Amazonian Adventure: Exploring Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Whispers of the Wild

Today was a symphony of natural wonders, a harmonious blend of cloud forests and vibrant wildlife that left Liam and I utterly spellbound. Leaving the familiar embrace of the Cuyabeno Lodge after a hearty breakfast, we ventured into the heart of Ecuador's ecological treasures, ready to embrace the unknown. It was a day filled with discoveries, where every rustle of leaves and every chirp of a bird held a story waiting to be unraveled.


Discover Cuyabeno Lodge: Your Eco-Friendly Haven in Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest, Perfect for Adventure Seekers and Nature Lovers Alike.

Our morning began with a canoe ride, the gentle rocking of the boat a soothing rhythm against the backdrop of the awakening rainforest. The air was thick with humidity, a palpable embrace that signaled the start of another day in this vibrant ecosystem. We were headed towards the Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas, a name that had danced on our lips with anticipation since we first planned this trip. I made sure to pack my camera and Liam double checked the bag containing our binoculars. I didn't want to miss a thing!


Explore the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas, a stunning national park in Ecuador.

The journey itself was a spectacle. The river, a serpentine vein of life, wound its way through the dense foliage, offering glimpses of a world teeming with life. Monkeys swung playfully from branch to branch, their inquisitive eyes following our every move. Colorful birds, jewels of the sky, flitted among the trees, their calls echoing through the forest. It felt as though we were being escorted by the guardians of this realm, each creature a testament to the untouched beauty of the Amazon. It reminded me of growing up in Cambridge, New Zealand, exploring the local forests and dreaming of adventures in far-off lands. Little did I know that one day I'd be here, living out those childhood fantasies with Liam by my side.

Arriving at the Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale of the place. Spanning from the high Andes to the western rainforest, it was a tapestry of diverse ecosystems, each with its own unique charm. We opted for a guided hike, eager to delve deeper into this natural wonderland. Our guide, a local indigenous man named Mateo, possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of the reserve, his insights adding layers of depth to our experience. He spoke of the interconnectedness of all living things, of the delicate balance that sustained this vibrant ecosystem. It was a lesson in humility, a reminder of our place within the grand scheme of nature.

As we trekked through the cloud forest, the air grew cooler, the sunlight filtering through the canopy in ethereal rays. The vegetation was lush and abundant, a riot of green hues that seemed to stretch on forever. Mateo pointed out various plant species, explaining their medicinal properties and traditional uses. He showed us the Quishuar tree, a symbol of strength and resilience, and the Aliso, known for its healing powers. I scribbled notes in my travel journal, eager to remember every detail. Liam, ever the curious one, peppered Mateo with questions about the local wildlife, his enthusiasm infectious.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

One of the highlights of our hike was the chance to spot some of the reserve's elusive inhabitants. Though the Andean spectacled bear and jaguar remained hidden from view, we were fortunate enough to see a variety of birds, including the vibrant Andean cock-of-the-rock and the majestic condor. Mateo explained that the reserve is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. I felt a pang of regret for forgetting my portable solar charger, as my camera battery was starting to dwindle. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

After a satisfying lunch at Jamu Lodge, we set off towards our next destination: Pacha Quindi Nature Refuge. This was a place I had read about extensively, a haven for hummingbirds nestled in the cloud forest. The drive there was an adventure in itself, the winding roads offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. We passed through small villages, each with its own unique character and charm. The locals were warm and welcoming, their smiles genuine and their hospitality boundless.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Pacha Quindi Nature Refuge, an ecological paradise in Tandayapa, Ecuador, perfect for nature lovers and eco-adventurers.

Pacha Quindi, as Mateo had told us, translates to Place of the Hummingbirds in Quichua, the language of the Incas. As soon as we stepped onto the property, we understood why. The air was alive with the whirring of tiny wings, the iridescent bodies of hummingbirds flitting among the flowers. It was a sensory overload, a symphony of colors and sounds that left us breathless. The refuge was the creation of Tony Nunnery and Barbara Bolz, who transformed the land into a hummingbird paradise. I was deeply impressed by their dedication to conservation, their commitment to creating a sanctuary for these tiny creatures.

We spent hours wandering through the gardens, marveling at the diversity of hummingbird species. From the sparkling violetear to the bootracketed racket-tail, each bird was a miniature work of art. I tried my hand at photographing them, but their rapid movements made it a challenging task. Liam, with his keen eye for detail, managed to capture some stunning shots, his patience paying off. He really is a natural when it comes to photography, a skill he picked up during his travels through Ireland.

As the day drew to a close, we made a stop at the Bamboo Lodge, a local shop recommended by Mateo. It was a treasure trove of handmade crafts, each item a testament to the skill and artistry of the local artisans. I purchased a few souvenirs, small reminders of our time in this magical place. Liam picked up a beautifully carved wooden flute, its melodies echoing the sounds of the rainforest.


Immerse yourself in the breathtaking biodiversity of Cuyabeno at Bamboo Lodge, where nature and comfort meet in perfect harmony.

Dinner at the Cuyabeno Lodge was a celebration of local flavors, a delicious spread of traditional Ecuadorian dishes. We savored every bite, our taste buds dancing with delight. As we ate, we recounted the day's adventures, our hearts full of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. The weather in December has been ideal, with warm temperatures and occasional rain showers that only added to the rainforest's allure.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're excited about exploring Parque Nacional Cayambe-Coca and Sangay National Park. I'm hoping to spot more of Ecuador's unique wildlife and immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes. And perhaps Liam will get a chance to test out his new flute at Caiman Lodge! For now, as I sit here reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of peace and contentment. The Amazon has a way of humbling you, of reminding you of the simple joys in life. It's a place where time slows down, where the rhythm of nature takes over, and where the whispers of the wild become your constant companion. And I am so glad to be sharing this journey with my best friend and husband, Liam.

Tomorrow, we will continue our journey, venturing deeper into the heart of Ecuador's natural wonders. I can't wait to see what adventures await us. Until then, goodnight from the Amazon!