Mashpi Lodge

Top 5 Eco Lodges in the Real Ecuadorian Amazon🌿

Rate this post

Ecuador is home to some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world, from the stunning Amazon to the incredible Andes. Here, entrepreneurs have developed several business ideas, including eco-lodges that blend luxury tourism with a strong commitment to environmental conservation. Here is a list of the best eco-lodges in the Ecuadorian Amazon; if you plan to visit the Amazon, learn about your best options to stay and enjoy nature without losing the comforts of an upscale hotel.

  • Mashpi Lodge (Mashpi Reserve, Cloud Forest)

This lodge is located in the center of the Mashpi Cloud Forest at 950 meters above sea level. It is a luxury refuge in the middle of a unique and biodiverse ecosystem. The Mashpi Lodge, located northwest of the city of Quito, thought to offer a unique experience to its guests, was designed with a modern architecture that integrates into the forest without causing any environmental impact, with panoramic views of the cloud forest.

Outstanding features:

  • Wildlife watching: This location offers an excellent opportunity to observe over 400 species, including birds, frogs, monkeys, and a remarkable variety of insects. Furthermore, it is home to endemic animals of the forest, such as the mashpi frog and the magnolia.
  • Research center: Biological research was always an important part of the vision when creating the Mashpi reserve, so they worked with biologists to study and protect the surrounding species.
  • Sustainable activities: The lodge organizes several activities, including hikes to explore unique natural attractions, aerial biking for a bird’s-eye view of the forest, an observation tower for birdwatching, and access to the extensive Mashpi reserve.

Mashpi Lodge

  • Sacha Lodge (Private Biological Reserve, Ecuadorian Amazon)

The Sacha Lodge, located in the Napo River basin in the Ecuadorian Amazon, opened in 1992 with only 6 guest rooms and now has 26 rooms divided between suites and family cabins. With an extension of 2000 hectares, this lodge combines comfort with the harmony of the rainforest.

Outstanding features:

  • Bird-watching tower: This structure is perfect for bird watchers. Sacha has a 135-foot-high tower, from which you can observe the more than 500 species of birds that inhabit the area.
  • Canoe excursions: Paddling a canoe through the Amazonian canals is, without a doubt, a fabulous adventure. Moreover, the experience is truly unforgettable. One benefit is that it demands minimal effort; furthermore, you will have the chance to observe both aquatic and terrestrial fauna during your journey.
  • Commitment to sustainability: This lodge actively conserves the Amazon, serving as a safe haven for diverse native plants and animals while providing travelers the chance to experience the Amazon up close.

Sacha lodge views

  • Napo Wildlife Center (Yasuní National Park, Amazonia)

This well-known lodge is located in one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, Yasuní National Park. The Napo Wildlife Center is a jewel of sustainable tourism; The indigenous Kichwa Añangu community manages this lodge, showcasing a clear example of community and sustainable tourism.

Outstanding characteristics:

  • Managed by the Kichwa community: The center’s administration is entirely staffed by community members, and the economic benefits allow financing of several community projects.
  • Wildlife tour: During your visit, you can go on excursions to observe wildlife in the surrounding area, such as monkeys, jaguars, various bird species, and the popular pink dolphins.
  • Total sustainability: The entire center is a clear example of sustainable tourism, from generating its own energy using solar panels to having its own ecological water treatment system.Napo wildlife center

community Napo wildlife reserve

  • La Selva Lodge (Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Ecuadorian Amazon)

La Selva Lodge is a renowned eco-lodge located on the outskirts of Yasuní National Park, a perfect place for tourists looking to get to know the Ecuadorian Amazon in depth. A luxury resort in the middle of the rainforest where you can explore incredible spaces and observe a wide biodiversity.

Outstanding features:

  • Wildlife observation: This lodge has a wildlife observation tower at about 124 feet high. Here you can enjoy fascinating views of the Amazon while observing wildlife such as monkeys, insects, and a variety of birds.
  • Wellness Center: Beyond offering you comfort and security, La Selva Lodge’s facilities allow you to enjoy a moment of relaxation with its spa and yoga services.
  • Environmental responsibility: La Selva Lodge is committed to protecting the environment, so it has a strict waste management system and solar energy to reduce its environmental impact in the area where it is located.

selva eco-lodge

  • Sani Lodge (Sani Isla Biological Reserve, Ecuadorian Amazon)

Located within the Yasuní National Park with a land area of approximately 24,000 hectares, the Sani Lodge is a jewel of ecotourism. The closest town to the lodge is Francisco de Orellana; in fact, it is approximately 3 hours away. As a result, it stands out as a perfect spot to break away from the clamor and routine of city living, all the while allowing one to engage with one of the most varied environments on Earth.

Outstanding features:

  • Community-based tourism: The lodge employs numerous staff members from the Sani community. Furthermore, a project empowers women in the community by enabling them to manufacture and sell fiber and seed handicrafts.
  • Wildlife observation excursions: In the vast terrain surrounding the lodge, you will be able to take part in hikes and canoe trips, which will allow you to observe incredible animals such as pumas, jaguars, giant otters, the well-known squirrel monkeys, and more than 500 different species of birds.
  • Commitment to conservation: Sani Lodge generates clean energy through solar panels and commits to sustainable tourism by directly contributing to the Kichwa communities.

Sani Lodge

Conclusion

The Eco-Lodges of the Ecuadorian Amazon focus on sustainability and the protection of nature. Furthermore, they offer lodging and experiences that transform your perspective of the Amazon, allowing you to explore some of the most varied and biodiverse habitats on the planet. These lodge options clearly demonstrate that it is indeed possible to enjoy luxury tourism while being responsible. Furthermore, they set a standard for others to follow. If you are looking for an adventure, these eco-lodges are ideal for exploring the Ecuadorian Amazon with multi-day tours and activities for all tastes.

Non riuscite ancora a trovare quello che cercate?

Inviateci un messaggio e saremo lieti di aiutarvi a trovare il tour perfetto per voi.

Get in touch
Hello ????????
Can we help you?
Carmen Chegoz
Carmen Chegoz

Just left us a 5 star review

This agency helped us plan a memorable trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Cynthia was our coordinator, she was timely and professional with all communication and detailed from beginning to end. Cynthia was able to include everything we wanted to experience and open to our feedback to help create the final itinerary. The daily excursions were great, especially in Ecuador where we had Danny as our guide and Luis as our driver. Luis was safe and timely in all transportation and Danny went above and beyond at every step. At one point I wasn't feeling well and Danny went out of his way to find me some medicine. Danny was also extremely knowledgeable on everything.. history, the agriculture, the people.. 10/10 guide! Overall a great agency to work with!

Carmen Chegoz Novembre 16, 2024
google

Ha sido un viaje maravilloso, bien organizado, muy seguro, el guía Sebastián categoría premium sabe de todo, amable, responsable y maneja el coche de maravilla, prudente y ciertamente excepcional para su juventud. Yo repetiré viaje con esta agencia y haré Amazonia. Violeta Miguel

Violeta Mi Novembre 11, 2024
google

Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador…

Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador was extremely helpful, efficient and attentive. She found me an excellent offer for a cruise in the Galapagos and we thoroughly enjoyed our trip. Everything went smoothly and I can highly recommend Monica. She took care of every detail.

Marianne Jenni Novembre 6, 2024

Cruise to the Galapagos

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga Ottobre 5, 2024

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga Ottobre 5, 2024
google

Uma viagem inesquecível, onde tudo saiu conforme o esperado, sem falhas ou qualquer contratempo. Tudo, desde a recepção até o final foi um exemplo de competência e organização admiráveis. Equador não é um destino como outros, e no nosso caso teve roteiros variados, como uns dias na Amazônia, Cruzeiro para visitar as ilhas mais distantes de Galápagos e visita às principais ilhas. Bastante coisa pra ser organizada mas deu tudo certo. Galápagos foi incrível, a conexão com a natureza foi perfeita e eu só tenho a agradecer a Gabriela Cadena que conseguiu captar exatamente o que a gente queria e colocou no nosso roteiro tudo com maestria. Recomendo a agência e a Gabriela sem medo de errar.

Noilves Pelisser Settembre 29, 2024
google

One of the best trips of my life

One of the best trips of my life! I absolutely loved Ecuador and the variety of landscapes it offers (from the coast to the Andes and the Amazon rainforest). The trip was very well organized and made easy for us. The guides were all very knowledgeable and generally helped us have a great time. Would absolutely repeat.

Laura Sopeña Álvarez Settembre 22, 2024

Genial, atención personalizada por parte de Santiago ( nuestro agente) desde el inicio hasta el fin del tour super preocupados por como se desenvuelve el viaje. Los recomiendo

Juan David Vaca Agosto 26, 2024
google

Excelente experiencia, agencia seria, disponible y cumplidora. Reservamos un crucero en Galápagos y la atención de Jazmín ha sido estupenda en todo momento, super recomendados.

francesco Agosto 26, 2024
google

A HUGE thank you to Responsible Travel and our wonderful coordinator Gabriela for making our August visit to the Galapagos and Amazon absolutely amazing! Gabriela catered the trip to our specific family's needs and capabilities, and every logistical step went very smoothly. The accommodations were top-notch, as were the local guides in each destination. We saw every animal we were hoping to see, and then some! We felt so secure and cared for in the hands of Responsible Travel that I've already recommended our exact itinerary to four additional families. This trip was incredible!!

Kristy Croushore Agosto 25, 2024
google

Excelente y personalizado servicio por…

Excelente y personalizado servicio por parte de Cynthia. El crucero fue fenomenal así como vuelos, traslados, guías y comidas. Sin sorpresas.

Enric Sol Agosto 21, 2024

Servicio impecable, Cynthia nos acompañó durante todo el proceso de reserva, enviándonos información actualizada y resolviendo todas nuestras dudas vía WhatsApp casi al momento. Tanto los guías como los vuelos, crucero, comidas, traslados y actividades fueron perfectos. Muy recomendable para evitar sustos y despistes y conocer Galápagos con total comodidad.

google

Effective, honest, and creative agency!

We could not be happier with our experience with this agency. The service provided by Maria Jose, who was our trip coordinator, was outstanding from day one. She made sure to understand our goals and vision for the trip, and was patient enough to work through multiple itinerary versions until we finalized it together. The chose the correct hotels, routes, and activities based on what we spoke about, and the guides/personnel on the ground that they reserved for us were trustworthy, puntual, and very knowledgeable. Every day they checked in on us with a text, to make sure that everything was going accordingly, which is a sign of excellent service. I highly recommend working with Maria Jose/Tamer and the entire Responsible Ecuador Travel team - I will do so for my next trip as well. 5/5, thank you!

Jose Garcia Agosto 12, 2024

Great memories

Mónica was always for us available, all the staff of Galaxy Orion were really great and we had wonderful days in the boat and in Galapagos. Many thanks for all

Teresa Behrend Agosto 12, 2024

Mi viaje con Responsible Travel

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho Agosto 4, 2024

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho Agosto 4, 2024
google

Cynthia my contact of the agency Responsible Travel resolved all my doubts and questions of the trip. She keep me informed about muy bookings and updates of my itinerary. Also she ensure that everything went well.

Patricia Uribe Agosto 3, 2024
google

Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard…

Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard the Bonita yacht was the best decision I could have made while visiting Ecuador. It was an incredible experience that I will be thinking about until I am able to come back again. I want to thank my wonderful agent Anthony for his help in booking. He is very knowledgeable and ensured that the planning process was a breeze. Anthony checked in with us every step of the way to make sure that we were prepared and comfortable throughout the whole trip. I also want to thank the wonderful crew: Cris, Diana, Cap. Joffre, Diego, Carlos, Marcos, Marcelo, Jairo, Chef Homar, and Chef Danny. Without them, the trip would not have been as amazing and unforgettable as it was. Cris was an awesome, patient, and fun guide that explained the history and fun facts of the island very well! Chef Homar and Chef Danny cooked all our delicious meals and Chef Homar even shared with us a lesson in salsa dancing! Diana made sure that everyone was taken care of and the rest of the crew made sure that everything was smooth sailing! I can tell that this crew is really close and that they enjoy working together! I cannot recommend this experience enough, from the blue footed boobies, to the giant tortoises, to swimming with the hammerhead sharks! I hope to come back one day and bring my family and when I do, I will make sure to book with Anthony again at Responsible Travel Ecuador!

Adi Parreno Giugno 27, 2024

Stunning experience

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico Maggio 31, 2024

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico Maggio 31, 2024
google

I highly recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador. They are very professional and flexible to organize the perfect trip for you.Gabriela organized the trip for us to mainland, Amazon and Galapagos islands and she was excellent.She did everything for us and the entire itinerary was a unique experience. Our guide Wellington on the mainland was very helpful and knowledgeable and we really enjoyed our time with him!! We enjoyed every activity and will definitely return in the future to this beautiful country!!

George Liskas Febbraio 15, 2024
google
Andres Garzon Febbraio 3, 2024
google

Gaby did an incredible job helping me plan a trip to Yasuni National Park, Quito, and the Galápagos Islands. She took all of the stress out of finding good guides and all of the logistics involved in flights, lodging, transportation, and all of the other planning aspects of a big two week trip. Excellent communication with fast responses any time I had questions leading up to and during the trip as well. Highly recommend!

Adam Conard Dicembre 13, 2023
google

The best of the best!

Amazing experience! Definitely recommended.

Dave Khandros Dicembre 1, 2023

Ethic, friendly and professional company

They are a super friendly and professional company that, as their name says, is working in an ethical and green way, which is super important in these times.

Carla Mazzini Dicembre 1, 2023

Paul our agent was wonderful; very friendly and went above and beyond to help us organise a dream holiday.

Bess Murray Novembre 4, 2023
google

Les Galapagos c'est le paradis !

Notre voyage aux Galapagos était super bien organisé, les jours avec visites autant que le temps libre ! Les hôtels choisis par l'agence étaient très confortables et accueillants, et les guides sur place super accueillants ! Aucun problème ... donc toute la famille n'a eu qu'à en profiter!

Douglas Ottobre 7, 2023

I planned a trip to South America at the last minute, and Gaby was incredible! She created an amazing itinerary with me where I was able to go to Quito, the Galapagos islands, and Cuzco Peru. It was a truly unforgettable trip, and I would strongly recommend that you consider Gaby for your next South American adventure. She can help as little or as much as you need and is extremely responsive. I am a big fan of hers now!

Gigi Z Ottobre 5, 2023
google

Cuentan con paquetes muy buenos y se adaptaron a mis necesidades para viajar en crucero a galápagos

Andrés Perugachi Agosto 31, 2023
google
Felipe Villegas Agosto 25, 2023
google

Gran tour en barco de última hora

Fue una reserva de última hora de un tour en barco por Galápagos y nos ayudaron en todo momento. Grandes profesionales y el tour fue maravilloso

David B. Luglio 19, 2023

Outstanding service

Responsible Travel Ecuador helped us find the outfit that met our needs in our visit to Galapagos. Interaction with our agent was easy and effective. She was really responsive and provided us with all the information we needed - also suggestions for further visits in Ecuador's mainland. I definitely would recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador for any travel needs in that beautiful country.

Nuria Luglio 17, 2023

Una experiencia inolvidable con Responsible Travel: Descubriendo la magia de Ecuador

Responsible Travel es una agencia de viajes que ha dejado una huella imborrable en mi corazón. Recientemente tuve la oportunidad de explorar las maravillas de Ecuador a través de su excelente servicio, y no puedo dejar de elogiar su enfoque responsable y comprometido con la sostenibilidad. Desde el momento en que me puse en contacto con ellos, su equipo demostró una gran atención y pasión por brindar experiencias auténticas y respetuosas con el entorno local.

Gabi Ramos Giugno 29, 2023

Fantastic Experience!

I did multiple family treks with this company and the service is impeccable. Staff always has a smile and big energy to inspire you to expand your horizons. A big shout to everyone and thank you for such a wonderful experience!

Daniel Larrea Giugno 27, 2023

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va…

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va ser a L' Ecuador amb aquesta experimentada empresa que em ajudar abans, durant i despres del viatge. Totalment recomendada

Santiago Cardenas Giugno 27, 2023

Exceptional trip to Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

Excellent & professional services! Highly recommended.

Alexander Giugno 27, 2023
Emilia Assa Aprile 12, 2023
google

We have booked a two day tour to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, a 5 days tour in the amazonia and also arranged some private transfers with the team. I have discussed everything with Lucia who has been very helpful, always answering on time and providing the best options. Would recommend the travel agency.

Iulian Petcu Marzo 5, 2023
google

By chance I happened to connect with Responsible Travel and I am glad I did. My agent was Estefania “Stefi” Puga and I could not have had a more attentive and responsive person arrange my travel plans. I am a nature lover with a special interest in birds. Stefi arranged a trip that included 3 lodges over 6 nights, transportation, guides, tours and other features and made it all easy. In addition I received messages regularly before I began the trip to check on details and assure me that all will be well. During the trip she checked in daily to see if everything was ok. It was a pleasure to work with such a caring and attentive agent. If I return to Ecuador, I will call Stefi.

Lee Burton Febbraio 27, 2023
google

Great time- Great Service

Great time- Great Service

leejburton Febbraio 27, 2023
tripadvisor

12 unforgettable days in Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands

12 unforgettable days in Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands

Skjavel Febbraio 19, 2023
tripadvisor

Effortless Amazonian adventure

Effortless Amazonian adventure

Tom Contos Febbraio 9, 2023
tripadvisor

wonderful

wonderful

Chihiro A Gennaio 22, 2023
tripadvisor

Once in a lifetime trip to the Galapagos

Once in a lifetime trip to the Galapagos

LJH Gennaio 17, 2023
tripadvisor

Galapagos islands day tours

Galapagos islands day tours

Joanna J Gennaio 9, 2023
tripadvisor

Excellent

Excellent

Jiří B Gennaio 9, 2023
tripadvisor

I had an amazing 3-week tour in Ecuador (continent and Galapagos islands) thanks to this team! The country is very beautiful, no doubt, but the guides were amazing, very professional and provided great information. The hotels chosen by the agency were very good. I am very grateful for this experience! Thank you!

Bárbara Martins Gennaio 1, 2023
google

3 week tour in Ecuador continent and Galapagos islands

3 week tour in Ecuador continent and Galapagos islands

Barbara M Gennaio 1, 2023
tripadvisor