Introduction
The
Kapawi Project began in 1993. The goal was to commence a new trend in eco-tourism, in
partnership with the OINAE, by providing a monthly means of economic support and jobs to
the Achuar located in Kapawi as well as in other communities. In 15 years, all
installations will belong entirely to the Achuar Indians. The lodge accommodates up to 40
visitors and was built in accordance to the Achuar concept of architecture (not a single
nail was used!). Environmentally-friendly methods such as solar energy and trash recycling
are also being utilized.
Achuar is the name of one of the four groups of the linguistic family Jivaro, (Achuar,
Shuar, Aguaruna and Huambisa). With a global population of about 80.000 people, the Jivaro
group is by far the most important homogeneous culture on the Amazon Basin. Well known in
the past for their internal wars, the Achuar live today in peace, mostly in small
villages, a way of living suggested by the missionaries, wherein they obtain their
products produced in small plots -"chacras"- and from hunting, fishing and
gathering in the rain forest.
At the beginning of the 1970's the Achuar were the only Jivaros who had not
suffered any loss of culture due to contact with the western world.
While at Kapawi, please remember that we are guests of a very different culture. Some of their traditions may appear quite odd to us, but is does not mean that we are in a position to criticize them. Please, follow the rules imposed by the Achuar communities and respectfully try to learn about this extraordinary culture.
A visit to Kapawi Lodge is a wonderful add-on to any trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos islands. Contact us for options.
Kapawi is a place of
multiple choices and is characterized by its flexibility. We do not offer fixed programs,
but you can design with your guide and your group, design the most suitable one to meet
your interests and physical condition. In Kapawi you can do many activities and the most
of the itineraries will include visits to the Achuar communities, you can share all of a
day with the Achuar families, hikes in the rain forest, canoeing in rivers and lakes,
swimming, watching piranhas, pinks dolphins, see caimans and other animals of the area, as
well as birdwatching, where there are 480 species. Here at Kapawi, we offer a variety of
programs to fit your personal needs and wishes. Your guide will help you put together a
program in order to take advantage of every minute of your time here at Kapawi.
One thing that should be kept in mind during your stay here at Kapawi is that you are
in the "jungle". Insects are by far the most numerous life form in this habitat
so even though the rooms are screened through the walls and floors, you may have some
unwanted "guests" in your cabin. In addition, you are miles away from what you
know as civilization. The nearest town being a 2 week walk through the forest for the
local people. Please remember that because the only way in and out of the area is by air,
we are 100% reliant on the weather. We request that you leave an extra day after your stay
at Kapawi as a buffer day in case an act of God prevents your departure. This remoteness
is what makes Kapawi such a special and unique place.
There are three alternatives for our programs, according to your physical condition (not
your age):
EASY
Programs that include
short hikes in the rainforest (up to 3 hours) on well defined trails, visits to the Achuar
communities as well as trips in canoes. Meals are served in the lodge or light meals are
taken for the trip. Typical Achuar meals are also offered in their communities. During
overnight stays in the lodge or in tents.
MODERATE
Programs that include medium-distance hikes in the rain forest (up to 5 hours),
sometimes crossing flooded areas. Trips in canoes and visits to the Achuar communities are
also covered. Light meals are taken for the journey or typical Achuar dishes are served in
their communities. Overnight stays include the lodge, in the Achuar communities and
occasionally in tents.
DIFFICULT
Demanding hikes of many hours or days in poorly defined and often flooded trails.
Porters will carry food and supplies. Overnight stays are in tents or in the Achuar
communities. Exploration journeys to virgin areas are occasionally offered. Trips on
inaccessible rivers are done in inflatable rafts. Excellent physical condition is
required!
SERVICES AND RESOURCES AT KAPAWI LODGE
ENERGY: The lodge
is powered by solar energy. Sixty-four solar panels of 75 watts each cover 80% of all the
lodge's energy needs. Every room has 4 lamps: 1 in the bathroom and 3 in the bedroom. We
kindly request you to conserve energy by using no more than three lamps at a time.
WATER: The tap water is filtered through charcoal filters and purified with UV rays.
Bottles of drinking mineral water are available in your room. Solar showers provide 5
gallons of hot water per person each day. For your convenience we recommend that you take
showers at the end of the day.
RAIN: Each room is provided with an umbrella that you can use to go to different areas of
the lodge.
NIGHT: No artificial illumination exists along the boardwalks since it could modify the
behavior of nocturnal animals. You should carry a flashlight with you.
SWIMMING: Swimming can be safely done in lakes and calm rivers. Nevertheless, as the water
level goes down in the dry season, this activity is not always available.
MEALS: We serve a tasty combination of international food and traditional plants. A wide
variety of exotic fruits is also available. Soft drinks, snacks and hot water for coffee
and tea are available all day.
UP
| Rates are Per Person | ||||
| 4D/3N Fri-Mon |
5D/4N Mon-Fri |
8D/7N Mon-Mon or Fri-Fri |
||
| Single | $935 | $1250 | $1970 | |
| Double | $670 | $895 | $1405 | |
| Triple | $570 | $760 | $1195 | |
| Service Charge | $6 | $8 | $14 | |
|
||||
Rates do not include beverages, gratuities, personal
items and are subject to change. Discounted rates available for children under 15 sharing
with parents.
(Subject to change)
