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The eco-lodge we need - Mandari Panga is a very special eco-lodge. To keep a place like this in the Amazonian forest, with such high standards, it requires a lot of work, a lot of... read more people, a great will and strong values.
I highly recommand this place, and to meet the people here. Please take the time to discuss with Freddy, Cathy or Ramiro, their goal is beautiful and we must support them as much as possible.
Enjoy the forest, explore, discover, learn, and you will live an amazing and memorable experience.
loutcho l
19 December, 2023
I want to return! - This was an incredible trip. Abraham and Danny were excellent, knowledgable and professional guides. I felt so well taken care of. Everyone is incredibly kind. The... read more lodging was very comfortable. The food was yummy. I loved the soups and juices that were part of the meals. The nature was beautiful and restorative. I have already recommended the adventure experience to several friends and I want to return with students.
wells c
3 December, 2023
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This lodge is special. The experience immerses you into the most biodiverse part of the Amazon, the Yasuni, like no other.
We booked the Adventure Experience which consisted of... read more 7 nights, two of which were camping on sandbanks along the Tiputini river. During the entire 7 day trip we did not see any other boats except a few from the Mandari Panga community, making this trip feel epic and adventurous like no other.
The most important part of this project is the Mandari Panga community who have decided to use their reserve for tourism rather than the lucrative oil exploration in other reserves in the Yasuni. They are fascinated by the local animals and plants, teaching you constantly.
The lodge itself has been built by the community using locally sourced materials. The luxurious nature of the private lodges are first class; the lodges are facing either the Tiputini river or a tributary with spectacular views.
It must be noted that this is deep in the Amazon and guests must be prepared/experienced with insects and mud on animal watching walks.
Highlights included:
Animals (even though dry season makes viewing animals more difficult):
- Two jaguars wondering around our camp.
- Giant river otters
- Pink dolphin
- Anaconda
- Countless other mammals and rare birds.
Experiences:
- Swimming in the Tiputini river.
- Catching and eating our own fish, including piranha.
- Kayaking black water lakes and the river.
- Incredible local food served by the Mandari Panga chef and kitchen staff.
- Forest fruits identified by the local Kichwa guide for picking and consuming along forest walks.
- Learning about Kichwa culture and the Mandari Panga community.
If you are outdoorsy and you are seeking an adventure then this is definitely for you. We had a wonderful time that we will talk about for many more years. Despite the price being higher compared to the more touristy Cuyabeno Amazon experiences, this Yasuni trip is the real deal and worth every extra dollar.
A big thank you to our guide, Ramiro, whose knowledge and passion for the Yasuni added extra magic to a 10/10 trip. We had so many laughs along the way and he was there to make sure our experience was as unique as possible 24 hours a day, always with the biggest smile.
All in all a trip of a lifetime!
Sharon K
11 September, 2023
The Lodge is beautifully located as the only lodge at the tiputini river. We did the kayak tour which was a very good way to see a lot of wildlife,... read more get dome adventure and enjoy the calm mornings and evenings on the river. The guides are members of the community with immense knowledge, bilingual and extremely friendly.
Freddy the manager helped us a lot with organising a private taxi from/to quito.
The food is excellent and the huts got everyzhing u need. Its the perfect mix between authenticy, adventure and luxury.
liolith
11 August, 2023
As part of our World Challenge to Ecuador, we stayed at Mandari Panga and our experience was amazing. The facilities, food and hospitality are 5 stars. Freddie, Javier and Daniel... read more are very knowledgeable and they organised many activities for us. A hike and boat trip at night, coffee and chocolate making as well as canoeing. I'd highly recommend Mandari Panga! It is just magical.
Karina - Mafalda Language & Culture | Tuition
Mafalda L
5 August, 2023
I went here with a study abroad group and loved it! The guides are super knowledgeable and the surrounding hikes are really pretty! Nothing beats the Amazon for wildlife viewing... read more and this area is a great place to do it. The rooms are a glamping style, with mosquito nets included above the beds and there are hammocks on the decks. The rooms with bathrooms attached are really convenient and the bathrooms are updated and clean. They don't have hot water, but it is not super necessary with how hot and humid it gets in this region. There's also an area where you can swim by the dock. Overall, this place is very nice and the staff is awesome! 🙂
Camille T
18 July, 2023
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Amazing experience in a phenomenal jungle lodge. This was my first ever experience in the rainforest, and it exceeded expectations.
The real advantage of this place over other... read more lodges is that it is in true primary rainforest. There are so few lodges in/near primary rainforest - there are lots of lodges on the edge of Coca where there is semi-cultivated jungle, but these would be a poor experience compared to Mandari Panga. You can see so many more animals being just a little further from Coca. It was a long way from Quito, but so worth it - it was the trip of a lifetime.
Everything ran smoothly, from the taxi transfer from Quito to arriving at the lodge and doing the boat trips and walks in the forest. We saw capybara, tarantulas, lizards, howler monkeys, dozens of tropical birds and vast numbers of insects (e.g. leaf cutter ant colonies).
The lodge was surprisingly comfortable. Obviously as there is no wifi, no electricity most of the day etc, there is no AC or fans, but how else can you see the true Amazon! This added to the whole experience and made it more immersive. We slept well, and the cabins are well covered in mosquito netting so you don't have to share your bed with unwelcome visitors - we didn't have any problems.
The food was also excellent - three tasty meals a day, and a good supply of fresh drinking water. I was amazed how the staff manage to cook such delicious food in the middle of the jungle.
The guides were excellent. Pajarito was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and the team were very flexible if we suggested modifications to the itinerary. The team organising behind the scenes (Javier and co) are also very friendly and professional.
As with everywhere in Ecuador, the experience is much better if you speak at least basic Spanish. The staff speak enough English to make it a good experience, however.
I will definitely be going back when I get chance, and would thoroughly recommend.
Nick S
27 June, 2023
Intimate jungle experience - My partner and I wanted to visit the Ecuadorian Amazon but couldn't find a lodge that fit our style... until we stumbled upon Mandari Panga – and it was absolutely perfect for... read more us. Small, intimate, and truly integrated with the forest, this stay allowed us to connect as much as possible with the land and the local people and to sleep under the stars, with the incredible hum of jungle life in our ears. The lodge is on a small river, south of the Napo, which meant that there were no other tour groups in the immediate area. We did a Nature & Culture tour and loved our walks in the forest, on which our guide, Ramiro, shared his seemingly endless knowledge of flora, fauna, and funga – as well as plentiful insights into the people and culture of this place. We also enjoyed our meeting with an elder, learning about local traditions and discussing the palpable tension between oil extraction and conservation efforts, the latter of which you can assist by visiting this park and its communities. Our safari tent was comfortable and elegant. The staff was attentive, but not overbearing, and considerate of food restrictions. We stayed over the Christmas holiday, during which the guests shared a special meal with staff and other members of the community – and it was an experience we'll never forget. It's been some months since our trip but I think it's safe to say it was a memorable one.
Christian S
13 June, 2023
Had a great stay at Mandari Panga Lodge. We did the Nature and Culture Tour with an extra day added on (5D4N).
The nature was incredible - the lodge... read more was surrounded by impressive and incredibly biodiverse forest. Along with some of the most impressive trees, plants and funghi I've heard of there were also some good animals sightings.
We saw a lot of frogs (including some poison dart frogs), some snakes (e.g. an Amazon tree boa), quite a few monkeys (e.g. howler monkeys), some cool spiders (e.g. tarantulas and banana spiders), got some quick glimpses of some rodents as well as a brief river dolphin sighting. We also saw a huge array of birds.
The other insects were interesting - e.g. stick insect, ginormous ant colonies carrying leaves (reminded me of Attenborough documentaries), butterflies the size of birds etc.
The lodge had excellent food that went well on the stomach. High standards were also maintained in terms of hospitality. The staff were friendly and always enthusiastic to help where they could.
Our cabin was really comfortable and had some comfortable downtime on the veranda. Mosquito nets inside were intact and appreciated (though there weren't as many mosquitos as expected anyway).
In terms of activities I really really loved the night walk, and also enjoyed some of the other walks where we walked hours into primary rainforest. The boat rides were also great for spotting wildlife (mainly in the trees). Most of our tour group was either completely or fairly fluent in Spanish so almost everything was conducted in Spanish.
Good value for money and grateful for the hospitality we received! Seemed ethical as well - e.g. almost all the staff were from the local community, and they were big on sustainability.
RobertS205121
13 May, 2023
Fantastic experience for a "guys" trip - My friends and I did quite a bit of research before choosing a condensed Adventure Experience at Mandari Panga, rather than one of the lodges on the Napo River. It... read more was truly a unique experience, and I wouldn't have changed a thing (except perhaps a bit more time).
Our guide, Romero was fantastic. He was extremely knowledgeable, impressively spotted wildlife on the fly, and maintained an upbeat attitude at all times. He was exactly the guy you wanted on your side in the middle of the Amazon jungle. Definitely do at least one night hike while you're there.
Everything else about the stay was great. The bungalow was comfortable and shockingly bug-free. We had a jungle toilet and jungle showers. We also camped one night (with a full crew) which was cool. We expected to be eaten alive by mosquitos and instead we didn't leave with a single bite (FWIW, we traveled late March). The food was delicious and we learned about local cuisine/spices. The conversations at each meal were just as memorable.
They were flexible with our booking and made an itinerary that fit our timing. All we had to do was show up at the airport. They handled the rest. It may take a while to get to this place, but it's totally worth it!
Fun fact: Romero said he offers a "Survival Tour" where he'll take your group into the jungle for a week with minimal supplies. You search for food and water, and set up a hammock each night. If you're reading this and end up doing it, please post a review!
Guggan D
3 May, 2023
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Fantastic experience for a "guys" trip - My friends and I did quite a bit of research before choosing a condensed Adventure Experience at Mandari Panga, rather than one of the lodges on the Napo River. It... read more was truly a unique experience, and I wouldn't have changed a thing (except perhaps a bit more time).
Our guide, Romero was fantastic. He was extremely knowledgeable, impressively spotted wildlife on the fly, and maintained an upbeat attitude at all times. He was exactly the guy you wanted on your side in the middle of the Amazon jungle. Definitely do at least one night hike while you're there.
Everything else about the stay was great. The bungalow was comfortable and shockingly bug-free. We had a jungle toilet and jungle showers. We also camped one night (with a full crew) which was cool. We expected to be eaten alive by mosquitos and instead we didn't leave with a single bite (FWIW, we traveled late March). The food was delicious and we learned about local cuisine/spices. The conversations at each meal were just as memorable.
They were flexible with our booking and made an itinerary that fit our timing. All we had to do was show up at the airport. They handled the rest. It may take a while to get to this place, but it's totally worth it!
Fun fact: Romero said he offers a "Survival Tour" where he'll take your group into the jungle for a week with minimal supplies. You search for food and water, and set up a hammock each night. If you're reading this and end up doing it, please post a review!
gd6843
3 May, 2023
Authentic Jungle Adventure - Highly Recommended! - Hubby and I spent a spectacular week on the Adventure Tour. Ramiro is an excellent guide and all the staff were fantastic. If we hadn't had a guide... read more we would have spotted a few things, but with our guide we saw over 40 species of bids, 6 species of monkeys, fish, river dolphins, numerous snakes, spiders, insects, including so many bugs camouflaged as leaves and sticks! Just being in the pristine jungle was so peaceful and relaxing. The food is delicious and our beds/tent were super comfortable. We hiked (including a night hike), paddled, camped, swam in the river, tried a blow pipe, saw the parrot clay lick/shower, went to see the local community (school and fish farm), etc. If you want a ritzy lodge experience don't come here, but if you want something more adventurous and authentic that supports the local community (the lodge is staffed by local families) this is the place for you! We loved it so much that I am helping them secure a grant from my local Rotary Club here in Canada to run a birdwatching club (including building an elevated platform) to educate the local children and give them the chance to become birdwatching guides in the future.
M933UElisap
16 April, 2023
It was very basic accommodations, but roughing it a little was ok for us.
The overall experience of being in the rain forest and seeing the wildlife was really great.... read more />
I would spend more time if you can. 4 days was of course not enough.
J4034VBjohns
2 February, 2023
As a full-time photographer, I couldn't have wished for a better place to visit in the Yasuni National Park! I was the only guest here and had six amazing days... read more of observing wildlife, hiking, and kayaking. My guide was fantastic, the lodge itself is beautiful, and the food was 10 out of 10 (I am fully plant-based, and I have to say the food they cooked at the lodge was among the best I ever had on any of my many travels!!!). I was super lucky with the weather with sunshine every day and rain during the night. I loved it so much that I am already thinking of organising a trip back. More
U363IOtomv
26 December, 2022
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We have had trips to various rainforests before and avoid using large travel businesses providing standard packages to bigger groups. Our trips are led by our interest in wildlife but... read more also wanting to learn a bit about the ecosystem context too. We searched for a Yasuni National Park trip which was a little more adventurous, took us into primary rainforest, had a range of activities with some flexibility for tailoring to our needs, was eco-friendly and involved the local community. Quite a tall order but Mandari Panga Yasuni Jungle Expeditions offered a seven day “Adventure Experience” which ticked all the boxes. Furthermore there was a maximum of five guests per guide. In the end it was just the two of us accompanied throughout by our knowledgeable and experienced guide, Erik, who spoke excellent English and was able to explain the natural environment in detail. We were sometimes accompanied by the lodge manager, Marco, when his duties allowed. It was quite evident that Erik and Marco enjoyed being out, were proud of their environment and were keen to explain it. We were picked up in Coca and took up the option of a traditional breakfast there at an indigenous restaurant (recommended and tremendous value). We then had a 2½ hour drive followed by 40 minutes in a motorized canoe to reach the isolated, riverside Mandari Panga Lodge. Although to us the accommodation was secondary really, the lodge was clean and comfortable,... We have had trips to various rainforests before and avoid using large travel businesses providing standard packages to bigger groups. Our trips are led by our interest in wildlife but also wanting to learn a bit about the ecosystem context too. We searched for a Yasuni National Park trip which was a little more adventurous, took us into primary rainforest, had a range of activities with some flexibility for tailoring to our needs, was eco-friendly and involved the local community. Quite a tall order but Mandari Panga Yasuni Jungle Expeditions offered a seven day “Adventure Experience” which ticked all the boxes. Furthermore there was a maximum of five guests per guide.
In the end it was just the two of us accompanied throughout by our knowledgeable and experienced guide, Erik, who spoke excellent English and was able to explain the natural environment in detail. We were sometimes accompanied by the lodge manager, Marco, when his duties allowed. It was quite evident that Erik and Marco enjoyed being out, were proud of their environment and were keen to explain it.
We were picked up in Coca and took up the option of a traditional breakfast there at an indigenous restaurant (recommended and tremendous value). We then had a 2½ hour drive followed by 40 minutes in a motorized canoe to reach the isolated, riverside Mandari Panga Lodge. Although to us the accommodation was secondary really, the lodge was clean and comfortable, facilities of a high standard, service excellent and people really friendly. The staff were members of the nearby Kichwa village, one of whom (Freddy) set up the lodge about six years ago. The food was freshly prepared and really good, including the vegetarian dishes. Our room itself was actually a large tent on a wooden platform in a pleasant garden setting. The bed had mosquito nets which we used just in case but little sign of them at that time of year. In between activities we sat outside the tent or lay in its hammock, taking in the view and watching passing birds and other wildlife.
Our guide(s) accompanied us on various walks including a night hike and visit to a parrot clay lick. They pointed out so many things we never would have seen and also told us about medicinal plants, the indigenous people, their traditions, cultures, and pressures on Yasuni NP’s nature.
On some days we would take the motorized canoe from the lodge for wildlife watching along the river. Others involved kayaking on oxbow lakes (lucky to see a huge anaconda at one and hoatzins on another). We also used the kayaks to paddle downstream for wild camping over three days. For that the motorized canoe came along to carry all the gear and indispensable cook, Lisandro, who turned out the most amazing meals (including fish they caught each night). In between activities you could go for a swim or fish in the river, learn to use a blowpipe, visit the local community - we didn’t do the last.
For us this trip had authenticity and struck the right balance between adventure, safety and comfort. We were well looked after by nice people who wanted us to get the most out of the visit. Highly recommended.
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K1139AS
30 November, 2022
We chose Mandari Panga for the unique and authentic experience they offer and we were not disapointed ! We went for the 4 days nature and culture tour. We were... read more the only guests so we had a program adjusted to our wishes (walks, boat tours, kayaking, fishing). The camp is simple but offers everything you need, you really feel part of the nature. The food was excellent, with typical meals and local products. Our guide Ramiro has an incredible experience, a perfect knowledge of animals and environment. He can spot any animal even at long distance and it even seems like he can communicate with them 😉 We were lucky to see monkeys, eagle, tucans, dolphins, anaconda and many more ! We recommend Mandari Panga 100% ! More
Cynthia_92_S
16 November, 2022
This camp lodge is very special. It's owned and run by a local Kichwa community and everyone in the community takes part. There aren't any other lodges on... read more that part of the river so you really feel immersed in the environment. It's off the grid and you stay in tents. It has a friendly, personal feel and seemed like a more connected way to experience this unique place. My friend and I were the only people there for the whole four days, which was kind of cool. Our guide, Ramiro, was very knowledgeable and experienced. He knew all the plants, animals and insects and pointed out so many things we never would have seen. He had great stories about growing up in the area and told us about traditions, medicine and resources. He made a fine handbag out of a palm leaf in about 15 minutes and also showed us how you can make a hammock out of one. He was very friendly and engaged and kind, as was everyone there. The lodge itself is rustic but very comfortable. The tents are spacious and the beds are comfortable. They are up on platforms, have furniture and are covered by a structure so it's not really like camping. It rained hard every night we were there and we were never damp (more than the humid jungle was anyway) or uncomfortable. They lit candles every night since they don't have power except... This camp lodge is very special. It's owned and run by a local Kichwa community and everyone in the community takes part. There aren't any other lodges on that part of the river so you really feel immersed in the environment. It's off the grid and you stay in tents. It has a friendly, personal feel and seemed like a more connected way to experience this unique place. My friend and I were the only people there for the whole four days, which was kind of cool. Our guide, Ramiro, was very knowledgeable and experienced. He knew all the plants, animals and insects and pointed out so many things we never would have seen. He had great stories about growing up in the area and told us about traditions, medicine and resources. He made a fine handbag out of a palm leaf in about 15 minutes and also showed us how you can make a hammock out of one. He was very friendly and engaged and kind, as was everyone there. The lodge itself is rustic but very comfortable. The tents are spacious and the beds are comfortable. They are up on platforms, have furniture and are covered by a structure so it's not really like camping. It rained hard every night we were there and we were never damp (more than the humid jungle was anyway) or uncomfortable. They lit candles every night since they don't have power except in the main building and it was very cozy. The food was wonderful, too. Usually three courses for lunch and dinner! Everything was fresh, home made and delicious. Really impressive considering they don't have a refrigerator. Everyone at lodge was very friendly and kind. More
Smith640
12 November, 2022
WOW!! I am so thankful we booked a 7-day trip with Mandari Panga. I am very impressed with this lodge. I am so lucky I found this lodge... read more on trip advisor. This place is a hidden gem and I am so glad I went with my gut when booking. You won’t find much information online about this lodge but I am so glad we booked with Mandari Panga and not the other lodges! Instead of flying to Coca we had Mandari Panga arrange private shared taxi for us from both ways. Way cheaper than flying and was a cool road trip before the Amazon! The location of the lodge is deep in the Yasuni National Park. Way deeper than the other lodges and way more private. The accommodations at the lodge are comfortable and give you the real rainforest experience! We stayed in wall tents with comfortable beds that were close to the river. Every night I enjoyed the jungle sounds and the peace of being away from society. We did so many activities. We kayaked, hiked, swam in the river, and toured the local community. This lodge is located on the Tiputini river so the chances for seeing’s lots of different wildlife is greater compared to the Napo river. Each day we did so many different activities and by the end of the trip, I wish I would have had more time. All of the staff and guides made... WOW!! I am so thankful we booked a 7-day trip with Mandari Panga. I am very impressed with this lodge.
I am so lucky I found this lodge on trip advisor. This place is a hidden gem and I am so glad I went with my gut when booking. You won’t find much information online about this lodge but I am so glad we booked with Mandari Panga and not the other lodges!
Instead of flying to Coca we had Mandari Panga arrange private shared taxi for us from both ways. Way cheaper than flying and was a cool road trip before the Amazon!
The location of the lodge is deep in the Yasuni National Park. Way deeper than the other lodges and way more private. The accommodations at the lodge are comfortable and give you the real rainforest experience! We stayed in wall tents with comfortable beds that were close to the river. Every night I enjoyed the jungle sounds and the peace of being away from society.
We did so many activities. We kayaked, hiked, swam in the river, and toured the local community. This lodge is located on the Tiputini river so the chances for seeing’s lots of different wildlife is greater compared to the Napo river.
Each day we did so many different activities and by the end of the trip, I wish I would have had more time. All of the staff and guides made sure we were well-fed, safe, and comfortable. They went above and beyond for us. The guides were very knowledgeable, spoke great English, and were some of the best guides I have ever had a tour with. They could identify so many different types of animals and plants. They also could tell us what animal was near us based on the sound it was making.
We saw so much wildlife! Notable ones include tapir, anteater, harpy Eagle (twice and hunting monkeys), pink river dolphins, native wild dog (not a domestic one), spiders, snakes, monkeys, and many many birds.
We also learned so much about the people who live there, the plants and animals, and the local way of life. I loved that this trip had a human and cultural aspect to it. They also showed us how to make empanadas and their traditional way of cooking.
We booked a 7-day tour with Mandari Panga and I wish we would have booked a longer trip! Two of the nights we camped in the deep jungle. This was a very unique and magical experience!! I highly recommend you deep jungle camp and stay for at least 7 days. They made a very comfortable camp site for us.
I also recommend visiting where the parrots eat clay. That was an awesome part of the 7 day tour.
Thank you Mandari Panga for an amazing experience. I still listen to the jungle night sounds I recorded from my tent every night before I go to bed to remember the beautiful and amazing time I had in Yasuni.
Do not hesitate to book a long trip with this lodge. You’ll be thankful you did.
Also note: there is technically a dry and rainy season. Everything online said it was the peak of the rainy season but we had lots of sun and only a little bit of rain. So don’t believe everything on the internet! More
austenw2018
8 October, 2022
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We booked the 5-day-tour "nature & culture" with Mandari in beginning of June. Mandari is a Kichwa community eco-tourism lodge. Luckily we had sunny, warm weather. Everything was very well... read more organised, the lodge very comfortable and also very clean kept (loved the bed and own hammock). The food from chef Manuel was very tasty. Danny was a great guide and very compassionate Kichwa Amazonian with millions of great stories. He and everyone else were so warmhearted, it was hard to leave. Animal wise we were not very lucky, Anacondas or other biggies didn't want to show (we followed a river dolphin, but they are very shy). But I am more into macro photography anyway, so the nighthike with frogs and spiders was my highlight. And nature was impressionable enough alone (seeing AND tasting it ) and there is always the big tarantula to look at in one of the toilet roof bamboo pipes. I really liked her and nicknamed her Barbara.
By booking with Mandari you are helping a whole Kichwa community (which you can visit) to stay independent from oil companies and to finance education in the local primary school. School materials are a nice gift for the kids.
Many thanks especially to Danny, Marco & Freddy for our Ecuador highlight! Keep up the good work! More
877carow
19 June, 2022
Definitely recommend staying here! I spent 4 nights here with my study abroad group. There is no service but it helps you get the raw experience. The staff was so... read more friendly and accommodating. We got to see so many different species of monkeys, frogs, snakes, birds, etc. We learned about the culture of the local indigenous tribe and even how to make chocolate, handmade objects, and to hunt with a dart gun. We went fishing, hiking, and so much more. This is an experience you cannot miss. Pack your bug spray and sun screen and enjoy!
Lorenatay
19 May, 2022
You have to stay at Mandari Panga Jungle Expeditions. First, the camp is isolated. There aren’t other lodges around. We went it was just my daughter... read more and me for the first two days and then another four people came. Our cabana had two hammocks outside the tent and the beds were very comfortable. The food was excellent - so fresh. The soups were my favorite. Our guide, Ramiro, was unbelievable. He was knowledgeable, invested and easily laughed. I don’t know how he was able to spot the animals and insects he saw. He saw a sloth when we saw leaves.He patiently guided us to see all the animals he saw. He taught us about his culture and talked to me in both Spanish and English as I was trying to improve my Spanish. My daughter and I had so many rich, exhilarating experiences on our kayak tours. I am a changed person. More
Rusty4of7
27 February, 2022
Wow!! My study abroad group spent 4 nights here, and they were absolutely incredible. It is located right along the Tiputini River, which was great for swimming and canoeing in.... read more The surrounding area was amazing for observing wildlife - there was a wild Tapir that came up to the lodge many mornings! Jaguars have been seen in the area. Great place for birding as well - we saw several parrots and toucans. Incredible butterflies in the area, including the Blue Morpho butterfly, which is a giant iridescent blue butterfly. Ramiro, our guide, was very knowledgeable and helpful. The bed are equipped with mosquito nets and rooms are cleaned daily. There are lovely hammocks outside each room. The showers are luke-warm, and there are compost toilets. Every night, you'll fall asleep to the sound a symphony of frogs and insects. Secluded in the jungle, this lodge will give you the true Amazon experience. More
D1329YGdaniellek
13 January, 2022
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We spent six days on the Rio Tiputini in the Amazon rainforest. A very long journey brought us straight to paradise. The Mandari Panga Camp is completely isolated... read more from other lodges within the Yasuni National Park. So close to the jungle, without traditional tourism. Just the many unreal sounds of the birds, insects, animals and the river. No electricity, no cell phone, a “sand toilet” and yet pure luxury. The food, definitely the best of our trip so far, prepared in an open, sometime still traditional kitchen with a fireplace.
We really enjoyed every moment here. Nature can hardly be described with pictures and words. The people also impressed us. Your connection with nature and the sheer endless knowledge of animals and plants.
A very extraordinary place that was more than worth the long journey.
Highlight recommended for Thomas who seek a authentic and individual Experience. Ist has nothing in common with those usual Tours we Heart absolut,, wich we appreciate very much. More
Sannimou
19 November, 2021
An experience with Mandari Panga is not cheap. We paid for the 7 day all inclusive jungle experience, at a cost of over $1200 each. Once you factor getting to... read more Ecuador, flying or busing from Quito to Coca and possible overnight accommodation in Coca, you're approaching $2000 each (flying to Quito from pretty much anywhere in the northern hemisphere is not cheap). From the start, the staff are super helpful. Over Whatsapp we were able to ask about travel arrangements and the various items we might require for our trip. This is not a 'normal' touristic experience, so it is useful to have someone in the know point you in the right direction. Leaving the camp, we were also assisted (literally driven to the door) in getting PCR tests necessary for our onwards travel. The camp itself is wonderful. Set deep in the Yasuni National park, the grounds are uniquely remote. Nobody is allowed to build in this national park, but as the community that founded the camp predate the national park's granting of status, it is allowed to stay there. The camp consists of wooden platforms above which hang tents. These tents have comfy beds inside and beautiful hammocks outside for relaxing between activities. There are toilets (although dry), showers and a central building where delicious 3 course meals are served 3 times per day. Ramiro was our guide, and while his English is a little broken, his knowledge... An experience with Mandari Panga is not cheap. We paid for the 7 day all inclusive jungle experience, at a cost of over $1200 each. Once you factor getting to Ecuador, flying or busing from Quito to Coca and possible overnight accommodation in Coca, you're approaching $2000 each (flying to Quito from pretty much anywhere in the northern hemisphere is not cheap).
From the start, the staff are super helpful. Over Whatsapp we were able to ask about travel arrangements and the various items we might require for our trip. This is not a 'normal' touristic experience, so it is useful to have someone in the know point you in the right direction. Leaving the camp, we were also assisted (literally driven to the door) in getting PCR tests necessary for our onwards travel.
The camp itself is wonderful. Set deep in the Yasuni National park, the grounds are uniquely remote. Nobody is allowed to build in this national park, but as the community that founded the camp predate the national park's granting of status, it is allowed to stay there. The camp consists of wooden platforms above which hang tents. These tents have comfy beds inside and beautiful hammocks outside for relaxing between activities. There are toilets (although dry), showers and a central building where delicious 3 course meals are served 3 times per day.
Ramiro was our guide, and while his English is a little broken, his knowledge of the jungle is unbelievable. Before going, its easy to underestimate the value of a good guide. You'd think the jungle's treasures would be obvious, but they're far from it. Often, Ramiro's trained eye would spot something so well hidden that it would take us amateurs 60 seconds or more to spot it ourselves, even with detailed directional guidance. Not only that, but Ramiro will have told us the name of the species, its scientific name and a possible interesting fact or two. Astonishingly, upon close inspection with binoculars and cross referencing with his book of species, Ramiro was never wrong. If you're into birds, you are going to have an amazing time - we saw over 30 species, including wild macaws and the 'great potoo' - one of the most majestic creatures I have ever seen in the wild.
We also had the opportunity to camp deep in the Amazon. Conveniently, the chefs and wonderful staff followed us to the spot, meaning we still enjoyed cooked meals even though we were miles from the camp's kitchen. They made our tents for us, built a fire, camp and underwent all cooking/cleaning, leaving you fully free to bathe in the experience of camping in one of the most incredible environments on earth.
The Yasuni National Park is the most biodiverse place on the planet. If you are planning to see the Amazon, why not there? Mandari Panga offers the perfect mix of convenience and elemental exposure. There is (almost) no electricity, no wifi, no hot water and no running toilets. Also, if you're a light sleeper, you'll likely be kept awake by the various songs emitted by the multitude of nocturnal creatures in the jungle. Yet your room is serviced everyday, you eat like a king and are constantly looked after.
I would whole-heartedly recommend Mandari Panga to anyone thinking of visiting the jungle. By booking with them, you will not only intimately see the Amazon, but help a local community of good people who care about their environment and work hard to maintain it.
To Freddy, Ramiro, La Mandarina, Don Hever Erick and the others who catered to us and welcomed us into their camp for that week in August, thank you - it is an experience we will never forget. More
karimcy99
2 November, 2021
Unlike other eco lodges that accommodate swathes of visitors and guide people along well-trodden (even if technically pristine rainforest) paths, the experiences that this project offers are deeply personal, immersive,... read more and varied.
The activities are plentiful. Kayaking, piranha fishing, morning, noon, and night hikes through different terrains and ecosystems, visits to a local community elder, birding… The guide was exceptionally knowledgeable— he had grown up in the jungle, and besides naturalist info, gave interesting cultural anecdotes.
The stay offers full board. The meals are fantastic and use fresh local ingredients. Really delicious, 3 courses (even for lunch!) and so varied. I was never hungry or thirsty.
The rooms enable you to comfortably enjoy the jungle. Hammock to boot. All are connected with raised boardwalks, swept daily, so it’s easy to get to the bathroom at night. The mattress is comfortable and the beds turned down daily.
The bathroom facilities are all bio. The water isn’t hot, but temperate.. and honestly ideal after so much activity.
If you want the real Amazon deal, this is the place. More
MissAnnaCash
17 October, 2021
Mandari Panga took us to the heart of the Mandari community. The camp was very comfortable with a beautiful rustic lodge/dining area and a comfortable screened tent on the river.... read more The tent included a king size bed with mosquito net, chairs and table. The showers are ambient temperature but following an activity of hiking in the jungle the water temperature was perfect. Kitchen staff were very accomodating and even accompanied us on our 2 day remote camping trip. Our guides Erik and Abran were most excellent. Erik has excellent English and would translate Abran’s vast knowledge of the jungle. Capitan Carlos and chef Alessandro provided much appreciated creature comforts on the remote camping. Owner/manager Fredy was very willing to help us through the entire process from registration to hotel recommendations in Coca to transportation to and from Quito. Mandari Panga is more than a “jungle resort”. It is a community effort supporting many members by ecotourism and we highly recommend this project. More
dennis g
5 October, 2021
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TL;DR: I could not recommend this highly enough. I saved up to go as a student and have no regrets. It was hard to fall asleep the first night.... read more As the hours passed, layers of insect and animal sounds, all in rhythmic coexistence, built to a surprising volume. I pushed aside the mosquito net above my bed and stepped outside of the thick canvas tent to find a night's sky in full definition. Yasuni is a different world at night. There is life calling from every direction: treefrogs singing from the hollows of bromeliads, stridulating insects, night monkeys howling from a nearby canopy. Morning comes and you are woken up by a bamboo horn. Breakfast is substantial and delicious. Soon you are in your rubber boots or on a kayak, on the lookout for anything that moves. The untrained eye will notice blue morphos, frogs, and birds. Our guide, Ramiro, would point out a pack of red howler monkeys, stationary in the top of a distant canopy, or a Great Potoo, asleep, and perfectly camouflaged on a branch. The sixth sense of the guides is consistently impressive. So too was Ramiro's knowledge. He was able to identify almost every species of animal we came across or heard, often in Latin. I compiled a list of all the species I remembered to note (see six species of monkey): ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Mammals) Squirrel Monkey Red Howler Monkey Dusky titi monkey White fronted Capuchin... TL;DR: I could not recommend this highly enough. I saved up to go as a student and have no regrets.
It was hard to fall asleep the first night. As the hours passed, layers of insect and animal sounds, all in rhythmic coexistence, built to a surprising volume. I pushed aside the mosquito net above my bed and stepped outside of the thick canvas tent to find a night's sky in full definition. Yasuni is a different world at night. There is life calling from every direction: treefrogs singing from the hollows of bromeliads, stridulating insects, night monkeys howling from a nearby canopy. Morning comes and you are woken up by a bamboo horn. Breakfast is substantial and delicious. Soon you are in your rubber boots or on a kayak, on the lookout for anything that moves. The untrained eye will notice blue morphos, frogs, and birds. Our guide, Ramiro, would point out a pack of red howler monkeys, stationary in the top of a distant canopy, or a Great Potoo, asleep, and perfectly camouflaged on a branch. The sixth sense of the guides is consistently impressive. So too was Ramiro's knowledge. He was able to identify almost every species of animal we came across or heard, often in Latin. I compiled a list of all the species I remembered to note (see six species of monkey):
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(Mammals)
Squirrel Monkey
Red Howler Monkey
Dusky titi monkey
White fronted Capuchin monkey
Black spider monkey
Woolly monkey
Neotropical Otter
Tucuxi (dolphin)
Tapir
(Birds)
Speckled Chachalacha
Russet-backed oropendola
Crested oropendola
Spix's Guan
Piping Guan
Striated Heron
Capped Heron
Cobalt-winged parakeet
Mealy Amazon Parrot
Orange cheeked parrot
Black-headed parrot
Chestnut-fronted Macaw
Scarlet Macaw
White-fronted Toucan
Sungrebe
Spotted sandpiper
Greater Ani
Neotropic Cormorant
Tree Swallow
Roadside hawk
Black hawk-eagle
Black Caracara
Lesser Kiskadee
Great Potoo
Hoatzin
Laughing Falcon
Salvin's Currasow
Crimson-crested Woodpecker
(Reptiles)
Bothrops atrox
Helicops Pastazae
Green Anaconda (Eunectus murinus)
Gonatodes concinatus
Black Caiman
Yellow-spotted River Turtle
(Amphibians)
Smooth-sided toad (Rhaebo Guttatus)
Crested Forest Toad (Rhinella Margaritifera)
Ecuadorean Poison Dart Frog (Ameerega Bilinguis)
Treefrog
Bolitoglossa
(Fish)
Redeye Piranha
Yellow Piranha
Blue Whale Catfish (Cetopsis Ceocutiens)
White Catfish
Carachama Catfish (Pseudorinelepis genibarbis)
(Arachnids)
Orb weaver spider
Argiope
Wolf spider
Garbage Spider
Tarantula
Salticidae Jumping Spider
Spiny Orb weaver
(Insects)
Rhinoceros Beetle
Red Assassin Bug
Tree-hopper
Leaf-hopper
Stickbug
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More fascinating than the animals is the way the people of Mandari Panga (& other indigenous communities) have learned to used the jungle. Certain leaf stems are useful for making fishing poles, certain roots are natural anesthetics, certain leaves can be manipulated and blown into to make the sound of the Toucan. The wood of the Cecropia tree is made up of hollow capsules, making it the ideal candidate for firewood, as the smoke the passes through the capsules in the wood and is spread in all directions, instead of billowing into the sky and into your face. The volume of natural knowledge any person there is able to share is huge. All of this is to say that, if you visit Mandari Panga, the naturalist in you will doubtless be satisfied.
About the amenities: toilets are dry (you poop on a toilet seat into a hole beneath you and throw dirt on it), the canvas tents are on raised wooden platforms and the beds in them are comfortable, the shower water is refreshing but not too cold, the food is excellent. There is coffee.
About the activities: there are a number of hikes through the jungle you can do, you can kayak down the river (this is best for seeing wildlife), you can camp on the beaches in meanders, you can take night walks to see spiders, amphibians, and snakes. You can go fishing. You can meet the matriarch of the community. The guides are comfortable in the environment and are generally happy to plan each day according to your interests. Everybody there is interesting and interested in you. Do not miss out on the chance to learn about their lives (you must speak Spanish to communicate with many of them). More
rgR3762HU
31 August, 2021
We spent 5 days, 4 nights at the Mandari Panga Camp on the Tiputini River. It absolutely was a trip of a lifetime! Will always recommend this place and these... read more people! Staff: One of our favorite parts of the trip was our connection to the staff and community. By the end of the week, we felt like family. While we were there, a park ranger was making the rounds and stayed at camp for a couple days. He even told us this group is one of his favorites that he’s gotten to know over the years, one of the most tight-knit. If you can request Eric as your guide, we’d highly encourage it. He is a great guy who grew up in the nearby town of Dayuma outside of Coca. He is kind, caring, very knowledgeable, and has strong english and great stories. The cultural learning and sharing aspect of the trip was very special and powerful. Wildlife: The fact that the tiputini is a tributary to the Napo River means that the river is narrower and you can see much more wildlife: monkeys, exotic birds, spiders, snakes, tree frogs even happened across a river dolphin one day. Beyond the incredible night hikes, piranha fishing, chocolate making, there is a young rescued tapir that roams in and out of camp that we were able to hang out with. Itinerary: Everyday we woke up to a bamboo horn calling us to... We spent 5 days, 4 nights at the Mandari Panga Camp on the Tiputini River. It absolutely was a trip of a lifetime! Will always recommend this place and these people!
Staff: One of our favorite parts of the trip was our connection to the staff and community. By the end of the week, we felt like family. While we were there, a park ranger was making the rounds and stayed at camp for a couple days. He even told us this group is one of his favorites that he’s gotten to know over the years, one of the most tight-knit. If you can request Eric as your guide, we’d highly encourage it. He is a great guy who grew up in the nearby town of Dayuma outside of Coca. He is kind, caring, very knowledgeable, and has strong english and great stories. The cultural learning and sharing aspect of the trip was very special and powerful.
Wildlife: The fact that the tiputini is a tributary to the Napo River means that the river is narrower and you can see much more wildlife: monkeys, exotic birds, spiders, snakes, tree frogs even happened across a river dolphin one day. Beyond the incredible night hikes, piranha fishing, chocolate making, there is a young rescued tapir that roams in and out of camp that we were able to hang out with.
Itinerary: Everyday we woke up to a bamboo horn calling us to breakfast. There was always a morning and afternoon activity with lunch and rest time in between. In our opinion it was the perfect amount of activities and rest time, nap time in the hammock watching the monkeys swing in the trees across the river.
Accommodations: The accommodations are very nice, and it always felt wonderful to be able to clean up in a nice shower house. The beds are very comfortable and have great mosquito nets. More
calebl533
16 May, 2021
We stayed at Mandari Panga for 4 nights and 5 days and had such an incredible experience. If feels like you are in the middle of a national geographic documentary.... read more So up close and personal with the nature and wildlife of the Amazon! The team at Mandari Panga is so passionate about preserving and protecting the Amazon which is exactly what we were looking for.
courtneyv822
4 May, 2021
For over a decade, it's been a dream of ours to visit the Amazon. The week we spent at Mandari Panga exceeded our expectations! We were fully submerged in the... read more sounds, smells, and energy of the rainforest. We hiked through the virgin jungle, kayaked up and down the river and through nearby lagoons, camped in the wilderness, and explored every bug, mammal, fish and bird we could lay our eyes on. And there surely were plenty! The staff was wonderful and loving, and the guides were super professional and down-to-earth. Special thanks to Erik who spent the entire week with us! The whole Mandari Panga project is noble and awe inspiring, and we'd recommend everyone interested in the Amazon and local communities to pay them a visit. For us, this truly was an uplifting and life-changing experience.
Hrvoje S
2 April, 2021
Przemyslaw K
Jeff F
