Cuyabeno Reserve
SIONA LODGE
Wildlife and Adventure
The Siona Lodge is idyllically situated in one of the last unspoiled native environments in the Amazon Rain Forest , the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve . Ecuador designated the 603.380 square kilometres (2,329.7 sq mi) a protected wildlife zone since July 26 th , 1979. This positive step forward towards the preservation of part of the Amazon River Basin has allowed us to develop our lodge around the idea of low impact eco-tourism. Our hope is that by exposing you to the untouched natural beauty surrounding the lodge, you will understand and share that these resources should be enjoyed and preserved for future generations to come.
The Siona Lodge accommodates up to 20 people in four individual guest huts; each hut has 2 double bedrooms each with its own private bathroom and shower. Our spacious balconies with a hammock and lounge chairs, invite you to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
The heart of our Main Lodge is a spacious dining area. We take pride in our ability to prepare and serve gourmet cuisine in such an isolated location. We take great care to ensure fresh, local ingredients are the basis for our recipes so you will enjoy your dining experience as much as you do the unspoiled ambiance of the surrounding jungle. The dining area lounge is equipped with a fully stocked bar for you to enjoy any of your favourite after-dinner cocktails.
The Siona Lodge has the best and one of the single most distinctive locations in the reserve, allowing for picturesque sunsets viewed across the large freshwater lake. Much of the wildlife you will see is dependent on the unique ecosystem the lake supports allowing for some rare viewing opportunities.
Our lodge practices a policy of minimum environmental impact. Our solar energy system consumes no electricity from the power grid and is efficient enough to provide the lighting throughout the lodge. We encourage our guests to use natural oil lamps in place of battery powered flashlights and all refuse, both organic and inorganic, is bagged and taken out of the reserve regularly. Our bio digesters further allow us to minimize the impact of pollution by utilizing natural enzymes and bacteria to treat all wastewater coming from the lodge. Our belief in true eco-tourism is intended to make your stay as comfortable as possible while, at the same time, preserving Cuyabeno for all who wish to enjoy its beauty.
Siona Lodge Programs
DAY 1. - Reception in Lago Agrio at 08h30-09h00, and transfer to Cuyabeno River.Box lunch in the route .At this point the visitors have to register in the Reserve's office and pay the Entrance fee. Here our Naturalist Guide will give information about the Reserve, important recommendations and other tips to begin the two hours navigation through Cuyabeno River to the Big Lagoon, where the Lodge is located. Along the river you will find several species in its natural habitat as monkeys, toucans, parrots, insect and the exuberant Amazonian vegetation. Arrival and check in. Night walk in the primary forest to observe amphibians and reptiles for about one hour. Return to the lodge for a welcome cocktail and dinner. Accomodation in double rooms
DAY 2. - After breakfast, departure to the Siona Indian Community of Puerto Bolivar, the largest ethnic group in the Reserve. During this tour you will learn their customs , traditions and way of life. You will be part of the elaboration of the Casabe ; local dish made of yucca (carbohydrates principal feed of the community). The trip takes 2 hours navigation downstream to get there, in the route will be possible to admire the existing fauna along the Rio Cuyabeno such as: birds, monkeys, snakes, pink dolphins, tortoises and many others. A visit to the Shaman, is also included. This is a full day excursion with Lunch in the Community . Return to the lodge. Night navigation for watching Caymans. Dinner. Accomodation in double rooms
DAY 3. - Breakfast. Trek in the primary rain forest for approximately 3-5 hours in the distance you will be able to explore the beautiful and complex tropical ecosystem. You will find the great variety of species of plants, trees and animal life. Lunch back at the lodge. In the afternoon navigation in the big lagoon, to enjoy the surrounding of the lake, time to fish piranhas , swimming and wait for a very special sunset. Dinner.
DAY 4. - Early in the morning before breakfast a bird watching excursion is optional. Breakfast and transfer to Lago Agrio to take your flight back.
In the 5 days 4 nights tour, a visit to Canangueno Lagoon for birdwatching by indian paddle canoe and another hike in the forest are the activities for the 4th day.
The tour includes:
Accomodation in double room ( single room at extra cost)
4 Night Tour - 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 evening meals
3 Night Tour - 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 evening meals
Snacks, pure water, tea, coffe, milk are available permanently
Tours with an English/Spanish speaking Guide
Tours in motorized canoe according the itinerary
Transportation from Lago Agrio to Siona Lodge and viceversa
Rubber boots and life jackets
Not Included:
Flight Ticket Quito - Lago Agrio ? Quito USD 148,00 or bus USD 25,00
Alcoholic and cokes
Personal Spending
Entrance fee to the reserve USD 20,00 and
Colaboration with Siona Community USD 5,00
SIONA LODGE TRAVEL TIPS
WHAT TO PACK : Life in the jungle is very informal. Comfortable and lightweight clothes are a must.
Bring long pants, cotton shorts, long-sleeved T-shirts, hiking shoes, sandals, hat / cap, sunglasses, rain gear, insect repellent, sunscreen, flashlight with extra batteries, binoculars, reading material.
IITINERARY : May be subject to changes due to weather conditions or National Park Directives. The guide may deviate from the published itinerary for any reason he / she deems advisable.
TIPPING : Tipping to the staff is at the discretion of our guests. Tips for the guide are usually given in person.
CLIMATE : In the Amazon region the climate is hot and humid with frequent rain showers. The drier months are from October to March. The temperature ranges from 19°C to 36°C throughout the year. Siona Lodge is at 250 m above sea level.
HEALTH : Immunizations are presently not required to visit this area of the Amazon jungle - it is advisable however to consult your doctor or physician before your trip. We recommend precautions against malaria and yellow fever.
Strong insect repellent should be acquired before your arrival in the jungle.
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