Itamandi EcoLodge

A great chance to get away from the busy world and switch off. It runs entirely on solar power, so there’s no TV, but the rooms have basic lighting and what you need. The food and drinks were awesome, and the staff were friendly and went out of their way to accommodate requests. Great adventure, and I’d recommend staying at least two nights.

Expect insects here, even in the bed. The little flying bugs I found were harmless, but annoying. Watch out for tiny sandflies too. They bit me at night and left itchy red bumps, apparently from an allergic reaction. Octavia, our Indigenous guide, said they were harmless. So far, it’s just been irritating itching on my arms, legs, and hands. Definitely bring insect repellent. The lodge is rustic and set right in the jungle. My room was spacious, with a sliding patio door opening onto a small attached patio facing jungle plants, a banana tree, palms, bamboo, and the river. You can hear motorized canoes constantly. The short walk to the dining area is lined with scenic plants. Meals there were freshly prepared with meat, vegetables, and fruit by Indigenous workers, who were friendly and hardworking. There are electrical outlets and hot water in the sink and shower, but no TV. Internet is mostly available in the main dining area. The two-hour rainforest walk with one of the lodge’s Indigenous guides, followed by a visit to his village community, made for a great cultural experience. I write more extensively on my travel blog, including other Quito locations.

Keep in mind that the rooms run on solar power, so electricity cuts out at some point overnight and comes back in the morning. Phone service is limited, and most rooms don’t have charging ports. The lodge is a well-hidden spot in the Amazon, with phenomenal, unusual food and plenty to keep you occupied. The staff were exceptional.

We had some of our favorite meals of the whole trip here. The open-air dining room served excellent gourmet three-course dinners, and even the boxed boat lunch was scrumptious. My son and I spent two nights at the lodge as part of our mainland Ecuador tour. Our room was clean, spacious, and beautiful, with a screened wall and balcony looking over the river. On the jungle tours, the guide was amazing. At night he spotted a small furry animal high in the trees, and he got a fabulous video of parrots through his binoculars. We loved the canoe rides and the beautiful setting. It’s remote, which is part of the charm, and the friendly staff made us feel at home.