A true Amazon adventure! This kayak expedition takes you into one of the most important and biodiverse ecosystems on earth. Explore the Amazon rainforest of Ecuador located in the Yasuni National Park, which is renowned for its impressive biodiversity and thriving indigenous cultures. During this expedition, while kayaking on rivers and lagoons, you will feel as if the animals are accompanying you. Observe parrots, toucans, macaws, kingfishers, and herons soaring across the river, while giant otters approach the canoe curiously. There will be numerous monkey species jumping in the trees, and opportunities to catch a glimpse of jaguars, the most prominent feline predators of the jungle. Moreover, the Kichwa indigenous community will share their history, and learn about their profound connection with nature. Experience this adventure while promoting long-term conservation and sustainability in two of the world's most invaluable and diverse ecosystems.
Highlights
Kayak though two wildlife-filled nature reserves in the depths of the Amazon
Explore Amazon rivers and lagoons in Yasuni National Park
Enjoy kayaking with Giant Otters and Pink Dolphins
Visit Parrot Clay Lick, with hundreds of parrots from four different species
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
Today, arrive in Quito, Ecuador on the flight of your choosing. You will have the evening to rest up after your international travels and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Begin the adventure by boarding a morning flight to the town of Coca. From there, take a picturesque drive to the entrance of the Yasuni National Park at the Shiripuno River. As your guides prepare your equipment, enjoy a picnic by the riverside. The canoeing expedition involves paddling down this stunning river, surrounded by untouched nature and wildlife. During your journey, have numerous opportunities to spot river turtles, monkeys, caiman, and various bird species, including Oropendola, caciques, kingfishers, macaws, toucans, parrots, and more. Spend your first night in the deep Amazon with a local Huaorani family.
The Huaoroai tribe is undoubtedly one of the most distinct communities in the Amazon jungle, and it is said to be the final point of contact with Western civilization. This distinct group of people continues to rely on the forest for sustenance, and its traditions have been preserved to this day. Learn about local customs and traditions during your stay.
This morning, wake up with the sunrise to join the Huarorani on an early morning forest walk, carefully gathering palm leaves, essential for crafting the most versatile natural fiber. Learn about plants that are commonly utilized on a daily basis, including medicinal herbs.
After an engaging morning, have lunch with the family before continuing the kayak journey down river, venturing further into the heart of the jungle.
Each day spent exploring the Amazon offers unique and thrilling experiences. Paddling further into the untouched wilderness, the jungle becomes increasingly wild and lively. Along the way, encounter a variety of wildlife such as different monkey species, capybaras, tapirs, swallows, flycatchers, herons, sandpipers, and hawks. After an eventful day, we arrive at our campsite situated along the picturesque Shiripuno riverside. Here, the chef will prepare a delicious a dinner before we wind down from the adventurous day.
After a delicious breakfast this morning, start paddling down the Shiripuno river to reach the entrance to the Amarun – Cocha, which means Anaconda Lagoon in the native language. This lagoon is located in the most pristine forest in the area and with luck, it may be possible to spot the biggest and most beautiful snake on the planet. While there, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes with incredible dark and clear waters of this flooded forest, home to mythic piranhas, caimans, boas, and more.
In the afternoon, paddle back to the camp site and enjoy a well earned afternoon rest in the shaded hammocks, rest up before this evening's planned night exploration to view the jungle's nocturnal insects, frogs, and possibly snakes.
Day 5: Visit Animal Clay Lick (Saladero) | Jungle Hike
Start early in the morning with a stroll through the jungle to the clay lick. Visiting the Lamederos or Saladeros (Animal clay lick) is one of the best excursions for spotting wildlife. The clay licks attract a wide rang of animals such as peccaries and deer, as well as vibrant colorful birds such as parrots and macaws. These animals gather at the clay lick to nourish themselves with the mineral-rich soil, aiding in digestion and detoxification from the toxins found in their primary diet. These remarkable sites within the Amazon rainforest are unparalleled, providing an exceptional opportunity to witness a diverse array of wildlife species native to the region.
Following lunch, head out on another trek through the pristine junglet, this time with a focus on exploring the abundant flora and discovering the vital role of medicinal plants in the lives of the locals, along with their diverse applications in daily life. As you make your way back, take the opportunity to try your hand at piranha fishing.
Later, board the canoe and navigate for a couple of hours to spend your last night with a local Huaorani family.
Day 6: Canoe Up the Amazon River | Coca | Return to Quito
Begin your journey back from the remote depths of the Amazon at the crack of dawn, navigating upstream along the river in a canoe for approximately 3 hours. During this scenic voyage, seize the final opportunities to catch sight of incredible wildlife, particularly the early risers such as birds and captivating creatures dwelling along the riverbanks. Afterward, return to Coca by car and proceed with your flights back to Quito.
Overnight in Quito this evening and rest up after your big adventure.
Day 7: Return Home
1 Breakfast
Depart for home anytime today on the flight of your choice.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$1,699
Rate is based on a private group of 2. Group rates are available for set departure dates. Inquire with a Trip Planner.
Initial deposit is $400, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
6 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
6 Nights Accommodations
5 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Double-seated inflatable kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and robber boots.
English Speaking Guide
Private and comfortable land transportation in Coca,
motorized canoe, dugout canoe.
2 nights at a local Huaorani family and 2 nights at a comfortable and basic camping in Yasuni National Park.
Kayaking on Shiripuno River, Anaconda lagoon, Visiting the Yasuni National Park, Animals clay lick (Saladero), Hiking, Visiting the native Huaorani community, Piranha fishing, Wildlife spotting, Night hikes.
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Park Entrance Fee
Internal Flights: Quito - Coca - Quito
My Own Room & Tent - single supplement option
Map
When to Go
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.8 | 169 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 169 reviews on
1 day ago
Friendly and professional interactions. Answered my questions and followed up on initial contact.
Tim Elliott
2 days ago
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
3 days ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
3 days ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
4 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.