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Kapawi Amazon Jungle Lodge
Amazon
Ecuador
Deep in the Amazon jungle of Ecuador, you find a remote jungle lodge - Kapawi. Kapawi is one of the most remote, ecologically responsible and culturally sensitive eco lodges in the world. Deep in the nearly two million acres of the Achuar people’s territory, Kapawi is accessible only by air. In addition to consistently receiving high praise for its gracious hospitality, creature comforts, excellent cuisine, and complete menu of activities, Kapawi is also an award winning Ecolodge noted for its ecological design and sensitivity, and for its abundance of wildlife and rich biodiversity.
Located in the territorial lands of an indigenous nation (6,000 people in 64 communities) still living as they have for generations and in intimate harmony with nature, Kapawi provides guests a range and depth of cultural experiences unmatched by any other rainforest lodges.
Come and be at ease, and learn about our way of life and appreciate the rich flora and fauna of our home. Share in our vision of protecting our lands for future generations and for the world.
Kapawi is a place of multiple choices and is characterized by its flexibility. We do not offer fixed programs, but you can design with your guide and your group, the most suitable itinerary to meet your interests and physical condition. In Kapawi you can do many or as few of the activities available as you choose. The majority of the itineraries will include visits to the Achuar communities, you can share time with a local Achuar family, hikes in the rain forest, canoeing in rivers and lakes, swimming, watching pink river dolphins, see crocidiles and other animals native to the area, Kapawi is famous for its bird watching where there are more than 530 species in the immediate area.
We offer the following activities:
Bird watching, hiking on the self-guided trail, kayaking & canoeing, fishing, overnight camping, Achuar community visits, night hikes, caiman (crocodile) watching, resting and relaxing.
Kapawi lodge is a paradise for dedicated bird watchers and amateurs alike. More species of bird are found in the Kapawi area alone than in all of North America. For birders the early morning trip to the clay lick is an adventure not to be missed.
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Amazon Excursion
Meeting:
Shell
Airport:
Quito
Transfer:
Quito-Shell-Kapawi
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accommodations, all meals, filtered drinkable water, jungle excursions, guides, canoe transportation and village visit.
| A | 2013 | 4 day trip- Friday to Monday | 5d / 4n | $839 |
| B | 2013 | 5 day trip- Monday to Friday | 5d / 4n | $1049 |
| C | 2013 | 8 day trip- Monday to Monday | 5d / 4n | $1509 |
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Land Transportation Quito – Shell – Quito
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$80
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2013
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Air Transportation shell - kapawi - shell (12% tax)
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$315
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| A |
2013
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01/01
- 12/31
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5d / 4n
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4 day trip- Friday to Monday
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1
/10
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Reserve
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| B |
2013
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01/01
- 12/31
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5d / 4n
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5 day trip- Monday to Friday
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1
/10
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Reserve
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| C |
2013
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01/01
- 12/31
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5d / 4n
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8 day trip- Monday to Monday
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1
/10
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Reserve
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Arrival days are Mondays and Fridays
Rates do not include:
Bottled water, alcoholic beverages and boutique purchases.
Kapawi Ecolodge is situated deep in the nearly two million acres of the Achuar people's traditional territory near the confluence of the Pastaza and Capahuari Rivers-the former a major, the latter a minor tributary of the Amazon-near the border between Ecuador and Peru. This area is one of the most remote and well-protected parts of the western Amazon Basin. It is a remote and pristine region, untouched by logging, mining or petroleum extraction.
The closest road is a ten-day walk from the lodge. The rivers are not navigable to the lodge from the nearest outposts of civilization. Kapawi is accessible only by air. The entrance to the lodge and to Achuar territory, flying in a small plane over the uninterrupted vastness of green triple-canopy rainforest, is one of the unique highlights a visit to Kapawi provides.
ACTIVITIES AT KAPAWI
There are three alternatives, according to your physical condition (not your age):
EASY: Programs that include short hikes in the rainforest (up to 1 ½ hours) on well defined trails, visit to the Achuar community as well as trips in canoes. Meals are served in the lodge or light meals are taken for the trip. Typical Achuar meals are offered when visiting a community. Overnight stays can be at the lodge or in tents in the communities.
MODERATE: Programs that include medium-distance hikes in the rain forest (up to 3 ½ hours), sometimes crossing flooded areas. Trips in canoes and visit to the Achuar community are also covered. Light meals are taken for the journey or typical Achuar dishes are offered when visiting a community. Overnight stays can be at the lodge or in tents in the communities.
DIFFICULT: Demanding hikes of many hours or days in poorly defined and often flooded trails. Porters will carry food and supplies. Overnight stays are in tents in the jungle or in the Achuar communities. Exploration journeys to virgin areas are occasionally offered. Trips on inaccessible rivers are done in inflatable rafts. Excellent physical condition is required!
Groups are always lead by one Naturalist Guide and one Native guide.
The following is a list of activities available at Kapawi:
• Hiking.- Easy, moderate or difficult, in tropical rain forest visiting Achuar Communities.
• Bird watching.- approximately 2 hours long, generally this activity starts early in the morning, at 6.
• Kayaking & Canoe Trips.- Kayaking can be done a long short rivers like the Capahuari (shown above) or some lagoons near the lodge. The canoe trips can be taken along larger rivers as the Pastaza.
• Fishing.- is available at the Lodge.
• Camping.- this activity depends on the guests decision. Our staff carries the food and equipment to the camping area, we will try to give our guests the same services as they were staying at the lodge. Please notify us in advance if you wish to participate this activity.
• Achuar Community visits.- This is one of our most popular activities offered in Kapawi, because of the significant cultural contribution to the Achuar people. We give our guests a briefing about the Achuar Culture, their ethics codes and some suggestions about how to behave during the visit. You will have the opportunity to see a community and its members and purchase some traditional handicrafts.
• Self-guided path.- is about 45 min and takes you on a path in the immediate vicinity of the lodge.
• Caiman (crocodile) watching.- This activity is done at night because these reptiles are nocturnal animals.
• Night Hikes.- This offers the opportunity to see a different perspective of the Rain Forest and different nocturnal animals and insects.
Note: Families traveling with young children we highly recommended to hire a private guide for the group.
Additional Excursions
Private Candlelit Canoe River Cruise ~$150 per cruise
We take them up the river in a canoe with a bottle of fabulous wine, candles, snacks and a bevy of pillows. Then we turn off the motor and just float down with the songs of the jungle- truly magical with the stars overhead and nothing around for more than a million acres
Shaman Experience ~$140 per person
An overnight in the house of a Shaman. He does a spiritual cleansing, the ceremony of Wayusa which is the tea they drink at 4 in the morning, and dream interpretation.
Overnight in house of Shaman
Remote Village Visit ~$65 day/$100 overnight per person
This is a chance to visit one of the more remote villages. It costs alot more for gas and the canoes so we don't make it often to visit. Hence- a slightly wilder experience. They put on a cultural evening, prepare local foods etc.
It is helpful for us in planning
for your visit to know in advance your desired level of activity.
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Meeting:
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Shell
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Airport:
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Quito
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Transfer:
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Quito-Shell-Kapawi
Land Transportation to Shell is optional should you prefer to make your own travel arrangements to Shell. Flight to Kapawi from Shell is subject to a 12% tax. We recommend you to consider adding an extra day on the end of your visit to Kapawi to make sure you meet your connecting flights to your next destination.
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Level:
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 Easy to Moderate
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Participants:
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Min
1
participants
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Max
10
participants
(per group)
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Max Capacity
40
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What may I expect to see in Kapawi?
Many, many birds (more than 570 species in the area).
Many species of insects, including brightly colored butterflies; many of them still have not been identified by scientists.
Thousands of plant-species, many of them used for medicinal purposes by the Achuar.
Mammals such as fresh water dolphins, giant river otters, monkeys, bats and several kinds of rodents (including capybaras) that you may see depending on the time of year. Since they are mainly nocturnal, mammals like jaguars, ocelots, jaguarundis and other cats, although they are present in the area surrounding Kapawi, are difficult to spot.
How safe is the Lodge and its programs?
Kapawi (and the tropical rainforest) is as safe as a temperate forest or walking in a big city. Very few animals are dangerous. They are generally shy and prefer to avoid humans which is also why it is so hard sometimes to see them in the forest.
Kapawi has Achuar and naturalist guides who are well versed in the environment. They have first aid training and carry first aid kits for emergency purposes. Life jackets, well-maintained paths and motorized canoes guarantee security for our visitors. An evacuation protocol is available upon request.
Is there any possibility of getting malaria or any other disease due to mosquito bites?
As in most tropical countries, there is a risk of getting malaria. However, mosquitoes are uncommon in the lodge and the use of the mosquito nets on each bed reduces the risk. In the lagoon surrounding the lodge a particular plant grows which produces a chemical called Pyrethrum, which is found in many mosquito repellents. This natural chemical inhibits the growth of mosquito larvae so you will find few, if any, mosquitos in the lodge itself.
The use of repellent is encouraged, when hiking or visiting the communities. While the risk is low here, anti-malaria medication is essential and we recommend that you visit a physician for advice.
What is the minimum and maximum age requirement to go to Kapawi?
It is not recommended to come with children under seven years old, but there is no upper age limit. The oldest person who visited Kapawi was 85 years old and thoroughly enjoyed her stay.
Can I go to Kapawi if I am disabled?
Yes, it is possible. Nevertheless, it is necessary to confirm your reservation and necessities 30 days in advance so the Lodge can arrange suitable logistics for you.
Do the Achuar still wear their traditional clothes?
Actually they wear western-style clothing due to the influence of the missionaries. The Achuar still use many of their traditional accessories like necklaces, headbands and bracelets, and paint their faces for special occasions. They still live in traditional houses and use blowguns for hunting.
If I cannot travel one of the scheduled days, could I get to Kapawi on my own?
Yes you could, but special arrangements for charter flights will need to be made and there will likely be additional costs associated with the charter flights
How many visitors per guide normally form a group?
Our policy is to have a maximum of 10 visitors per group.
Can I go fishing in Kapawi?
Yes, there are many opportunities for fishing. Just remember that the Achuar do not accept "catch and release" practices. This means that if you catch it you eat it, or you give it to your guide and it will be used as a meal for the staff.
What is the best time of the year to go to Kapawi?
Any time has unique characteristics. It always rains in the tropical rainforest: However, the rainiest months are from February to May. During this period, wildlife sightings are increased and this is why we recommend longer programs.
Do you have guides for different languages and birdwatchers?
Yes we do. Please make your request for special guiding and language services at the time you make your reservation, but at least one month prior to your arrival at the lodge. There will be an additional charge for this service which you can discuss with our reservation agents.
Passport valid for at least six months required by all nationals referred to in the chart.Passport NotePassports must be carried at all times. Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart ab. more
Geographically the tropics are located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn- the limits of the sun reaching the zenith. In the Amazon, the climate is always hot and humid, with the temperature averaging 27.9˚C during the dry season and 25.8˚C in the rainy season. In the Ecuadorian Amazon basin, precipitation is 3000 mm or more. About half of the precipitation is brought to the basin by eastern trade winds, while the other half is the result of evapotranspiration from the vast forest that covers the basin.
The driest months are November, December and January, and the highest precipitation, February, March, April and May.
There is a time in the year when the temperature drops down to 17˚C / 62 ˚F in the rainforest about a week, it is known as "cold spell" when the influence of the winds from the Antartica cools down the Amazon basin.
Rainforest life
One of the most distinctive features of tropical rainforests is their biological richness, particularly with regards to numbers of species. The diversity of plant species here is the highest on earth with some experts estimating that one square kilometer may contain over 75,000 types of trees and 150,000 species of plants, constituting the largest collection of living plants and animal species in the world. One in five of all the birds in the world live in Amazon rainforests.
A typical four-square-mile patch of tropical rainforest contains up to 1,500 species of flowering plants, 750 tree species, 125 mammal species, 400 bird species, 100 reptile species, 60 amphibian species, and 150 butterfly species.
Rainforest Birds
During the past seven years, 570 species have been recorded in the Kapawi area. This number includes the seasonal migrants from Patagonia or North America. Though everyone wants to see toucans, macaws and parrots, these and many others birds cannot be seen until they fly out across a river or other forest gap or gather in the mornings at our NATURAL parrot saltlick. However, many hawks, kingfishers, orioles, flycatchers and anis can be easily spotted or you can walk in the forest to look for shy and inconspicuous ant birds, tinamous, manakins, and puffbirds. And once in a while even a harpy eagle or fiery topaz hummingbird may present itself as a rare surprise!
Rainforest Mammals
As you walk through the rainforest, you may be overwhelmed by the silence that belies the existence of around 200 species of mammals. Understanding that most rainforest mammals are hard to find because they are mostly shy, nocturnal and well camouflaged. If you are searching for these animals, some patience, luck and a good guide will allow you to see them.
Rainforest Amphibians
Some people find amphibians sluggish and slimy while others find them active, beautiful and harmless. However you feel about them personally, frogs and salamanders provide a fascinating glimpse into our evolutionary past; amphibians were the very first vertebrates to live on land and still need water to reproduce. To adapt to life on land with this limitation, they filled a myriad of ecological niches such as streamsides, lagoons, temporary ponds and even the wet forest floor or the water-filled leaves of both arboreal and terrestrial bromeliads. Today, amphibians are diverse and abundant terrestrial vertebrates and are at peak biodiversity in the lowland tropical rainforest.
Rainforest Reptiles
Reptiles are relatively abundant but tough to see as they often hold perfectly still when aware of our presence, or silently retreat into the leafy forest floor in order to avoid a confrontation. They have relatively dry scaly skin and waterproof eggs that enable them to utilize many different habitats, and can take in all the water they need from their food. Their slow metabolism allows them to reduce water and food requirements. Distribution and activity is limited because they are 'cold-blooded'; when they need to warm up, they bask in the sun and to cool down they seek shade (useful clues on when and where to look for them!). Around Kapawi you will find land reptiles like snakes, lizards and tortoises as well as aquatic reptiles like caimans (a small cousin of the alligator) and river turtles.
Rainforest Insects and other Invertebrates
most people dislike creepy-crawlies; many find insects and spiders repulsive, scary, or simply uninteresting. Your visit to the rainforest will change your point of view! You can appreciate the exquisite color and form of butterflies and moths along with the beauty of invertebrates (creatures without a backbone) and the interrelationship between insects and other rainforest organisms, especially plants. Recent studies of rainforest canopies indicate that there could be as many as 30 million insect species. More than half of every living thing that exists on the planet is an insect (compare to mammals, at a mere 4%). Insects recycle nutrients, maintain soil structure and fertility, pollinate plants, disperse seeds, control populations of other organisms and are a major food source for birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, other insects...even carnivorous plants. However, we know more about rocks on the moon than about forest insects. Even though we may sometimes wish that there were no mosquitoes and the like, we have to understand that without them and other insect's life on earth would quickly collapse to simple plants and microbes and the rainforest would not exist.
Rainforest Plants
A tropical rain forest is characterized by the lack of grasses and sedges between the trees. The forest floor is covered with shrub-like, herbaceous plants and vines because of the lack of light. Leaves of tropical plants are characteristically oval and they often possess sharply pointed ends, called drip tips, which help to facilitate rainwater runoff.
Red, orange and yellow flowers are associated with bird-pollinated plants (particularly by hummingbirds), while blue and lavender flowers are commonly bee-pollinated. Some trees produce fragrant white flowers that attract bats or moths at night. Bees, beetles, flies and butterflies mostly pollinate small white and yellow flowers. Of course, while various insects are more attracted to particular colors and odors, any insect could visit any flower if have nectar.
Since we use small aircraft to fly to Kapawi the amount of weight that can be transported is limited. It is important that you limit your luggage to a basic minimum. Luggage should not exceed 25 pounds (11.3 kg) per person. We strongly suggest traveling with backpacks instead of suitcases!
In case of extra weight it will be charge you $1.40 for each extra pound.
PLEASE TAKE A PHOTOCOPY OF YOUR PASSPORT, AS IT WILL BE REQUIRED AT THE AIRPORT. YOUR ORIGINAL PASSPORT WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED.
Luggage
* 1 large backpack or 1 duffle bag
* 1 small day pack.
* Note: No hard suitcases please, as they are difficult to load on the small airplanes.
Clothing
* 3 pairs of lightweight (cotton or other fast drying material) long pants; quick drying material preferred. Avoid jeans.
* 4 or 5 long-sleeved cotton shirt. 2 or 3 short sleeved t-shirts.
* 1 pair of knee-high cotton socks for each day in the rainforest.
* Underwear (avoid synthetics).
* Shorts.
* 1 light windbreaker.
* 1 light sweater of jacket.
* 1 water-proof poncho (available in the lodge) or a water-proof parka.
* 1 brimmed hat (suitable for both sun and rain).
* Bathing suit.
* Sunglasses with a strap.
Footwear
* 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes.
* 1 pair of sandals; Teva or other rugged brand preferred.
* 1 pair of rubber boots (available in the lodge)
Equipment
* Plastic water bottle.
* Flashlight (headlamps models are better).
* Alkaline batteries.
* Self sealing plastic bags.
* Dry bags (available in the lodge).
* Swiss Army knife.
* Reading material (available in the lodge).
* Small note-book and pencil.
* Personal sewing kit.
* Snacks: chocolates, candies, etc.
* Lightweight binoculars are extremely useful.
Medicine:
• Extra eye glasses/contact lenses.
• Sunblock lotion (SPF 45 or higher is recommended. Note; pressurized cans may not be permitted on the plane).
• Insect repellent.
• Toilet kit.
• Personal first aid kit.
• Tampons or sanitary napkins.
Cameras and Binoculars:
• Camera gear. High speed films or fine-grain, high resolution and relatively slow color transparency (this last one to be used with electronic flash.
• Binoculars. This is an essential item, even if you are not a birdwatcher. The best ones are the waterproof models with high light transmission. An excellent size: 10 X 40.
• Films.
The lodge will provide rain ponchos and the lodge will provide rubber boots for hiking in the jungle. However, if your foot size is either very small (less than a women's size 5 US or European size 34) or very large (greater than a men's size 12 US or European size 47) please be sure to note this on your Passenger Information Form so we can plan accordingly. It is very difficult to find large men's sizes in Ecuador and so if that is your requirement you may need to bring your own rubber boots with you to Ecuador. We will let you know.
SOME SUGGESTIONS:
Remember that we are guests of a very different culture. Some of their traditions may appear quite odd to us, but it does not mean that we are in a position to criticize them. Please, follow the rules imposed by the Achuar communities and respectfully try to learn about this extraordinary culture.
Be careful with photographs or video recordings. Ask your Achuar guide first if it is possible to take photographs or to make video recordings in Achuar communities. Avoid close up shots, and never remunerate people with money for a photograph.
The Achuar are very pleased when you buy their handicrafts. They have a fixed price which is similar in each community. You can also exchange some of your personal items (flashlights, batteries, etc.) for handicrafts if the Achuar are interested in doing so.
THE ACHUAR and KAPAWI VISITORS BEHAVIOR REQUEST
In Order to reduce social impact and the reserve where Kapawi is located, we encourage our passengers to respect the following requests made by the Achuar natives:
• No photography is permitted in any of the communities. Neither of Achuar people nor of their houses.
• Achuars are very pleased when you buy their handicrafts. They have a fixed price which is similar in each community.
• Please do not buy handicrafts made of feathers, animal skins or insects.
• Avoid any physical contact with members of the communities.
• Please do not give money, presents, or sweets to the local kids. If you have educational material (pens, note books, colored pencils, etc.) that you would like to donate, please hand them to the resident manager.
• Please do not enter to an Achuar house without an invitation.
• Achuars are very jealous. If you are a man, you should never look directly at a woman’s face.
• Remember that Achuar house has a sexual division. Please, do not go to the ekent or female area.
• Nijiamanch, the manioc beer, is always offered. If you do not like it, you should at least pretend to drink it. Refusing could be considered as an insult.
• Do not go out alone. The chances of getting lost are very high. The only exception is the self guided trail.
• It is highly recommended to wear rubber boots during the hikes.
• Keep at least one set of dry clothes in the lodge.
• Fishing is allowed.
• Please, do not take any animals or plants out of the area.
• Do not leave any trash in the forest.
• Please do not use audio gears without personal earphones.
• The harvesting of species animals and vegetables is prohibited in the area of Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve, this is part of the territory of the Achuar Nationality who jealously defend the intellectual property on the resources of their forest.
• It is prohibited to feed the wild animals.
• It is prohibited the introduction of foreign animals or foreign plant species to the humid tropical forest, for the protection of the native species.
• Under no circumstance it is not allowed the consumption, sale or traffic of products or species in danger of extraction or proceeding of not sustainable practices.
SUGGESTED READING LIST
* Amazon Beaming, by Peter Popescu from Viking Press. This book is difficult to find but often available from your library or through www.abebooks.com. It is a great introduction to the mysteries of the Amazonian rainforest and cultures.
* Neotropical Rainforest Mammals. Emmons, Louise H., The University of Chicago Press, 1990.
* Savages, by Joe Kane, from Alfred A. Knopf. Excellent account of the struggles between indigenous peoples and oil development in Ecuador.
* Shamanism: Archaic Techniques of Ecstasy. Eliade, Mircea. Penguin Books, 1989.
* The Jivaro. People of the Sacred Waterfalls. Harner, Michael, J. University of California Press Ltd. 1984
* The Spears of Twilight, Life and Death in the Amazon Jungle, Descola, Philippe. The New Press, 1996. Currently the best book about the Achuar.
* The World Is As You Dream It, by John Perkins, from Destiny Books
* Tropical Nature. Forsyth, Adrian; Miyata, Ken. Macmillan, 1984. A good introductory book for the layman.
* Birds of Colombia. Hilty, Steven L; Brown William. Princenton University Press. 1986. The best available field guide.
* Birds of Ecuador. Greenfield, Paul, et al., CECIA, 1990. An excellent checklist for birders.
TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
* Please make sure your vaccinations are current and that you take appropriate prophylaxis medications.
* The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) of Ecuador requires that every traveler entering Kapawi Ecolodge and any of the eastern Amazonian provinces of Ecuador be able to show proof of vaccination against yellow fever.
* You can insure that your clothing does not get wet on the trip to Kapawi by packing all of your things inside plastic bags (generally garbage bags work best) and then placing everything inside your luggage. Your luggage will always be well cared for on the trip in but this provides extra insurance in case of a rainstorm while in the canoe on the final leg of the journey to the lodge.
* It is possible to minimize the amount of clothing that you will need to bring with you to the lodge by having a "night-time" a set of dry clothes at the lodge, which you change into in the evening after returning from each day's activities. And having a "day-time" set of clothes that you re-use each day when you go out on the various daily activities.
* Do not bring audio gear unless you also have personal earphones to keep the sound private and to yourself.
* Please do not bring presents, sweets or other gifts for the Achuar children or other community members. Educational materials (pens, note books, colored pencils, etc.) or sports equipment, however, can be appropriate to donate to the communities. The resident manager at the lodge can arrange for such donations to be distributed properly
* The Achuar are very pleased when you buy their handicrafts in the communities. To do this, we recommend you bring some amount of money with you to the lodge in small bills as the people in the communities will not be able to make change for your purchases.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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The founding vision of Kapawi Ecolodge and Reserve is to create - in one of the most remote environments in the world - a haven of ease, good taste, and understated luxury. To this end, skilled Achuar craftsmen came together to build a series of comfortable cabins in the vernacular style of the rain forest, using local materials but upgraded in design and furnishings to appeal to the tastes and requirements of today's traveler.
A raised boardwalk connects all of the guests cabins and the several large communal buildings at Kapawi, all of which rest on stilts around the edge of an ephemeral lagoon crowded with plant and bird life. There are 19 double rooms, each with private baths. Some of the rooms can also be converted to triples and some of the rooms share a balcony looking on to the lagoon and are ideal as family accommodations.
Each of the thatched roof guest cabins is an expression of authentic, traditional Achuar design concepts, meaning that they are attractive, spacious, sustainable, well-ventilated, and creature-proof. Each cabin has a spacious screened-in sleeping area and private bath with solar heated hot water available on most afternoons. Cabins are fully screened - windows, floors, roofs - and each bed has its own mosquito net. Every room is equipped with a security box. On your balcony you can relax in a hammock or deck chair and observe the daily visitors: ducks, hummingbirds, egrets, and kingfishers. You can listen to the night music of the multitude of frogs and other nocturnal creatures.
Meals
A variety of international and traditional cuisine is offered to our guests.
Breakfast: Starting at 5:00 a.m., a light breakfast is provided to birdwatchers (available upon request) . A full breakfast is available from 6:30 a.m.
Lunch: Is provided in the dining room about 1:00 p.m. Boxed lunches are provided to visitors taking full day trips.
Dinner: Is served about 7:30 p.m.
Night
No artificial illumination exists along the boardwalks since it could modify the behaviour of nocturnal animals. You should carry a flashlight or headlamp with you at all times.
Bar
A very well supplied bar is opened until 10:00 p.m.
Swimming
Swimming can be safely done in the lakes and rivers around the lodge. Nevertheless, as the water level goes down in the dry season, this activity is not always available.
Energy
The lodge is powered by solar energy. Sixty four solar panels of 75 watts each cover 60% of all the lodge's energy needs. Every room has 3 lamps: 1 in the bathroom and 2 in the bedroom.
Water
The tap water is filtered through charcoal filters and purified with ozone. Bottled drinking water is available in your room. Solar showers provide 5 gallons of hot water each day, remember this system works only with the sun light, if you observe a cloudy day, we will not be able to provide you hot water. For your convenience we recommend that you take showers at the end of the day.
Boutique
A small boutique that stocks essential items you may have forgotten (film, toothbrushes, toothpaste, sunscreen, insect repellent, hats etc.), as well as handicrafts and souvenirs.
Trash
Trash is sorted into four classes: biodegradable, paper, non-biodegradable (metal, plastics, glass, etc.) and batteries in the central area of the lodge.
Satellite Communication
We have an available satellite phone that can be used 24 hours a day. This service is available for all lodge guests for international calls. The cost is approx. $2.30 + $12% IVA per minute.
Rain
An umbrella is provided in each room that you can use to o to different areas of the lodge when it is raining.
Library
Our library is open all day long. Paperbacks, magazines and books are available.
Soap
All soaps used in the lodge are biodegradable. Please do not use non-biodegradable soaps.
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What may I expect to see in Kapawi?
Many, many birds (more than 570 species in the area).
Many species of insects, including brightly colored butterflies; many of them still have not been identified by scientists.
Thousands of plant-species, many of them used for medicinal purposes by the Achuar.
Mammals such as fresh water dolphins, giant river otters, monkeys, bats and several kinds of rodents (including capybaras) that you may see depending on the time of year. Since they are mainly nocturnal, mammals like jaguars, ocelots, jaguarundis and other cats, although they are present in the area surrounding Kapawi, are difficult to spot.
How safe is the Lodge and its programs?
Kapawi (and the tropical rainforest) is as safe as a temperate forest or walking in a big city. Very few animals are dangerous. They are generally shy and prefer to avoid humans which is also why it is so hard sometimes to see them in the forest.
Kapawi has Achuar and naturalist guides who are well versed in the environment. They have first aid training and carry first aid kits for emergency purposes. Life jackets, well-maintained paths and motorized canoes guarantee security for our visitors. An evacuation protocol is available upon request.
Is there any possibility of getting malaria or any other disease due to mosquito bites?
As in most tropical countries, there is a risk of getting malaria. However, mosquitoes are uncommon in the lodge and the use of the mosquito nets on each bed reduces the risk. In the lagoon surrounding the lodge a particular plant grows which produces a chemical called Pyrethrum, which is found in many mosquito repellents. This natural chemical inhibits the growth of mosquito larvae so you will find few, if any, mosquitos in the lodge itself.
The use of repellent is encouraged, when hiking or visiting the communities. While the risk is low here, anti-malaria medication is essential and we recommend that you visit a physician for advice.
What is the minimum and maximum age requirement to go to Kapawi?
It is not recommended to come with children under seven years old, but there is no upper age limit. The oldest person who visited Kapawi was 85 years old and thoroughly enjoyed her stay.
Can I go to Kapawi if I am disabled?
Yes, it is possible. Nevertheless, it is necessary to confirm your reservation and necessities 30 days in advance so the Lodge can arrange suitable logistics for you.
Do the Achuar still wear their traditional clothes?
Actually they wear western-style clothing due to the influence of the missionaries. The Achuar still use many of their traditional accessories like necklaces, headbands and bracelets, and paint their faces for special occasions. They still live in traditional houses and use blowguns for hunting.
If I cannot travel one of the scheduled days, could I get to Kapawi on my own?
Yes you could, but special arrangements for charter flights will need to be made and there will likely be additional costs associated with the charter flights
How many visitors per guide normally form a group?
Our policy is to have a maximum of 10 visitors per group.
Can I go fishing in Kapawi?
Yes, there are many opportunities for fishing. Just remember that the Achuar do not accept "catch and release" practices. This means that if you catch it you eat it, or you give it to your guide and it will be used as a meal for the staff.
What is the best time of the year to go to Kapawi?
Any time has unique characteristics. It always rains in the tropical rainforest: However, the rainiest months are from February to May. During this period, wildlife sightings are increased and this is why we recommend longer programs.
Do you have guides for different languages and birdwatchers?
Yes we do. Please make your request for special guiding and language services at the time you make your reservation, but at least one month prior to your arrival at the lodge. There will be an additional charge for this service which you can discuss with our reservation agents.
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months required by all nationals referred to in the chart.
Passport Note
Passports must be carried at all times.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
Note: (a) A measles vaccination certificate is required by all nationals travelling from Germany and Italy and must be shown on arrival. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
Extensions of a further 90 days are available through the local immigration authorities.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
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Kapawi Amazon Jungle Lodge
Tour Code:
ZZ-ECU-Am06
5 days /
4 nights
~$839.00
Dates: Available all Year
Level :
Difficulty Levels Explained
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1. |
Easy
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Easy pace and an average-to-sedentary level of fitness. You should be in good health and fit enough for full day of normal sightseeing and walking.
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2. |
Easy to Moderate
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An average level of fitness or some experience with the featured
activity is recommended.
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3. |
Moderate
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Requires you to have performed the featured activity regularly, with
some periods on challenging terrain. Activities are mandatory and
you may be traveling at high elevations. You need to be in good health and physical condition to enjoy these trips, with adequate muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance.
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4. |
Demanding
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You must be extremely physically fit and are expected to hike or
ride four to six hours over steep or more rugged terrain. |
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5. |
Strenuous
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Prolonged hiking/biking on moderate to difficult terrain (five to nine hours a day).
May include high altitude, rugged terrain etc.. |
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Airport:
Quito
Activities:
Amazon, canoeing, birding, swimming
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF 
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