The Ecuadorian jungle covers one-third of the country, a vast stretch of land where one in ten of the world’s species live. Pink river dolphins surface in lagoons in front of canoes, macaws fly overhead, sloths hang from tree branches, and traveling packs of monkeys are often spotted on excursions that take you deep into the forest. A journey to this amazing place is a once in a life opportunity, so you can plan a perfect trip for your budget to the Amazon rainforest, considering the following article.
Finding an adventure in the jungle that makes the perfect trip for your budget to the Amazon can be difficult. Happy Gringo has a wide selection of rainforest tours, with literally something for everyone.
There are a variety of lodges for backpackers, those who want first class creature comforts, and people who are looking for grassroots experiences. Itineraries typically include visits to local communities, time spent high in the canopy on observation towers, and night trips in search of caiman alligators along the banks of lagoons and tributaries.
Other luxury journeys on jungle cruises find you traveling down stretches of river where Francisco de Orellana found friendly tribes on his long journey to the Atlantic Ocean. Keep reading for a few of your options for exploring the jungle during your time in Ecuador.
To make your life easier, here we share some of our favorite tour options:
Experiences at Caiman lodge give you an eye-opening perspective into the riches of the jungle. Mother Nature brings out a curious cast of characters that appear around every bend in the river. Traveling with a local guide, you get a new appreciation for a place where time moves in tandem with the amazing diversity of the world around you.
Days are spent on big adventures, nights include excursions to find alligators, and relaxing in the friendly confines of the lodge at the end of the day brings out visions of adventures that spark the imagination.
Above all Caiman Lodge delivers an affordable jungle adventure for those traveling on a budget, without skimping on the service or the experience.
Our past clients have sent glowing reviews of the Napo Cultural Center lodge, which includes a stronger cultural focus than other lodges. You will be introduced to local sustainable projects in the community, be taught about Kichwa culture, share local legends and chants, and have the opportunity to take part in a morning Wayusa ceremony. Of course, you will also see amazing wildlife during nature forest treks in the Yasuní National Park.
Deeper pockets give you access to lodges like the highly acclaimed Napo Wildlife Center, a comfortable eco-lodge located within the protected Yasuní National Park. You will certainly be among good company, as both National Geographic and the BBC count as prestigious past visitors. Besides the unforgettable wildlife & cultural experience, perhaps the best memory is knowing that all proceeds of your visit are going to the local Anangu Quichua community to fund local projects.
Another luxury alternative is journeying down the Napo River on an Anakonda cruise trip, taking you along a route that visits the Yasuni National Park, and finds you kayaking into the deep forest through tranquil lagoons.
The Anakonda cruise ship’s features include gourmet food, floor to ceiling windows in plush suites, an al fresco dining area, a jacuzzi, and an onboard concierge. Expert naturalist guides, visits to tribal communities, and epic days of exploring are par for the course. An observation deck is an ideal place to relax and unwind during travel times, and no expense is spared when it comes to pairing adventure and comfort.
For more information about visiting the Ecuadorian rainforest, and help to find the right jungle tour for your budget, contact us by clicking here or use this form to tell us about your dreams for visiting the Amazon Rainforest.