Hakuna Matata Lodge

At only 10 km from Tena, capital of the absolutely safe Napo Province, this private hacienda of approximately 150 hectares, is the perfect place to enjoy a never-ending series of activities to the fullest, which this area lends itself to more than any other. Hakuna Matata lies on the shores of the crystal-clear Inchillaqui River, at an altitude between 1968 and 2789 feet, which makes it free of all tropical diseases.

Hakuna Matata contrasts with all other destinations in the Amazon because of its commitment to respect its employees (we offer a contract, social security and training), dedication to real ecotourism (the property itself, selected excursions), respect for culture, nature conservation and improvement (reforestation, etc.). We also offer a personal service, high-quality accommodation, superior meals, unique activities and excursions.

Facilities

Cabañas Hakuna Matata, ‘Hakuna Lodge’ and ‘Hakuna Supreme’ offer you spacious rooms with a hot shower and toilet. Excellent mattresses and a mosquito-free stay guarantee you the rest you deserve!

Our famous restaurant ‘Pangaea’ serves absolutely delicious meals from all corners of the world. You will be pampered with top-quality products. The bar offers soft drinks, fresh juices, cocktails and beers. Our liqueur and wine selection is truly unique in Ecuador!

Hygiene and freshness are Hakuna Matata’s priorities. Salads and ice cubes are no longer taboo here!

Hakuna Matata has a unique swimming pool, for guests only. Archidona’s hallmark is its tall hardwood palm tree, called ‘chonta’, so the pool has been designed as a ‘chonta’, but one that’s 88 feet long and 72 feet wide!

Warm spring water (at a temperature of about 77° F, or 25° C) flows into the pool night and day. With a depth ranging from 1 to 7 feet the pool is great for swimming, diving or just splashing around. Around the pool, there are deck chairs and off to one side there is a special spot for relaxing, with hammocks and a massage bench.

From the pool, there is a spectacular view of the Llanganati mountains. Ideal for ‘dolce far niente’ after a long trip or before you take off for yet another hike!

Amazon Itineraries

4 days itinerary - Adventure Program

Arrival at Hakuna Matata at 1 PM or earlier, by taxi (included) from Archidona. Lunch in the famous Pangaea Restaurant.

The following options are designed for at least 2 people. In order to guarantee quality, we kindly ask you to inform us of your choice when making your reservation.

Option 1:

HORSEBACK RIDING WITH GUIDE(S))

This unforgettable excursion is suited for both beginners and advanced riders. You go on a very varied trip, that takes about two hours and a half, under professional guidance and with well-cared-for saddle horses.

The ride goes through rivers and brooklets, over hilly spots, with beautiful flora. You will enjoy wonderful views along the way. The whole trip takes place on the Hacienda Hakuna Matata property.

Option 2:

NATURE WALK WITH GUIDE

This guided walk of about three hours and a half is quite an experience. A professional guide explains the medicinal properties of plants and trees and talks about insects and age-old customs in an entertaining way. Walking through (private) forest and fields, you become familiar step by step with the specific wisdom that has distinguished natives from non-natives for ages.

Dinner in Pangaea Restaurant. Accommodation in a 2-person cabaña with private toilet and hot shower.

Full breakfast in Pangaea Restaurant.

INTRODUCTION TO THE AMAZON – DAY TRIP

You leave Hakuna Matata early in the morning for a two-hour drive. In a small native community on the shores of the Arajuno River, you go aboard of a motorized tree-trunk canoe.

In contrast with the classical tours usually organized in this area, we chose a valuable alternative!

This jungle trip offers a wide range of activities. The activities depend on the weather conditions, the number of participants and the specific interests of the group. Your guide will determine the route.

A professional English-Spanish guide presents a wide range of flora (primary and secondary rainforest) and fauna (birds, amphibians and insects) during walks, canoe trips and observations. He gives explanation about medicinal plants, herbs and trees and their use by the native population.

A lunch is served along the way. You are back at the hacienda at 6 PM. Dinner in Pangaea Restaurant.

Accommodation in a 2-person cabaña with private toilet and hot shower.

Full breakfast in Pangaea Restaurant.

RAFTING CLASS 3/3+, DAY TRIP

Most people dream of doing this one day!

Hakuna Matata gives you this unique opportunity. In close collaboration with Ecuador’s most professional rafting organization, we offer you a unique tropical water adventure! You leave Hakuna Matata after breakfast for a half-hour trip to Tena.

For this class 3/3+ rafting (no previous experience required) the trip continues for about 45 minutes (25 km) upstream, along Jatunyacu River (“big river” in Quechua).

First there is a safety briefing for all participants. During rafting, rapids alternate with quiet parts on this mighty river. Beautiful views, waterfalls, almost virgin forest: all this guarantees an unforgettable day in the Amazon! Along the way, you will stop for some activities, depending on the water level.

Lunch on a beach near the river. Arrival in Puerto Napo around 4 PM. Our partners only use the best professional equipment in the world. The guides are the best and most responsible ones available.

They will strictly comply with all current safety regulations. This rafting trip will only take place if the weather conditions and the water level are perfect.

Arrival in Hakuna Matata around 5 PM. Dinner in Pangaea Restaurant. Accommodation in a 2-person cabaña with private toilet and hot shower.

Full breakfast in Pangaea Restaurant. After breakfast: transportation (included) to Archidona. You may continue to Quito or Baños on your ow