Juan Xavier Guzman

10 December 2024

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Minga Lodge: A journey to the heart of the ecuadorian Amazon

Minga Lodge: A journey to the heart of the ecuadorian Amazon

There are trips that mark a before and after in your life. For me, Minga Lodge was one of those places—not just a destination I discovered, but one I deeply lived and felt. This hidden paradise in the Ecuadorian Amazon is more than a getaway; it’s a transformative experience inviting you to connect with nature, local communities, and, most importantly, yourself.


Getting to Minga is part of the charm

From the very first moment, I knew something special was waiting for me. Reaching Minga Lodge is an adventure in itself. Starting in Quito, you take a short flight to El Coca, followed by a two-hour motorized canoe ride along the Napo River. The journey is pure magic: the water reflects the endless green of the jungle, and the birdsong prepares you for what’s to come. Alternatively, you can take a five-hour car ride from Quito to a nearby point, where a quick 10-minute canoe ride delivers you to the heart of the Amazon.

The moment you step into Minga Lodge, you feel you’ve arrived somewhere truly unique. There’s something in the air—a blend of humidity and floral scents—that embraces you warmly. The team welcomes you with radiant smiles and a refreshing towel as you’re immersed in vibrant gardens and open social spaces. Views of the Napo River invite you to unwind and fully embrace the present moment.

Accommodation options cater to every type of traveler. I stayed in one of the cabins at the Sanctuary Lodge, were luxury and privacy blend seamlessly. For families, the interconnected Canopy cabins are ideal, while The Nest area offers rooms that balance comfort and a connection with nature.


A feast for the senses

Minga is not just a retreat for the body but for the senses as well. The cuisine goes beyond sustenance—it’s a celebration of local flavors. Using fresh ingredients and sustainable “one-mile radius” practices, every dish is a unique culinary experience. From buffet breakfasts, coffee tastings and gourmet dinners, every bite transports you deeper into the heart of the Amazon.

The magic doesn’t stop at the table. Activities at the lodge invite you to connect profoundly with the life and culture of the Amazon. Each day feels like a new chapter in a map full of surprises. Jungle treks guided by locals reveal centuries-old trees, medicinal plants with hidden secrets, and vibrantly colored birds that seem to belong to another world. Being there feels like stepping into a nature documentary, but with the intensity of firsthand experience.

One of the most unforgettable moments was my visit to a nearby community women welcomed me with warm smiles and hands busy weaving stories into bracelets. As they taught me, they shared tales of their lives in the jungle, explaining how each design honors their traditions. One of those bracelets now graces my wrist, a tangible reminder of the Amazon’s warmth.

Later, back at the lodge, I learned to use blowguns and spears—tools steeped in centuries of history, hunting, and survival. This connection to the past made me feel part of something much greater. To finish the day a cleansing ritual with a shaman, who guided guests through ancestral practices of spiritual purification that left a lasting impression.


Immersion in Amazonian life

As part of the activities, we navigated a serene river to reach a local chacra, a family-owned piece of land just next to their house where they cultivate different type of products. Here we harvest several products like yuca and chontacuros (amazonian worms) which later were prepared on a show cooking demonstration back at the lodge. It was a sensory challenge but also a new way to appreciate the Amazon’s culinary wealth.

We also discovered a local farm managed by Minga Lodge foundation, a place so extraordinary it felt like a Willy Wonka Amazon Park. Everything—from the plants to the colors—was captivating. The air was filled with the aroma of cacao and coffee, and fruits.

A honey and superfood tasting was another unique highlight. Watching honey extracted directly from hives was fascinating, while cacao—from bean to chocolate—deepened my connection to the jungle. In a specially designed lab, I learned how to craft my own chocolate bar, guided by passionate experts dedicated to cacao.

Magical nights

Nights at Minga are as enchanting as the days. Whether walking under the starry jungle canopy, listening to the nocturnal symphony of insects and frogs, or simply relaxing in the common areas, the setting invites you to pause and appreciate the universe around you.

Our farewell dinner was magical; the table was setup on the main deck of the lodge with a magnificent view to the Napo River. This night we all shared our favorite moments of our trip while enjoying a delicious BBQ prepared by Sebastian, the lodge´s chef.

Why choose Minga Lodge?

Every experience at this luxurious haven reinforces the meaning of “Minga,” which in Quichua signifies collective work and collaboration. This spirit infuses every corner of the lodge and its projects with nearby communities.

Minga Lodge isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that helps you reconnect with what truly matters—nature, ancestral cultures, and your own senses. For those seeking an extra touch of wellness, the lodge offers a spa, a mini gym, and dedicated spaces for yoga and meditation. There is also a designated space with all the facilities for group meetings and presentations, a small pond where some alligators may show up, and a souvenir shop where you can take a piece of the jungle home.

I totally recommend coming to Minga Lodge and experience the Amazon like never before. Discover, learn, feel, and take-home memories that will last a lifetime. The jungle awaits you with open arms. Are you ready for this adventure? Contact us.