Why we like it
- Located on the edge of Ecuador's Yasuni National Park, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1989.
- Refurbished in 2023 with sustainability in mind
- Fun, yet interesting guided excursions to include parrot clay licks and lagoon swimming
- Beautiful lakeside location
- Far enough away to feel pristine, yet close enough to not feel tired of travelling
About La Selva Amazon Ecolodge
Hidden away in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, on the border of Yasuni National Park, is La Selva Eco Lodge, winner of the Ecotourism Award from the World Congress on Tourism and the Environment. Yasuni is home to several communities of the Kichwa people while studies also show that the area holds world records for the wide array of plant and animal species found in the area.
The lodge is two and a half hours by boat from the Amazonian town of Coca (accessed by domestic flight from Quito) and situated on the beautiful oxbow lake called Garzacocha, or heron's lagoon. Having undergone a renovation in 2023, the lodge now offers a high degree of comfort seldom seen in the jungle. There are 16 spacious luxury suites, three scenic premium rooms overlooking the lake, and four sumptuous family staterooms. They offer private bathrooms with hot water, electricity, ceiling fans, hammocks and mosquito netting where necessary. There are several public areas for sharing 'jungle tales' including a good restaurant with lake views and bar where you'll be surprised by the fruit juices on offer. There is also a small spa inundated with tranquil and colourful butterflies.
Activities focus on the stunning surrounding area and include guided jungle trails, canoe excursions, lagoon swimming and visits to the observation tower and noteworthy parrot clay licks. Programmes on offer range from four night Amazon, to yoga, massage or birdwatching options.