CULTURAL IMMERSION

A Journey Into Living Culture

Kapawi Ecolodge offers an authentic immersion into the Achuar indigenous way of life as it exists today—deep in a remote area of the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest.

Founded in 1996 as a pioneering community ecotourism project, Kapawi is owned and operated by three Achuar communities—Kapawi, Kusutkau, and Suwa—and directly benefits their population of just over 500 people. As well as being an incredible community of plants, animals and insects, over the years, its impact has extended to more than 10 neighboring villages and across 50,000+ hectares of conserved indigenous territory, all connected by four navigable rivers.

Anchor 1

At Kapawi, community ecotourism isn’t just a travel experience—it’s a strategy for self-determined sustainable development, led by the people who have lived in harmony with this forest for generations. The Achuar are your local hosts—welcoming you into their lives, their communities, and their connection to the forest. Your most unique travel memories of Kapawi will be closely connected with the Achuar people, culture and its relationship with the Amazon Rainforest.

OPEN ARMS

OPEN HEARTS

Begin The Day With Wayusa

The Achuar day begins before dawn, around 3–4 a.m., with a ceremonial tea called Wayus, made from the native plant Ilex guayusa. As the fire crackles and steam rises from the gourd, dreams are shared—a practice that shapes daily life and reveals insights from the spirit world.

Our guests at Kapawi are invited to start their days the same way (optional): drinking Wayus by the hearth with your hosts, exchanging stories, and setting intentions for the day ahead.

Forest Wisdom & River Stories

The Achuar are people of the forest—keepers of profound knowledge passed down through generations. On hikes and river journeys, your Achuar guides will share:

Traditional uses of medicinal plants
Stories rooted in the land, water, and wildlife
Ways of sensing the forest beyond sight and sound

Kapawi is a space for mutual learning and cultural respect. You’ll come to know:

The Achuar language and worldview
Their cosmology, dreams, and environmental ethics
The challenges and resilience of their communities in the face of external threats

Achuar Language Basics:

Wiñajai (We-knee-ah-hi) – Hello
Maketai (Mah-keh-tie) – Thank you
Kashin (Kah-sheen) – Until tomorrow

"I had an amazing time at Kapawi and loved every second of it! My highlights were experiencing the Achuar ceremonies and visiting their families. I learned so much in such a small space of time and am taking a lot of insights back home!"

— Marie-Sophie V

On special occasions, guests have the opportunity to spend the night at either of the Wayusentsa, Tiinkias or Sharamentsa communities. During your visit, you’ll:

Visit local villages and family gardens
Learn about subsistence agriculture and traditional plant medicine
Taste local gastronomy prepared over an open fire
Connect with Achuar women and families who carry ancestral knowledge through food, craft, and story

These are the moments guests treasure most—sharing a simple, soulful meal, harvesting a medicinal root, or playing games with the children during a local family visit

At Kapawi, we invite you to listen deeply, share openly, and return transformed.

Whether you're looking for day visits, immersive community stays, or deeper participation in Achuar traditions and ceremonies, we help craft a personalized journey of cultural exchange.

DESIGN YOUR CULUTURAL IMMERSION

PHOTO & VIDEO GALLERY

DESIGN YOUR TRIP

Discover the Amazon at your own pace through our flexible 3, 4 and 7-night Amazon Rainforest tours and suggested itineraries.

7 NIGHT AMAZON JOURNEY

Immerse yourself into a disconnected & tranquil way of life with a balance of Achuar Cultural experiences & deep explorations of the Amazon rainforest.

SEE ITINERARY