Throughout your journey, you'll gain invaluable insights into Waorani culture, learning about their traditions and deep-rooted connection to the Amazon as its guardians. Your nights will be spent at a comfortable campsite nestled in the heart of nature, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
As you navigate the river and hike through lush forests, you'll engage in hands-on educational activities that showcase the rich flora and fauna of the region. Savor delicious meals made from locally-sourced ingredients, reflecting the culinary heritage of the area, all while supporting sustainable ecotourism that aims to protect both the Waorani culture and the environment.
This expedition is not just an adventure; it's an opportunity to connect with the natural world and its inhabitants in a meaningful way. Join us for an unforgettable journey through one of the most remarkable settings on Earth.
Explore the Yasuni National Park
Paddle down the Shiripuno river and the Anaconda lagoon
Hike in the Amazon Jungle and search for medicinal plants
View unique wildlife species
Look for parrots and peccaries at the clay lick
Catch a piranha
Stay in a Amazon Waorani Community Lodge surrounded by nature
Learn about the Culture of the Amazon
Learn how to use a blowgun and a spear
Learn about Curare
Share time with the local Waorani indigenous people
Use quality equipment for paddling
Be led by top Activexpedition experienced guides at every step you take
Support sustainable travel to preserve culture and nature
The Waorani Tribe, also known as the Huaorani, is an indigenous community that calls the breathtaking Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest their home. With a history spanning centuries, the Waorani people have cultivated a remarkable culture deeply rooted in their ancestral traditions, thriving amidst the remote and biodiverse region they inhabit.
Living in perfect harmony with the untamed environment, the Waorani Tribe possesses an extraordinary knowledge of the flora and fauna that surrounds them. Their intimate understanding of the dense jungle enables them to navigate its intricacies effortlessly, identifying invaluable medicinal plants and utilizing natural resources to meet their daily needs.
One of the notable skills of the Waorani people lies in their exceptional hunting and gathering abilities. Employing traditional techniques such as blowguns and poisoned darts, they illustrate their profound comprehension of the forest ecosystem and their sustainable approach to hunting. Central to the tribe’s social structure are small family groups, each maintaining their own territory within the rainforest.
Their communal longhouses, known as “nawas,” serve as the vibrant heart of their community. These longhouses provide not only shelter and protection but also a space for social gatherings and ceremonies, fostering a strong sense of unity and belonging. The Waorani Tribe cherishes a rich oral tradition, passing down their history, myths, and legends through captivating storytelling.
Through these narratives, they celebrate their deep-rooted connection to the land, their ancestors, and the spirits that inhabit the Amazon. Music and dance play an integral role in their cultural expression, with rhythmic drumming and enchanting chants accompanying their vibrant celebrations.
Despite the challenges posed by external influences and encroachment on their lands, the Waorani people fiercely protect their territory and way of life. They stand at the forefront of advocating for indigenous rights, land preservation, and the conservation of the Amazon rainforest. Their unwavering resilience and determination have made them an emblem of cultural preservation and environmental stewardship.
Visiting the Waorani Tribe offers a truly unparalleled opportunity to witness their rich cultural heritage firsthand and learn from their profound connection to the natural world. It is a chance to immerse oneself in a way of life that beautifully intertwines with the pristine beauty and ecological significance of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Kayak or Stand Up Paddle
Hiking
Birdwatching
Canoeing
Swimming
Culture
Wildlife
Fishing
Photography
Year around
14 years old
Full Itinerary
Entering Yasuni National Park
As we set out, we’ll paddle along the flat, Class I waters of the Shiripuno River, ideal for kayaking. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant wildlife that inhabits the area, including colorful birds such as parrots, kingfishers, oropendolas, and toucans. Expect to paddle for approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the water level.
Midway through our journey, we’ll take a break to enjoy a delicious picnic, recharging our energy for the remainder of the paddle. After reaching our campsite, you can relax in hammocks before embarking on a night exploration on foot. This is a great opportunity to search for insects and amphibians that come alive after dark.
We’ll conclude the day with a satisfying dinner before settling in for a well-deserved rest, ready for the adventures that lie ahead.
Overnight: Amazon Waorani Community Lodge
Meals included: Lunch and dinner
Anaconda Lagoon Kayak Exploration
After our hike, we’ll return to the campsite for a hearty breakfast. Following our meal, we’ll cross the river by canoe and take a brief 10-minute walk to a nearby lagoon. Here, we’ll explore the area by kayak, searching for the elusive anaconda, known to thrive in this habitat. Some of the anacondas in Yasuni are among the longest snakes in the world, with recent sightings of individuals over 20 feet long.
While at the lagoon, keep an eye out for the hoatzin, a unique bird that resembles a small feathered dinosaur. We’ll also have an opportunity to try fishing before returning to the campsite for a satisfying lunch.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit a local Waorani family to gain deeper insights into their culture and way of life, allowing for 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 provide further information about these fascinating reptiles, enriching our understanding of the wildlife in this incredible region.
Overnight: Amazon Waorani Community Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Early Paddling Exploration to View Wildlife
We’ll paddle for approximately four hours before heading back to the campsite by canoe, where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll engage in a hands-on activity with local Waorani women, assisting them in harvesting yucca, a staple in their diet. They will also share insights into other crops grown on their farm, offering a glimpse into their agricultural practices.
As the day comes to an end, gather around a bonfire to share stories and reflect on the day’s experiences under the stars, creating lasting memories from your time in this remarkable environment.
Overnight: Amazon Waorani Community Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Hiking to the Animal Clay Lick
As we hike, our Waorani guides will share their knowledge about the various plants in the area, explaining how they use certain species for medicinal purposes and others for constructing their homes.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to the campsite to engage in group activities with the Waorani community. This is an excellent opportunity to interact with them, learn more about their culture, and explore the handicrafts they create. Your participation supports the local community and fosters a deeper understanding of their way of life.
Overnight: Amazon Waorani Community Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Departure
Meals included: Breakfast
Let's design your adventure
Top Experienced Certified English-Speaking Guide
Waorani guides
Land and water Transport while in Coca
Accommodation for four nights
Meals according to the Itinerary
Water and snacks
Paddling gear: NRS expedition kayaks, NRS paddleboards, paddles and life jackets
Robber boots for hiking
All fees to reserves and museums
International or domestic flights
Transfer from/to Quito
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips for guides and drivers
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Optional activities
Itinerary Disclaimer: Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
Visas and Passports: Make sure you check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel.
Accommodation: Experience the remarkable Amazon Waorani Community Lodge, a unique establishment crafted by the local community with the invaluable support of Activexpedition. Your stay not only immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of the rainforest but also contributes directly to the growth of ecotourism that benefits the Waorani families. Nestled alongside a serene lagoon, the lodge offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich biodiversity and enchanting landscapes of the Amazon. Embrace the harmony of nature as you enjoy a comfortable retreat that empowers local communities and preserves their cultural heritage.
Transportation: We use, wooden and fiberglass canoes that belong to the local families, the time of the rides depend on the level of the water.
Level of Activity: This trip is considered as 4 out of 5. The kayaking is on flat water, but long activity day, paddling can be up to 6 hours a day, the hiking is on irregular terrain and most of the time can be muddy, your guides will always be there to tell you important tips and give you safety talks when needed.
Weather and Elevation: Year-round temperature average is 82°F (28°C), however nights can be cooler. Since Ecuador is located right on the equator, the country does not experience extreme weather changes aside from a slightly rainier and wetter season. During a visit to the amazon region, in 4 or 5-day visit, you will often see more or less the same amount of rain and sunshine. The Rainier Season in the Amazon Runs from December to June, with temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F) and frequent rains throughout April and May. The Rainy Season has its pros because many plants have evolved to fruit and flower during the rainy season, a phenomenon which often attracts birds and primates to the water’s edge and grants visitors the chance to observe them more frequently. The Drier Season in the Amazon Lasts from July to November, with temperatures from 26°C (78°F) to 40°C (104°F), with less rain, though showers are still possible. The Dry Season also offers its own set of benefits, for its during this time that the water gets lower and attracts animals that you won’t often see during the rainy season. Beach nesting birds are everywhere, as there are more beaches present during this time.
Sustainability: We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero waste tour operator and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so we are able to teach our guests about the rich culture Ecuador, all the while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples, we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
Guides: All our guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; this means they have a degree in guiding, so their knowledge and skills when leading a group are top-notch. Each guide has many years of experience and they all have taken additional courses for other outdoor activities as well as have International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, they are all extremely personable and strive to deliver travel experiences of a lifetime.
Heath advices: You must have vaccination of yellow fever and malaria medication to enter this region.
We do recommend travelling light for this expedition. A duffel bag of 50 litters for your luggage and a backpack of 20 litters for daily activities should be sufficient. In the Amazon, the weather can change drastically from very sunny to super rainy so better to be prepare.
Optional Gifts for the Waorani (fishing line, multi-tools)
Personal water bottle
Passport
Credit card
Two pairs of lightweight hiking pants
Two pairs of shorts
Two bathing suits
Three non-cotton T-shirts
Two water T-shirts
One lightfleece
Two rain jacket
One pair of rain pants
Two buffs
One pair of tennis shoes
One pair of water sandals
One cap or hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Mosquito repellent
Camera
Head lamp
Optional binoculars
REGULAR SEASON PRICE BASED ON NUMBER OF GUESTS FOR SHARED DEPARTURES:
DEALS - EARLY BIRD 2024
$1584/per person
All premium features
Solo travelers are welcome on sharing room basis otherwise single supplement applies
Apply on these dates
2 - 3 guests
$1760/per person
All premium features
Every monday
4 or more guests
$1160/per person
All premium features
Every monday
Go private
We are ready to meet your needs and put together an unforgettable experience.
