Stay in a Huaorani Amazon Eco Lodge!

In the foothills of the Ecuadorian Andes is the planet’s largest remaining expanse of tropical rainforest, home to 20% of the world’s freshwater, a tenth of all animal species and one very special indigenous population: the Huaorani. Part of a unique project of sustainable tourism, this five-day tour takes you to the heart of their territory for a fascinating insight into daily life whilst staying in a beautiful Amazon Eco Lodge.

It may be the second smallest country in South America, but what Ecuador lacks in size it more than makes up for in natural and cultural diversity! Straddling the equator on the northwest coast of the continent, Ecuador is a land of ancient cities, lush cloud forest, volcanic highlands and palm-fringed coastline. In a single day it’s possible to travel through all these landscapes and more, making Ecuador (pound-for-pound) the most diverse nation on Earth! One of 17 megadiverse countries, with 15% of the world’s known bird species as well as 250 endemic reptiles and amphibians, the “Republic of the Equator” is also home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including its capital, Quito, and the Galapagos archipelago, the lost world that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. Small wonder, then, that Ecuador is a traveller’s dream!

Deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon, the territory of the Huaorani people is famed for its extraordinary flora and fauna and dramatic jungle river-scapes! This five-day tour offers a unique introduction to the region and its inhabitants. From your base at the picturesque eco-lodge, you’ll discover the rainforest by both foot and canoe, with day and night treks (and paddles!) promising thrilling encounters with some of the Amazon’s most charismatic creatures. Caimans, anacondas and capybaras (the world’s largest rodent) are among the many species you’ll come across with your Huaorani guides, and there’s also the chance to hunt and fish using traditional technologies like blowguns and traps! Best of all, you’ll spend time in the Huaorani settlements themselves, exploring the gardens, learning the art of building fires and shelters and perhaps enjoying a bowl of some sweet chucula (fresh banana drink) with one of the local families.

This trip is for people who care about the natural world and the tribal cultures that still manage to survive in small pockets across the globe. You need to have a sense of social responsibility and to be able to empathise with the people you will meet. You’ll get most from your stay if you’re willing to really get involved, whether that’s learning about local livelihoods, trying your hand at some Huaorani crafts or joining the local kids at play in the swimming hole.

You need a decent level of physical fitness for this trip. The lodge has 5 cabins and can cater for a maximum of 10 people.