Kapawi Ecological Reserve

 

Completed in 1996, Kapawi is located on the Pastaza River, on the most remote area of the Ecuadorian Amazon basin and one of the most spectacular places in the rain forest. The lodge was created in accordance with the Achuar concept of architecture without a single metal nail. Environmentally friendly methods such as solar energy, biodegradable soaps, and trash recycling systems are also being utilized.  Isolation from the world does not mean a lack of comfort. They offer 20 double rooms, each with its private bathroom, sun-heated showers, and electricity provided by a solar panel system.  Located on the shore of the Kapawi Lake, every room has a wide terrace where you can observe the daily visitors: ducks, hummingbirds, egrets, parrots – or you can listen to the music of the myriad of frogs at night.  The cuisine is a tasty combination of international and Ecuadorian food with emphasis on local products. A wide variety of exotic fruits is also offered. Soft drinks, snacks and hot water for coffee and tea are available all day. A well-endowed library is open all day long. Paperbacks, magazines and books are available. A small boutique stocks essential items as well as handicrafts and souvenirs.

It has been said that an Achuar is a living encyclopedia. An Achuar can recognize every one of the 500 species of birds found in Kapawi. The same person can distinguish every tree and explain its medicinal or practical uses. That is why in Kapawi you will be led by an Achuar guide and a naturalist guide as well. The naturalist guides are expert biologists fluent in English and other languages. Both of them will make your experience unforgettable.  Kapawi is a place of multiple choices and is characterized by its flexibility. They offer fixed programs, but you, with your guide and your group can design the most suitable schedule to meet your interests and physical condition. Most of the itineraries will include visits to the Achuar communities, hikes in the rain forest, canoeing in the rivers and lakes as well as bird watching. Typically, your days at Kapawi start early for a short hike in the forest or an early morning canoe trip for bird watching in the banks of the Capahuari River or to visit the parrots’ salt lick. Return back to your lodge for breakfast, followed by another morning activity. Lunch can be taken as a picnic or at the lodge. After an afternoon activity, your naturalist guides will offer a briefing followed by dinner.