The Hakuna Matata Explore Tour offers a rich Amazonian adventure close to Quito, immersing travelers in rainforest landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and indigenous culture. Based out of a secluded lodge, the experience includes river canoeing, parrot clay licks, community encounters, and jungle walks, ensuring unique insights into the area’s flora, fauna, and traditions.
- Parrot clay lick and wildlife sightings
- Cultural exchange with local communities
- Unique Amazon lodge experience with optional activities like rafting and chocolate making
- Accommodation in chosen room category (Cabañas, Lodge, Supreme, Suite)
- Local, Spanish speaking field guide
- Activities mentioned in the program
- Entrance fees for activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals (starting with dinner on the day of arrival until breakfast on the day of departure)
- Use of all lodge facilities, including swimming pool, beach area, hiking trails
- Rubber boots up to size 12 (UK) / 14 (US – men)
- Taxes
- Transport from/to Quito or from/to Baños (following prices are for one way tickets)
- Private transportation with stopover – about 2 hours – in Papallacta
- Private transportation without stopover
- Public bus, additionally the costs for the cab drive from Archidona to the Lodge
- English Guidance for the program
- Lunch on the day of arrival and day of departure in the Lodge
- All activities which are not mentioned or are optional
- Drinks and meals that are not mentioned
- Personal spending and tip
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival And Introduction To The Forest
Upon arrival to the Amazon region, enjoy the scenic drive from Quito, with the option of visiting Papallacta hot springs en route to relax in the thermal pools amidst mountain views. Arrive at the Hakuna Matata Lodge, where you’ll settle into your accommodations before selecting an afternoon activity. Choose between a guided hike in the lush surroundings, horseback riding for panoramic views, or an educational chocolate-making tour. As the day winds down, savor a stunning jungle sunset from the lodge, immersing in the sounds of the rainforest.
Day 2 : Wildlife And Community Experience
Start the day with an early canoe ride along the Arajuno River, where you’ll witness the vibrant parrot clay lick as parrots gather, offering a rare wildlife viewing experience. Continue with a visit to the Santa Barbara indigenous community, where you’ll be welcomed to share breakfast and learn about local customs and traditions. Later, explore Jatun Sacha Reserve, where expert guides introduce the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Return to the lodge for an evening at leisure, reflecting on the cultural and natural insights gained.
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3 : Adventure And Relaxation
Enjoy a day tailored to your interests, with options including an adventurous rafting trip, further forest hikes, or a hands-on chocolate tour to learn the full process from bean to bar. You may also relax at the lodge, swimming in the pool or exploring nearby trails independently. With the freedom to pace the day as you wish, this is an opportunity to further connect with the serene jungle atmosphere and enjoy any additional activities that capture your interest.
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4 : Departure
Conclude your Amazon experience with a final breakfast and perhaps a brief morning walk to soak in the lush surroundings one last time. Bid farewell to the lodge and begin your return journey, with routes back through Quito or optional transfer to Baños if continuing your Ecuadorian adventure. This final day allows you to take home memories of the rainforest’s vibrant ecosystem and cultural connections formed along the way.
