour of nearby islands to spot birds.
In the evening, you’ll have the option to participate in a night walk for a unique experience or simply relax and enjoy the comfortable facilities.
Day 5
On this day, the adventure takes explorers to Pañacocha Lagoon, on the other side of the Napo River, promising a day full of fun and natural wonders, with the possibility of spotting pink dolphins. Depart from the lodge in the morning for a fascinating 90-minute boat ride along the Napo River, observing wildlife along the way.
Upon reaching Pañacocha, guests receive an introduction to the area and lunch to enjoy in a canoe or at nearby facilities. Afterwards, there is an opportunity to swim in the lagoon. The Igapó Forest offers the chance to spot various species such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, anacondas, and more. Black caimans and various birds in the wetland can also be observed.
In the afternoon, return to the Napo Cultural Center for a delicious dinner and a night walk along the forest trails, exploring the nightlife of the jungle. Finally, explorers rest comfortably in the beautiful lodge cabins.
Day 6
For a perfect last day, you have the option to participate in the wayusada ritual. It begins early around 4:30 am, where the Kichwa family shares the sacred guayusa. This ritual is a way of passing down their ancient knowledge to new generations. You can listen to traditional songs, and if you wish, your dreams can be interpreted by a wise mamakuna from the community. A truly mystical experience!
Afterwards, we’ll return for breakfast while our staff takes care of collecting your luggage for the return to El Coca. We’ll transport you in our comfortable motorized canoes, providing the last opportunity to appreciate the landscape of the Ecuadorian rainforest as we reach our port.
Day 1
After a 30-minute flight to Coca and a brief transfer by car, you will be welcomed at a private dock with refreshments and a boxed lunch. You will board a covered boat for an exciting two-hour journey on the Napo River. Upon arriving at the Napo Cultural Center, you will be greeted by the Kichwa Añangu Community with the traditional wayusa drink. After receiving information about the hotel, you will head to a comfortable room with jungle views. After some rest, you will participate in a walk to an observation tower to spot birds and monkeys, or you can choose a sunset kayak ride on the Napo River. Later, return to the hotel to freshen up and rest before dinner.
Day 2
After an early breakfast, the day begins with an exciting motorized canoe trip to the Parrot Clay Lick in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve. During the journey, various species of parrots can be observed. Then, a walk along the Parakeet Trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the parrot clay lick, where up to 5 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws can be spotted, along with mammals such as monkeys and jaguars.
The morning continues with a visit to the Kury Muyu intercultural interpretation center, managed by women from the community. Here, visitors learn about Kichwa culture, music, dances, and the traditional use of natural resources. There is also a crafts store to support the community.
After lunch at the community center’s restaurant, an exciting boat excursion is made on the Añangu stream, where monkeys, caimans, and giant otters can be observed. The day concludes with a unique activity on the Napo River aboard an ancestral catamaran, where legends and traditional songs of the Kichwa community are learned while enjoying snacks roasted by local women.
Day 3
Start the day by enjoying the sunrise during breakfast and visit sustainable community projects to learn about the Kichwa worldview. Then, explore one of the trails in the terra firme forest, observing wildlife and endemic trees of Yasuní.
Return to the hotel for a delicious lunch and a well-deserved rest before embarking on a hike to the second observation tower, offering ideal views to spot birds, howler monkeys, and squirrels.
In the afternoon, relax and prepare for a traditional Amazonian dinner featuring dishes such as maito, grilled fish wrapped in bijao leaves, and chontakuru, roasted worms from the chonta palm, for those with adventurous palates.
After dinner, join an exciting nighttime lantern walk, where you can observe different types of insects, reptiles, and mammals active during the night, including some monkeys.
Day 4
Wake up to the singing of Amazonian birds and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then, venture into the upland forest along the Samona trail with rubber boots. Experience the thrill of being like Indiana Jones as you walk among centuries-old ceiba trees, accompanied by capuchin monkeys, woolly monkeys, and sakis. Observe insects under the leaves and appreciate the fauna of the dense forest.
Continue the adventure by exploring a stream of black waters, marveling at the biodiversity of flora and fauna. After enjoying a refreshing drink and a exquisite lunch, embark on a tour of nearby islands to spot birds.
In the evening, you’ll have the option to participate in a night walk for a unique experience or simply relax and enjoy the comfortable facilities.
Day 5
On this day, the adventure takes explorers to Pañacocha Lagoon, on the other side of the Napo River, promising a day full of fun and natural wonders, with the possibility of spotting pink dolphins. Depart from the lodge in the morning for a fascinating 90-minute boat ride along the Napo River, observing wildlife along the way.
Upon reaching Pañacocha, guests receive an introduction to the area and lunch to enjoy in a canoe or at nearby facilities. Afterwards, there is an opportunity to swim in the lagoon. The Igapó Forest offers the chance to spot various species such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, anacondas, and more. Black caimans and various birds in the wetland can also be observed.
In the afternoon, return to the Napo Cultural Center for a delicious dinner and a night walk along the forest trails, exploring the nightlife of the jungle. Finally, explorers rest comfortably in the beautiful lodge cabins.
Day 6
On this day, the adventure takes explorers to Pañacocha Lagoon, on the other side of the Napo River, promising a day full of fun and natural wonders, with the possibility of spotting pink dolphins. Depart from the lodge in the morning for a fascinating 90-minute boat ride along the Napo River, observing wildlife along the way.
Upon reaching Pañacocha, guests receive an introduction to the area and lunch to enjoy in a canoe or at nearby facilities. Afterwards, there is an opportunity to swim in the lagoon. The Igapó Forest offers the chance to spot various species such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, anacondas, and more. Black caimans and various birds in the wetland can also be observed.
In the afternoon, return to the Napo Cultural Center for a delicious dinner and a night walk along the forest trails, exploring the nightlife of the jungle. Finally, explorers rest comfortably in the beautiful lodge cabins.
Day 7
For a perfect last day, you have the option to participate in the wayusada ritual. It begins early around 4:30 am, where the Kichwa family shares the sacred guayusa. This ritual is a way of passing down their ancient knowledge to new generations. You can listen to traditional songs, and if you wish, your dreams can be interpreted by a wise mamakuna from the community. A truly mystical experience!
Afterwards, we’ll return for breakfast while our staff takes care of collecting your luggage for the return to El Coca. We’ll transport you in our comfortable motorized canoes, providing the last opportunity to appreciate the landscape of the Ecuadorian rainforest as we reach our port.
Day 1
After a 30-minute flight to Coca and a brief transfer by car, you will be welcomed at a private dock with refreshments and a boxed lunch. You will board a covered boat for an exciting two-hour journey on the Napo River. Upon arriving at the Napo Cultural Center, you will be greeted by the Kichwa Añangu Community with the traditional wayusa drink. After receiving information about the hotel, you will head to a comfortable room with jungle views. After some rest, you will participate in a walk to an observation tower to spot birds and monkeys, or you can choose a sunset kayak ride on the Napo River. Later, return to the hotel to freshen up and rest before dinner.
Day 2
After an early breakfast, the day begins with an exciting motorized canoe trip to the Parrot Clay Lick in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve. During the journey, various species of parrots can be observed. Then, a walk along the Parakeet Trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the parrot clay lick, where up to 5 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws can be spotted, along with mammals such as monkeys and jaguars.
The morning continues with a visit to the Kury Muyu intercultural interpretation center, managed by women from the community. Here, visitors learn about Kichwa culture, music, dances, and the traditional use of natural resources. There is also a crafts store to support the community.
After lunch at the community center’s restaurant, an exciting boat excursion is made on the Añangu stream, where monkeys, caimans, and giant otters can be observed. The day concludes with a unique activity on the Napo River aboard an ancestral catamaran, where legends and traditional songs of the Kichwa community are learned while enjoying snacks roasted by local women.
Day 3
Start the day by enjoying the sunrise during breakfast and visit sustainable community projects to learn about the Kichwa worldview. Then, explore one of the trails in the terra firme forest, observing wildlife and endemic trees of Yasuní.
Return to the hotel for a delicious lunch and a well-deserved rest before embarking on a hike to the second observation tower, offering ideal views to spot birds, howler monkeys, and squirrels.
In the afternoon, relax and prepare for a traditional Amazonian dinner featuring dishes such as maito, grilled fish wrapped in bijao leaves, and chontakuru, roasted worms from the chonta palm, for those with adventurous palates.
After dinner, join an exciting nighttime lantern walk, where you can observe different types of insects, reptiles, and mammals active during the night, including some monkeys.
Day 4
Wake up to the singing of Amazonian birds and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then, venture into the upland forest along the Samona trail with rubber boots. Experience the thrill of being like Indiana Jones as you walk among centuries-old ceiba trees, accompanied by capuchin monkeys, woolly monkeys, and sakis. Observe insects under the leaves and appreciate the fauna of the dense forest.
Continue the adventure by exploring a stream of black waters, marveling at the biodiversity of flora and fauna. After enjoying a refreshing drink and a exquisite lunch, embark on a tour of nearby islands to spot birds.
In the evening, you’ll have the option to participate in a night walk for a unique experience or simply relax and enjoy the comfortable facilities.
Day 5
On this day, the adventure takes explorers to Pañacocha Lagoon, on the other side of the Napo River, promising a day full of fun and natural wonders, with the possibility of spotting pink dolphins. Depart from the lodge in the morning for a fascinating 90-minute boat ride along the Napo River, observing wildlife along the way.
Upon reaching Pañacocha, guests receive an introduction to the area and lunch to enjoy in a canoe or at nearby facilities. Afterwards, there is an opportunity to swim in the lagoon. The Igapó Forest offers the chance to spot various species such as macaws, sloths, monkeys, anacondas, and more. Black caimans and various birds in the wetland can also be observed.
In the afternoon, return to the Napo Cultural Center for a delicious dinner and a night walk along the forest trails, exploring the nightlife of the jungle. Finally, explorers rest comfortably in the beautiful lodge cabins.
Day 6
Following breakfast, immerse yourself in a delightful and enlightening activity, the “Chocolate and Cocoa Workshop,” where you’ll delve into the traditional process and deepen your understanding of this tropical fruit. In the morning, experience direct engagement with the community by visiting their quaint high school and exploring the communal lands, where the Kichwa cultivate their fruits and vegetables in the Amazonian “chakras” or plots of land.
After a satisfying lunch, prepare for a leisurely stroll along the “Community Trail,” guided by our knowledgeable naturalist, to marvel at the local flora and glimpse rare birds perched high in the trees or nestled amidst the foliage. Finally, return to the lodge for a delectable dinner.
Day 7
Begins with an exhilarating excursion along the Guangana Trail, offering a unique opportunity to traverse paths teeming with diverse monkey species, including howlers, spider monkeys, and capuchins.
Later in the day, we set off for the surrounding islands, eager to explore and marvel at the abundant biodiversity concealed within these waters. Our quest will introduce us to magnificent avian species such as the Hoatzin (Hoatzin Pheasant), Cocoi Heron, Collared Plover, Oriole Blackbird, Moriche Oriole, and the elusive Amazon Umbrellabird.
Furthermore, our anticipation grows as we embark on a search for the capybara, a remarkable large rodent that promises to enhance our experience on these enchanting islands. A day brimming with nature, wildlife, and unforgettable moments awaits us.
Day 8
For a perfect last day, you have the option to participate in the wayusada ritual. It begins early around 4:30 am, where the Kichwa family shares the sacred guayusa. This ritual is a way of passing down their ancient knowledge to new generations. You can listen to traditional songs, and if you wish, your dreams can be interpreted by a wise mamakuna from the community. A truly mystical experience!
Afterwards, we’ll return for breakfast while our staff takes care of collecting your luggage for the return to El Coca. We’ll transport you in our comfortable motorized canoes, providing the last opportunity to appreciate the landscape of the Ecuadorian rainforest as we reach our port.
Additional Information
Napo Cultural Center Eco-lodge
Included
River transportation Coca - Napo Cultural Center - CocaAccommodation in Napo Cultural CenterAll meals, water, tea and coffeeEntrance toYasuni National Park and parrot clay licksCommunity guide and naturalist bilingual guideRain poncho and rubber bootsAll excursions and activities as per detailed itinerary
Not Included
air tickets Quito-Coca-Quitoland transfer to our private dock in CocaBeverages, tips, personal expenses and other non specified services (laundry and internet).What to bring
Flashlight or headlamp
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Insect repellent cream, antibacterial towels/gel & personal hygiene items
Camera with spare cards & batteries
Waterproof clothes & preferably light weight clothes
Small first aid kit & your doctor’s prescriptions if you are taking any medication
Testimonials
Victoria S
Working with this company has been a pleasure. Christina was responsive, helpful, thoughtful, accommodating and extremely pleasant to work with. Waita Lodge is THE PLACE TO STAY in the Amazon. Owned and operated by local Ecuadorians, you get their true experience, and with passion, of the Amazon from people with an authentic love and care for the local community and environment of the Amazon. The food was amazing, meals prepared beautifully, service attentive and the environment homey. Portion of the profits go to advocacy efforts in the local communities of the Amazon.
Marisol S
We had a great experience with our tour guide Stui! He told us so much about the volcanos, the history and people of the region! We enjoyed the tour because we got to taste Bizcochos at the place where they are made, we went to Lago de San Pablo, the Otavalo market, Cotacachi and hiked a bit in Cuicocha to see the beautiful lake! This experience was amazing,many thanks to our guide Stui, you are going a great job!!!
NSTRPADVSR
Very good organization; always fast communication/response by Pablo/EcuaTraveling. The program took us to places and people we would not have selected/visited and that made it unique. The acclimatization tour @ Iliniza Norte was a great choice!