Day 1: Arrival – Journey to the Amazon Rainforest –Leisure or optional activities (D)

During your drive you will notice how the vegetation changes from the landscape of the Andes into the rainforest. After passing the gate to the Amazon Rainforest you will be in a mountain jungle paradise – Hakuna Matata is your private hideaway in the tropical forest. During your trip you came closer to sea level by about 7,200 feet and are located on about 2,000 feet now.
After your arrive in our jungle paradise you can add a tour by foot or by horse in the afternoon to your free day. If you decide on horseback riding you will choose one of the hotel owned horses and take a tour through the forest and rivers. If you rather take a walk you can explore the area on different hiking paths. Your guide will explain the flora and fauna and share ancestral information about plants that are used for medical reasons. However, you can also participate in our chocolate tour (all tours are optional, please let us know if you want to add this tour to your program when booking).

In the afternoon, explore our 300 acre private reserve where you will find a private white sand beach by the Inchillaqui River, a tropical garden, a protected forest which belongs to the Lodge and a palm shaped pool which has a length of 88 feet and is 72 feet wide. In the evening you will enjoy a delicious 3 course gourmet meal in an exclusive atmosphere surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Local market in Tena – Canoe Tour – Jungle Walk – Animal Rescue Center “AmaZOOnico” – Indigenous Community (B/L/D)

You will start your day with a well balances breakfast, containing homemade bread, eggs, coffee, and fruit or granola. Afterwards you and your guide will enter the largest rainforest of the world – the Amazon Rainforest. You will drive to the provincial capital Tena to discover the local market with its specialties. You will find exotic and domestic fruits and vegetables like mangos, bananas, yucca or guayusa. You will have the possibility to try various products, like the Chontacuro worm which is a culinary specialty in this area – they are offered from the bbq or alive – dare yourself! The guayusa leaves are used to prepare tea and are known for their ability to constrain hunger. You will get to know the leaves “hojas de bijao” better this afternoon, but feel free to buy them for your own use.
Additionally you can find “sangre de drago” – Dragon blood, a liquid extracted from trees bark that is used for curing wounds, stomach ulcers and devitalize germs and fungi in many South American countries.

After this first experience you will continue to your second stop, the wide and formidable Napo River. In this region it is only possible to move along with a canoe, so that's what you will do!
After the ride you will start to hike through the jungle and the protected forest “Selva Viva” for about 2 hours. During that time your guide will explain you the world of insects and the flora of the area whereat you will see impressive uniqueness like the strangler fig that is wrapping around trees to then kill them, the walking palm that oves up to 4 inches a year, the ceiba which is the giant of jungle trees and has impressive buttress roots or the lemon ants which can be part of your meal, if you like..

Now that you have learned about the flora, the fauna will follow.
Therefore your guide will bring you to the “AmaZOOnico”, a rehabilitation center for rescued animals. Here you will be able to spot different kinds of monkeys, parrots, toucans, tapirs, ocelots, anteaters, anacondas and many more. Afterwards you will be back in your canoe in search for a quiet place to have a picnic lunch on the banks of the river. You will enjoy a typical jungle lunch, Maito, which is rice and chicken wrapped in the leaves “hoja de bijao”. Also you will have a variety of fruit with it.

Strengthened by this delicious and wholesome meal, you will continue your adventure and visit an indigenous family that is part of the “Quichuas” tribe. You will get to know them in their urban settlement and see how and where they live their everyday life. Due to that you will get to know the traditions and customs of the tribe, witness how and help to make “chicha”, a typical drink, and try it afterwards. After this refreshment you will explore the vegetable garden, test your skills at the blow gun and fade out your trip in a marsh to watch out for the hoatzin bird. After all these exciting experiences you will return to the Lodge and enjoy your 3 course dinner in the special atmosphere of the jungle again.

Day 3: Leisure – Optional activities at the lodge – Departure (B)

Today your time in Hakuna Matata Lodge comes to an end. After enjoying breakfast you still have time to take part in a Chocolate Tour (optional, not included). You will learn to produce chocolate from the bean to the bar, starting with the pure fruit, the cocoa beans and ending up with the brown gold. You could also use your time differently and relax at the pool, in a hammock or just keep exploring the area until your back time.

PRICES 2020
HAKUNA CLASSIC
3 days / 2 nights

Day 1: Arrival – Journey to the Amazon Rainforest –Leisure or optional activities (D)

During your drive you will notice how the vegetation changes from the landscape of the Andes into the rainforest. After passing the gate to the Amazon Rainforest you will be in a mountain jungle paradise – Hakuna Matata is your private hideaway in the tropical forest. During your trip you came closer to sea level by about 7,200 feet and are located on about 2,000 feet now.
After your arrive in our jungle paradise you can add a tour by foot or by horse in the afternoon to your free day. If you decide on horseback riding you will choose one of the hotel owned horses and take a tour through the forest and rivers. If you rather take a walk you can explore the area on different hiking paths. Your guide will explain the flora and fauna and share ancestral information about plants that are used for medical reasons. However, you can also participate in our chocolate tour (all tours are optional, please let us know if you want to add this tour to your program when booking).

In the afternoon, explore our 300 acre private reserve where you will find a private white sand beach by the Inchillaqui River, a tropical garden, a protected forest which belongs to the Lodge and a palm shaped pool which has a length of 88 feet and is 72 feet wide. In the evening you will enjoy a delicious 3 course gourmet meal in an exclusive atmosphere surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Local market in Tena – Canoe Tour – Jungle Walk – Animal Rescue Center “AmaZOOnico” – Indigenous Community (B/L/D)

You will start your day with a well balances breakfast, containing homemade bread, eggs, coffee, and fruit or granola. Afterwards you and your guide will enter the largest rainforest of the world – the Amazon Rainforest. You will drive to the provincial capital Tena to discover the local market with its specialties. You will find exotic and domestic fruits and vegetables like mangos, bananas, yucca or guayusa. You will have the possibility to try various products, like the Chontacuro worm which is a culinary specialty in this area – they are offered from the bbq or alive – dare yourself! The guayusa leaves are used to prepare tea and are known for their ability to constrain hunger. You will get to know the leaves “hojas de bijao” better this afternoon, but feel free to buy them for your own use.
Additionally you can find “sangre de drago” – Dragon blood, a liquid extracted from trees bark that is used for curing wounds, stomach ulcers and devitalize germs and fungi in many South American countries.

After this first experience you will continue to your second stop, the wide and formidable Napo River. In this region it is only possible to move along with a canoe, so that's what you will do!
After the ride you will start to hike through the jungle and the protected forest “Selva Viva” for about 2 hours. During that time your guide will explain you the world of insects and the flora of the area whereat you will see impressive uniqueness like the strangler fig that is wrapping around trees to then kill them, the walking palm that oves up to 4 inches a year, the ceiba which is the giant of jungle trees and has impressive buttress roots or the lemon ants which can be part of your meal, if you like..

Now that you have learned about the flora, the fauna will follow.
Therefore your guide will bring you to the “AmaZOOnico”, a rehabilitation center for rescued animals. Here you will be able to spot different kinds of monkeys, parrots, toucans, tapirs, ocelots, anteaters, anacondas and many more. Afterwards you will be back in your canoe in search for a quiet place to have a picnic lunch on the banks of the river. You will enjoy a typical jungle lunch, Maito, which is rice and chicken wrapped in the leaves “hoja de bijao”. Also you will have a variety of fruit with it.

Strengthened by this delicious and wholesome meal, you will continue your adventure and visit an indigenous family that is part of the “Quichuas” tribe. You will get to know them in their urban settlement and see how and where they live their everyday life. Due to that you will get to know the traditions and customs of the tribe, witness how and help to make “chicha”, a typical drink, and try it afterwards. After this refreshment you will explore the vegetable garden, test your skills at the blow gun and fade out your trip in a marsh to watch out for the hoatzin bird. After all these exciting experiences you will return to the Lodge and enjoy your 3 course dinner in the special atmosphere of the jungle again.

Day 3: Rafting Tour through the Jungle (B/L/D)

After taking pleasure in a rich and flavorful breakfast again you will have the strength you need for this day full of adrenalin. You will enjoy wild water rafting on the Jatunyacu River. On this 15.5 miles route with a level of 3 / 3+ you, as a beginner or advanced rafter, will enjoy the ride. Given that you will be introduced to paddling, behavior on board and safety instructions by a professional team, there is no previous knowledge needed. In the language of the Quichuas the name of the river means “big water” which indicates the waves and rapids that will bring us a jubilant day! But don't worry, there will be time for recovery in the natural pools and throughoutyour journey you can enjoy the landscape of the jungle – on clear days you might even see the mountainous landscape of the Andes.

If you desire a little bit more tranquility it is possible to ride on the Anzu River which offers a level 2 / 3 of rafting – ideal for families with kids. On both tours you will have a break to enjoy your lunch on the waterfront in form of a picnic. Afterwards you will hit the water again and drive to your ultimate destination Puerto Napo.

After being back in the lodge you will enjoy a 3 course mean in a special atmosphere again

Day 4: Leisure – Optional activities at the lodge – Departure (B)

Today your time in Hakuna Matata Lodge comes to an end. After enjoying breakfast you still have time to take part in a Chocolate Tour (optional, not included). You will learn to produce chocolate from the bean to the bar, starting with the pure fruit, the cocoa beans and ending up with the brown gold. You could also use your time differently and relax at the pool, in a hammock or just keep exploring the area until your back time.

Day 1: Arrival – Journey to the Amazon Rainforest –Leisure or optional activities (D)

During your drive you will notice how the vegetation changes from the landscape of the Andes into the rainforest. After passing the gate to the Amazon Rainforest you will be in a mountain jungle paradise – Hakuna Matata is your private hideaway in the tropical forest. During your trip you came closer to sea level by about 7,200 feet and are located on about 2,000 feet now.
After your arrive in our jungle paradise you can add a tour by foot or by horse in the afternoon to your free day. If you decide on horseback riding you will choose one of the hotel owned horses and take a tour through the forest and rivers. If you rather take a walk you can explore the area on different hiking paths. Your guide will explain the flora and fauna and share ancestral information about plants that are used for medical reasons. However, you can also participate in our chocolate tour (all tours are optional, please let us know if you want to add this tour to your program when booking).

In the afternoon, explore our 300 acre private reserve where you will find a private white sand beach by the Inchillaqui River, a tropical garden, a protected forest which belongs to the Lodge and a palm shaped pool which has a length of 88 feet and is 72 feet wide. In the evening you will enjoy a delicious 3 course gourmet meal in an exclusive atmosphere surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Canoe Tour – Parrot Clay Lick – Breakfast in an indigenous Community – Jungle Walk – Monkeys at Misahualli (B/L/D)
After an early wake up you will leave the Lodge with your guide at 5.30 am to enjoy a day filled with adventures and experiences.
You will drive to the calm and small Arajuno River which is a branch of the huge Napo River, here you will board your canoe. The Arajuno River winds its way through the forest, passing high shores abundantly covered with vegetation. While watching birds you will realize how calm and little sailed the river is. The magnificence of birds will stun you – you will discover egrets, red-rumped cacique, tangaras and more species.

After landing with your canoe there will be a short walk to the saltlick which attracts birds. It is recommended to bring binoculars to better observe the landing of the birds on the trees and afterwards their way to the salt lick. There are a lot of parrots and parakeets, mostly the dusky-headed parakeet. You might be lucky and also see free living monkeys, but don't wonder about their noises that might fright away the birds.
Once you’ve had your fill of birdwatching, your guide will lead you to the next station, the indigenous community Santa Barbara with 23 families who are adding up to 120 inhabitants. The leader of the community will greet you and introduce you to some traditions and customs, including the production of “chicha”, a traditional drink that is up for tasting when it is done. Surely you are hungry by now and for that reason there will be a rarity for you – you will join an original buffet of the rainforest with the community.

There will be carachama and bagre – both from the family of the catfish, bocachico – a fish from the salmon family, barbequed chontacuro-worms (optional) – a specialty in the region, yucca, maduro-bananas, salad from hearts of palm, tea from the guayusa leaves which is known for its ability to constrain hunger, fruits and cocoa. All of the above is harvested or caught freshly and prepared for you on the spot – enjoy this once in a lifetime experience! In case you do not feel filled up already the guide carries some sandwiches and fruits – also for the case if you feel a little bit hungry early in the morning.

Strengthened by this wholesome and organic meal, you will be able to immersedeeper into the culture of the community, typical dances will be performed by kids for you and you can test your skills at the blow gun as well as the javelin. During a short walk afterwards you will see the ceiba which is the giant of jungle trees and has impressive buttress roots before you have the opportunity to buy some handicrafts made by the community. The sales revenue will go all into the community cash point which is used to buy canoe parts, pens, cloth or other objects for the community.

After a short farewell by the mayor of the community you will head to the 6,200 acre big Jatun Sacha Reserve. This amazing protected area consists of tropical rain forest in which again you will discover new flora and fauna, like bamboo, the walking palm which moves up to 4 inches a year and the pampil palm which you already held in your hands today, in form of the 3.2 feet long blowgun.

About 1.5 hours later you will be back in your canoe to get to the car which drives you to the little town Misahualli where you will eat a typical “almuerzo” – lunch – before you can take a walk to the beach to be greeted by many capuchin monkeys. At around 3 pm you will be back at the Lodge to take pleasure in relaxing at the pool or in a hammock with a cocktail or keep on exploring the area.
In the evening another 3 course meal is waiting for you which you can enjoy in the special atmosphere of the jungle.

Day 3: Leisure – Optional activities at the lodge – Departure (B)

Today your time in Hakuna Matata Lodge comes to an end. After enjoying breakfast you still have time to take part in a Chocolate Tour (optional, not included). You will learn to produce chocolate from the bean to the bar, starting with the pure fruit, the cocoa beans and ending up with the brown gold. You could also use your time differently and relax at the pool, in a hammock or just keep exploring the area until your back time.

PRICES 2020
HAKUNA EXPLORER
3 days / 2 nights

Day 1: Arrival – Journey to the Amazon Rainforest –Leisure or optional activities (D)

During your drive you will notice how the vegetation changes from the landscape of the Andes into the rainforest. After passing the gate to the Amazon Rainforest you will be in a mountain jungle paradise – Hakuna Matata is your private hideaway in the tropical forest. During your trip you came closer to sea level by about 7,200 feet and are located on about 2,000 feet now.
After your arrive in our jungle paradise you can add a tour by foot or by horse in the afternoon to your free day. If you decide on horseback riding you will choose one of the hotel owned horses and take a tour through the forest and rivers. If you rather take a walk you can explore the area on different hiking paths. Your guide will explain the flora and fauna and share ancestral information about plants that are used for medical reasons. However, you can also participate in our chocolate tour (all tours are optional, please let us know if you want to add this tour to your program when booking).

In the afternoon, explore our 300 acre private reserve where you will find a private white sand beach by the Inchillaqui River, a tropical garden, a protected forest which belongs to the Lodge and a palm shaped pool which has a length of 88 feet and is 72 feet wide. In the evening you will enjoy a delicious 3 course gourmet meal in an exclusive atmosphere surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Canoe Tour – Parrot Clay Lick – Breakfast in an indigenous Community – Jungle Walk – Monkeys at Misahualli (B/L/D)
After an early wake up you will leave the Lodge with your guide at 5.30 am to enjoy a day filled with adventures and experiences.
You will drive to the calm and small Arajuno River which is a branch of the huge Napo River, here you will board your canoe. The Arajuno River winds its way through the forest, passing high shores abundantly covered with vegetation. While watching birds you will realize how calm and little sailed the river is. The magnificence of birds will stun you – you will discover egrets, red-rumped cacique, tangaras and more species.

After landing with your canoe there will be a short walk to the saltlick which attracts birds. It is recommended to bring binoculars to better observe the landing of the birds on the trees and afterwards their way to the salt lick. There are a lot of parrots and parakeets, mostly the dusky-headed parakeet. You might be lucky and also see free living monkeys, but don't wonder about their noises that might fright away the birds.
Once you’ve had your fill of birdwatching, your guide will lead you to the next station, the indigenous community Santa Barbara with 23 families who are adding up to 120 inhabitants. The leader of the community will greet you and introduce you to some traditions and customs, including the production of “chicha”, a traditional drink that is up for tasting when it is done. Surely you are hungry by now and for that reason there will be a rarity for you – you will join an original buffet of the rainforest with the community.

There will be carachama and bagre – both from the family of the catfish, bocachico – a fish from the salmon family, barbequed chontacuro-worms (optional) – a specialty in the region, yucca, maduro-bananas, salad from hearts of palm, tea from the guayusa leaves which is known for its ability to constrain hunger, fruits and cocoa. All of the above is harvested or caught freshly and prepared for you on the spot – enjoy this once in a lifetime experience! In case you do not feel filled up already the guide carries some sandwiches and fruits – also for the case if you feel a little bit hungry early in the morning.

Strengthened by this wholesome and organic meal, you will be able to immersedeeper into the culture of the community, typical dances will be performed by kids for you and you can test your skills at the blow gun as well as the javelin. During a short walk afterwards you will see the ceiba which is the giant of jungle trees and has impressive buttress roots before you have the opportunity to buy some handicrafts made by the community. The sales revenue will go all into the community cash point which is used to buy canoe parts, pens, cloth or other objects for the community.

After a short farewell by the mayor of the community you will head to the 6,200 acre big Jatun Sacha Reserve. This amazing protected area consists of tropical rain forest in which again you will discover new flora and fauna, like bamboo, the walking palm which moves up to 4 inches a year and the pampil palm which you already held in your hands today, in form of the 3.2 feet long blowgun.

About 1.5 hours later you will be back in your canoe to get to the car which drives you to the little town Misahualli where you will eat a typical “almuerzo” – lunch – before you can take a walk to the beach to be greeted by many capuchin monkeys. At around 3 pm you will be back at the Lodge to take pleasure in relaxing at the pool or in a hammock with a cocktail or keep on exploring the area.
In the evening another 3 course meal is waiting for you which you can enjoy in the special atmosphere of the jungle.

Day 3: Rafting Tour through the Jungle (B/L/D)

After taking pleasure in a rich and flavorful breakfast again you will have the strength you need for this day full of adrenalin. You will enjoy wild water rafting on the Jatunyacu River. On this 15.5 miles route with a level of 3 / 3+ you, as a beginner or advanced rafter, will enjoy the ride. Given that you will be introduced to paddling, behavior on board and safety instructions by a professional team, there is no previous knowledge needed. In the language of the Quichuas the name of the river means “big water” which indicates the waves and rapids that will bring us a jubilant day! But don't worry, there will be time for recovery in the natural pools and throughoutyour journey you can enjoy the landscape of the jungle – on clear days you might even see the mountainous landscape of the Andes.

If you desire a little bit more tranquility it is possible to ride on the Anzu River which offers a level 2 / 3 of rafting – ideal for families with kids. On both tours you will have a break to enjoy your lunch on the waterfront in form of a picnic. Afterwards you will hit the water again and drive to your ultimate destination Puerto Napo.

After being back in the lodge you will enjoy a 3 course mean in a special atmosphere again

Day 4: Leisure – Optional activities at the lodge – Departure (B)

Today your time in Hakuna Matata Lodge comes to an end. After enjoying breakfast you still have time to take part in a Chocolate Tour (optional, not included). You will learn to produce chocolate from the bean to the bar, starting with the pure fruit, the cocoa beans and ending up with the brown gold. You could also use your time differently and relax at the pool, in a hammock or just keep exploring the area until your back time.

Day 1: Arrival – Journey to the Amazon Rainforest –Leisure or optional activities (D)

During your drive you will notice how the vegetation changes from the landscape of the Andes into the rainforest. After passing the gate to the Amazon Rainforest you will be in a mountain jungle paradise – Hakuna Matata is your private hideaway in the tropical forest. During your trip you came closer to sea level by about 7,200 feet and are located on about 2,000 feet now.
After your arrive in our jungle paradise you can add a tour by foot or by horse in the afternoon to your free day. If you decide on horseback riding you will choose one of the hotel owned horses and take a tour through the forest and rivers. If you rather take a walk you can explore the area on different hiking paths. Your guide will explain the flora and fauna and share ancestral information about plants that are used for medical reasons. However, you can also participate in our chocolate tour (all tours are optional, please let us know if you want to add this tour to your program when booking).

In the afternoon, explore our 300 acre private reserve where you will find a private white sand beach by the Inchillaqui River, a tropical garden, a protected forest which belongs to the Lodge and a palm shaped pool which has a length of 88 feet and is 72 feet wide. In the evening you will enjoy a delicious 3 course gourmet meal in an exclusive atmosphere surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Jondachi Canyon Hike – Caving (B/L/D)
You will start your day with a balanced breakfast with homemade bread, eggs, coffee and fruits or granola. Energized by a good night sleep and a nutritious breakfast, you will be picked up around 9 am and start your drive from the Lodge to the “Gran Cañón del Jondachi” which is found in the Sumaco Reserve. In this enchanted place there are a lot of rivers which descend from the Sumaco volcano, as example the big Jondachi River or its branch, the Hollin River. The Intricate trail will lead you to an old-growth forest, then passing by the edge of the canyon to next bypass a confluent stream of the big Jondachi River. On this 1.5 hour hike you will see lots of small birds, waterfalls and vegetation that is influenced by the volcanoes and is only found around here. When you arrived in the lowest part of the canyon you will see a setting that you have never seen before: huge, natural pools that are fed by many different small waterfalls, surrounded by periwinkle vegetation. Now you have time to relax, enjoy the silence and enjoy a delicious snack surrounded by this idyllic setting. If you want to refresh yourself, just jump off some little rocks into the water! But you also can be more adventurous and climb up the waterfall and explore a small cave!

On your way out of the canyon you are passing the impressive Jondachi River with its smoothen giant stones. When you arrive in Mondayacu you will continue until you reach the “Cavernas Templo de Ceremonias”. When you are there you will enjoy your delicious lunch before the adventure begins. Equipped with helmets and headlamps you are ready to start! The dark, partly narrow caves are inhabited with small critters like bats, fireflies and spiders…all waiting for you.
Now you can choose between two chalk-caves: either you discover the cave “Templo de Ceremonia” or the “Cueva de Elefante”. If you decide for the first one, you will be underground for about 30 minutes. This cave provides a lot of space and is comparatively easy to walk-on – in the most parts you are able to walk standing up, only in one part you have to crawl. Due to the packing list, that you read beforehand, you are dressed to get wet and dirty in the caves. The rewards are stalagmites and stalactites! To exit the cave you will mobilize all your strengths and climb up a rock wall some feet. In case that is nothing for you, you are welcome to turn around and walk back out the way you came in.

If you decide for the second cave, you will be underground for about 45 minutes. This cave is so called “water cave” and has narrow aisles, cracks, small steps, belly deep water pools and even some sections where walking is not possible and you have to crawl. The highlights of this cave are the reliefs on the walls and the fragile formations of stalactites. If it was raining heavily beforehand, it is only possible to visit the first cave.

After exploring the caves, your guide shows you a rock-labyrinth close by and on a short walk you will discover the giant ceiba tree, the walking palm, a liana which is classified in the family of ayahuasca and the tree from which “sangre de drago” is made. In a lot of South American countries this is used to heal wounds or fight germs and fungi

Day 3: Leisure – Optional activities at the lodge – Departure (B)

Today your time in Hakuna Matata Lodge comes to an end. After enjoying breakfast you still have time to take part in a Chocolate Tour (optional, not included). You will learn to produce chocolate from the bean to the bar, starting with the pure fruit, the cocoa beans and ending up with the brown gold. You could also use your time differently and relax at the pool, in a hammock or just keep exploring the area until your back time.

PRICES 2020
HAKUNA ADVENTURE
3 days / 2 nights

Day 1: Arrival – Journey to the Amazon Rainforest –Leisure or optional activities (D)

During your drive you will notice how the vegetation changes from the landscape of the Andes into the rainforest. After passing the gate to the Amazon Rainforest you will be in a mountain jungle paradise – Hakuna Matata is your private hideaway in the tropical forest. During your trip you came closer to sea level by about 7,200 feet and are located on about 2,000 feet now.
After your arrive in our jungle paradise you can add a tour by foot or by horse in the afternoon to your free day. If you decide on horseback riding you will choose one of the hotel owned horses and take a tour through the forest and rivers. If you rather take a walk you can explore the area on different hiking paths. Your guide will explain the flora and fauna and share ancestral information about plants that are used for medical reasons. However, you can also participate in our chocolate tour (all tours are optional, please let us know if you want to add this tour to your program when booking).

In the afternoon, explore our 300 acre private reserve where you will find a private white sand beach by the Inchillaqui River, a tropical garden, a protected forest which belongs to the Lodge and a palm shaped pool which has a length of 88 feet and is 72 feet wide. In the evening you will enjoy a delicious 3 course gourmet meal in an exclusive atmosphere surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Jondachi Canyon Hike – Caving (B/L/D)
You will start your day with a balanced breakfast with homemade bread, eggs, coffee and fruits or granola. Energized by a good night sleep and a nutritious breakfast, you will be picked up around 9 am and start your drive from the Lodge to the “Gran Cañón del Jondachi” which is found in the Sumaco Reserve. In this enchanted place there are a lot of rivers which descend from the Sumaco volcano, as example the big Jondachi River or its branch, the Hollin River. The Intricate trail will lead you to an old-growth forest, then passing by the edge of the canyon to next bypass a confluent stream of the big Jondachi River. On this 1.5 hour hike you will see lots of small birds, waterfalls and vegetation that is influenced by the volcanoes and is only found around here. When you arrived in the lowest part of the canyon you will see a setting that you have never seen before: huge, natural pools that are fed by many different small waterfalls, surrounded by periwinkle vegetation. Now you have time to relax, enjoy the silence and enjoy a delicious snack surrounded by this idyllic setting. If you want to refresh yourself, just jump off some little rocks into the water! But you also can be more adventurous and climb up the waterfall and explore a small cave!

On your way out of the canyon you are passing the impressive Jondachi River with its smoothen giant stones. When you arrive in Mondayacu you will continue until you reach the “Cavernas Templo de Ceremonias”. When you are there you will enjoy your delicious lunch before the adventure begins. Equipped with helmets and headlamps you are ready to start! The dark, partly narrow caves are inhabited with small critters like bats, fireflies and spiders…all waiting for you.
Now you can choose between two chalk-caves: either you discover the cave “Templo de Ceremonia” or the “Cueva de Elefante”. If you decide for the first one, you will be underground for about 30 minutes. This cave provides a lot of space and is comparatively easy to walk-on – in the most parts you are able to walk standing up, only in one part you have to crawl. Due to the packing list, that you read beforehand, you are dressed to get wet and dirty in the caves. The rewards are stalagmites and stalactites! To exit the cave you will mobilize all your strengths and climb up a rock wall some feet. In case that is nothing for you, you are welcome to turn around and walk back out the way you came in.

If you decide for the second cave, you will be underground for about 45 minutes. This cave is so called “water cave” and has narrow aisles, cracks, small steps, belly deep water pools and even some sections where walking is not possible and you have to crawl. The highlights of this cave are the reliefs on the walls and the fragile formations of stalactites. If it was raining heavily beforehand, it is only possible to visit the first cave.

After exploring the caves, your guide shows you a rock-labyrinth close by and on a short walk you will discover the giant ceiba tree, the walking palm, a liana which is classified in the family of ayahuasca and the tree from which “sangre de drago” is made. In a lot of South American countries this is used to heal wounds or fight germs and fungi

Day 3: Rafting Tour through the Jungle (B/L/D)

After taking pleasure in a rich and flavorful breakfast again you will have the strength you need for this day full of adrenalin. You will enjoy wild water rafting on the Jatunyacu River. On this 15.5 miles route with a level of 3 / 3+ you, as a beginner or advanced rafter, will enjoy the ride. Given that you will be introduced to paddling, behavior on board and safety instructions by a professional team, there is no previous knowledge needed. In the language of the Quichuas the name of the river means “big water” which indicates the waves and rapids that will bring us a jubilant day! But don't worry, there will be time for recovery in the natural pools and throughoutyour journey you can enjoy the landscape of the jungle – on clear days you might even see the mountainous landscape of the Andes.

If you desire a little bit more tranquility it is possible to ride on the Anzu River which offers a level 2 / 3 of rafting – ideal for families with kids. On both tours you will have a break to enjoy your lunch on the waterfront in form of a picnic. Afterwards you will hit the water again and drive to your ultimate destination Puerto Napo.

After being back in the lodge you will enjoy a 3 course mean in a special atmosphere again

Day 4: Leisure – Optional activities at the lodge – Departure (B)

Today your time in Hakuna Matata Lodge comes to an end. After enjoying breakfast you still have time to take part in a Chocolate Tour (optional, not included). You will learn to produce chocolate from the bean to the bar, starting with the pure fruit, the cocoa beans and ending up with the brown gold. You could also use your time differently and relax at the pool, in a hammock or just keep exploring the area until your back time.

Day 1: Arrival – Journey to the Amazon Rainforest –Leisure or optional activities (D)

Within approx. 3.5 hours, you reach our exclusive lodge from Quito. On the way, you can watch the vegetation slowly changing from the Andes landscape to the rainforest. After passing the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, you will arrive in the paradise of the mountain jungle - our hidden lodge in the rainforest. You have approached sea level by approx. 2,200 meters and are now at an altitude of approx. 600 meters.

Once you arrive at the lodge, you can start exploring immediately – but be careful not to get lost on the almost 120 hectares. The complex offers everything a child's heart desires: a white sandy beach directly on the Inchillaqui River, a tropical garden, a private protective forest and a palm shaped pool – and you will hardly find mosquitos.

Enjoy the evening surrounded by the typical noises of the jungle with a 3-course menu in this special atmosphere.

Day 2: Jungle Hike – Horseback Riding (B/L/D)

Today you will get to know the wildlife of the jungle. During an easy hike in the morning, you will be able to see various species of plants and insects typical for this area. Your guide will explain the usefulness of these animals and plants for the whole ecosystem of the rainforest.

After an energizing lunch at the lodge, it is time for you to go on another exploration tour – this time on the back of horses. With a local guide, you will ride through the jungle and small rivers, where you can enjoy the awesome scenery with exciting paths to cross. Children can choose to ride the horse themselves or with the help of a guide.

In the evening, a delicious 3-course menu is already waiting for you.

Day 3: Canoeing in a Lagoon – Nature and Culture Museum – Visit of an Indigenous Community (B/L/D)
After breakfast you will start your trip at eight o`clock in the morning with a canoe. Your first stop today is a lagoon with an island where monkeys swing from tree to tree. The canoe trip takes you around this island. Enjoy the peace and quietness and let the voices of the jungle take you off into another world. Your guide will give you further information about the different bird species and all other animals you will get to see during your trip.
Your trip continues to the jungle town Misahualli, where, with a bit of luck, you can see monkeys romping around. From here, you will take a motor canoe up the Napo River to the Kamak Maki Nature and Culture Museum, where you can see other jungle animals. Among others, you will get to see caimans, capybara, turtles, a parrot and a coati running around the little zoo. A guide working for the museum is going to show you medicinal plants and introduces you to the customs and rituals of shamanism. In addition, the guide will show you the traditional way of hunting in the jungle. Hunting with a blowpipe is still executed in the Amazonas and trying out this technique is a lot of fun for the whole family!

After learning more about the culture of the indigenous people of the jungle, you will now drive downstream to an indigenous community where you will have lunch and get to know other traditions through various activities. The community will show you how the traditional drink “chicha” is produced and the family will perform a traditional dance for you. On the sacred giant stone, that can be found in the community, you can feel and absorb the positive energy of Mother Earth. However, before entering the stone, you must ask for its permission. There are also special rules for getting off the stone.

You can further choose between the activities “Handicraft Workshop” and “Gold Panning”; both activities are very popular by our small guests. In the “Handicraft-Workshop”, the families will show you how traditional jewelry is made out of natural materials and the children will have the opportunity make their own traditional bracelet – the parents are welcomed to help their children with the handcraft. The second option teaches you the art of gold panning. Search for your own Indiana Jones gold treasure!

On the way back to the lodge, you can optionally visit the largest tree of the Napo area. The tree is not only a huge hotel for the jungle inhabitants, but also tells exciting stories and legends.

Day 4: Chocolate Workshop – Departure (B)

Today your time ends in our Hakuna Matata Lodge.

Before you return there is a gourmet highlight on the agenda in the morning: a chocolate workshop, where you learn how to make chocolate the traditional way! At the end of this process, you can taste for final product.