Set within a pristine 5,000-acre ecological reserve in the Ecuadorian Amazon, Sacha Lodge provides a unique rainforest experience that blends adventure with comfort. This unique eco-lodge, accessible via a short flight from Quito and a scenic river journey, provides exclusive opportunities to explore the Amazon from multiple perspectives.
Guests can traverse canopy walkways, paddle through creeks searching for wildlife, climb ancient kapok trees, and swim in black-water lakes. The lodge seamlessly blends into its surroundings, allowing visitors to observe diverse wildlife including eight monkey species, countless birds, and rare creatures right from their doorstep. With expert guides and thoughtfully designed accommodations, Sacha Lodge delivers an authentic yet comfortable Amazon adventure.
Their story
In the 1970s, Swiss adventurer Benny arrived in Ecuador, captivated by the Napo River region. He opened his first lodge in 1985, but seeking deeper wilderness, he discovered a pristine stretch of forest with the mysterious Pilchicocha lake. Purchasing 500 hectares, he established Sacha Lodge in 1992 with just six guest rooms. Through dedication to conservation and local employment, the lodge expanded to 5,000 acres, becoming the largest private reserve in Ecuador’s Amazon.
Today, it seamlessly blends comfort with wilderness preservation, employing 170 locals and protecting incredible biodiversity including 600 bird species, while offering unique experiences from canopy walks to community encounters, maintaining a perfect balance between tourism, conservation, and cultural respect. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The lodge was constructed with environmental conservation as a priority, utilizing local materials and sustainable building practices that minimize impact on the surrounding rainforest.
- The 26 cabins feature thatched roofs and blend naturally into the 5,000-acre private ecological reserve.
- The lodge employs eco-friendly waste management, issues reusable water bottles, and maintains strict anti-poaching measures.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Sacha Lodge is powered by a distant, nearly inaudible generator providing 24-hour electricity throughout the property. Their rooms are equipped with energy-efficient amenities including air conditioning, ceiling fans, and hot water systems, while still preserving the rainforest ambiance.
Pioneer in waste management
- The facility issues reusable water bottles to guests to reduce plastic waste and implements systematic waste separation protocols. All sorted materials are transported inland for proper recycling.
- The lodge’s commitment extends to composting organic waste and ensuring responsible disposal of non-recyclable items. These practices, combined with their conservation efforts protecting 5,000 acres from deforestation, demonstrate their dedication to minimizing environmental impact.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Sacha Lodge maintains a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices and organic, chemical-free operations across its 5,000-acre ecological reserve.
- They provide purified drinking water through multiple natural filtration points around the property, eliminating single-use plastic bottles.
- The facility avoids using artificial chemicals or pesticides in their operations, favoring natural alternatives and sustainable methods.
- Their restaurant incorporates locally-sourced, organic ingredients, including sustainably-caught fish with Green Seal certification.
Actively protects nature and community
- The lodge employs over 60 local families, making it the region’s largest tourism employer while providing alternatives to logging and oil exploration.
- Their conservation efforts include protecting endangered pygmy marmosets through research partnerships with universities, maintaining anti-poaching patrols, and preserving vital habitats.
- Through the Shipati Warmi project, they support indigenous women’s empowerment and traditional culture preservation, including a turtle rescue program.
Most Popular Activities Near Sacha Lodge
- Canopy exploration via 150-foot crane offering 360-degree rainforest views.
- 94-foot high canopy walkway stretching 940 feet through treetops.
- Creek paddling in search of monkeys and river otters.
- Birdwatching for over 587 species.
- Night caiman spotting on Pilchicocha Lake.
- Guided forest walks to discover diverse wildlife.
- Visits to Yasuni Parrot Lick to observe exotic parrots.
- Butterfly house exploration featuring Ecuador’s largest farm.
- Community visits to learn indigenous culture.
- Swimming in protected black-water lake.
- Climbing 135-foot Kapok Tower for panoramic views.
- Wildlife photography at the Macaw Tree.
- Interpretation center visits to learn about local life.
- Nighttime jungle walks for nocturnal species spotting.
Best Time To Visit Sacha Lodge
- The best time to visit Sacha Lodge is during Ecuador’s dry season, from late December to March, when rainfall is less frequent and temperatures average 25°C (77°F).
- However, the lodge is open year-round, and the “green season” from April to November offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. During this period, fruit abundance attracts more birds and primates.
- Weather patterns are relatively consistent throughout the year, with mornings typically clear and afternoon showers common. The lodge’s activities run regardless of weather, and each season provides distinct advantages for wildlife observation and photography.