cuyabeno-ecuador
The area takes its name from the Cuyabeno River, which overflows creating a complex of 14 lagoons and forming the largest wetland in the Ecuadorian Amazon. These flooded forests are the territory of dolphins, manatees, caimans, anacondas and otters, and the guarango de agua, the most unique tree in the reserve. Here there are communities of Siona, Secoya, Cofán, Kichwa and Shuar Indians, and it is one of the most culturally diverse protected areas in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
What should I bring?
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen.
Insect repellent.
Comfortable shoes.
Cash for extra expenses.
DAY 1.- Quito - Lago Agrio - Cuyabeno Reserve Entrance. After the flight (30 minutes, no flights available to Lago Agrio, only to Coca), or bus ride from Quito to Lago Agrio (7 to 8 hours), the meeting point for people traveling by bus is "Hotel de Mario" around 7 am. - 7:30 am, with a representative of the Lodge. After picking up all clients, you will travel by private transportation to the entrance of the Cuyabeno Reserve.
From the entrance of the Cuyabeno Reserve, you will take a canoe ride down the Cuyabeno River to reach the lodge, approximately 2 hours. Lunch will be served at the lodge around 2pm. In the afternoon you will start the activity at 4pm, to visit the Laguna Grande and look for some wildlife. Around 5:30pm, you will go to the lagoon to swim and watch the sunset, which is one of the highlights of the tour.
At 6 pm you will go on an exciting night walk, during the walk you can expect to see many insects, spiders, tarantulas; also, hearing the jungle at night is amazing. Dinner is served at 8 pm. After dinner, the guide will give a brief summary of the Cuyabeno Reserve and the itinerary for the next day. Dinner and rest.
DAY 2.- Laguna Grande. After breakfast, we walk in the primary rainforest to learn about medicinal plants, flora, forest types, biological fauna. After lunch, you can relax by the river or have a nap in a hammock. Afternoon activities include swimming in the lagoon and caiman spotting. We conclude the day with a fabulous sunset and a delicious dinner.
DAY 3.-El Puente-Lago Agrio-Quito. We will observe birds and animals in the tranquility of the early morning. After bird watching, we will observe the sunrise over the treetops of the jungle. After breakfast, we travel along the Cuyabeno River to El Puente, taking a last look at the animals, flora and fauna of the jungle. We will arrive in Lago Agrio around 2 pm, followed by your return flight or bus ride.
12 de Noviembre y Ambato, bajo Hotel Selina. Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador