The Amazon! Few places evoke as much excitement and apprehension than the most extensive jungle wilderness on the globe. Most people hear the word “Amazon” and respond with stories of dense, dangerous jungles filled with strange and perilous wild animals. Although the rainforests of the Amazon aren’t as safe as a local state park, they aren’t any more dangerous than wilderness areas in other parts of the world. In fact, compared to parks in Africa and Tiger reserves in the subcontinent, the Amazon is pretty tame.

In Ecuador, as with other parts of the Amazon, the main peril comes in the form of getting lost. This is what locals fear far more than any snakes or caimans (although you won’t catch them swimming at night in oxbow lakes). As with other road-less, forested areas, getting lost in the woods is a serious situation where dangers come in the form of exposure to the elements, dehydration, and starvation. Fortunately, whether hiking in Maine, or the Ecuadorian Amazon, it’s also very easy to avoid becoming lost. All you have to do is stick to well marked trails and it won’t happen. It’s even better to explore with a local guide, something that is always part of the experience at the Huaorani Ecolodge. Guests of this award-winning lodge hike through the surrounding, beautiful rainforests with a guide who knows the place like the back of his hand. This not only ensures that guests will not wander off and become lost in the forest, but that they also see more wildlife, learn about the rainforest, and learn a few jungle survival skills from local experts.

Experience the wild Ecuadorian Amazon in a safe, comfortable manner at the Huaorani Ecolodge.