Napo Wildlife Center - Amazon Rainforest
Sustainable eco-tourism venture in the heart of Equador's Amazon rainforest
A hidden gem in the Yasuni National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, close to the Eastern Andes Mountains.
Traveling to the Napo Wildlife Center is an incredible experience. Fly to the small town of Coca known as the "Gateway to the Amazon" and then continue on a motorboat from the port of La Misión to the welcome station in Yasuní National Park.
From the welcome station, take a dugout canoe and paddle up Añangu Creek that leads through lush rainforest to reach the Añangu Lake and take your first sighting of the Napo Wildlife Center ahead.
Situated in the heart of the most biodiversity-rich rainforest to experience the breathtaking nature, wildlife and local community.
The Napo Wildlife Center is a 100% community led project and takes sustainability very seriously with continuous investment in environmentally conscious infrastructure.
Energy is generated by solar panels, industrial batteries, and silent generators, which is an efficient system with minimal environmental impact. Every aspect of life has been considered with all proceeds re-invested into renewable energy, education and healthcare in the local area.
There are many things to do here. Take a short hike to the Canopy Lookout Tower and climb 120 feet to admire the Amazon canopy in all its splendour! See jumping monkeys, eagles and macaws which would not be possible from the ground. There are guided walking trails to search for wildlife and the medicinal plants that are used by the kichwa community. Spy on clay licks to have the chance to spot a variety of parrots and occasionally the elusive jaguar, puma, tapir and anteaters.
Take to the black waters of Anangu lake in a canoe and search for caimans, turtles and giant otters. Enjoy evening walks through the rainforest to witness the astounding sounds of nightlife.
There is an opportunity to meet with the community to have a look at the lifestyle and traditions of the people who live in this magnificent forest. The women of the community will share traditions and culture such as typical dances, rituals, handcrafted food and drinks to understand how they live.
Only 40 people are allowed to stay at anyone time so feels a very exclusive "one-in-a-lifetime" experience. This is certainly somewhere I would like to go and experience as the Amazon has to be sustained for future generations to enjoy.
More information is available at www.napowildlifecenter.com.
