Napo Wildlife Center

Napo Wildlife Center stands as a leading model of sustainable, community-run ecotourism, safeguarding 82 square miles of untouched rainforest within its private reserve. The lodge operates with eco-friendly systems, including solar-powered electricity, energy-efficient generators, and a water treatment system that recycles clean water back into nature. For over ten years, hunting has been voluntarily halted, allowing wildlife and native vegetation to flourish in a healthy ecosystem.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Añangucocha, the lodge is located within the ancestral lands of the Añangu Kichwa Community, who independently manage the project. This initiative provides essential income to support their families and preserve their traditions.

The lodge offers 12 spacious standard cabins and 8 luxury suites, accommodating up to 50 guests. Each cabin is equipped with electricity, ventilation, hot water, private bathrooms, a security box, and balconies overlooking lush, landscaped gardens.

Itinerary

DAY 1: TRAVEL TO NAPO WILDLIFE CENTER

The journey begins with an 11:00 AM flight from Quito to Coca, lasting about 30 minutes. Upon arrival, guests are transferred to La Misión Port, where they board a comfortable, covered motorboat for a two-hour ride along the Napo River. A box lunch and coffee are served during the trip, and wildlife such as herons and kingfishers may be spotted.

At the lodge’s entry dock, the adventure continues with a peaceful two-hour paddle canoe ride through a narrow creek, offering the chance to observe monkeys and vibrant birds like toucans, parrots, and macaws. The day ends with a late afternoon arrival at Napo Wildlife Center, greeted by stunning views of Añangu Lake, a welcome drink, and an orientation by the local manager.

DAY 2: PARROT SIGHTING

The day begins early with a trip to one of Ecuador’s most accessible parrot clay licks, located about an hour from the lodge. Arriving just before peak activity (7:30–8:30 AM), visitors can observe up to 11 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws in their natural habitat.

Afterward, a guided hike through the rainforest leads to the Añangu Kichwa Community, where guests spend time with a local family, participating in daily activities and learning about their culture and the surrounding ecosystem. Following lunch, guests are paddled back to the lodge, arriving in the late afternoon to enjoy a delicious dinner and a relaxing evening.

DAY 3: KICHWA FAMILY TRIP

The day begins with a visit to a traditional Kichwa family living along the Napo River, offering an authentic look into their daily life and customs. Afterwards, guests return to the Anakonda River Cruise for a hands-on cooking class led by the onboard chef, featuring classic Ecuadorian dishes.

Guests can also try traditional crafts, relax in the open-air hot tub, sip cocktails at the Bar and Lounge, or enjoy stargazing from the Observation Deck. For those seeking adventure, kayaking through the surrounding nature is also available, providing a more active way to experience the Amazon’s beauty.

DAY 4: CANOPY TOWER

After an early breakfast, guests head out to explore the rainforest from a 36-meter-high canopy tower, offering an incredible perspective of life above the forest floor. This second tower at Napo Wildlife Center, located about 30 minutes from the lodge in the Terra Firme forest, provides a unique opportunity to observe the upper layers of the jungle.

As visitors climb the 12-story structure, they pass through various forest levels, eventually reaching a wooden platform built into a giant Ceiba tree. From here, guests enjoy panoramic views once only accessible to birds, making it one of the best canopy experiences in Eastern Ecuador. Afterward, they return to the lodge.

DAY 5: RETURN TRIP

The day begins with an early morning canoe ride back through the creek, offering one last chance to spot wildlife such as giant otters, Monk Saki monkeys, or rare bird species. Upon reaching the Napo River, guests transfer to a motorized canoe for the two-hour journey back to Coca. Once there, they check in for their flight to Quito, with departure details provided according to the scheduled arrangements.

INCLUDING

SERVICES PROVIDED

  • Thirteen nights of lodging.
  • Meals will be provided as per the itinerary.
  • All transportation is included, featuring pick-up and drop-off by the guide directly at the airport, applicable for arrivals
    and departures on the scheduled day.
  • Admission fees to museums and similar venues.
  • Activities are detailed in the itinerary.
  • Your reservation supports our Conservation Project.
NOT INCLUDED

SERVICES EXCLUDED

  • International flights
  • Meals not included in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Activities not included in the itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities for your guide
  • Travel health insurance.

Book your trip.