Amazon Jungle: Mid-Cruise Journey (Single) (Minga Lodge)
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Port
Guayaquil (Quito), Ecuador
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
All,68
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$8400
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
5 days/4 nights
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1: (L, D)
Begin your day with a comfortable transfer from Guayaquil Port to the city’s historic Old Town, where you’ll embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Ecuador’s largest city. Nestled along the Guayas River, Guayaquil is a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, with a rich cultural heritage and a bustling port that serves as the country’s main gateway to the sea.
Your cultural immersion begins with a visit to a 50-year-old, family-owned workshop that specializes in crafting the iconic guayabera shirt. This traditional garment, deeply rooted in the identity of Guayaquil and other Latin American port cities, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s fashion and daily life. You’ll learn about the craftsmanship behind each piece and the cultural significance it holds for the people of Guayaquil.
Next, you’ll be treated to a vibrant folk performance featuring traditional pasillos, a beloved musical genre performed with classic guitars. As the melodies fill the air, you’ll savor a variety of local delicacies, from freshly brewed Ecuadorian coffee to the many creative preparations of green plantain. You’ll also sample hearty meat-based dishes known as secos, celebrated for their rich, savory flavors that capture the essence of Guayaquil’s culinary traditions.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to the airport for your flight to Quito. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and take you north to the Mitad del Mundo, or Middle of the World, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. At the nearby Intiñan Museum, located at the true equator, you’ll explore exhibits showcasing pre-Columbian life, ancient Andean astronomical tools, and the unique natural phenomena that occur at the equator. The museum also offers reenactments of traditional indigenous ceremonies, providing a deeper understanding of the spiritual and scientific knowledge of Ecuador’s ancestral cultures.
After this enriching experience, you’ll transfer to your hotel in Quito for check-in and enjoy a relaxing dinner to end your day.
Day 2: (B, L, D)
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Quito’s airport to board a domestic flight to the Amazonian town of Coca. This scenic 40-minute flight offers breathtaking views as you soar over the eastern Andes Mountain range and descend into the lush lowlands of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Upon arrival in Coca, you’ll complete the check-in process and meet a representative from Minga Lodge. From there, you’ll travel by car to the river dock, where a comfortable, covered motorized canoe awaits. Your journey continues along the Napo River, one of the Amazon’s major tributaries. As you cruise through the jungle, keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, including herons, kingfishers, and other vibrant wildlife that call this region home.
Upon reaching Minga Lodge, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and a brief orientation. After settling in, enjoy a delicious lunch and take some time to rest before the afternoon’s activities begin.
During your stay at the lodge, your daily adventures will be tailored by your guide and may include a variety of immersive experiences. You might embark on a guided rainforest hike, where an expert naturalist will lead you deep into the jungle to uncover the Amazon’s extraordinary biodiversity—home to countless species of plants, insects, and animals, many of which are still being discovered.
You may also have the opportunity to participate in a shamanic cleansing ceremony, where a local healer will share ancestral knowledge and demonstrate the traditional tools and medicinal practices used by indigenous Amazonian tribes.
For a hands-on cultural experience, join an Indigenous weapons expert to learn the art of throwing spears and shooting blowguns. Test your aim by targeting papayas mounted on sticks—a fun and interactive way to connect with the traditions of the region.
Each day at Minga Lodge promises a new adventure, offering a deep and meaningful connection to the Amazon’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Day 3: (B, L, D)
Your day begins with an early morning birdwatching excursion before breakfast. As the sun rises over the Amazon, paddle quietly down a tributary of the Río Napo by canoe or kayak. In this serene setting, it’s not uncommon to spot more than 30 species of birds in just an hour. Keep your eyes peeled for the prehistoric-looking Hoatzin, elegant herons, and even majestic eagles gliding overhead. After this peaceful start to the day, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.
Following breakfast, prepare for an unforgettable Amazon expedition. Climb aboard our expedition vehicle and journey deep into the untouched corners of the rainforest. This off-road adventure, led by expert naturalist guides, reveals the Amazon’s hidden wonders—from towering ancient trees draped in vibrant epiphytes to elusive wildlife that thrives in this lush paradise. As you hike through the dense undergrowth, you’ll encounter a dazzling array of flora and fauna, from brilliant butterflies to, if you're lucky, the tracks of a jaguar.
After returning to the lodge, enjoy a delicious lunch before heading out for an afternoon of discovery at the Minga Agricultural Learning Center (MALC). Unique to Minga Lodge, this center is the heart of our conservation and community engagement efforts. Spread across 173 acres, it features a large greenhouse, a thriving tree nursery, and a vibrant bee garden. Here, you’ll see how superfoods like cacao, plantains, and coffee are cultivated, and learn about our reforestation program that distributes thousands of native seedlings each year. You’ll also visit the Melipona Bee Rescue Center, home to stingless bees that play a vital role in pollination and biodiversity. These tiny pollinators are responsible for the delicious honey served at the lodge.
Later in the afternoon, dive into the world of chocolate with our “Bean to Bar” experience. This hands-on activity connects you with the local communities we support through sustainable agriculture. Walk through “flavour alley,” sampling the natural bounty of the region, then step into our professional chocolate-making lab to craft your very own chocolate bar using the world-renowned Cacao Fino de Aroma.
After dinner at the lodge, your adventure continues with a night walk around the dwarf caiman pond. This is the perfect opportunity to spot nocturnal wildlife—poisonous frogs, butterflies, reptiles, and more—under the glow of your flashlight. It’s a magical way to end a day filled with exploration, learning, and connection to the Amazon’s incredible biodiversity.
Day 4: (B, L, D)
Begin your morning with a sensory journey through the world of Amazonian coffee. Before breakfast, take part in a professional coffee tasting featuring locally sourced and expertly roasted beans. Learn to evaluate coffee like a connoisseur by scoring its aroma, acidity, body, and flavor, and sample brews prepared in a variety of traditional and modern methods. After this energizing start, enjoy a full breakfast at the lodge and prepare for another enriching day in the rainforest.
Your first activity of the day introduces you to the artistry and resilience of local women. Meet skilled female artisans who craft beautiful jewelry using seeds and nuts collected from the surrounding rainforest. As you learn about their techniques and traditions, you’ll also discover how this craft provides sustainable income and empowers their communities.
Next, immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the Kichwa people. Visit a local farmer and help harvest fresh fruits and vegetables from his land. Then return to Minga Lodge, where Kichwa chefs will guide you through a hands-on cooking lesson. Using the ingredients you’ve gathered, you’ll prepare traditional dishes such as fish wrapped in palm leaves—a delicious and authentic taste of the Amazon.
After lunch at the lodge, continue your exploration with a visit to the Melipona Bee Conservation Center. These stingless bees are vital pollinators in the Amazon, playing a crucial role in biodiversity, agriculture, and reforestation. Learn about their ecological importance and sample a variety of their unique honeys in a guided tasting session.
Later in the afternoon, head to the river for a peaceful fishing experience. Cast your line into the quiet tributaries of the Río Napo and try your luck at catching the day’s bounty. Whether you're an experienced angler or a curious beginner, this relaxing activity offers a chance to connect with the rhythms of the river and the natural beauty of the Amazon. Dinner will be at the lodge.
Day 5: (B, Snacks)
Your final day at Minga Lodge begins with an early wake-up call and breakfast, followed by a peaceful walk along the boardwalk, offering one last chance to take in the sights and sounds of the Amazon rainforest. Afterward, you’ll retrace your journey back to Coca, traveling by river and road to reach the airport for your flight to Quito.
Upon arrival in Quito, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to a charming venue in the city’s historic Old Town for lunch. After your meal, set out on a guided city tour of Ecuador’s capital, nestled at the foot of the towering 5,000-meter Pichincha Volcano. Known for its spring-like climate and stunning colonial architecture, Quito was the first city ever declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.
Your tour will highlight the treasures of Quito’s beautifully preserved historic center. Visit the iconic San Francisco Church and its museum of religious art, admire the dazzling gold-leaf interior of La Compañía Church, and stroll through Independence Plaza, flanked by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. With its rich artistic heritage, intricate woodcarvings, and flower-filled balconies, the Old Town offers a vivid glimpse into the city’s colonial past and vibrant present.
Following your tour, you’ll return to Quito Airport to check in for your international flight to Lima. While waiting for your departure, enjoy access to the VIP lounge (available after clearing customs), where you can relax with snacks and refreshments.
Upon arrival in Lima, your representative will greet you and transfer you to the port of Callao, where you’ll rejoin your ship and continue your journey.
Cancellation Policy:
This excursion is non-refundable within 90 days of arrival into the excursion port. Any cancellations made after this deadline will be subject to full payment of the tour. This will include if a guest cancels their voyage within 90 days of arrival into the excursion port.
Passport information:
This excursion requires your passport information to secure flights. You must have your passport details uploaded into your booking portal 90 days prior to departure. Late submission of passports will be subject to late fees and spaces are subject to availability.
Notes:
For jungle activities, each group of up to 10 guests will be accompanied by both a native Spanish-speaking guide and a naturalist English-speaking guide to ensure a rich and informative experience. In Guayaquil and Quito, one English-speaking guide will be assigned to the entire group. This sample itinerary is subject to change. All excursions and scheduled times may vary depending on weather conditions, seasonal factors, group size and interests, and decisions made by your guide to ensure passenger safety and smooth operations. While the region is home to a vast array of wildlife, sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the unpredictable nature of the rainforest. Guests are kindly reminded to maintain a respectful distance from all animals, stay on marked trails, and always follow the instructions of your Naturalist Guide. No vaccinations are currently required to visit Minga Lodge & Reserve. There have been no reported cases of malaria, yellow fever, Zika, or cholera in the La Selva area. However, we strongly recommend that all guests consult their physician prior to travel for the most up-to-date health advice and recommendations. This is considered a strenuous adventure and is not meant for guests with mobility issues. If you have questions regarding the activity level, please email Seabourn’s shore excursion department. This tour does require a minimum number of bookings to operate.
Clothing:
Waterproof clothing and footwear are essential for your comfort and safety. Please note that due to the high humidity and frequent rainfall in the rainforest, it is likely you will get wet regardless—so come prepared! Wear comfortable, casual clothing in natural, breathable fabrics and be prepared for humidity. Waterproof bags are suggested if you would like to keep items dry. Please make sure to bring this from home as they may not be available for purchase at the lodge or on the ship.
Visas:
Kindly note that it is the responsibility of guests to ensure they possess the necessary visas for all countries that will be included in their Overland Adventure or Overnight trips, as well as for re-joining the ship at the designated location. Guests are encouraged to seek assistance with visa requirements from their travel agent. Seabourn does not provide visa procurement services and therefore, guests are advised to obtain the required visas independently before embarking on their journey. If you require further assistance, Seabourn’s preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. Residents of the USA and Canada phone: 866-935-8472; or email: Seabourn@cibtvisas.com . CIBTvisas' phone numbers and email addresses for residents of Australia, Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of our website, in the Cruise Preparation area. Applications and additional information can be downloaded from the CIBTvisas website at https://CIBTvisas.com/Seabourn . You must advise CIBTvisas of your Overland Adventures or Overnights, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise.
Breathing devices:
There are stringent regulations regarding the transportation of breathing/respiratory devices for any purpose during tours or overland trips. Guests intending to bring such a device must notify the home office or shore excursion staff at least 30 days before the start of the tour. They are required to fill out the necessary FAA documentation, furnish a physician's authorized letter detailing the device's particular use, and provide information about the device. It is imperative to understand that each airline will conduct an inspection of the device before boarding to ensure compliance, which may result in delays at the airport.