What lives in Yacuma? Update on the true owners of the forest
15/02/2024
How to prepare for your first visit to the Amazon?
15/04/2024Yacuma Ecolodge is the second home for bird lovers
In the middle of the jungle, very early in the morning you hear how the symphony of crickets leaves the Amazon to give way to the singing of birds to welcome the day.
At Yacuma Ecolodge we are lovers of birds, they are our eternal companions in the Amazon forest, when we wake up at dawn, they harmonize the entire environment around the lodge with their beautiful symphony.
Deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon, after navigating the Napo River and then the Chontayacu River you will find yourself surrounded by astonishing biodiversity; Yacuma Ecolodge has become a sanctuary for all bird enthusiasts living in the Amazon and the world.
Yes, we have many species of birds nearby, which is why our lodge is one of the favorite places for bird lovers. Here they can photograph an infinite number of species without being invasive to the environment or bothering the rest of the animals; because all our activities are based on the protection and respect of ecosystems.
A perfect paradise for bird watching
At the beginning of this year we were part of the Great Christmas Count, several lodges in the Chontapunta circle also joined us and together with the local communities we immersed ourselves in the amazing adventure of counting how many species of birds there are around us. This year, like previous years, they reiterate that Yacuma Ecolodge is an ideal place for birds, since our private reserve is home to more than 300 identified species of birds.
Ecuador is one of the countries with the greatest diversity on the planet and the main reason is its strategic location, not only because of the cloud forests that are at the foot of the mountain range that runs through the territory from north to south, also because the east of the country makes up of tropical forest, here there is a great variety of birds. From the vibrant plumage of the toucan to the melodic song of the orioles and the incredible views of the hoatzines in their own lagoon; You will enjoy bird watching like never before. Additionally, at Yacuma Ecolodge we offer expert guides who lead visitors on expeditions from dawn so that you don’t miss anything and thus ensuring an unforgettable learning experience.
Experiences that connect you with nature
In addition to bird watching, Yacuma Ecolodge has a series of unique and innovative activities designed for you, like other visitors, to connect with nature and local culture. From hiking around the reserve, such as the cocoa plantations, or passing along the shore of the Chontayacu River where you will recognize the endemic flora and fauna, to visits to the indigenous communities where you will learn about their customs and traditions, admire their crafts and even its gastronomy. Every day will be an immersive adventure.
On your bird watching excursions you will always have the company of a local bird expert guide who will share with you all the knowledge he has about the species that inhabit the reserve. While you walk along the paths of ceibos and walking palms, he will show you the places where birds usually nest and will give you information about their eating habits, courtship rituals and more information about each species. He will help you identify the different species and their signs in nature.
A home in harmony with nature
Yacuma Ecolodge stands out for its unwavering commitment to conservation and sustainability in each of its itineraries and in management within the lodge. The first thing you should know is that it is built with local materials that are not invasive in nature and we operate with practices that maintain a balance in the environment. Inside the lodge, visitors have a comfortable stay where they learn the importance of ecological practices for the Amazon forest. Here, each guest becomes a main actor in conservation by contributing through immersion in nature and adventure in the majestic diversity of the Amazon forest.
Our commitment to conservation
In each itinerary we carry out we are totally transparent with our guests so that they can be sure that they are not only living an unforgettable experience; but you also contribute to the conservation of the ecosystem that is hosting them. Much of Yacuma Ecolodge’s income is allocated to conservation and environmental education, to ensure that future generations continue to enjoy nature and protect the delicate environmental balance of the world that depends largely on the Amazon.
Some tips for bird watching
Stay attentive
To live a bird watching experience you must stay alert and follow the instructions of your local guide, any tiny noise or a slight movement of leaves can be the necessary signal to see the bird you were looking for.
It is necessary to get up early
The best sightings are made during the early morning from 05:30 in the morning until almost three hours later, after that time it is much more difficult to spot birds and get the best photograph.
Bring binoculars
To be able to observe all the birds without the danger of missing one due to lack of vision, we recommend that you bring your own binoculars so you can look for them in the undergrowth where they usually hide; at least at the beginning, then professional cameras and long-distance lenses can be added.
Download E-bird
In reality, it can be E-bird, merlin or another app with enough data so that you can mark the species you have seen and provide you with a good dose of information about the birds you will record on your trip; The only important thing is that you feel good with whatever app it is.
Yacuma Ecolodge is the second home for bird lovers, it is not only a place to stay, it can also be the beginning of endless adventures and learning. Here you will have unparalleled experiences exploring the Amazon rainforest.
