Destinations:


Ecuador

AMAZON JUNGLE EXTENSION

The Amazon. One of the wonders of our planet, contributing 60% of the fresh water, and 20% of the oxygen which exists in the Earth’s atmosphere. 2% of the total area of this natural marvel is Ecuadorian territory. Situated on the Equator, it contains an incredible diversity of species of plants and animals, beyond comparison elsewhere in the world.

The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is found in the North-Eastern Ecuador. The reserve encompasses over 602.000 hectares of primary rainforest and boasts an incredible variety of Neotropical wildlife including river dolphins, tapirs, capybaras, caiman, anacondas, ocelots, monkeys and the infamous piranha.

The bird life is particularly spectacular: over 515 species have been recorded such as the prehistoric-looking hoatzin, the umbrella bird, blue headed parrot, the white eared jacamar, the scarlet macaw and the awesome harpy-eagle with its eight-food wingspan. Additionally, over 12.000 species of plants have been identified.

The Siona, Secoya and Cofan, indigenous inhabitants of the Amazon basin for thousands of years, also call Cuyabeno their ancestral homeland.

One of the best ways to explore the rainforest is by canoe and Cuyabeno with its maze of waterways provides you with ample opportunities to experience this wet and wild green world in a way that is intimate and highly rewarding.

You are guided through the forest by an indigenous guide in his canoe from the Siona Indian community, as well as a bilingual naturalist. Activities include canoeing in motorized and dugout crafts, hiking, bird watching, night walks and swinging in your hammock.

CUYABENO WILDLIFE RESERVE, 4 nights sample itinerary.

1.-Quito - Lago Agrio - El Puente . Flight 10:30 a.m. or bus journey (one day before - 8 hours) to Lago Agrio. Drive from Lago Agrio to el Puente. Canoe trip down on Cuyabeno river to our camp place .Exciting night walk.

2.- Cuyabeno river. After breakfast, trek into the primary rain forest learning about medicinal plants, flora and fauna. After lunch, journey downstream to relax and enjoy the surrounding nature on tubes (water tubing).

3.-Cuyabeno River. After breakfast, we paddle by traditional dug-out canoe on the Caiman-Cocha (Laguna del Caiman) where we will enjoy this unique nature. Lunch. Hike in the primary forest including lessons in the use of plants for survival. Before we head back to our camp, we’ll have a relaxing time to swim and enjoy the sunset on the magnificent Laguna Grande.

4.- Cuyabeno river. In the morning, walk to the Tarapuy Siona Community, our naturalist guide will explain about the culture and traditions of the native people. Piranha fishing in the afternoon. Return to the camp. Night canoe trip in search of caimans (alligators).

5.- El Puente-Lago Agrio-Quito. Early morning bird watching. After breakfast journey upstream the Cuyabeno river to El Puente. Drive back to Lago Agrio at 16:00. Flight or bus journey back to Quito.

Contact us for more details!

 


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Quito - Ecuador - 2008 :: wm. Alex Flores