A journey to the mega biodiverse Yasuni National Park at Napo Wildlife Center. 

We want to invite you for a visit to this special destination, arranged and co- leaded by the very cofounders as well as the visionary leaders of the community.  Please choose the package and travel option that best suits your trip purpose and experience desire, we can also cater to private requests.

Options: 5 days / 4 nights or 8 days / 7 nights. Please note that this tour to Napo Wildlife Center program may be taken in combination with Ecuador Nature, Birding & Wildlife from Andes to Amazon Rainforest, please inquire for more details.

Other than providing you the best arranged nature excursions, possibilities for wildlife sightings and photo opportunities, your visit with us will continue to impact into the permanent education of young community members, other local rangers in the Andean – Amazon nature corridor, as well as expanding another community-based conservation and ecotourism area in the foothills of Cayambe volcano. 

Supported by your visit, Norby and Susy have established a Pilot Naturalist Guide School for local and indigenous people of Ecuador. The revenues of our arranged trips to Napo Wildlife Center are dedicated to create scholarships to support local student's education, grants will cover the expenses of the training program of the school, workshops, part of the materials for local students, providing  access to affordable binoculars, bird and wildlife field guides, basic camera equipment, and student field trips in other habitats of Ecuador. Thank you for keeping us in mind for preparing your unique nature and cultural experience in Ecuador at the Yasuni National Park and Napo Wildlife Center, your visit is crucial for the sustainability of this educational project. 

The Napo Wildlife Center, NWC Amazon Lodge, is one of the very best luxury ecohotels in Amazonian Ecuador. This ecotourism project includes the conservation of approximately over 82 square miles (53,500 acres - over 21,400 hectares) of the most pristine Amazon Rain Forest within the Yasunì National Park, an important UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the largest tract of tropical rain forest in Ecuador. (One millon hectares – 2.5 millon acres for the National Park and aproximately another millon of the Waorani Community reserve, in total an estimated of 2 millon hectares – 5 millon acres) 

The Napo Wildlife Center, NWC Lodge is located by the Anangucocha lake, into the unique ancestral territory of the Añangu Kichwa Community. Thanks to their own initiative and supported by the Ecuadorian EcoEcuador Foundation, we have built in partnership the most carefully designed first class Amazon lodge in Ecuador. Since 2007 the lodge is 100% owned and operated by the Añangu Kichwa Community. 

Getting there. The journey to Napo Wildlife Center starts in Quito, Ecuador's capital city. From its national airport an approximately 35-minute domestic flight will take guests over the Eastern Andes Mountain Range, crossing the equator – latitude 0o and looking into snowcapped volcanoes over 5,790 meters above sea level (18,991 feet) to reach the headwaters of the Amazon Basin near the Napo River at only 250 m above sea level (820 feet). After landing on the Puerto Francisco de Orellana town airport, (named after the discoverer of the Amazon back in 1542) locally known as Coca, we will take passengers for a short, less than 10 minutes, transfer to embark the covered motorized canoe from the lodge. Here a comfortable breeze will company guests on an approximate 2 hours boat ride, 50 miles (80 Kilometers) downstream the largest Ecuadorian tributary of the Amazon: the Napo river. During this trip a good number of birds could be spotted along the way and they include: herons, kingfishers, ospreys, and many others as one travels away into a more pristine and remote area. 

Accomodations. Lodging at NWC has been designed to offer maximum privacy and comfort to the world traveler, providing lake and forest views from their private porches, as well as preserving one of the most pristine spots of Amazon forest in Ecuador. Each of our large luxury rooms are prepared for receiving guests in double occupancy or arranged in advance for a 3 members family visit. Rooms include a king size and twin-size beds, private bathrooms with on demand hot water, a multi-speed ceiling fan, 24 hours electricity provided by hybrid system combining solar panels, batteries, inversors and silent generators, plenty of lights and 120 v outlets, screened windows and mosquito nets. 

Activities. Visitors traveling with us will have a private group, lead by a native Anangu guide, who is also an official Yasuni Park Ranger, expert on the forest's secrets about medicinal plants and other useful items of the rain forest, and our company, top-notch bilingual naturalist guides with great deal of knowledge in tropical forest biology, natural history, wildlife and local cultures. Both guides and leaders using their unmatchable enthusiasm will create informative enjoyable excursions every day providing an educative fun experience. 

We will tailor your excursions while taking advantage of the highest peaks of activity and weather conditions in the forest. We will schedule our outings as a group before dawn or at sunrise. This will maximize wildlife observation and of course you can always decide with our guidance different excursion alternatives to enjoy your Amazon experience to the fullest. This applies for afternoon excursions and night outings, when an overwhelming concert of natural sounds will flood the atmosphere. Welcome and gear up to enjoy the best fauna attractions in the Amazon of Ecuador. 

The unique Parrot Clay Licks. One of the highlights at the Yasuni National Park and exclusive to Napo Wildlife Center is going out on a very early excursion to reach two of Ecuador's most accessible parrot clay licks along the Napo region. These parrot clay licks are an exclusive part of the Añangu Kichwa Community reserve and lodge territory. 

They have a history of being visited by naturalists in the late 1.800s and early 1.900s, they are mentioned in The Birds of Ecuador (Ridgely and Greenfield, 2001). These are 2 of the over a dozen clay licks found on the Añangu Community territory. The. parrot clay licks can be reached by following the main creek downstream on dugout canoe near the Napo river. The Napo Wildlife Center has constructed well established and comfortable blinds at the parrot lick in order to provide visitors best viewing and high-quality photo/video opportunities. 

Activity kicks off at main lick between 7 to 8 in the morning and at second blind after 11 am or so. Species include: Mealy, Blue-headed, Yellow-crowned, Orange-winged and Orange- cheeked parrots, Cobalt-winged, Dusky-headed and White-eyed Parakeets, with the occasional rarities like Scarlet-shoulder Parrotlet and Scarlet Macaw. In best weather conditions at least 800 individuals of most species can be spotted and in other days spite the rain one could still see a few dozens. 

Dining room tower and other canopy towers. There is a superb observation tower on top of the lodge hill. High enough to get great views of the lake and lodge. In clear days, the immense tropical scenery can reach views of the Andes in the horizon, where Gran Sumaco and the snowcapped Antisana and Cayambe volcanoes are located, truly a one of a kind experience. Nearby, the active resident birds can be seen nesting and feeding within the lodge grounds, frequent flights of macaws provide superb views of these elegant parrots. Did you want to see rare monkeys? the curious Golden- mantled Tamarins are often here for a visit. Tower turns out to be just above the main house at the lodge. One can look into the forest canopy and let inspiration flow! 

Forest Canopy Tower, Añangu Community and Napo River Hill towers. The Añangu Community and allied projects have created the largest network of canopy towers in tropical South America, 4 towers in different Amazon rain forest habitats can be visited offering exceptional and diverse nature experiences. At Napo Wildlife Center, about 35 minutes hike away from the lodge there is one the best and most professional canopy tower ever built in Amazonian Ecuador. Designed to last and provide maximum safety to users, this stainless-steel structure complies with international certification ISO 9001:2000 that covers design, manufacturing and erection of steel structures and buildings, and other industrial applications. 

This magnificent building, over 125 feet tall, is standing right next to a giant 155 feet Kapok tree where and ample platform provides great space for over 15 guests and their cameras, spotting scopes, tripods and binoculars gear, or other equipment ready to enjoy the canopy of the rain forest. No one should miss this amazing highlight that provides great views of possible troops of Howler, Capuchins, Monk Sakis or Spider monkeys in the nearest forest.      

Active feeding bird flocks reach the vicinity of the Kapok tree, offering beyond 80 species list in one single morning not to mention the mammal sights. Get into the eye view of large toucans, macaws, colourful tanagers and discover the gently moving Three Toed Sloth. Certainly paradise - heaven for avid professional or amateur birdwatchers and those who love close contact with nature. Armed with high quality optic gear, we will find and show you wildlife. The tower provides an ample and comfortable platform and as one goes up there are 2 resting levels. This unique tower is the perfect site for dawn course or sunset experience. 

The Añangu Community tower, part of the Napo Cultural Center, is another great structure in the transition area of a Mauritia flexuosa (35 m - 115 ft in height) locally called Morete, palm tree forest and forest ridges rich in Moraceae tree species - often called the mulberry family or fig family. Troops of Howler and Dusky-tity Monkeys inhabit this ecotone while Spider Monkeys will cross this forest patches to reach the taller terra firme habitat. Large herds of White-lipped and Collared Peccaries are regular visitors of this area, while Puma and Jaguar are tracking them. Blue and yellow and Chestnut-fronted Macaws relish on Mauritia fruits, they are often visitors to the canopy of this natural surroundings. 

The Napo River Hill tower sits on top of one the highest hills along this important tributary of the Amazon. Here the terra firme and hilly forest dominate the scenery, it is the climax of biodiversity in the American tropics, one of the most diverse habitats on Earth. Fantastic views of the Napo river as well as the canopy of the highest tree species in the Amazon is possible here, while wildlife encounters and sightings range from Red-and-green Macaws, Chestnut-eared Aracaries, Red-legged Honeycreepers, Monk Saki Monkeys, and other numerous vertebrate species. 

Visiting and exploring these towers and habitats need enough travel time and stay at Yasuni National Park. We suggest a minimum of 5 days – 4 nights up to 8 days – 7 nights in order to enjoy and take a memorable holiday in the most diverse Amazonian territory in Ecuador. 

Lake and Creeks. NWC has a large lake, approximately 123 acres – 50 hectares, with two creeks that can be easily explored quietly while sitting on a dugout canoe paddled by our expert guides and staff eager to spot and show you wildlife. The possibilities are great in finding more troops of other species of monkeys like Squirrel, Saddle-backed and White fronted capuchin monkeys or those that by natural distribution or best habitat occur only on our South side of the Napo and include: Monk Saki, Spider, Woolly and Golden mantle tamarin monkeys. NWC is home to a total of 11 species of monkeys! 

All four species of cayman (alligator related) are found at Napo Wildlife Center. The lake offers black cayman species, which can easily be seen best at night canoe rides or even at sunny days by the edge of floating vegetation. 

Following the creeks, a group of giant otters in a hurry to catch their fish for supper are a good chance, a well-deserved prize for NWC guests. Creeks have a dense vegetation on sides, with large trees overhead and calm flowing waters, no one knows exactly what awaits in the next meander, Snail Kite, Crane Hawk, Pygmy Kingfisher, anacondas or a gentle easy moving Three Toed Sloth dwell in these flooded forests. 

Forest Trails and Hikes. Hikes along a variety of forest types are possible by visiting different trails. One can appreciate the tropical forest richness, discover new plants and colourful or well camouflaged insects. On forest trails, guests can see monkeys, lizards, tortoises, frogs and army ants in addition to an array of birds, including toucans, macaws, parrots, manakins and hummingbirds. 

We are constantly aware of wildlife movements and have updated reports of when and where it will be best to try looking for special sightings "hey guys, we had a glimpse of a large spotted body last week on the main trail, when we approached discovered deep heavy steps of a cat" This is the territory of the rich terra firme, the land of anything is possible, expect the unexpected. 

The largest mammals like Jaguar, Puma, Tapir, Giant anteater and Giant armadillo have been spotted on this area. Night hikes are possible at NWC providing amazing unexpected wildlife. 

Birdwatching. Over 562 species of birds have been recorded at the Napo Wildlife Center, about 1/3 of all of Ecuador`s birds. A vast and rich bird-life that can reward the most avid birdwatcher with the unrivalled South Napo specialties. NWC and Añangu are a classic visiting location for someone travelling Ecuador seeking for the overwhelming bird diversity. 

Agami and ZigZag herons are found near the lake and creeks, including all 5 kingfishers. The large raptors like Harpy and Crested Eagles find healthy mammal food around our area. The active calls of forest floor mixed species flocks with the largest numbers of the surprising antbirds can be found. 

Canopy flocks are normal to run into, chances are birds provide an hour or so of a multitude of wow`s. Gear up with the best binoculars for the most superb views and active excursions helped with the expertise of the top native bird guides along the entire Napo a number of native guides that will eagle eye sight and successfully find for you that great plumaged world. All 4 canopy towers provide unrivalled opportunities for birding at the best rain forest in the country. 

The Añangu Kichwa Community. Añangu lake is not only home to the great Napo Wildlife Center lodge, it has been the ancestral territory of the Kichwa indigenous community that identifies themselves with this name. Añangu people are active participants of the conservation and management of a large territory within the park as well as partners in nature and responsible tourism. We would like to invite you to visit the community that had a dream and initiative since early 1980s to handle this vast rain forest territory by establishing their own lodge. Technically assisted and funded by EcoEcuador Foundation, a leading group of biologists, researchers, and conservation-minded professionals, experienced in first rate ecotourism projects, and the visionary community leaders, we all worked together under this nature tourism venture that created the lodge between 2000 – 2003 when Napo Wildlife Center started operations. Since 2007 the lodge is 100% owned and operated by the Añangu Kichwa Community. 

You can join some families on their daily activities when harvesting bananas, coco, manioc, a starchy jungle root, staple food for Amazonian people, or maybe helping preparing chicha, a traditional drink based on cooked and fermenting manioc. Try this unique time with the Añangu locals, masters of the tropical forest. The women association of the community, Kurimuyu, have created a visitor center where they share with guests different traditional Kichwa dances, local dishes recipes, the way of living of the Amazonian Kichwa, how local houses are built, native Amazonian agricultural practices and products. Your experience includes knowing the cultural visions and healing practices, sharing ancestral rituals such as the Wayusada Ceremony, an early morning energy drink, or the Kichwa Catamaran that emulates our trade routes along the river - this is an unforgettable experience! 

Napo Wildlife Center Facts, Social and Environmental Aspects 

A leading luxury ecolodge, located by the Añangu Lake, south bank of the Napo River, northeast Amazonian Ecuador. Best lodge within Yasuni National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the largest tract of intact rain forest in Ecuador. Started operations in early 2003. 

Some of the best accommodations and privacy, one of the very best in the Amazon. Each cabin and rooms have a private lake and forest views. 

The lodge provides 24 hours electricity by a hybrid power system, solar panels - batteries and last generation noiseless diesel engines. 

Unrivaled nature attractions and biodiversity, 2 unique easy access parrot & macaw clay licks, over 565 bird species, 11 species of monkeys, Giant Otter family and other large mammals such as Brazilian tapir, White-lipped peccary, all species of caiman including, Black caiman, Anaconda and many others. 

Four solid self-standing canopy towers. Carefully engineered to provide maximum safety and enjoyment of wildlife at emergent trees. 

Cofounded in year 2000 by Añangu Kichwa Community and the EcoEcuador foundation. Both worked together for the conservation and management of this area, protecting Añangu community ancestral land of 82 sq miles (55,000 acres = 22,000 hectares), all within the Yasuni National Park. 

The largest private reserve in Amazonian Ecuador operated exclusively by Napo Wildlife Center. Generates income directly to the community and conservation of this section of the national park. 

Highly experienced, certified and specialized Ecuadorian bilingual Naturalist Guides who co-lead groups along with Añangu native guides during all excursions. 

The pioneer lodge in Ecuador with sewage treatment plant obtaining rainwater quality effluent. Best hybrid power system supplying electricity 24 hours through solar panels, combined with ultimate generation noiseless diesel engines at low fuel consumption, hooked with professional high-power store batteries. 

Opened to the public in 2003, in mid 2007 was transferred 100% to the community. 

TOUR SIZE: Each section of this trip is based on minimum of 2 participants up to 12 participants, the ratio per guide per group is a maximum of 8 guests per naturalist guide. For dedicated birding, more wildlife observations and encounters, and nature photography we suggest the longer program 8 day - 7 night and the limit is 8 participants

TOUR LEADERS: Susana Muñoz Ditsch and Norby Lopez Granda, Ecuadorian guides, Norby is a biologist, birder and naturalist, has over 32 years of experience guiding and operating nature and birding tours throughout his native country, including the Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica, Panama, Guyana, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, the Orinoco and Amazon river basins, Chile, and Argentina. 

He is a cofounder and managed the success of Napo Wildlife Center in Amazonian Ecuador, an internationally awarded lodge built and developed with the native indigenous community of Añangu. Has participated and cooperated with different research and conservation organizations, establishing and managing private, community based and public wildlife reserves, has assisted the production of nature documentaries for different institutions, including the BBC. Public administration called him for contributing and serving at the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador developing public policies for tourism products, effective training programs for the tourism value chain and linking quality certifications based on competitive offer and setting the highest quality services. 

Susy has an extraordinary Ecuadorian and German background born in the heart of Ecuador’s epicenter that combines art, culture and nature: the gem of Cuenca. Susy is an unrivaled knowledgeable companion, naturalist guide and professional tour leader for any traveler pursuing for unique, authentic and enriching experiences throughout the country’s destinations that offer the identity of our land and people. 

From early age, by being raised in countryside of the Andes and having lived amongst native Amazonian cultures, as well as exposed to the highest quality chocolate production in Ecuador, she got inspired to become a tourism professional. Fluent in English and both native German and Spanish, she has over 30 years in the industry, crafting and delivering extraordinary cultural and natural history experiences for personalized special programs and tailor-made tours. Her training ranges from natural history and biodiversity, national parks of Ecuador, birdwatching, orchids of Ecuador, nature tourism and hotel management, ancestral practices of indigenous people, archeology, gastronomy and culinary delicacies of Ecuador as well as World Heritage Sites Patrimony, making her a brilliant director and producer of lifetime journeys. 

Combining her activities with cultural and nature tourism, besides guiding, tour leading and operating great journeys for travelers and their holidays, Susana enjoys cultural and natural sites photography, art, drawing, reading, listening to varied music, growing Ecuadorean orchid species, taking care of bonsais, country side horseback riding, walking, tea-times, and     

classic motorcycles! Susy has three daughters and 3 grandkids, is based in Quito where she lives with her husband and life partner Norby Lopez. Both of them craft unique personalized nature, adventure and cultural tours throughout Ecuador and other international biodiverse destinations in South America. 

Susy and Norby continue working on the private sector as an independent consultants, naturalist guides and tour operators, developing international tourism projects in emblematic natural areas, part of them are members of the National Geographic collection: Unique Lodges of the World. Both have immersed with indigenous cultures within their territories in the high Andes and the Amazon basin. 

World class naturalists that combine excellent communication, easygoing temper combined with great sense of humor. You will find them friendly and professional, with excellent English and German, actively helping everyone to find enjoy wildlife and exploring nature.