Killas at Cofan & Siona Territory Comfort Program 9 Days / 8 Nights

After a scenic 30-minute flight over the Eastern Andean Cordillera to Puerto Francisco de Orellana (El Coca), our expedition continues with a private overland transfer of approximately 2.5 hours to the frontier settlement of Tierras Orientales, set along the banks of the Aguarico River. Following a brief stop for a box lunch and final preparations, we board a motorized canoe and leave civilization behind, beginning our journey deep into the heart of the Amazon rainforest.

We travel downstream for nearly three hours, toward La Bocana, where the Aguarico and Cuyabeno Rivers converge. From La Bocana, we continue upstream along the Cuyabeno River for approximately 30 minutes, penetrating deeper into the reserve until reaching our remote Amazon Lodge, strategically located along the riverbanks.

Upon arrival, there is time to settle into camp and acclimate to the rhythms of the rainforest, surrounded by the sounds of insects, birds, and distant wildlife.

After dinner, the expedition continues with a guided nocturnal exploration around the lodge. Equipped with flashlights, we search for the Amazon’s lesser-seen inhabitants, including amphibians, arboreal snakes, insects, spiders, and other nocturnal species that emerge under the cover of darkness.

Before dawn, we embark on a pre-sunrise expedition with our naturalist guide, when the rainforest is at its most active. At 5:30 a.m., we set out in a motorized canoe along the Cuyabeno River, heading to a natural clay lick where parrots and parakeets feed on mineral-rich clay. We enjoy a field breakfast while observing this spectacular wildlife display.

The journey continues in our killas through a blackwater meander, spotting flora and fauna along the forest edges navigating through a vast and pristine river corridor, this stretch offers exceptional opportunities to encounter pink river dolphins, diverse riverine birdlife, and striking transitions between primary and secondary rainforest. Along the way, our experienced naturalist guide provides in-depth interpretation of the ecosystems and wildlife, while the slow-paced navigation allows ample time for careful observation and photography of the surrounding flora and fauna, before returning to our lodge after approximately 4 hours of navigation.

After lunch and rest, we head to the Observation Tower, built around a towering Ceibo tree, for panoramic views of the canopy and wildlife activity. As night falls, we embark on a nocturnal canoe ride, searching for caimans and other nocturnal creatures, and, weather permitting, marvel at a starlit Amazon sky. The day concludes with a hearty dinner at the lodge.

At around 6:00 a.m., our guide invites us on an interpretive forest hike lasting approximately 3 hours. During this walk, you will learn about the traditional use of medicinal plants, knowledge passed down through generations by the Cofán people. This immersive experience offers a profound connection to the forest and insight into the ancestral wisdom that sustains life in the Amazon. After the hike, we return to camp to enjoy a hearty breakfast.

Following a short rest, the expedition continues with a motorized canoe journey downstream along the Cuyabeno River, as the rising sun illuminates the rainforest landscape. Along the way, there are excellent opportunities to observe diverse flora and wildlife in their natural habitat. We continue navigating the river and exploring small blackwater lagoons until reaching the confluence with the Aguarico River. Here, we make a brief stop to look for the iconic pink river dolphins, before continuing our journey to Zábalo Community, one of the Cofán communities located in the central zone of the reserve (approximately 2.5 hours of navigation in motorized canoe).

Upon arrival, we step ashore to visit the Zábalo community, where our guide introduces us to the Cofán culture, traditions, and daily life. We will observe the creation of traditional handicrafts and have the opportunity to support the local economy through community-based tourism. In the evening, we return to camp for dinner, followed by an optional nocturnal activity, offering a final chance to experience the rainforest under the cover of darkness.

As dawn is the best time to experience the rainforest, we begin the day with an early breakfast at around 6:00 a.m., preparing for another day of deep exploration.

We then gear up for a journey to the Zábalo River, navigating upstream by motorized canoe as we venture deep into the forest, surrounded by rich flora and wildlife. The return journey is made downstream aboard killas, allowing for a silent and immersive experience where the peace and natural rhythm of the Amazon can be fully appreciated. After this scenic route, we board the motorized canoe once again to return to the Cofán community, where a delicious lunch awaits. We then prepare for our journey back to our Amazon Lodge, located in the central area of the Cuyabeno Reserve.

Along the way, we make a special stop at the Zábalo community’s Charapa conservation project, a community-led initiative dedicated to the protection of freshwater turtles. Here, we learn about the threats facing these species and the conservation efforts led by local families to safeguard nesting areas and hatchlings. gaining first-hand insight into how indigenous knowledge and community stewardship play a vital role in preserving Amazonian biodiversity.

After this meaningful cultural and conservation experience, we continue our return to the lodge, where we are welcomed with a refreshing welcome cocktail.
The day concludes with dinner, time to rest, and an optional nighttime activity, offering one last opportunity to experience the rainforest after dark.

During this day, you will have some free time to relax and prepare your luggage before continuing your journey deeper into the reserve. Later, we will travel from Lower Cuyabeno to Upper Cuyabeno to continue the adventure; this river journey will take approximately three hours. Upon arrival at the lodge, guests will settle into their accommodations before dinner. In the evening, the naturalist guide will provide a comprehensive orientation, introducing the ecological importance of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, the lodge’s conservation approach, and the scientific and interpretive activities planned for the following days.

The day begins with a guided morning hike through primary rainforest, when temperatures are cooler and wildlife activity is high. Accompanied by our guide, we explore terra firme forest trails while learning about rainforest ecology, medicinal plants, animal tracks, and the complex interactions between flora and fauna. This walk offers excellent opportunities to observe birds, insects, amphibians, and primates, while gaining a deeper scientific and cultural understanding of the Amazon ecosystem.

In the afternoon, we shift to a more tranquil and immersive experience as we navigate Laguna Grande aboard Killas, traditional dugout canoes carved from a single tree trunk. Gliding silently across the blackwater lagoon allows for close observation of the flooded igapó forest, aquatic plants, and wildlife along the shoreline. As the day draws to a close, we pause to enjoy a spectacular Amazon sunset, when changing light, sounds, and animal behavior mark the transition from day to night—an unforgettable moment that highlights the serenity and natural rhythms of the rainforest.

Begin the morning with an early birdwatching excursion along the calm waters of the Cuyabeno River, paddling in traditional Killas canoes. This serene, silent navigation allows guests to observe a wide variety of Amazonian bird species, hear the calls of primates, and appreciate the peaceful beauty of the river and surrounding rainforest.

Return to the lodge for breakfast before heading to a Siona community, where guests engage in local traditions. Participate in the preparation of cassave bread (yuca), a staple of the Amazonian diet, while learning about sustainable practices and daily life along the river. This hands-on experience offers a meaningful connection to the indigenous culture and its relationship with the surrounding ecosystem.

In the afternoon, take a guided walk along the Ceibos Trail, exploring the forest beneath towering Ceibo trees. Observe the rich diversity of flora and fauna, from colorful birds and insects to amphibians and small mammals, while the guide explains the ecological processes that sustain this vibrant rainforest.

The day concludes with a visit to a local shaman, who shares knowledge of medicinal plants and ancestral healing practices. Guests gain insight into traditional Amazonian medicine and may have the opportunity to participate in a brief, optional healing demonstration, completing a full day of cultural immersion, ecological discovery, and rainforest exploration.

Enjoy breakfast at 7:30 a.m. before preparing for your departure from Tapir Lodge, typically around 9:30 a.m.

On this final day, we will board a motorized canoe and navigate upriver, enjoying one last view of the landscapes and biodiversity of the Reserva de Producción Faunística Cuyabeno, until reaching the Cuyabeno Bridge.

Arrival at the bridge is scheduled for approximately 10:30 – 11:00 am, where you will connect with your transportation to Coca Town.

At a convenient time, we will be transferred to Coca Airport for our return flight to Quito, marking the end of our services.