The Sacha Lodge

  • El Coca, Ecuador
  • Amazon Rainforest
  • 4, 5 days+
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The Sacha Lodge Tour

Located in a 5000 acre private ecological reserve, Sacha Lodge provides a safe and comfortable base for you and your family to enjoy the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest.

On our Sacha Lodge Amazon tour, explore the forest on rainforest walks, canoeing the lake, visiting the Yasuni parrot lick, and walking high in the trees on our 940-foot (275-meter) long canopy walkway. The walkway is a great place to spot some of the thousands of colorful birds.

As this is a private reserve, the wildlife is well protected. It’s not uncommon for different monkeys to even play on the boardwalk or cross through the canopy over your comfortable accommodation.

Enjoy delicious food with both restaurants available, the Sacha Lodge butterfly house, and miles of trails to show off the best areas of this incredible section of Amazonia.

Review reaction image
The Sacha Lodge image
We have had an amazing stay at Sacha. The whole organisation was efficient. We would recommend Sacha to anyone –young, families, students. Our guide really made the trip special.
- James
For: The Sacha Lodge

The Sacha Lodge Accommodation

The Sacha Lodge was carefully constructed to blend in with the environment yet offer a little comfort in the rainforest. Sacha Lodge cabins are designed in a traditional style with thatched roofs and shaded terraces nestling in with the Amazon Rainforest.

Sacha Lodge has 26 rooms, including single, double and (upon request) triple accommodations. All bedrooms contain a private bathroom with flushing toilet and hot shower. The cabins are protected with insect netting and come with ceiling fans above two comfortable double beds to keep you comfortable on your stay. During free time, visitors often report seeing toucans, agoutis and monkeys from their own cabin.

Guests may also enjoy a raised lookout above our main bar and lounge, which offers a scenic view of Pilchicocha Lake and excellent opportunities to birdwatch.

Food & Drink

Meals at Sacha Lodge are designed for international visitors with three buffets served each day offering a diversity of different food. We can cater to vegetarians and special diets can be accommodated with prior notice. And for those who would like a drink, our bar offers a wide variety of cocktails, liquors, wine and beer to enjoy after an active day

The Sacha Lodge Tour Summary

On your tour, you will explore the Amazon Rainforest with your group and naturalist guide. Enjoy finding and learning about the animals, plants and trees of Amazonia on forest walks, canoe tours, walks across our canopy walkway, and visits to the Yasuni clay lick.

One of the favored features of the lodge grounds is our 940-foot (275-meter) long canopy walkway, which stands 94 feet (30 meters) above the ground. Here you can explore the rainforest from a unique perspective and spot colorful birds of the canopy.

Another of our favored activities is a visit to the Yasuni parrot lick. This is an exposed area of clay where hundreds of parrots come to feed on the medicinal clay to help detoxify foods they have eaten in the forest.

In addition to the canopy walkway, you can also enjoy the 135 foot (43 meter) observation tower to see the rainforest from a different perspective. Built around a large kapok tree, the tower gives magnificent view of the surrounding area. You can see many different animals and birds, and a visiting ornithologist spotted 80 species in a single morning.

Of the incredible 1600 bird species registered in Ecuador, 587 (37%) have been seen at Sacha Lodge. That’s almost 7% of the species found in the entire world! If you have a particularly passionate interest in birds, we can offer our Sacha Lodge birdwatching program.

Getting To Sacha Lodge

The journey to Sacha Jungle Lodge begins in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city. From here, a 25-minute flight takes you over the Andes Mountains’ majestic snow-covered peaks and down over 8500 feet (2600 meters) into the Amazon Region.

The flight destination is the port town of Puerto Francisco de Orellana, locally known as Coca, where you will be met by a bilingual guide and taken to a private dock. Here we will pause for a snack and to use the rest rooms before boarding our covered motorized canoe for a 2-hour, 50-mile (80-kilometer) trip down the sediment-rich waters of the Napo, the largest river in Ecuadorian Amazonia.

Video Introduction

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El Coca, Ecuador
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Tour Info

  • Focus Area: Yasuni Biosphere Reserve
  • Duration: 4, 5 days+
  • Start Point: El Coca Airport (OCC)
  • End Point: El Coca Airport (OCC)

The Sacha Lodge Activities

Embark on an extraordinary journey 150 feet above the forest floor. The Canopy Crane lifts you into the rainforest canopy in a metal basket, offering a panoramic view of the vibrant ecosystem below. Safe, thrilling, and educational, this adventure gives you a unique perspective on the life teeming in the treetops—from chattering monkeys to elusive birds—all while ensuring your utmost safety with advanced sensors.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Ascend to the heavens on our Kapok Tower, a 135-foot structure spiraling around an ancient kapok tree. Reach its summit to survey the expansive rainforest panorama that unfolds like a verdant carpet. With over 500 bird species in view, spot the iridescent flutter of toucans and parrots as they crisscross this aerial corridor.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Just a stone’s throw from the lodge, witness the vibrant spectacle of the Yasuni parrot lick. Here, a kaleidoscope of parrots descends at dawn to nibble on nutrient-rich clay. On sunny, dry mornings, this natural gallery buzzes with the vivid splashes and raucous calls of hundreds of parrots—a mesmerizing riot of color and sound.

Available Wednesdays and Sundays only
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Step into the Butterfly House, one of Ecuador’s largest, where nearly 40 native species thrive. Inside this vibrant conservatory, walk among fluttering wings and learn about the life cycles of these enchanting insects. Encounter everything from transparent glass-winged butterflies to the striking blue morphos in their delicate dance.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Venture along jungle paths where sunlight pierces the dense canopy, spotlighting an intricate dance of life. Your guide will reveal the forest’s secrets, from symbiotic plant relationships to the cryptic calls of hidden fauna. As twilight descends, the forest shifts, unveiling its nocturnal characters under the beam of your flashlight.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Paddle quietly along the serene creeks in traditional dugout canoes. This tranquil journey offers a fresh perspective of the forest’s edge, alive with the chatter of birds and the occasional splash of riverine creatures. As the sun sets, the creek becomes a corridor to ancient mysteries, its banks alive with the day’s last chorus.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Under the cloak of night, glide across the lagoon by canoe, the stars above guiding your path. The red gleam of caiman eyes betrays their presence, as these ancient reptiles patrol the shallow waters. This nocturnal expedition brings you face-to-face with the elusive and the mystical, framed by a tapestry of starlight.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Embark on a birdwatching quest where spotting exotic, technicolored birds becomes a daily delight. With a specialist guide like Oscar Tapuy, who spots an average of 60 species a day, delve into habitats brimming with diverse flocks. Armed with telescopes and expert knowledge, uncover the feathery treasures of the Amazon, from the treetops to the forest floor.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Experience the vibrant life of the Providencia community through the Shipati Warmi project. This initiative offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle, from daily chores to culinary traditions. Participate in preparing traditional dishes and engage in heartfelt exchanges that bridge cultures, enriching your understanding of this Amazonian enclave.

Available Wednesdays and Sundays only
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
Traverse the rainforest canopy on a sturdy, elevated walkway 94 feet high and 940 feet long. This thrilling bridge, supported by metal towers, places you among the upper echelons of the forest, where you can witness the dynamic interplay of flora and fauna, from troops of foraging monkeys to the resounding calls of howler monkeys echoing at dusk.
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image
The Sacha Lodge itinerary image

Frequently Asked Questions

Your journey begins with a flight to Quito, Ecuador, followed by a connecting flight to Coca. On your arrival in Coca, a Sacha Lodge representatives will meet you and transport you via motorized canoe down the Napo River (approximately 2 hours). The final portion involves a guided forest walk and a peaceful paddle across the lodge's private lake to not disturb the wildlife.

Yes, all transfers between Coca airport and Sacha Lodge are included in your package. The lodge staff will coordinate your entire journey from Coca to the property.

By far the most convenient way of getting to El Coca from Quito is to fly. After your request, we can help with your flight arrangements. This also means we can track and flight changes and will be waiting at the correct time for your transfer to the Sacha Lodge.

You need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date. Most visitors don't require a visa for Ecuador, but please verify requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing including long-sleeved shirts and pants for evening protection against insects. Bring closed-toe walking shoes, rain gear, insect repellent (preferably environmentally safe options instead of DEET, such as a strong citronella), sunscreen, binoculars, and a small daypack. A headlamp or flashlight is essential for night activities.

Sacha Lodge features 26 comfortable cabins designed to blend with the surrounding rainforest. Each cabin includes private bathrooms with hot showers and is naturally ventilated as well as offering air-conditioning giving you a choice to maintain comfort in the tropical climate.

Yes, the lodge has 24-hour electricity provided by a combination of solar power and generators. All cabins feature hot water showers. Power outlets are available for charging cameras and small electronic devices.

Meals feature a blend of international cuisine and Ecuadorian specialties, prepared with fresh ingredients. Breakfast and dinner are served buffet-style in the main dining area, while lunch varies between buffet service and packed lunches during longer excursions. Guests no have the opportunity to enjoy the Oropendola restaurant on the lake to enjoy fantastic views while enjoying your meals.

Yes, the lodge can accommodate most dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific diets with advance notice. Please inform us of any dietary needs when booking.

We recommend talking to your doctor for your individual recommendations. However, while no vaccinations are mandatory for entry to Ecuador, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider about yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and tetanus vaccines at least 6-8 weeks before your trip.

The lodge maintains basic first aid supplies and staff trained in wilderness first aid. For serious medical issues, evacuation to Coca or Quito can be arranged via motorized canoe and plane. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation coverage.

Activities include guided rainforest hikes, canoe excursions through flooded forests, birdwatching, visits to the 135-foot canopy observation tower, night walks, butterfly house tours, and interactions with local communities. All activities are led by professional naturalist guides. Please see the activities section for more information.

Most activities are designed for travelers with average fitness levels. Trails can be muddy and uneven, and some excursions involve climbing stairs or walking for 2-3 hours. The canopy tower requires climbing several flights of stairs. Alternative, less strenuous activities can usually be arranged.

The Amazon rainforest hosts incredible biodiversity, and while wildlife sightings are common, they're never guaranteed. Visitors frequently observe multiple monkey species, sloths, caimans, hundreds of bird species, fascinating insects, and occasionally larger mammals. Our guides are expert wildlife spotters who maximize your chances of memorable encounters. It is very likely that you will see wildlife.

The Ecuadorian Amazon maintains relatively consistent temperatures year-round, ranging from 73-82°F (23-28°C). Humidity levels are high (80-95%). The region doesn't have traditional seasons but alternates between "rainy" and "less rainy" periods, with April-July and December-February typically receiving more rainfall.

Sacha Lodge offers unique experiences year-round. The "less rainy" season (August-November, March) generally features more sunshine and easier trail conditions. The "rainy" season (April-July, December-February) often showcases more active wildlife and higher water levels, enhancing canoe explorations of flooded forests.

The lodge offers limited satellite internet for emergencies only. Cell service is extremely limited to non-existent. Sacha Lodge encourages guests to embrace the opportunity to disconnect from digital distractions and fully immerse in the Amazon experience.

The lodge maintains satellite communication for emergencies. Emergency contact information will be provided before your departure.

Ecuador's official currency is the US Dollar. The lodge accepts cash and major credit cards for additional purchases like souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities.

While tipping is customary but not mandatory, the suggested amount is 5-10% of your package price, distributed among guides and staff. This can be paid in cash or by credit card at the end of your stay.

Sacha Lodge operates with a strong commitment to sustainability, using a combination of solar power and “nearly inaudible” diesel generators, rainwater collection systems, biodegradable products, and careful waste management. The property protects a private ecological reserve including 5,000 acres of pristine and wildlife-rich rainforest habitat adjacent to Yasuni National Park.

Yes, Sacha Lodge actively employs people from neighboring indigenous communities and supports local education and healthcare initiatives. Many excursions include opportunities to learn about traditional practices and purchase authentic handicrafts directly from community artisans. About 90% of the staff are from local communities.

Rates & Inclusions

4 days / 3 nights

Standard (Double Occupancy): $1,790

Standard (Single Occupancy): $2,327

Suite (Double Occupancy): $2,148

Suite (Single Occupancy): $2,792

5 days / 4 nights

Standard (Double Occupancy): $2,150

Standard (Single Occupancy): $2,796

Suite (Double Occupancy): $2,581

Suite (Single Occupancy): $3,355

Notes
  • Programs per person based on double & single occupancy
  • Children under 12: 30% discount on lodge prices & 50% discount on airfare
  • Children under 5: Lodge free & 50% discount on airfare
Included
  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Welcome drink, water, tea and coffee in all meals
  • Aquatic transportation
  • Excursions with native and bilingual guides
  • Taxes
Not Included
  • Other alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
  • Gratuities
  • $20.00 per person Parrot Lick entrance fee (paid locally)

Operated By The Sacha Lodge

About The Sacha Lodge

The Sacha Lodge was founded in the 1970s when Swiss founder Benny visited Ecuador and started his first lodge on the Upper Napo River until civilization and residential development approached. To satisfy the thirst for adventure, another lodge was founded deep in Ecuador’s Amazon far away from development.

In 1992, the Sacha Lodge was completed, perched on the banks of the Pilchicocha Lake surrounded by incredible wildlife. In later years, a 5,000 acre private reserve was established surrounding the lodge to protect this incredible section of Amazon Rainforest.

The Sacha Lodge has become one of the leading tour operators in the rainforest. They consistently receive high praise from guests. And the lodge is regularly featured in international publications, including Forbes, Conde Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, Vogue, NY Times, Boston Globe and Luxury Travel Magazine.

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The Sacha Lodge Details

Tour Types:
Wildlife, Adventure
Sales Agents:
Karina Cisneros
Offices In:
Ecuador
Notable Awards:
Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice 2022
Founded By:
Benny (Swiss adventurer)
Founded:
1992
Featured In:
Forbes, Conde Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, Vogue, NY Times, Boston Globe, Luxury Travel Magazine
Environmental:
Private 5,000 acre reserve

Room Options

The Sacha Lodge room options
The Sacha Lodge room options
The Sacha Lodge room options
The Sacha Lodge room options
View more details
Standard
  • A/C
  • Floor to ceiling windows
  • High speed Wi-Fi for free
  • More+

The Standard Cabins provide high ceilings and private terraces with hammocks. Each cabin is built in a traditional manner and …

4 days min.
From $1,790
/person
Check Availability
The Sacha Lodge room options
The Sacha Lodge room options
The Sacha Lodge room options
The Sacha Lodge room options
View more details
Suite
  • A/C
  • Floor to ceiling windows
  • High speed Wi-Fi for free
  • More+

The Suites offer 40 m2 of space and include a king bed and exclusive living room. They provide high ceilings …

4 days min.
From $2,148
/person
Check Availability