Cuyabeno Tucan Lodge’s Commitment to a Pristine Amazon
The Cuyabeno Reserve is one of Ecuador’s most biologically rich and ecologically delicate environments. From majestic ceiba trees to elusive jaguars and vibrant macaws, every element of this lush ecosystem plays a vital role. At Cuyabeno Tucan Lodge, we believe that eco-tourism must be built on respect—for the land, the wildlife, and the Indigenous communities who call this place home.
That’s why we follow and promote the Leave No Trace philosophy—guiding principles that ensure your journey into the Amazon leaves it as untouched and magical as when you found it.
Why Leave No Trace Matters in the Amazon
Unlike urban parks or popular hiking trails, Cuyabeno is remote, wild, and incredibly sensitive. Even small disruptions—like stepping off a trail or leaving behind a piece of trash—can cause lasting damage. By practicing Leave No Trace, visitors become allies in conservation, helping to protect endangered species, fragile waterways, and ancestral lands.
How Cuyabeno Tucan Lodge Applies the 7 Leave No Trace Principles
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
We advise guests to pack smart—bring reusable bottles, biodegradable soaps, and breathable clothing to avoid over-packing. Our guides provide a pre-trip briefing to ensure you’re ready for the jungle, sustainably.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Whether by canoe or on foot, we stick to established routes. This helps prevent trampling on vegetation and disrupting wildlife habitats.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
We have a zero single-use plastic policy. All waste is sorted and managed responsibly. Guests are encouraged to take out what they bring in—and we help make that easy.
4. Leave What You Find
That beautiful leaf, stone, or feather? It belongs in the jungle. We encourage photography, not souvenirs, and we remind guests that natural items left behind help nourish future growth.
5. Minimize Campfire Impact
At Cuyabeno Tucan Lodge, we rely on solar power and natural light. There are no open fires here, as even small flames pose risks to delicate ecosystems.
6. Respect Wildlife
Feeding animals or trying to touch them disrupts their behavior and puts both you and them at risk. We observe from a respectful distance and never use flash photography around wildlife.
7. Be Considerate of Others
From fellow travelers to Indigenous guides, respect is central to our ethos. We move quietly, keep group sizes small, and always honor local customs and spaces.
Your Role in Protecting Cuyabeno
Every traveler plays a role in conservation. Here’s how you can help:
- ✅ Bring a reusable water bottle—we have refill stations on site.
- ✅ Pack biodegradable toiletries.
- ✅ Say no to plastic bags and single-use items.
- ✅ Stick to trails and respect your guide’s instructions.
- ✅ Support local crafts and communities instead of imported souvenirs.
Why Choose Cuyabeno Tucan Lodge for Sustainable Travel?
We go beyond comfort—our lodge is built with sustainable materials, uses solar energy, and offers locally sourced meals. Our waste system is eco-efficient, and our tours are led by expert naturalist guides who teach conservation ethics at every step.
Choosing Cuyabeno Tucan Lodge means choosing a better way to travel.
Final Thoughts
In the Amazon, every footprint counts. When you practice the Leave No Trace principles at Cuyabeno Tucan Lodge, you’re doing more than protecting a forest—you’re helping secure a future for hundreds of unique species and generations of Indigenous knowledge.
🌿 Travel light. Leave nothing. Take home only wonder.