Kapawi Ecolodge, Southeast Oriente Travel Guide

4.7 (24)

Experience the Amazon rainforest like never before at Kapawi Ecolodge, owned and operated by the Achuar community. Immerse yourself in nature and culture.

Kapawi Ecolodge, nestled deep within the Ecuadorian Amazon, offers a unique ecotourism experience owned and operated by the Achuar Indigenous people. Accessible only by air, this remote lodge provides an immersive journey into the rainforest and Achuar culture, promoting sustainability and cultural preservation.

A brief summary to Kapawi Ecolodge

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kapawi Ecolodge.

Pack light, quick-drying clothing, as the Amazon rainforest is hot and humid.
Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the elements.
Respect the Achuar culture and traditions by learning a few basic phrases in their language and being mindful of their customs.
Be prepared for early mornings, as many activities start at dawn to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
Bring cash for bar purchases and handicrafts, as credit card payments may not be available at the ecolodge.

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Getting There

Air Travel

Kapawi Ecolodge is only accessible by air from the town of Shell (also known as Shell Mera), near Baños. From Quito, a 4-5 hour overland transfer is required to reach Shell. Upon arrival in Shell, guests board a small charter plane for a 50-minute flight over the Amazon rainforest to the Achuar community of Kusutkau. From Kusutkau, a 20-30 minute canoe ride on the river leads to the lodge. The charter flight from Shell to Kapawi is approximately $340 - $360 USD per person round trip.

Discover more about Kapawi Ecolodge

Kapawi Ecolodge is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to the heart of the Amazon rainforest and the ancestral lands of the Achuar people. Since 1996, this award-winning ecolodge has been a pioneering example of community-based ecotourism, offering visitors an authentic and immersive experience while directly supporting the Achuar community's self-determination, cultural preservation, and sustainable economic development.Located near the Ecuador-Peru border, Kapawi is situated in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. The lodge itself was constructed using traditional Achuar architectural designs and local materials, featuring handcrafted bungalows that are solar-powered, screened-in, and equipped with mosquito netting. These bungalows connect to communal spaces via raised boardwalks, allowing guests to easily socialize and participate in Achuar ceremonies.A visit to Kapawi is centered around experiencing the Achuar way of life and connecting with the surrounding rainforest. Guests can explore the rainforest with local guides, spot diverse wildlife, learn about medicinal plants, and even try their hand at traditional hunting techniques. Community visits offer opportunities to learn about Achuar traditions, participate in cultural exchanges, and support local artisans. Activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and hiking provide further opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Amazon.Kapawi Ecolodge is deeply committed to sustainability. The lodge is 100% owned and operated by the Achuar community, ensuring that all revenue generated goes back into supporting the community's needs, including education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. The lodge also implements various environmental standards to minimize its footprint, such as using solar energy and providing biodegradable toiletries.