Sacha Lodge, Yasuni National Park

Sacha Lodge is an extraordinary eco-reserve in a verdant 5000-acre (20,234,282 sq m) forest. This hotel blends seamlessly with its surroundings, making it feel like you're staying in the vibrant forest. Here, you can enjoy the spectacle of giant otters as you dine, observe caimans sliding under the walkway on your return to your room, marvel at monkeys chattering outside your balcony, and even spot giant sloths hanging out on trees nearby. The common spaces feature beautiful wood and allow you to look out on the water and surrounding forests, so you always feel immersed in nature. 

With just over 25 rooms designed to balance comfort with an authentic rainforest ambience, each cabin has a high thatched roof and private shaded terrace complete with hammocks. The rooms are available in single, double, and family accommodations, each offering a spacious private bathroom featuring a hot shower. Some showers even offer floor-to-ceiling windows for an immersive jungle bathing experience. All cabins are screened against insects and contain ceiling fans above the comfy double beds.

During your stay, you can spend time at the Balsa, a covered outdoor lounge area that overlooks the shimmering Pilchicocha Lake. If you prefer an activity, you can go for a forest or canopy walk, check out the canopy crane, or paddle downstream in a canoe. You're also welcome to explore the lodge's butterfly farm, one of the largest in Ecuador, where you can learn about the breeding and raising of nearly 40 local butterfly species. Once you've worked up an appetite, visit Oropendola, an on-site restaurant that offers fine dining in an open-air, rustic setting, serving meals prepared with fresh, sustainable products. After dinner, head to the safari-lodge-style bar to unwind with an ice-cold beer or a glass of wine.