The story of Sacha Lodge began in the 1970s when Swiss adventurer Benny arrived in Ecuador seeking excitement. Enchanted by the Napo River, Benny opened his first tourist lodge, La Casa del Suizo, in 1985 on the Upper Napo. As civilization encroached, Benny sought a more remote location, eventually discovering a forested area two hours from Coca. Captivated by the mysterious black waters of Pilchicocha Lake, he purchased 500 hectares of land. With the assistance of 170 local workers, Sacha Lodge was established in 1992 with six guest rooms. Over time, Benny expanded the facilities and acquired 5,000 acres of land.
The Ecuadorian Amazon is a place of awe-inspiring beauty and biodiversity. From wide rivers to towering kapok trees and vibrant wildlife, every moment in the forest reveals something extraordinary. With more biodiversity per acre than almost anywhere else on Earth, the chance to see animals like tamarind monkeys, giant otters, and toucans is endless. The dark water creeks lead deeper into the wild, far from civilization.
Sacha Lodge is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife, with 600 species of birds, 50 species of bats, and creatures like pygmy marmosets and giant otters inhabiting its grounds. The lodge is located in a reserve six times the size of New York’s Central Park, where animals roam freely without fear of humans, thanks to strict anti-hunting measures. Look out for Lucy the Caiman on her morning patrol or playful monkeys near the rooms.
At Sacha Lodge, adventure does not mean sacrificing comfort. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations with hot showers, ceiling fans, and insect-proofed windows, providing a perfect base for exploring the Amazon. The lodge also offers superb nature experiences, delicious meals, and wines, making your stay both thrilling and relaxing.
Sacha Lodge seamlessly combines comfort with the untamed beauty of the rainforest. The cabins, featuring high thatched roofs and private terraces with hammocks, blend naturally into the lush environment. Each of the 26 rooms, ranging from standard to family cabins, offers modern comforts such as air conditioning, ceiling fans, and spacious private bathrooms with hot showers. Some cabins even provide floor-to-ceiling windows for a fully immersive jungle experience, and all are insect-proofed for a comfortable stay in the Amazon.
Sacha Lodge embraces all aspects of the forest, from wildlife conservation to supporting local communities. Unique experiences are designed to immerse you in the Amazon like no other place can.
Though the forest is teeming with life, the expert guides at Sacha Lodge ensure your safety while exploring. Rooms are sealed against insects, and the sediment composition in the black water lake naturally deters mosquitos, making your stay more comfortable.
The guides at Sacha Lodge are unmatched in their knowledge and dedication. Many come from nearby communities, and the team includes world-class bird-watching experts. Guests are paired with the same guides throughout their stay, creating a personalized and enriching experience.
Sacha Lodge values its strong ties with local communities, offering guests opportunities to meet local people and learn about their lives. The lodge also provides employment for around 100 families, making it the largest tourism employer in Ecuador’s Amazon region, with most employees hailing from local communities.
Sacha Lodge welcomes families, offering excellent safety standards and activities like the unique protected Lake Pool, ensuring unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages.
Adventure is integral to the Sacha Lodge experience. Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, from relaxing to thrilling, all centered around the water. Whether paddling down streams, exploring the canopy, or birdwatching, there’s something for everyone. Groups are kept small, with a naturalist and local guide accompanying each expedition, ensuring personalized and memorable experiences.
Key activities include: