Hidden away in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, on the border of Yasuni National Park, is La Selva Eco Lodge, winner of the Ecotourism Award from the World Congress on Tourism and the Environment. Yasuni is home to several communities of the Kichwa people while studies also show that the area holds world records for the wide array of plant and animal species found in the area.
The lodge is two and a half hours by boat from the Amazonian town of Coca (accessed by domestic flight from Quito) and situated on the beautiful oxbow lake called Garzacocha, or heron's lagoon. The lodge offers a high degree of comfort seldom seen in the jungle. There are 12 thatched cabins inspired by the simple, local bamboo design and using only rainforest materials. They offer private bathrooms with hot water, electricity, ceiling fans, hammocks and mosquito netting where necessary. There are several public areas for sharing 'jungle tales' including a good restaurant with lake views and bar where you'll be surprised by the fruit juices on offer. There is also a small spa inundated with tranquil and colourful butterflies.
Activities focus on the stunning surrounding area and include guided jungle trails, canoe excursions, lagoon swimming and visits to the observation tower and noteworthy parrot clay licks. Programmes on offer range from four-night Amazon, to yoga, massage or birdwatching options.
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