CANOEING ADVENTURE CUYABENO 6 Days

THE ULTIMATE ACTIVE CANOEING ADVENTURE – CUYABENO 6 DAYS LOOP TOUR

CUYABENO RIVER & LAKES + AGUARICO RIVER – BY PADDLING AND MOTORIZED CANOES, “MODERATELY ACTIVE RATING” 5 DAYS PADDLING MAXIMUM 22 Km (14 MILES) PER DAY (5-Hours) – 200 Km (124 Miles) TOTAL COVERED DISTANCE BETWEEN PADDLING (76 Km) AND MOTORIZED CANOE (124 Km)

FOR NATURE LOVERS ONLY – WITH THE FIRST 2 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION IN A LODGE – 2 NIGHTS CAMPING AND 1 LAST NIGHT ACCOMMODATION AT AGUAS NEGRAS RIVER LODGE

An extraordinary paddling experience exploring the whole length of the Cuyabeno River to its mouth in the Aguarico river. This great Amazon adventure starts at the upper course of the Cuyabeno River and the main entrance to the Wildlife Reserve. From here we´ll easy paddle downstream for a maximum of 6 hours per day.

During the first 2 days we will visit the fantastic flooded forest and its lakes then we continue paddling in the remote lower part of Cuyabeno River. During our tour we´ll have great chances of observing a variety of wildlife including the legendary Pink fresh water Dolpin (Innia Geofrensis), Monkeys, Anacondas, Caimans, Parrots, Macaws, Herons, Egrets and more. On our last day (day 6) we´ll use a comfortable motorized canoe to navigate first a short distance on Cuyabeno river to its mouth, then we´ll continue navigating upstream along the magnificent Aguarico River to end our trip by its shore.

DAY 1

DAY 1. – LAGO AGRIO OR COCA CITIES – EL PUENTE – PADDLING CUYABENO RIVER – LODGE 1

In the morning drive from Lago Agrio or Coca Cities to the shore of the Cuyabeno River (El Puente) (2h). From here and by motorized canoe we will navigate downstream Cuyabeno River to the point called “Paso del Tigre” where we will enjoy our lunch. After lunch we’ll distribute group gear and provisions before loading the paddling canoes.

Before starting, we’ll have a quick briefing covering the day itinerary and a review of paddling canoes safety procedures. After this orientation we´ll start our fantastic Amazon Rainforest experience by paddling canoes downstream along this beautiful Black water River. During this quieter and enjoyable journey, you´ll have great chances of observing wildlife including Monkeys, Parrots and Macaws. After approximately 4 hours of navigation we´ll arrive at our first Lodge near the beautiful Cocha Grande Lagoon. Accommodation will be in cabins with private bathrooms. At night we will sail in a motorized canoe to observe night life including Caimans. (Lunch and dinner included. Paddling distance 15Km (9 miles).

DAY 2

DAY 2.- LODGE 1 – PADDLING CUYABENO RIVER – LODGE 2

This morning we´ll be awakening by the sounds of the many species of birds that inhabit this marvelous pristine Rain Forest. After a hearty breakfast we will paddle among the fantastic Macrolobium Trees that exist in the Cocha Grande Lagoon, later we´ll go for an interesting hike in primary forest followed by a refreshing swim in the Lagoon. Return to the Lodge for Lunch and prepare to depart.

After lunch we will load the boats and paddle downstream Cuyabeno River with excellent chances of spotting wildlife including the legendary fresh water Pink Dolphin (Inia Geoffrensis). After approximately 4 hours we´ll arrive at our second Lodge. Upon arrival it will be a time to relax. Accommodation will be in cabins with private bathrooms. At night we`ll take a short hike where it is possible to see giant insects, spiders, snakes and enjoy the fantastic sounds of the night life in the Amazon. Return to the lodge. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Paddling distance 15Km (9 miles).

DAY 3

DAY 3.- LODGE 2 – PADDLING CUYABENO – SIONA NATIVE TERRITORY CAMPSITE 1

After breakfast we´ll paddle a short distance, then a 2 km hike will take us to the Siona Indigenous Community where we`ll be part of the making of the Casabe bread (Manioc or Yuca bread) starting from the extraction of the Casabe roots to the final product that consist of a large, round and flat bread. Casabe is an important part of the Indigenous people’s traditional diet.

Later we´ll have time to visit a medicine man or “Shaman” who will give us an interesting lecture about their traditions and culture of their native life. Return to the Lodge for Lunch and prepare to depart. We´ll load the boats and paddle for around 3.5 hours to our campsite 1. Accommodation will be in single or double tents. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Paddling distance 14Km (8.8 miles).

DAY 4

DAY 4. – CAMPSITE 1 – PUERTO MONTUFAR CAMPSITE 2

After an early breakfast we´ll go for a hike near the camp with opportunities of watching wildlife as well as learning about the Ecosystem of the Amazon Rainforest. We´ll see also a small cacao (cocoa) plantation. Upon returning, we´ll break camp, load the boats and start paddling towards our next destination, Puerto Montufar campsite. This is a fantastic journey which involves paddling for about 5 hours east into the deep, pristine Rainforest where we will explore an area with little impact from human activity; therefore chances of watching wildlife are enhanced. During the way we will have our Picnic lunch. Late in the afternoon we´ll enjoy a refreshing swim in the river.

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Paddling distance 22Km (13.6 miles).

DAY 5

DAY 5. – PUERTO MONTUFAR – AGUAS NEGRAS RIVER LODGE

After breakfast we´ll break camp, load the motorized canoe and navigate by motorized canoe slowly downstream Cuyabeno River towards our comfortable Aguas Negras River Lodge. During the way we will have good chances to observe wildlife. Lunch at the lodge and time to relax after lunch. In the afternoon you´ll try your luck at fishing Piranhas. At night we`ll take a second hike where it is possible to see giant insects, spiders, snakes and enjoy the fantastic sounds of the night life in the Amazon. Farewell drink and dinner. (Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Navigation distance distance 28 Km (17.5 miles).

OPTIONAL: Paddle from Puerto Montufar Campsite to Aguas Negras River Lodge (6 hours)

DAY 6

DAY 6. – AGUAS NEGRAS RIVER LODGE – AGUARICO RIVER – LAGO AGRIO OR COCA CITIES

Early in the morning and by motorized canoe we´ll navigate towards a place called “Saladero” or Salt licks (Clay Licks) where Parrots of different species show up at these sites in large numbers to get the minerals they need to help digest some toxics they have consumed together with their diet. Under favorable conditions and with some luck we´ll enjoy this natural spectacle.

After breakfast we´ll prepare us for departing. By motorized canoe we´ll navigate downstream along the Cuyabeno River to its mouth in the great Aguarico River with more chances of watching wildlife including fresh water dolphins. From the mouth of Cuyabeno River we´ll continue upstream along the white waters of Aguarico River. Aguarico River is a tributary of the Napo River and this in turn is a tributary of the Amazon River in Peru. Our motorized canoe will take us to the Secoya Native territory where we´ll enjoy our picnic lunch. From here a short trip by motor canoe will take us to Tierras Orientales village from where our car will drive us back to the City of Lago Agrio or Coca(arrival at about 3 – 4 pm.)

Navigation time and distance by motorized canoe: 3.5 hours on 94Km (58 miles).

NOTE: THE ITINERARIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGES, DUE TO THE
CLIMATE VARIATION THAT MAY OCCUR IN CUYABENO.

INCLUDED IN OUR SERVICES:

Transportation from Lago Agrio or Coca cities – Cuyabeno Reserve – Lago Agrio, motorized canoe and paddling canoes, experienced bilingual naturalist guide, Accommodation in Aguas Negras River Lodge, Tents, bedding, camping mattress, rubber boots (up to No 46), life jackets, raincoat (Poncho), Biodegradable soap at the Lodge and camping, Lunch and dinner on the first day, Three meals a day on the next days and breakfast and lunch on the last day, purified bottled water, Tea, Coffee, Activities within the Indigenous community, airport and bus station transfers to Lago Agrio or Coca cities.

NOT INCLUDED:

Your transport Quito – Lago Agrio/Coca – Quito, Accommodation and meals in Lago Agrio or Coca, alcoholic and additional beverages, tips, Souvenirs from native communities.

RECOMMENDED PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

You must bring your original Passport, Long-sleeved Cotton T-shirts, T-shirts, Cotton socks, Shorts, Sandals or walking shoes, Light wind-breaker, First aid kit, Swimming suit and towel, Hat or cap, Sunglasses with a strap, One small waterproof daypack, Insect repellent, Sun block and Sunburn lotion, Zip lock plastic bags, Camera and spare camera batteries, Flashlight (torch) with spare batteries, Binoculars, Notepad/pen, Rain Coat.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT YOUR TRIP

Please remember that Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is a stunning area, one of the most complex and biodiverse richest places on earth that contains a great amount of wildlife. We will explore a Pristine Rain Forest area where a few tourists visit and few native people live, therefore chances of watching wildlife are great. Every day by canoe and on foot we´ll be searching for wildlife including Macaws, Parrots, Toucans, Monkeys, Freshwater dolphins, Caimans and Anacondas. However observing wildlife in their natural environment depends of factors that includes weather conditions and some luck.
You will be walking slowly in primary forest on trails opened by the natives that in some areas implies crossing by flooded and muddy areas, in general the terrain is flat and do not demand much effort. A maximum walking time is of approximate 3 hours at a time.
Please remember that the name Rainforest comes precisely from the 4000mm (about 12 feet) of rain it receives a year.
Our motorized canoes or paddling canoes do not have roof so please expect heavy rain at any time.
Our paddling canoes are for 3 people and have great stability and versatility enhancing your enjoyment on the water.
Our motorized canoes are comfortable and provided with sits for two people each one with cushions.
Your luggage will be covered and protected against rain water. During all the navigation journeys you`ll always have access to cold drinks.
Campsites and lodges are located on the margin of the river so that we will not need to carry the equipment for long distances, but you will need to be able to transport your own luggage for short distances.
We´ll ask that everyone assist in setting up the campsites.
We´ll visit the most pristine and remote area of the Cuyabeno Reserve and in order to reach our furthest destination we´ll need to travel a total distance of around 200Km in a six-day trip.
The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is a protected area and to get there we´ll have to drive throughout Oil installations, secondary forest and farms. Once we enter the Reserve the landscape will change into a beautiful pristine Amazon Rainforest.

TENTS

Sleeping in a tent is the closest that you can be to the nature; you will hear fantastic sounds of the Jungle life during the day and the concert of insects during the night.
The tents are spacious and for single, matrimonial or double accommodation and are provided with camping mattresses, pillows, bed sheets and towels.