BIRDING TOUR · YASUNÍ
Discover the extraordinary birdlife of Yasuní
A private birding expedition through forests, lagoons, rivers and observation towers in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
THE EXPERIENCE
Birding in one of the most niodiverse places on earth
Every habitat reveals new species, behaviors and sounds of the rainforest.
Explore forest trails, rivers, lagoons and observation towers in search of some of the most representative bird species of the Ecuadorian Amazon. The diversity of habitats surrounding Napo Wildlife Center creates opportunities to discover species associated with the canopy, terra firme forest, flooded forest, clay licks and riverine environments.
Accompanied by expert guides, each day combines observation, interpretation and time in the field to identify species, understand their behavior and discover the relationship between birds and the ecosystems that surround them.
Expert Guides
Specialized guidance to identify species, interpret behavior and make the most of each birding outing.
Diverse Habitats
Forest, lagoons, creeks, clay licks and canopy environments provide different observation opportunities.
Canopy Birding
Observation towers offer access to a level of the rainforest where many species are difficult to see from the ground.
MORE THAN SIGHTINGS
An experience designed to observe, listen and discover
Each day combines exploration, naturalist knowledge and time in the field to discover the diversity of birds that inhabit Yasuní’s different ecosystems.
01
Bird Diversity
From canopy species to birds of flooded forests, trails and riverine habitats, every environment offers new observation opportunities.
02
Expert Naturalist Guidance
Specialized guidance helps identify species, interpret vocalizations and better understand bird behavior in its natural environment.
03
Conservation & Responsible Birding
The experience takes place within a protected territory managed by the Kichwa Añangu Community, where conservation is an essential part of every journey.
CHOOSE YOUR EXPEDITION
More days, more habitats, more birding opportunities
Choose the duration that best suits your journey. Every option follows the same birding-focused approach, with more time in the field as the expedition length increases.
4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS — Birding Tour
A private four-day expedition designed to discover the extraordinary birdlife of Yasuní National Park, exploring different habitats including forests, lagoons, creeks, clay licks and observation towers, accompanied by a private naturalist guide.
Arrival in the Heart of Yasuní
The experience begins with an approximately 30-minute flight from Quito to Coca, followed by a private transfer to the Napo Wildlife Center dock. From there, you will begin an approximately two-hour journey along the Napo River aboard a covered motorized boat. Upon reaching the welcome area, you will continue by paddle canoe through Añangu Creek toward the lodge. This silent journey offers your first opportunities to observe birds such as the Hoatzin, Rufescent Tiger-Heron, Sungrebe, Red-bellied Macaw and Green-and-rufous Kingfisher, among many other species. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink and snack, followed by a brief introduction before settling into your cabin.Birding from the Canopy and Forest
Begin the first of two full days dedicated to exploring the birdlife of the western Amazon and the diversity of habitats surrounding Napo Wildlife Center. Among the planned experiences is a visit to the canopy observation tower, where you may encounter species moving through the treetops, including oropendolas, aracaris, tanagers, euphonias, cotingas, raptors, parrots and macaws. Forest trails complement the experience with opportunities to observe woodcreepers, antbirds, tinamous and other species associated with the understory.Clay Licks, Lagoons and Flooded Forest
The exploration continues through other environments of Yasuní. Depending on conditions, you may visit parrot and parakeet clay licks, where numerous birds can gather to feed on mineral-rich clay. Silent paddle-canoe journeys through the lagoon and nearby creeks provide opportunities to explore flooded forest in search of antbirds, woodcreepers, manakins, herons and other species associated with these ecosystems. Riverine forest and areas near the community offer additional opportunities to continue expanding the list of species observed during the expedition.Final Sightings and Departure
Very early in the morning, you will begin the return journey by paddle canoe toward the welcome area. As you travel through Añangu Creek, the sounds of birds and the first light of dawn provide one final opportunity to enjoy the natural activity of the rainforest. You will then continue by motorized boat toward Coca. Upon arrival, assistance will be provided for airport check-in and your return flight to Quito, bringing your Birding Tour in Yasuní to an end.5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS — Birding Tour
A private five-day expedition designed to discover the extraordinary birdlife of Yasuní National Park, with three full days of birding across forests, lagoons, creeks, clay licks and observation towers, accompanied by a private naturalist guide.
Arrival in the Heart of Yasuní
The experience begins with an approximately 30-minute flight from Quito to Coca, followed by a private transfer to the Napo Wildlife Center dock. From there, you will begin an approximately two-hour journey along the Napo River aboard a covered motorized boat. Upon reaching the welcome area, you will continue by paddle canoe through Añangu Creek toward the lodge. This quiet journey offers your first opportunities to observe birds and begin discovering the extraordinary biodiversity of Yasuní. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink and snack, followed by a brief introduction before settling into your cabin.Birding from the Canopy
Begin the first of three full days dedicated to exploring the birdlife of the western Amazon and the diversity of habitats surrounding Napo Wildlife Center. Among the planned experiences is a visit to the canopy observation tower, where you may observe oropendolas, aracaris, tanagers, euphonias, cotingas, raptors, parrots, macaws and other species moving through the treetops. The elevated perspective reveals an entirely different level of the rainforest from what can be experienced on the forest floor.Forest Trails and Understory Birds
The exploration continues along forest trails, where species associated with the understory and other Yasuní microhabitats can be discovered. During these walks, you may search for woodcreepers, antbirds, tinamous and other characteristic birds of the western Amazon while your guide helps interpret their vocalizations, behavior and relationship with the surrounding environment. Each outing follows the natural rhythm of the forest and adapts to bird activity throughout the day.Clay Licks, Lagoons and Flooded Forest
The third full birding day allows you to explore additional environments surrounding Napo Wildlife Center. Depending on conditions, you may visit parrot and parakeet clay licks, where numerous birds can gather to feed on mineral-rich clay, as well as enjoy silent paddle-canoe journeys through the lagoon and nearby creeks. These flooded forest ecosystems provide opportunities to observe antbirds, woodcreepers, manakins, herons and other species associated with aquatic and riverine environments.Final Sightings and Departure
Very early in the morning, you will begin the return journey by paddle canoe toward the welcome area. As you travel through Añangu Creek, the morning sounds of the rainforest and the first light of dawn provide one final opportunity to enjoy the natural activity of the birds. You will then continue by motorized boat toward Coca. Upon arrival, assistance will be provided for airport check-in and your return flight to Quito, bringing your Birding Tour in Yasuní to an end.6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS — Birding Tour
A private six-day expedition designed to discover the extraordinary birdlife of Yasuní National Park, with four full days of birding across forests, lagoons, creeks, clay licks and observation towers, accompanied by a private naturalist guide.
Arrival in the Heart of Yasuní
The experience begins with an approximately 30-minute flight from Quito to Coca, followed by a private transfer to the Napo Wildlife Center dock. From there, you will begin an approximately two-hour journey along the Napo River aboard a covered motorized boat. Upon reaching the welcome area, you will continue by paddle canoe through Añangu Creek toward the lodge. During this journey, your first opportunities may arise to observe species such as the Hoatzin, Rufescent Tiger-Heron, Sungrebe, Red-bellied Macaw and Green-and-rufous Kingfisher, among many others. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink and snack, followed by a brief introduction before settling into your cabin.Birding from the Canopy
Begin the first of four full days dedicated to exploring the birdlife of the western Amazon and the diversity of habitats surrounding Napo Wildlife Center. Among the planned experiences is a visit to the canopy observation tower, where you may observe oropendolas, aracaris, tanagers, euphonias, cotingas, raptors, parrots, macaws and other species moving through the treetops. The elevated perspective reveals an entirely different level of the rainforest from what can be experienced on the forest floor.Forest Trails and Understory Birds
The exploration continues along forest trails, where species associated with the understory and other Yasuní microhabitats can be discovered. During these walks, you may search for woodcreepers, antbirds, tinamous and other characteristic birds of the region while your guide helps interpret their vocalizations, behavior and relationship with the surrounding environment. The pace of the day allows you to move quietly and take advantage of natural bird activity at different times.Clay Licks and Large Bird Gatherings
The expedition continues through new environments. Depending on conditions, you may visit the parrot and parakeet clay licks located within the Napo Wildlife Center territory. These sites can offer the remarkable spectacle of numerous birds gathering to feed on mineral-rich clay, creating one of Yasuní’s most characteristic birding experiences. The day is complemented by additional forest walks and observation opportunities, always adapting to the natural activity of wildlife.Lagoons, Creeks and Flooded Forest
The fourth full birding day focuses on aquatic environments surrounding the lodge, with silent paddle-canoe journeys through the lagoon and nearby creeks. Within these flooded forest ecosystems, you may search for antbirds, woodcreepers, manakins, herons and other species associated with water and riverine vegetation. The forest near the community also provides additional opportunities to continue expanding the list of species observed throughout the expedition.Final Sightings and Departure
Very early in the morning, you will begin the return journey by paddle canoe toward the welcome area. As you travel through Añangu Creek, the morning sounds of the rainforest and the first light of dawn provide one final opportunity to enjoy the natural activity of the birds. You will then continue by motorized boat toward Coca. Upon arrival, assistance will be provided for airport check-in and your return flight to Quito, bringing your Birding Tour in Yasuní to an end.EVERYTHING READY FOR YOUR EXPEDITION
Everything you need to focus on birding
From accommodation and meals to private naturalist guidance, every detail is arranged so you can focus on exploring, observing and enjoying the birdlife of Yasuní.
Private Naturalist Guide
Guidance throughout the expedition to identify species, interpret behavior and make the most of every birding outing.
Accommodation at Napo Wildlife Center
Stay at Napo Wildlife Center, surrounded by Amazon rainforest with direct access to a variety of Yasuní habitats.
River Transportation
River transfers between Coca and Napo Wildlife Center are included as part of your expedition.
Meals Included
Meals are included according to your selected itinerary during your stay at the lodge.
Access to Birding Experiences
Includes entrance to Yasuní National Park, parrot clay licks and all excursions included in the itinerary.
Rainforest Essentials
Rain poncho, rubber boots and satellite internet are included during the experience.
BIRDING HABITATS
Every Habitat Reveals a Different Bird Community
From the canopy to flooded forest, Yasuní brings together a remarkable variety of environments where species, sounds and observation opportunities change throughout the day.
Forest Canopy
Terra Firme Trails
Parrot & Parakeet Clay Licks
Lagoons & Flooded Forest
Riverine Forest
WHY NAPO WILDLIFE CENTER
A Privileged Place to Discover the Birdlife of Yasuní
Its location inside Yasuní National Park, diversity of habitats and community management create exceptional conditions for a deep and responsible birding experience.
01 — Inside Yasuní National Park
Napo Wildlife Center is the only lodge located within Yasuní National Park, with direct access to ecosystems where birdlife thrives in its natural environment.
02 — Community Management
The lodge is owned and managed directly by the Kichwa Añangu Community, integrating tourism, local knowledge and responsible territory management.
03 — Conservation of the Territory
Hunting and fishing are prohibited within the community territory, helping reduce pressure on ecosystems and supporting the presence of numerous species.
04 — Tourism That Creates Change
Tourism revenue supports education, healthcare, employment and community development, strengthening a long-term conservation model.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything you need to know before your Birding Tour
Do I need to be an experienced birder to join this tour?
No. The Birding Tour is designed for both experienced birders and travelers who want to begin discovering the birdlife of Yasuní.
Does the tour include a private naturalist guide?
Yes. The itinerary includes a private naturalist guide who accompanies the excursions and supports species identification and interpretation of the environment.
What kind of birds can I see during the tour?
Species vary according to habitat and natural conditions. The itineraries mention opportunities to observe hoatzins, herons, kingfishers, macaws, parrots, aracaris, tanagers, cotingas, raptors, woodcreepers, antbirds, tinamous and many other species of the western Amazon.
Are bird sightings guaranteed?
No. Birds and other wildlife live freely in their natural habitat. Our guides will do everything possible to maximize observation opportunities according to weather conditions and the natural activity of wildlife.
Are the activities the same every day?
Not necessarily. Activities may vary according to weather, logistics, safety considerations, Yasuní National Park regulations, group interests and natural wildlife activity.
What is the difference between the 4-, 5- and 6-day tours?
The main difference is the amount of time available for exploration. The 4-day tour includes two full birding days, the 5-day option includes three, and the 6-day expedition offers four full days of bird observation.
PLAN YOUR EXPERIENCE
Start planning your Birding Tour
Tell us your travel dates, number of guests and any special birding interests. Our team will share this information with the guides to help orient your experience toward the best possible opportunities within Yasuní.
YOUR NEXT SIGHTING BEGINS HERE
Discover Yasuní, one species at a time
Experience a private birding expedition in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and discover a new perspective on Yasuní each day.
