In 2019, during my internship at Rebecca Adventure Travel, I had the amazing opportunity to join their 4-Day Amazon Cuyabeno tour in Ecuador. The adventure started in Quito, where a small van picked us up early in the morning. We drove through the mountains and lowlands for several hours until reaching the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, one of Ecuador’s most famous Amazon destinations. The changing scenery, from Andean peaks to lowland rivers and dense jungle, made the journey exciting and scenic.
At the reserve entrance, we switched to a motorized canoe and floated down the river, surrounded by lush jungle and the sounds of birds and insects. After about two hours on the river, we arrived at Nicky Lodge, our base for the next few days. The lodge is tucked deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon and offers comfortable cabins with private bathrooms, mosquito nets, and warm showers.
Canoe Trips
Canoe trips were a highlight of the Cuyabeno Amazon tour. We traveled along rivers and lagoons, stopping to explore small islands and observe wildlife. During these trips, we saw monkeys swinging through the trees, colorful birds flying overhead, and even pink dolphins in the Amazon River. Canoeing allowed us to explore remote parts of the jungle and get close to the wildlife of Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest.
Hiking in the Jungle
Guided hikes were included in the tour and took us deep into the rainforest. Our guides explained the different plants, trees, and animal tracks we encountered. We did both day and night hikes. During the day, we spotted monkeys, birds, and insects. Night hikes allowed us to see nocturnal creatures like frogs and bats. Hiking in the Cuyabeno jungle was a mix of adventure, learning, and being surrounded by untouched nature.
Important tip: come well prepared. Wear long pants and long sleeves because the trails can be very muddy, and you sometimes go deep into the mud. I made the mistake of leaving a small part of my ankle exposed, and by the end of the hike, I was covered in fire ant bites. Sturdy shoes and socks are essential, especially after rain.
Swimming in the Amazon River
One of the most unforgettable experiences was swimming in the Amazon River. At first, it felt a little scary because you know all the animals that are inside the water, but floating in the water surrounded by jungle sounds was amazing. It’s one of those experiences you won’t forget and a true highlight of visiting Ecuador’s Amazon.
Visiting a Siona Indigenous Community
We visited a Siona indigenous community and learned about their traditions and daily life in the Amazon. One of the most memorable activities was making Casabe bread together.
The process starts with peeling and grating yucca (manioc), then pressing out the moisture. The dry mass is shaped into flat rounds and baked on a hot clay plate over an open fire until crisp. The result is Casabe, a traditional, crunchy bread that has been eaten in the Amazon for generations. We tried it warm straight from the fire, and it was simple but surprisingly delicious. Making and tasting Casabe gave me a deep respect for the traditional way of life in the rainforest.
Laguna Grande and Sunsets
In the afternoons, we visited Laguna Grande, a peaceful lagoon where we could swim, float, or just relax. Watching the sunset over the lagoon was unforgettable, the sky turned shades of orange and red while the jungle trees formed dark silhouettes. It was a perfect way to end a day in the Amazon.
Practical Tips
- Clothing: Lightweight, quick-dry clothes, a rain jacket, and sturdy shoes for hiking.
- Gear: Insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof bag for electronics.
- Health: Check your vaccinations and follow mosquito protection advice from guides.
- Connectivity: There is no internet at the lodge; enjoy the chance to unplug completely.
Why you should take a Cuyabeno Amazon tour
The Cuyabeno Amazon tour in Ecuador is perfect for anyone who wants an authentic jungle experience. You can hike, paddle, swim in the Amazon River, spot wildlife, and visit indigenous communities. Staying at Nicky Lodge allows you to experience the jungle comfortably while being fully immersed in nature. This tour combines adventure, wildlife, and culture in one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse regions.
Prices and Why You Should Book at Least 4 Days
Based on current information from Nicky Amazon Lodge, typical prices per person are:
- 4 days / 3 nights: $355 (double or twin cabin shared), $330 (matrimonial cabin)
- 3 days / 2 nights: $285 (double/twin), $260 (matrimonial)
- 5 days / 4 nights: $395 (double/twin)
These prices include:
- Accommodation at Nicky Lodge with private bathrooms, mosquito nets, and hot water
- Full board meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast) and purified drinking water
- Canoe transport from Cuyabeno Bridge and for all excursions
- Guided activities: jungle hikes, canoe rides, wildlife spotting, etc.
- Bilingual naturalist guides and equipment like rubber boots and life jackets
Transport from Quito to Cuyabeno Bridge is not included but you can book this extra for about $30 per person. Or you can decide to go by public bus to Lago Agrio and from there on to Cuyabeno Bridge.
I highly recommend booking a minimum 4-day tour. Shorter trips don’t give enough time to fully enjoy canoe trips, hikes, swimming in the river, and cultural visits. With four days or more, you can explore, relax, and really experience the Amazon jungle at a comfortable pace. You can book this tour directly on Nicky Lodge’s website!
Final Thoughts
Swimming in the Amazon River, spotting pink dolphins, hiking through dense jungle, and making Casabe bread with the Siona community are experiences I will never forget. Four days in Cuyabeno gave me a real sense of adventure and a deeper appreciation for the Ecuadorian rainforest. If you are visiting Ecuador and want a unique Amazon experience, this tour is a must.
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