Trip Overview
Immerse yourself in an off-the-grid expedition at Yasuni National Park, an untamed realm hidden within the depths of Ecuador’s Amazon Basin. This journey is more than just a trip; it’s a deep dive into the soul of nature, a chance to reconnect with the pure, unadulterated wilderness. Away from the distractions of modern life—no cars, traffic, internet, or TV—this is where you embrace the essence of tranquility.
As you meander through Yasuni’s rivers and lagoons, it’s as if the Amazon itself is your companion. You’ll be enveloped in a vibrant symphony of wildlife, where the air resonates with the calls of exotic birds, and giant otters greet your canoe with playful curiosity. Monkeys dance through the treetops, painting a picture of life in its wildest form.
Your encounters with the Huaorani people are the heart of the rainforest. Their stories and profound bond with Mother Earth offer a glimpse into a life balanced harmoniously with nature. The wisdom and traditions of the Huaorani, intimately intertwined with the rainforest, bring to life the spirit of these lands.
Guided by expert naturalists, venture deep into the UNESCO Yasuni Biosphere Reserve & National Park. Here, in the dense rainforest, you find yourself in the midst of Earth’s most biodiverse haven, a true celebration of our planet’s wild beauty.
Staying in eco-sensitive lodges, you’re not just a traveler; you become a steward of these sacred landscapes. Your visit contributes to the conservation and sustainability of one of the world’s most precious ecosystems, ensuring that the heartbeat of Yasuni continues to thrive for generations to come. It’s where ecotourism is being practiced at its best.
Is this trip for me?
This journey is ideally suited for Nature Enthusiasts, Wildlife Photographers, Adventure Seekers, Culture and History Buffs, Eco-conscious Travelers, and Mindfulness Enthusiasts. It’s a perfect retreat for those who wish to disconnect from the fast pace of modern life and immerse themselves in the tranquillity of nature. Far from technology and the daily hustle, this off-the-grid adventure in Yasuni National Park offers a serene sanctuary for reconnecting with nature and exploring the pristine beauty of one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
Canoeing
Culture
Fishing
Hiking
Wildlife
Biodiversity by Numbers
Highlights/ Unique Experiences
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction, Quito-Coca-YasuniNational Park
Welcome to Coca, the starting point of your journey. Upon arrival, our team will greet you and guide you to the eco-lodge in Yasuni National Park. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour land journey followed by a 2.5-hour canoe ride on the Shiripuno River, offering a captivating introduction to the park’s rich biodiversity. At Shiripuno eco-lodge, relax with a delicious dinner and a traditional welcome drink, complemented by an insightful talk from our native guide. This day marks the beginning of your adventure into self-discovery amidst the wonders of nature.
Accommodation: Camping at Yasuni National Park
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner.
Day2- Immersion in Nature, Hike in the pristine Jungle to Mirador Trail (Look-Out) and tapir Trial
Morning Trek on Mirador Trail: After a revitalizing breakfast, begin your day with a serene canoe trip across the Shiripuno River. The journey leads you to the Mirador Trail, a pathway through virgin rainforest. Here, the harmonious chorus of howler monkeys and the rustling of leaves accompany you. This 3-4 hour circular hike is a profound journey, offering breathtaking views of the jungle canopy teeming with wildlife like eagles, toucans, and parrots. As you walk, our naturalist guides will unveil the countless wonders of the rainforest, emphasizing the importance of its preservation for future generations.
Lunch Amidst History: After your morning exploration, enjoy a locally prepared lunch in a setting rich with history and tradition, allowing you to absorb the cultural essence of the Amazon.
Afternoon on Tapir Trail: Post-lunch, embark on a canoe ride to the Tapir Trail. This path takes you deeper into the untouched forest, a three-hour trek where you may encounter tapirs, diverse monkey species, and other wildlife that roam the forest floor. As the daylight wanes, return to the comfort of the lodge for a delightful dinner.
Night Walk – Discovering the Unseen: Conclude your day with an enchanting night walk. This one-hour excursion delves into Yasuni’s nocturnal world, revealing amphibians, reptiles, and an array of insects and arachnids thriving in the darkness. It’s a journey into the unseen, adding a mystic dimension to your Amazon adventure.
This day is crafted to immerse you fully in the natural splendor of Yasuni, from the morning’s tranquil canoe ride to the mysterious allure of the night walk, each moment designed to deepen your connection with the natural world.
Accommodation: Camping at Yasuni National Park
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3- Deepening the Connection. Sensory experiences: Birdwatching & Anaconda Lagoon
The journey continues to the mystical Amarun-Cocha, translating to Anaconda Lagoon, a serene water body cradled in a pristine forest. Here, amidst crystal clear and dark waters of a flooded forest, experience the thrill of potentially sighting the majestic anaconda. This lagoon, rich in myths and wildlife, is a haven for piranhas, caimans, and boas. Absorb the breathtaking landscapes that surround you, a testament to Yasuni’s untouched beauty.
Afternoon Learning: Post lunch and a relaxing hammock break, delve back into the forest. This afternoon’s walk is a journey into knowledge as you learn about the diverse medicinal plants used by the Huaorani tribe. Discover ancient skills in tool-making and hunting, a testament to the tribe’s deep connection with nature. This is also an opportune moment to observe more of the jungle’s wildlife, adding to your growing connection with this vibrant ecosystem.
This day is designed to deepen your connection with nature through sensory experiences and cultural learning, aligning with Wild & Vulnerable Journeys’ vision of self-discovery and authentic engagement with the natural world.
Accommodation: Camping at Yasuni National Park
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day4- Adventurous Insights: Animal Clay Lick (Saladero)-Canoe to Piranha Fishing
Morning Expedition to the Clay Lick: The day begins with an early morning trek into the untouched forest, leading to a spectacular clay lick. Here, witness a mesmerizing assembly of wildlife – peccaries, deer, rodents, and a kaleidoscope of birds like parrots and macaws. These creatures gather at this vital spot for the minerals that neutralize toxins in their diet, offering a rare glimpse into the intricate balance of the Amazon’s ecosystem.
Afternoon Piranha Fishing Adventure: Post lunch, embark on a thrilling canoe ride for an engaging piranha fishing experience. Feel the excitement of this unique activity, a blend of serenity and anticipation as you fish in the river’s rich waters.
Nocturnal Caiman Spotting: As evening falls, the adventure transitions into a nocturnal exploration. Navigate back through the darkening waters, searching for the gleaming eyes of caimans. With four species inhabiting these waters, including the common white or spectacled caiman, this activity is not just thrilling but also an opportunity to learn about these fascinating creatures of the Amazon.
This day is designed to immerse you in the diverse and thrilling aspects of the Amazon, from observing wildlife in their natural habitats to participating in traditional Amazonian activities, aligning with the vision of Wild & Vulnerable Journeys for authentic and transformative experiences.
Accommodation: Camping at Yasuni National Park
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5-Cultural Immersion: Huaorani Family Visit and Return to Coca
Morning Encounter with the Waorani Community: Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast before setting off on an upstream canoe ride. The morning journey offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife such as capybaras, tapirs, and caimans along the river, and vibrant birds in the skies. Your destination is the Waorani Community.
Immersive Cultural Experience: At the Waorani Community, observe the preservation of ancient customs, from the art of blowgun hunting to the melodic Wao Terero language. Gain insights into their deep-rooted knowledge of the rainforest and rich oral traditions. This visit also highlights how responsible tourism positively impacts local families, supporting them through various roles and handicraft sales.
Lunch and Reflection: After engaging with the Waorani people, enjoy a local lunch and an opportunity to reflect on the profound cultural insights gained.
Return to Coca: The journey concludes with a canoe trip to the bridge, followed by a bus ride back to Coca, arriving around 16:00. This marks the end of your transformative experience with Wild & Vulnerable Journeys, a journey where every step was a step closer to discovering your authentic self amidst the wonders of the Amazon.
Accommodation: Camping at Yasuni National Park
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Inclusion & Exclusion
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