Logo Inspiring Ecuador

La Selva Lodge 4 Days

3
nights
FROM $1,420
3
nights
FROM $1,420

Trip Type

Activity Level

Signal
Moderate

Expedition Overview

Located within Ecuador’s Yasuní Biosphere Reserve and on the borders of the famous Yasuní National Park — one of the most biodiverse areas of the planet — La Selva Amazon Ecolodge and Spa was among the first Amazon rainforest lodges in Ecuador and today is still regarded as the premier eco lodge in the area.

Itinerary

Domestic flight Quito – El Coca / Intro to The Rainforest

Arriving at the Quito International Airport you will be met by one of our La Selva representatives in the National Departure area. Here they will assist you with the check-in process and give you a short briefing about the journey.
After a 30-minute commercial flight to Puerto Francisco de Orellana “El Coca”, our representative will transfer you by private transportation to the city’s main dock at the

Napo River.
The next two hours will be on a motorized canoe heading down river on what will be the beginning of an unforgettable experience in the tropical rainforest, the Amazon.
At the end of the motorized canoe ride, you will be dropped off at La Selva’s main dock and your first close encounter with the rainforest begins and the final leg of the trip to the lodge will be completed in a paddle canoe. The only thing you must take care of during this part of the trip is your carry-on and camera equipment, all other luggage will be transported by

La Selva staff.
The manager will be waiting to greet you with a refreshing juice, snacks and a short briefing with general information about your stay at La Selva Lodge.

4:30 pm – Intro to The Rainforest
One of the Naturalist Guides will give you basic info about the tropical rainforest, the Amazon, and how La Selva operates. The idea is to begin your activities with background knowledge of the amazing place you have just arrived to.

5:00 pm – Matapalo Trail
This trail was given the Spanish name of the famous Strangler fig (Ficus sp), one of many remarkable trees that you can find on this short walk. Mahogany trees over 400 years old can be seen and your guides will share their knowledge of the flora and fauna. Due to the time of day there is great natural light and the diurnal and nocturnal animals are beginning their daily transitional activities.

7:00 pm – Snacks & Drinks
At the bar you can find snacks and order cocktails from the bartender. Or, feel free to help yourself to limitless tea and coffee.

7:30 – Dinner
Dinner will be served at this time. Find your seat and get comfortable while our waiters serve you each course.

Food & Accommodation

Amazon Ecolodge – Twin or Double
Lunch.    Dinner

Observation Tower & Tucaneta Trail

6:00 am – Wake Up Call

6:30 am – Breakfast

7:00 am – Observation Tower & Tucaneta Trail / Charapa Trail
After a 20 minute walk the observation tower comes into sight. This amazing construction will allow you to climb 120 ft above the forest. Your Naturalist and Native guides will help you spot the colorful birds of the Amazon, maybe even certain primates.
On the way back from the tower there is the option of taking the Tucaneta Trail where your Native Guide can show you some of the medicinal plants still in use today and your Naturalist Guide will provide you with interesting info on the ecology and natural history of the Amazon.

1:00 PM – Lunch

4:30 pm – Charapa Trail
This trail goes on for about an hour beginning at the lodge and ending by the edge of the lagoon. It is a great loop where different mammals, monkeys and birds can be seen that come closer to the lagoon at this time looking for food. It is also perfect for witnessing an Amazonian sunset from the water in the canoe.

6:40 pm – Night Canoe Ride
With the help of a spot light your guides will take you around the lagoon via canoe looking for nighttime wildlife. This is also a great opportunity for stargazing!

7:30 pm – Dinner

Food & Accommodation

Amazon Ecolodge – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

Parrot Clay Lick and Mandi Wasi / Coto Trail

6:00 am – Wake Up Call

6:30 am – Breakfast

7:00 am – Parrot Clay Lick and Mandi Wasi
Today you will make your way back to the Napo River and take a motorized canoe ride to the clay licks, one of the most fascinating displays of the wild world. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets gather here to eat the mineral rich soil, an important part of their diet. Binoculars are essential to really capture the moment. After the clay licks we will take you to experience our Cultural Activity. An Amazonian Kichwa woman will welcome you at their community center to share their life with the Kichua’s in the Amazon. This is special because it is part of the Amazon you do not find on the maps and provides the special and unique opportunity to really get to learn more about the people of the Amazon.

1:00 pm – Lunch

4:30 pm – Coto Trail
This is a fantastic walk that takes off from the lodge to the edge of the Garzacocha Lagoon. In the afternoon the light from the sun will come from behind most of the time, making this walk an amazing experience and the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this amazing forest. Groups of black-mantled tamarin monkeys can be spotted on this walk and some of our groups have even seen tapirs too.

Your Naturalist Guide is going to explain about all the different creatures that can be found and our Native Guide is going to explain about all the different creatures that can be found and our Native Guide will show you some of the medical plants that they have been using for thousands of years. A canoe ride back to the lodge makes a great ending for this activity.

7:30 pm – Dinner

Food & Accommodation

Amazon Ecolodge – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

Return to Quito

6:00 am – Wake Up Call

6:30 am – Breakfast

7:00 am – Departure for Coca
In accordance with your briefing the night before, you will have an early wake up call, breakfast and departure from the lodge. The lodge staff will assist you with your checked luggage and the motorized canoe ride will head upstream back to Coca, where our representatives will take you to the airport to help you with your checked luggage and boarding passes.

During your free time in-between activities, you can use our kayaks, swim in the lagoon, have a massage or just relax in your room and have a nap!
Sample itinerary subject to change according to weather conditions or guide decisions. On the last day of your visit at La Selva, there will be no scheduled activities as you will be leaving in the morning to catch your flight in Coca returning to Quito.

Food & Accommodation

Departure Day
Breakfast.

What to Expect

Accommodation: Amazon Ecolodge
Location: ecuador - lower Amazon
Season: year-round
Meeting Point: El Coca airport
Activity: Hiking, Wildlife
Activity List
1
.- Cultural encounters with local tribes
2
.- Amazon hiking in pristine rainforest
3
.- Night walk to see wildlife
Additional options
What is the food like?

Settle back at our panoramic restaurant, with its stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest, for a gastronomic experience to remember: international cuisine coupled with the finest Ecuadorian ingredients and influences. Our team of chefs is happy to accommodate any of your needs, while surprising you at every turn with their creativity.

What is the accommodation like?

Amazon Ecolodge

La Selva Amazon Ecolodge has 19 spacious suites, including three Scenic Suites with views of Lake Garzacocha and four roomy Family Suites.

The Scenic and Superior Suites include exclusive rainforest showers, private balconies, and panoramic views, while the Family Suites include extra-spacious bathrooms, hammocks and a hot tub on a private porch.

The design of the rooms at La Selva is inspired by the architecture of the native people’s homes. The airy, shady layout keeps things cool even in the hottest hours of the day.

Pre-Post Trip Accommodation

Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night

Transfers

Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person

General Specifications

STARTS
El Coca airport

10:00 midday on day 1

ENDS
El Coca airport

12:00 noon on day 4

TRANSFERS

Your adventure begins on Day 1 when your host will meet you at El Coca airport in El Coca city. On the final day your trip will end at El Coca airport. Quito city is around 7 hours from El Coca city (Amazon) and 45 minutes by flight.

To make your own way from Quito airport to and from the accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.

What´s Included

✅ WHAT'S INCLUDED
Transportation

Private and comfortable land transportation & motorized canoe El Coca – La Selva Lodge – El Coca

Accommodations

Based on double occupancy: 4+* Amazon Ecolodge

Activities

Bird watching and hiking exploration in the jungle, share time with local indigenous people in the Amazon, night walks to see wildlife.

Meals

3 breakfast, 3 lunch, 3 dinner.

Gear

Life jackets and rubber boots

Guides

English speaking naturalist guide

Rubber boots, rain ponchos, life jackets.

🚫 WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Accommodation

Single Supplement

Flights

International & National flights

Airport transfers

National & international flights

Transportation

Public or private bus to/ from Quito – El Coca city

Insurance

Travel & health insurance (mandatory)

Meals

Not described in the itinerary

Tips

For guides and drivers

What to bring?

What do I need to bring
Passport
Travel insurance
Airline tickets
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Fleece top
Shirts/t-shirts
Pair of short
Pairs of long trousers
Pair hiking pants/track pants
Sport sandals
Watch or alarm clock
Quick dry clothing
Rain coat
Waterproof binoculars
Bug spray
Sun cream
Flashlight
Sun Hat
Waterproof camera if possible
Swimming suit
Waterproof backpack
Water bottle
Tennis shoes
Hiking shoes
Money belt
Sunglasses
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, antihistamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking.

FAQS

What is the minimum age for this trip?

8 years old as a minimum age.

What is the currency?

US American Dollars

What Travel Insurance do you recommend?

World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000

What vaccinations do I need?

For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.

What’s the weather like?

Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.

Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).

What Do I Do about drinking water?

The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.

How much should I tip?

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:

Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day

Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service

Expedition Overview

Located within Ecuador’s Yasuní Biosphere Reserve and on the borders of the famous Yasuní National Park — one of the most biodiverse areas of the planet — La Selva Amazon Ecolodge and Spa was among the first Amazon rainforest lodges in Ecuador and today is still regarded as the premier eco lodge in the area.

Itinerary
Domestic flight Quito – El Coca / Intro to The Rainforest

Arriving at the Quito International Airport you will be met by one of our La Selva representatives in the National Departure area. Here they will assist you with the check-in process and give you a short briefing about the journey.
After a 30-minute commercial flight to Puerto Francisco de Orellana “El Coca”, our representative will transfer you by private transportation to the city’s main dock at the

Napo River.
The next two hours will be on a motorized canoe heading down river on what will be the beginning of an unforgettable experience in the tropical rainforest, the Amazon.
At the end of the motorized canoe ride, you will be dropped off at La Selva’s main dock and your first close encounter with the rainforest begins and the final leg of the trip to the lodge will be completed in a paddle canoe. The only thing you must take care of during this part of the trip is your carry-on and camera equipment, all other luggage will be transported by

La Selva staff.
The manager will be waiting to greet you with a refreshing juice, snacks and a short briefing with general information about your stay at La Selva Lodge.

4:30 pm – Intro to The Rainforest
One of the Naturalist Guides will give you basic info about the tropical rainforest, the Amazon, and how La Selva operates. The idea is to begin your activities with background knowledge of the amazing place you have just arrived to.

5:00 pm – Matapalo Trail
This trail was given the Spanish name of the famous Strangler fig (Ficus sp), one of many remarkable trees that you can find on this short walk. Mahogany trees over 400 years old can be seen and your guides will share their knowledge of the flora and fauna. Due to the time of day there is great natural light and the diurnal and nocturnal animals are beginning their daily transitional activities.

7:00 pm – Snacks & Drinks
At the bar you can find snacks and order cocktails from the bartender. Or, feel free to help yourself to limitless tea and coffee.

7:30 – Dinner
Dinner will be served at this time. Find your seat and get comfortable while our waiters serve you each course.

Food & Accommodation

Amazon Ecolodge – Twin or Double
Lunch.    Dinner

Observation Tower & Tucaneta Trail

6:00 am – Wake Up Call

6:30 am – Breakfast

7:00 am – Observation Tower & Tucaneta Trail / Charapa Trail
After a 20 minute walk the observation tower comes into sight. This amazing construction will allow you to climb 120 ft above the forest. Your Naturalist and Native guides will help you spot the colorful birds of the Amazon, maybe even certain primates.
On the way back from the tower there is the option of taking the Tucaneta Trail where your Native Guide can show you some of the medicinal plants still in use today and your Naturalist Guide will provide you with interesting info on the ecology and natural history of the Amazon.

1:00 PM – Lunch

4:30 pm – Charapa Trail
This trail goes on for about an hour beginning at the lodge and ending by the edge of the lagoon. It is a great loop where different mammals, monkeys and birds can be seen that come closer to the lagoon at this time looking for food. It is also perfect for witnessing an Amazonian sunset from the water in the canoe.

6:40 pm – Night Canoe Ride
With the help of a spot light your guides will take you around the lagoon via canoe looking for nighttime wildlife. This is also a great opportunity for stargazing!

7:30 pm – Dinner

Food & Accommodation

Amazon Ecolodge – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

Parrot Clay Lick and Mandi Wasi / Coto Trail

6:00 am – Wake Up Call

6:30 am – Breakfast

7:00 am – Parrot Clay Lick and Mandi Wasi
Today you will make your way back to the Napo River and take a motorized canoe ride to the clay licks, one of the most fascinating displays of the wild world. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets gather here to eat the mineral rich soil, an important part of their diet. Binoculars are essential to really capture the moment. After the clay licks we will take you to experience our Cultural Activity. An Amazonian Kichwa woman will welcome you at their community center to share their life with the Kichua’s in the Amazon. This is special because it is part of the Amazon you do not find on the maps and provides the special and unique opportunity to really get to learn more about the people of the Amazon.

1:00 pm – Lunch

4:30 pm – Coto Trail
This is a fantastic walk that takes off from the lodge to the edge of the Garzacocha Lagoon. In the afternoon the light from the sun will come from behind most of the time, making this walk an amazing experience and the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this amazing forest. Groups of black-mantled tamarin monkeys can be spotted on this walk and some of our groups have even seen tapirs too.

Your Naturalist Guide is going to explain about all the different creatures that can be found and our Native Guide is going to explain about all the different creatures that can be found and our Native Guide will show you some of the medical plants that they have been using for thousands of years. A canoe ride back to the lodge makes a great ending for this activity.

7:30 pm – Dinner

Food & Accommodation

Amazon Ecolodge – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

Return to Quito

6:00 am – Wake Up Call

6:30 am – Breakfast

7:00 am – Departure for Coca
In accordance with your briefing the night before, you will have an early wake up call, breakfast and departure from the lodge. The lodge staff will assist you with your checked luggage and the motorized canoe ride will head upstream back to Coca, where our representatives will take you to the airport to help you with your checked luggage and boarding passes.

During your free time in-between activities, you can use our kayaks, swim in the lagoon, have a massage or just relax in your room and have a nap!
Sample itinerary subject to change according to weather conditions or guide decisions. On the last day of your visit at La Selva, there will be no scheduled activities as you will be leaving in the morning to catch your flight in Coca returning to Quito.

Food & Accommodation

Departure Day
Breakfast.

What to Expect
Accommodation: Amazon Ecolodge
Location: ecuador - lower Amazon
Season: year-round
Meeting Point: El Coca airport
Activity: Hiking, Wildlife
Activity List
1
.- Cultural encounters with local tribes
2
.- Amazon hiking in pristine rainforest
3
.- Night walk to see wildlife
Additional options
What is the food like?

Settle back at our panoramic restaurant, with its stunning views of the lake and surrounding forest, for a gastronomic experience to remember: international cuisine coupled with the finest Ecuadorian ingredients and influences. Our team of chefs is happy to accommodate any of your needs, while surprising you at every turn with their creativity.

What is the accommodation like?

Amazon Ecolodge

La Selva Amazon Ecolodge has 19 spacious suites, including three Scenic Suites with views of Lake Garzacocha and four roomy Family Suites.

The Scenic and Superior Suites include exclusive rainforest showers, private balconies, and panoramic views, while the Family Suites include extra-spacious bathrooms, hammocks and a hot tub on a private porch.

The design of the rooms at La Selva is inspired by the architecture of the native people’s homes. The airy, shady layout keeps things cool even in the hottest hours of the day.

Pre-Post Trip Accommodation

Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night

Transfers

Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person

Ships & Deck Plans
Specifications

General Specifications

STARTS
El Coca airport

10:00 midday on day 1

ENDS
El Coca airport

12:00 noon on day 4

TRANSFERS

Your adventure begins on Day 1 when your host will meet you at El Coca airport in El Coca city. On the final day your trip will end at El Coca airport. Quito city is around 7 hours from El Coca city (Amazon) and 45 minutes by flight.

To make your own way from Quito airport to and from the accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.

3
nights
FROM $1,420
What´s Included
✅ WHAT'S INCLUDED
Transportation

Private and comfortable land transportation & motorized canoe El Coca – La Selva Lodge – El Coca

Accommodations

Based on double occupancy: 4+* Amazon Ecolodge

Activities

Bird watching and hiking exploration in the jungle, share time with local indigenous people in the Amazon, night walks to see wildlife.

Meals

3 breakfast, 3 lunch, 3 dinner.

Gear

Life jackets and rubber boots

Guides

English speaking naturalist guide

Rubber boots, rain ponchos, life jackets.

🚫 WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Accommodation

Single Supplement

Flights

International & National flights

Airport transfers

National & international flights

Transportation

Public or private bus to/ from Quito – El Coca city

Insurance

Travel & health insurance (mandatory)

Meals

Not described in the itinerary

Tips

For guides and drivers

What to bring?

What do I need to bring
Passport
Travel insurance
Airline tickets
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Fleece top
Shirts/t-shirts
Pair of short
Pairs of long trousers
Pair hiking pants/track pants
Sport sandals
Watch or alarm clock
Quick dry clothing
Rain coat
Waterproof binoculars
Bug spray
Sun cream
Flashlight
Sun Hat
Waterproof camera if possible
Swimming suit
Waterproof backpack
Water bottle
Tennis shoes
Hiking shoes
Money belt
Sunglasses
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, antihistamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking.
FAQS

What is the minimum age for this trip?

8 years old as a minimum age.

What is the currency?

US American Dollars

What Travel Insurance do you recommend?

World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000

What vaccinations do I need?

For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.

What’s the weather like?

Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.

Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).

What Do I Do about drinking water?

The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.

How much should I tip?

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:

Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day

Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service