Rainforest immersion: 8 days in Ecuador’s untouched Amazon

Quito - Cosanga

Day 1: Arrival & journey to lush environs

Welcome to Ecuador! Your adventure begins in Quito, the world’s second-highest capital, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Andes.

After meeting your English-speaking guide, set off on a scenic drive to your lodge, located within a private reserve teeming with birdlife. Take in the lush surroundings, explore the lodge’s trails or simply unwind as you settle into the rhythm of the forest.

Cosanga - Archidona - Misahualli

Day 2: Cocoa & local culture

After waking to breakfast in the forest, today you'll delve into the rich traditions of Ecuadorian cacao, with a visit to the Santa Rita community.

Learn how the renowned Paccari chocolate is made, from harvesting ripe cacao pods to crafting delicious confectionary. Along the way, admire ancient petroglyphs — sacred remnants of Ecuador’s indigenous cultures.

In the afternoon, continue south to Misahualli, where you’ll check in at your new accommodation. Spend the evening relaxing by the pool, walking jungle trails or enjoying a drink or dinner with panoramic views overlooking the Napo River.

Misahualli

Day 3: Jungle waterfalls & wildlife sightings

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then kickstart your day with a short hike through the rainforest to the beautiful Latas Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. The lush surroundings are alive with exotic flora and fauna, offering a perfect introduction to the Amazon’s biodiversity.

Later, head back to the lodge again, where the rest of the day is free. You'll could spend some time enjoying optional activities, if you want the adventure to continue today. You might visit the riverside village of Misahualli or take a stroll along one of the lodge trails. If you're in need of some relaxation, massages in the outdoor massage room are available. End the evening by opting for a delicious dinner in the panoramic restaurant, or simply unwind in your room.

Misahualli - Coca - Yasuni National Park

Day 4: Into the Amazon

After breakfast today, the true Amazon adventure begins. Travel to Coca, the gateway to Ecuador’s most pristine rainforest.

Accompanied by a local guide, you'll embark on a three-hour motorised canoe trip down the Rio Napo, enjoying a picnic lunch along the way. The final leg of the journey takes you across the Challuayacu Lagoon to your new lodge, where you will be welcomed by the team with a refreshing drink.

There's time to settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the environment, before taking an afternoon hike or pirogue trip down the Rio Napo. As you glide deeper into the wilderness, keep an eye out for pink river dolphins, caimans and a dazzling array of birdlife. The adventure doesn't stop there: in the evening, set out on a twilight canoe trip; look out for caiman among many other nocturnal wonders.

End the day with dinner and a good night's rest.

Yasuni National Park

Day 5: Wildlife encounters

Rise early for a spectacular climb up Sani Lodge’s 36m observation tower, where more than 500 bird species can be spotted among the jungle canopy.

After lunch, hike the Chorongo Trail in search of monkeys, exotic plants and giant ancient trees. Return to the lodge to rest and enjoy the calm of the jungle.

After dinner, your guide will take you on a night walk to discover more about the insects and animals of the night, before returning to the lodge.

Yasuni National Park

Day 6: Meet the locals

After breakfast today, venture into the heart of Yasuni National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.

A boat trip along the Rio Napo brings you to a remote trail, where golden-mantled tamarins, spider monkeys and blue-and-yellow macaws can be spotted. Your local guides will reveal the intricate balance of this unique ecosystem to you.

In the afternoon, visit the Sani Island community, part of the Kichwa culture, to learn about how their respect for the laws of the forest have kept their way of life balanced and sustainable. Share their knowledge over a meal and activities, and see how the women of the Sani Warmi centre support their community through craftwork and conservation projects.

Later, return to the lodge for a well-earned dinner and rest.

Yasuni National Park

Day 7: Deep into the rainforest

Have an early breakfast this morning, as today you'll experience the Amazon like never before with an extended hike along the Chorongo Largo Trail.

This full-day expedition takes you deep into the hidden corners of the forest, where woolly monkeys, capuchins and even elusive tapirs roam. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the midst of towering kapok trees and lush ferns, before heading back to the lodge for an evening of dinner and relaxation.

Yasuni National Park - Coca - Quito Airport

Day 8: Parrot spectacle & departure

After a final breakfast in the forest, set off to witness a mesmerising spectacle at a parrot clay lick, where hundreds of colourful birds gather to feed on mineral-rich clay.

Then, it's time to begin the journey back to Coca by canoe, followed by a short flight to Quito, ready for your onward travel.