Unforgettable journeys through the most biodiverse regions of Latin America
Experience the extraordinary landscapes of the Andes and the Amazon with Nature and Culture’s sustainable travel experiences. This is your chance to witness the tangible impact of our conservation efforts firsthand while exploring some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. Our exclusive excursions offer an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at our protected areas, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage with local community conservation leaders and our dedicated staff, gaining deep insights into the vital work we’re doing to preserve these extraordinary landscapes.
See below for the next opportunity to travel sustainably with Nature and Culture.
If you’re interested in seeing our projects in action, please email Lauren Alvarez, Conservation Partnerships Manager at lalvarez@natureandculture.org.
January 2026
Discover the Amazon with Nature and Culture
Jan. 18th – 28th, 2026
Join us on an unforgettable ten-night, ten-day excursion through Ecuador with Nature and Culture program staff and expert naturalist guides. You’ll have a front-row seat at our project sites and conservation areas and hear first-hand from our Indigenous and rural community partners. We plan to cap the trip at 15 guests maximum for an intimate, personalized experience.
The January 2026 excursion cost is $8,000* with a suggested $20,000 tax-deductible donation to Nature and Culture International *(not including round trip airfare from North America – includes in-country airfare)
Itinerary
January 18, 2026: Arrival in Quito, Ecuador
Welcome to Quito! Upon arrival in Ecuador’s vibrant capital, you’ll have the chance to explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its colonial architecture and cultural charm. We will gather for a delightful welcome dinner to kick off our journey.
January 19 – 21, 2026: Journey to the Napo Wildlife Center
Our adventure begins with a morning flight to Coca, followed by a scenic three-hour river journey deep into the heart of Yasuní National Park. Nestled within this biodiversity hotspot is the Napo Wildlife Center, a luxurious eco-lodge where we stay for three nights. Yasuní is Ecuador’s crown jewel of national parks, famous for holding world records in the diversity of amphibians, insects, and tree species!
We’ll visit salt licks where parrots and macaws flock and marvel at colorful toucans, tanagers, and butterflies from the canopy tower. We’ll paddle the gentle streams and lakes around the lodge, and enjoy cocktails and piranha fishing from the Sani Lodge deck.
January 22: Overnight in Coca
We will journey back to Coca for lunch with Orellana Governor Magali.
January 23 – 25: Discovering the Amazonian Platform and Shuar Culture
We’ll travel to Heimatlos Amazon Lodge in the Pastaza Province. Here, we’ll explore Nature and Culture’s most ambitious project yet—the Amazonian Platform, an initiative to protect 14 million acres of pristine rainforest. We’ll meet with Indigenous partners, local leaders, and elected officials to discuss this transformative conservation effort, including an evening conversation with Governor Andre Granda about his conservation vision for Pastaza Province.
We’ll enjoy a scenic hike to nearby waterfalls, and marvel at the region’s vibrant birdlife. Relax by the pool at Heimatlos, soaking in the views as the rolling hills of the Amazon. And visit the Indigenous Kichwa community in Canelos to learn about their participation in the SocioBosque Program and explore their community enterprise focused on growing and processing achiote spice.
January 26 – 27: Baños de Agua Santa & Return to Quito
We’ll travel to Baños de Agua Santa where you may enjoy a leisurely soak in the mineral-rich hot springs at Las Piscinas de la Virgen or other local thermal baths, a short hike to the breathtaking Pailón del Diablo waterfall, or local artisan shops and cafés in town.
January 28: Trip End & Departure for the U.S.
Optional Day Trip to Antisana Ecological Reserve – Explore this high-elevation ecosystem, visiting the hut where legendary naturalist Alexander Von Humboldt spent the night in 1802. We’ll stop along the way to look for the majestic Andean Condor, and if the weather is clear, we’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of Antisana Volcano.
Your Guides
The trip will be led by Nature and Culture’s senior staff, including the Ecuador Country Director, Felipe Serrano; the Amazonian Platform Coordinator, Bruno Paladines; and the Senior LATAM Communications Coordinator, Nora Sánchez. Matt Clark, Nature and Culture’s Executive Director, will be your primary host and accompany you throughout the journey. Additionally, trip logistics will be managed by the Ecuadorian tour operator, Felipe Neira.
We hope you’ll join us on this once-in-a-lifetime excursion and take the time to see the incredible Nature and Culture projects that wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of donors like you!
