Name: Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge
Address: ecuador
Telephone: +593 98 765 2943
Price range: 108 - 324

Welcome to Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge

Since its inception, the lodge has been nurtured with care, dedication, and passion, transforming over the years into a small paradise in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Combining a rustic design with careful environmental adaptation and respect, the lodge meets world-class standards, creating the perfect atmosphere to experience the jungle in luxurious comfort. Located between 600 meters (1968 feet) and 850 meters (2788 feet) above sea level, with moderate temperatures and a micro-biome of heliconia and bromeliad plants, the setting is mosquito-free, ensuring a relaxed stay.

The native staff at Hakuna Matata are at the heart of the experience, always welcoming guests as friends and sharing their home, the rainforest. The favorite gathering place is the chonta-shaped swimming pool, a pristine water hole measuring 27 x 22 meters (88 x 72 feet) and 40 to 240 cm (16 to 95 inches) deep, surrounded by the spectacular Llanganates mountains. The pool, continuously fed by an underground spring, maintains a comfortable temperature of 25°C (77°F), perfect for a refreshing dip after a jungle walk. The pool area is equipped with loungers and a covered hammock terrace, making it an ideal spot to read, relax, and soak in the tropical scenery. Another magical place at Hakuna Matata is the private beach on the Inchillaqui River, where crystal-clear waters invite visitors of all ages to bathe, stroll, and have fun.

Hakuna Matata, meaning “no worries,” perfectly encapsulates what the lodge offers its guests. You can enjoy the exotic Amazon rainforest in a relaxed, carefree atmosphere, living the slogan “Enjoy the luxury of nature” in a family-friendly environment where you’ll feel safe, comfortable, and genuinely welcomed as a friend. The warm Amazonian hospitality ensures that, as a guest, you’ll have “no problems,” with the staff committed to fulfilling your every wish and need. The happiness of the guests is their greatest reward.

The lodge is deeply committed to responsible tourism, with sustainability as a core pillar. Although the green path may be longer and more costly, they believe it will ultimately benefit future generations and the planet’s wellbeing.

As an eco-lodge, the goal is to share a learning experience with guests, teaching them about conservation and the importance of living in harmony with nature. The aim is to protect the rainforest and promote respect for the local indigenous cultures and their ancestral knowledge. Much of the private forest reserve has been established through decades of reforestation. The cabins are built with respect for the land’s topography and using recycled wood from already fallen trees. The lodge and pool use spring water, minimizing the need for chemicals. A towel reuse program encourages guests to minimize environmental impact, and only biodegradable cleaning products are used. The lodge has also created a sustainable supply chain, partnering with those who share the same environmental philosophy. This commitment extends to the tours and excursions offered.

Ecuador’s multicultural population is one of its most distinctive features. The lodge has established strong bonds with several indigenous communities, paying them fairly for their services.

Most of the staff are from nearby indigenous communities, enjoying proper labor benefits and, most importantly, being treated with respect. As the heart and soul of Hakuna Matata, they are part of a small but great family.

Hakuna Cabins | Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge

Hakuna Supreme | Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge

Hakuna Lodge | Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge

Hakuna Suite | Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge

Location

The lodge is a 4-hour drive from Quito, 4 hours from Baños, 5 hours from Ambato, and 6 hours from Riobamba.

Driving Directions

From Quito/Baeza/Archidona: After reaching Archidona, continue towards Tena for 1.3 km (0.8 miles). Pass the PS gas station, and immediately after crossing the Misahualli River bridge, turn right onto the stony road. Follow the signs to Hakuna Matata Lodge for 3.9 km (2.4 miles) in the direction of Chaupi Shungo. Please note that the road is rocky.
From Riobamba/Ambato/Baños/Puyo/Tena: After arriving in Tena, head towards Archidona for 7 km (4.3 miles). Just before the Misahualli River bridge, turn left onto the rocky road. Follow the signs to Hakuna Matata Lodge for 3.9 km (2.4 miles) in the direction of Chaupi Shungo. Please be aware that the road is rocky.

Public Transport

Several bus companies offer daily service from Quito to Tena. Get off at Archidona, which is just before Tena. The preferred option is to take a morning bus, with a travel time of 4-5 hours. Upon arrival in Archidona, take a taxi to Hakuna Matata Lodge, a 15-minute ride.
From Riobamba, Ambato, or Baños, daily buses run to Tena. The drive from Baños takes about 4 hours, and it’s recommended to take a morning bus. Upon arrival in Tena, a taxi ride to Hakuna Matata Lodge takes 30 minutes.

Rooms

The primary focus is on ensuring that you, as the guest, have a carefree stay in a relaxed environment. We want you to experience the unique charm of Hakuna Matata in its purest form. The idyllic surroundings, free of mosquitoes (no nets needed), mild temperatures, and soothing sounds of nature provide the perfect lullaby for a restful night's sleep in the heart of the Amazon jungle.

The 16 rooms are designed to seamlessly blend into the tropical gardens, without disrupting the natural beauty. They are divided into four categories: Hakuna Cabins, Hakuna Lodge, Hakuna Supreme, and the Hakuna Suite. The room designs draw inspiration from the traditional tribal architecture of the Quichua people of Ecuador’s Amazon. The rustic ambiance is complemented by modern comforts, including a small balcony or hammock terrace, spacious bathrooms with organic amenities and hot water, orthopedic mattresses, and high-quality gel pillows. These features are thoughtfully combined to create the perfect retreat for a restful sleep. Rooms are cleaned daily, with a commitment to keeping them spotless to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.

Hakuna Cabins

The small wooden bungalows, with their most rustic design, offer the most authentic experience at the lodge. These simple yet cozy rooms are perfect for adventurous guests seeking a true Amazonian atmosphere. We offer five twin or double cabins, as well as a spacious family cabin that accommodates up to four people.

Hakuna Lodge

The main house, constructed from wood, reflects the style of local indigenous homes. It features three double/twin rooms and a family room with a capacity for four people. Situated on a hilltop, it offers stunning views of the surrounding forest. A favorite spot is the shared hammock terrace and outdoor lounge.

Hakuna Supreme

Located between the restaurant and the pool, this area is designed for guests who desire an extra level of comfort. The modern stone-built cabins house five Supreme rooms, one of which is designed for families.

Hakuna Suite

The largest and newest accommodation, the Hakuna Suite, is designed for VIP guests. It is set apart from the other areas for added privacy and offers nearly direct access to the pool. The suite features panoramic windows with breathtaking views of the garden and the rainforest beyond, along with a private outdoor terrace lounge.

Pangea Restaurant

Guests often highlight the food as one of the best parts of their stay at Hakuna Matata, consistently rating the cuisine as excellent. The secret is simple: we use high-quality, fresh ingredients, including organic produce, and everything is carefully prepared on-site, just like in a family kitchen. The culinary experience is a fusion of Ecuadorian specialties with international standards and quality.

At Hakuna Matata, hygiene and food quality are top priorities. All ingredients are meticulously selected to ensure they are in perfect condition. We use purified water, so you can enjoy salads, fruit juices, and ice cubes without any concerns.

The design of the "Pangea" restaurant reflects local architectural traditions, with a semi-open layout and a high roof made of toquilla palm straw, which keeps the atmosphere fresh, even on the hottest days.

It's the perfect place to relax, watch the sunset, and admire nature and hummingbirds while enjoying a fresh tropical fruit juice, a beer, or a cocktail from the bar. We also offer a fine selection of regional wines and spirits, with wines carefully paired with the menu for a gourmet experience in the heart of the Amazon jungle. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

A Hakuna Matata breakfast is always included with your stay and features freshly brewed coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, freshly squeezed fruit juice, homemade whole wheat bread, artisanal jam, butter, cheese, and eggs cooked to order. Breakfast is served from 7:30 to 9:00 am.

Lunch is optional and must be booked in advance. It usually consists of a cold soup, fresh salad with homemade bread, pasta, or tortillas.

A gourmet three-course dinner is also included with your stay, featuring a hot or cold appetizer, a main course, and a dessert. The menu changes each evening to ensure a unique and distinctive dining experience, whether you stay for one night or a week. Dinner is served at 7:00 pm.

If you are vegetarian, vegan, have allergies, or dietary restrictions, "no worries"—just let us know in advance, and we will take care of everything.

Hakuna Matata Amazon Lodge |