FAQs

Where is Yachana Lodge and how do I get there?
Yachana Lodge overlooks the Napo River (one of the largest tributaries of the Amazon River) and is next to the remote Kichwa community of Mondaña. Your journey into the rainforest begins in the town of Coca, just a 30-minute flight from Ecuador's capital city of Quito. From there you travel two and a half hours along the river in our private motorized canoe to Yachana Lodge and its 4,300-acre ecological rainforest reserve accompanied by your designated guide who will be with you throughout your stay in Yachana. The other option is to travel by bus or private vehicle from Tena, capital of the Napo province, to the small river port of La Comuna Los Ríos and then take a 20 minute canoe ride down river.

What do I need to bring with me?
Please see our Packing List.

What is the weather like?
As one would imagine, the rainforest is warm, wet and humid. The average temperature is 80° F or 27° C. We receive an average of 12 feet (144 inches or 3,650 mm) of rain annually and the humidity is consistently high. It rarely rains for a whole day without interruption but it often rains for a period of time most every day. We have rain ponchos to use in the canoe and to take on hikes.

Do I need a Yellow Fever Shot?
You are not at risk of contracting Yellow Fever and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Health is not currently requiring people who enter the Amazon region to have a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Are the biting insects bad?
Mosquitoes are virtually nonexistent at Yachana Lodge. However, there are occasionally sand flies, "no-see-ums" (small, nearly invisible insects that bite), and chiggers. We do recommend bringing DEET-FREE insect repellent (we ask that you please do not introduce toxic products into the Amazon), wearing long pants when you go for walks and using the rubber boots we provide.

Is there malaria?
There have been very few reported cases of malaria in the surrounding region and none in the vicinity of Yachana. None of our staff take anti-malaria medicine.  Please talk to your doctor for more information but make sure the advice you are given is based on information that is current.  We find quite often that visitors taking the medicine have not had access to accurate, up-to-date information.

Is the water safe to drink?
The water comes from natural springs and is purified for use in food preparation and is chlorinated in all other areas of the lodge. The water is safe to drink and can be used directly from the taps in the rooms.  We also have Yachana Technology water filters around for you to refill your water bottle as needed.

Do I need trip insurance?
We recommend all travelers obtain medical and other pertinent trip insurance. 

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