*Example by 4 travelers in 4★ accommodation, low season. Flights priced separately. Get a quote for 1 to 99+ below
The Napo Wildlife Center in the Yasuni National Park, in Ecuador’s Amazon basin, offers an authentic wildlife and nature experience, perfect for couples on a romantic honeymoon or families looking for some adventure. You can paddle down tranquil lakes and rivers, hike through terra firma forests, learn about the flora and fauna of the Ecuadorian Amazon, and go birdwatching and wildlife spotting. You may spot kingfishers, herons, monkeys, giant river otters, Saki monkeys, toucans, parrots, parakeets, and macaws. There is a parrot clay lick near the lodge, where you can spot parrots feeding on the riverbank – a whole flock of brightly-colored parrots within just a few meters! You’ll also have the opportunity to visit a local jungle community.
Departing from Quito, a 30 minute flight to Coca will bring you over the eastern Andes mountain range. After landing, a comfortable covered motor-boat will complete the journey to the Napo Wildlife Center. Riding along the exotic Napo River for about 2 hours, you will have opportunities to spot the wildlife around, like herons, kingfishers, and others. Additionally, a box lunch and coffee is provided en route.
After arriving at Napo Wildlife Center you will embark on a majestic and peaceful 2 hour paddle canoe ride surrounded by trees and wildlife, paddling along a narrow creek that connects to the lake where the lodge is located. There will be chances to see some species of monkeys as well as large birds like toucans, parrots, or even macaws. A late afternoon arrival to Napo Wildlife Center will be accompanied by a welcome drink followed by a briefing from the local manager.
Wake up for an early breakfast and an early start to reach the most accessible parrot clay licks in Ecuador. A total of 11 species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws can be seen on a daily basis. Many other animals also visit.
Later, hike along a forest trail to visit the Kichwa Community of Añangu and share time with a family on one of their many activities. Enjoy lunch at Napo Cultural Center, where you share with people of the Kichwa community. Then you will continue on a short hike to next parrot clay lick, before returning to the lodge for an evening dinner.
After breakfast, you will visit a 36 meter tall canopy tower with unbeatable views over the jungle. See the hustle and bustle of the wildlife above ground-level. As you ascend the tower, you pass through different levels of the forest and emerge at the top of a huge Ceiba tree.
Birds that are virtually impossible to see from the forest floor far below are suddenly right beside you, usually oblivious to your presence.
Lunch is served at the lodge. Then enjoy more guided hikes through the forest to spot lizards, colorful manakins, or the unique and endemic Golden-mantled tamarin monkey. After the hike, explore the lake and creeks in a canoe and meet a local Giant otter family.
Your last day will include a 2 hour excursion canoeing back to the Napo River, where you can spot giant otters, monk saki monkeys, and rare birds along the way. You will then transfer to the motorized boat en route to return to Quito.
Our favorite Ecuador tour ideas featuring the best destinations & activities designed to inspire…
Get your FREE Ecuador Guide Now!
