Waorani Tribe Kayak Expedition

No scheduled activities are planned for your first day, allowing you to explore Quito at your own pace. Wander through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or visit local markets and museums to get a feel for the city’s vibrant culture. If you’d like a deeper experience, guided city tours are available at an additional cost and offer insights into Quito’s rich history and architecture. Please join us for a welcome meeting at 18:00 in the hotel lobby in the evening. This will be an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travelers, and to review the itinerary and important details for the days ahead.

Today, the real adventure begins. We’ll pick you up at your hotel and take a flight to the town of El Coca, where our local guide will be waiting to lead us to the heart of the Amazon. From here, we set off on a journey that takes us deep into Yasuní National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This intangible territory, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, is home to thousands of unique plant and animal species, as well as indigenous communities who have lived and protected these lands for centuries. At the park entrance, surrounded by the pure energy of the jungle, we’ll take a break to enjoy lunch by the Shiripuno River, preparing mind and body for a kayak descent through waters that have witnessed ancient traditions and ways of life. As night falls, we’ll arrive at our camp, a comfortable refuge in the middle of the jungle prepared for an authentic Amazon experience. Here, under a starry sky and surrounded by the deep sounds of the rainforest, the true magic of Yasuní begins.

• Lunch
• Dinner

We start the day with an early morning hike along nearby Waorani trails. This 2-3 hour trek offers the chance to spot active wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species. Along the way, our guide will introduce us to plants that hold special significance for the Waorani people. After the hike, we return to camp for a hearty breakfast. Once refueled, we’ll cross the river by canoe and take a short 10-minute walk to a nearby lagoon. Here, we’ll explore by kayak in search of the elusive anaconda, which thrives in this unique habitat. Some of the anacondas in Yasuní rank among the longest snakes in the world, with recent sightings of individuals over 20 feet long. While exploring the lagoon, we’ll also have the chance to try our hand at fishing—not just any fishing, but fishing for piranhas! This thrilling experience connects us further to the wild surroundings. In the afternoon, we’ll visit a local Waorani family, providing an authentic opportunity to learn about their culture and way of life through meaningful interactions. As night falls, we’ll board a canoe equipped with flashlights to search for caimans, whose eyes reflect red in the darkness. Our guides will share fascinating insights about these creatures, enhancing our understanding of the remarkable wildlife in this region.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Today, a true Waorani warrior will lead our expedition. After an early breakfast, we’ll set out by kayak, paddling to a special point within their territory. From there, we’ll begin a guided walk where the warrior will teach us traditional hunting techniques, including the gathering and preparation of curare, a natural poison used in their hunts. It’s important to note that this hunting is not just a demonstration; it is part of the community’s daily life, and any game obtained will be shared and consumed by the tribe, as they have done for generations. This practice gives us a deeper understanding of the respect and connection the Waorani maintain with their environment. Later, we’ll continue our experience with a fun blowgun practice, trying out one of the traditional tools used by the Waorani for hunting. This unique opportunity lets us experience firsthand the skill and precision required.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we set out on a hike with our Waorani guides, heading toward one of Yasuní’s best-kept secrets: the sacred saladero. This unique spot serves as a sanctuary for local wildlife, where species like parrots, macaws, peccaries, tapirs, and even howler monkeys gather to consume essential minerals from the soil. Along the way, the Waorani will share the secrets of the forest, introducing us to medicinal plants and traditions that keep their connection with nature alive. They’ll show us how the rainforest is much more than a resource—it’s their home and way of life. Back at camp, we’ll enjoy a revitalizing lunch before spending a special afternoon with the Waorani community. Here, we’ll learn about their art, traditions, and daily lives, directly supporting their community projects and helping to preserve their culture. As night falls, we’ll gather around a campfire to celebrate our last night in this enigmatic paradise. We’ll share stories, reflect on everything we’ve experienced, and let the sounds of the jungle surround us, cherishing every moment of this unforgettable time in Yasuní National Park.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Our final day in the Amazon begins early, just after breakfast, as we prepare for the journey back to civilization. We'll break camp and set off along the Shiripuno River one last time, taking in the sights and sounds of the jungle as the morning mist lifts. After reaching our pickup point, we’ll embark on a two-hour drive back to the city of Coca, where we’ll ensure you arrive in time for your flight back to Quito. As you fly over the Amazon, you'll have one last opportunity to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and deep connections you've made during your time in Yasuni National Park.

Our services conclude today, but if you wish to extend your stay, we would be delighted to assist with additional travel arrangements. We highly recommend pairing this Andean adventure with an exploration of the Galápagos Islands, where unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes await. Alternatively, consider extending your journey to other destinations in Latin America, such as the ancient ruins of Peru, the vibrant cities of Colombia, or the natural wonders of Chile and Argentina. Safe travels, whether you’re heading home or continuing your adventure!

• Breakfast