Transformative Travel Experience in Amazon Rainforest: Ecuador

Are there COVID requirements for coming into Ecuador

No proof of negative PCR test before entry is required. Please check the official government website or your airline for the most up-to-date information.

Can Naku accommodate my allergies?

Our cooking staff are able to cater to most dietary requirements, so please inform the team before arrival.

What are the accommodations like?

We describe the Naku Center as rustic luxury. Each person will sleep on a single bed on an open air platform with a covered thatched roof. Each bed comes with full linens and a mosquito net. The bathrooms are fully functional, including running filtered water, showers and compost toilets. There are outlets available to charge devices thanks to the solar power technology.

There is no WiFi at the Naku Center. However, if there is an emergency, WiFi can be accessed in Llanchamacocha where the plane lands and the community lives. It's a stunning 10-minute canoe ride on the Amazon River to the Naku site.

What do I need to bring? Is there a packing list?

In short, pack lightly and pack only what you will need. You will want lightweight, moisture-wicking, long sleeved shirts and long pants for the rainforest. We will supply mosquito nets, sleeping mat, pillow and blanket and rubber boots for jungle trekking. We will have a community video call prior to the experience to ensure all of your questions are answered.

Inside the community, you'll have an opportunity to purchase local handmade crafts like jewelry and ceramics from the woman. We have found that $250 in personal spending cash for inside and outside of the jungle is sufficient.

Passport, visa, travel insurance?

Your passport must be valid for at least six months past your date of entry in order to enter Ecuador. You will not be allowed to enter the country with a passport that expires within six months of your date of entry. Be sure to check your passport now to see if you meet this requirement so you can secure a timely renewal if necessary. No visa is required for entry with a Canadian or US passport.

We REQUIRE that you purchase travel insurance (medical & flight cancellation) for your time away from home. This kind of travel can be unpredictable and weather dependent.

Is there a clean drinking water?

Throughout the journey, both in the cities and in the jungle, we will always have access to potable drinking water. We have a 3-stage water filter system at Naku. In the mornings in the jungle, there will be coffee and tea served using purified drinking water.

Medical and Health Preparations

In countries like Ecuador, diseases such as malaria, yellow fever and hepatitis can be contracted. However, if the necessary preventative steps are taken, these illnesses can be successfully avoided. This information is provided to keep you safe and healthy during the trip. Please review this guide for detailed healthcare information and consult with your doctor for the approach that is best for you. If you are committed to homeopathic or herbal medicines, information on these alternatives is also included.

Medical Information:

Malaria: The rainforest region we will be visiting has very little to no malaria. However, the decision to take preventative medicine is an individual decision. Prescription Malarone has proven most effective for malaria, China is a homeopathic option and Artemisia (Wormwood) is a good herbal option.

Immunizations: No immunizations are required for entry into Ecuador unless you are entering from an endemic area. Yellow fever immunization is required if you are passing through any other South American country on your way to Ecuador (even when you are only in an airport) or if you are entering Ecuador from an endemic area. The Center for Disease Control has an extensive website with travel related information at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm. Your Ecuadorian consulate can also advise you on current requirements.

Please consult your healthcare professional or local travel clinic for more information on these topics and to meet your specific needs. It is generally recommended to have an updated Hep A, Hep B, and Tetanus vaccination. If you choose to get a typhoid vaccination we recommend taking it orally for less side effects.

Intestinal issues:

For intestinal protection, two Pepto Bismol tablets can be taken before each meal. Cinnamon bark and peony – take four capsules before each meal throughout the trip – can have the same effect.

To protect against unwanted bacteria and parasites in the intestines, take two capsules daily before eating of Acidophilus and Bifidus and one capsule of Kyolic garlic. Begin this regime 1 week before departure and continue throughout the trip. We recommend Traveler’s Probiotic by New Roots.

Vaccinations are not required, but check with your local travel clinic for updated information. We recommend that your Hepatitis A/B and Tetanus vaccinations are current. There is currently no Malaria in this part of the Sapara territory.