YARINA Eco Lodge

This eco-lodge has potential, but the manager is its downfall. Huge factor: If you are traveling independently as we two were (as in, not w/ an organized group), you’re at the mercy of manager’s hire of a free-lance guide, who’s with you from airport pickup to drop-off. And our guide was, essentially, a madman who repeatedly exhibited terrible judgement. He ruined our expensive stay and even endangered us. He remained blissfully unaware of our interests and needs—or ignored them. Not mean-spirited. Just terribly unprofessional. He often took us on dangerous paths while staying 20 meters ahead and even out of sight. We waded through yards of water up to our knees, slipping and inching along. We trudged through seemingly endless traks of mud. I slipped a total of five times, going down hard each time. He didn’t even know, and when he did, he just stood there, making no effort to help. Mud and water in the rainy jungle? Sure. But re-routing never occurred to him. And we saw virtually nothing after hours of exhausting hiking. By far, we saw more at the lodge at two lunchtimes—monkeys, birds, fauna—than all hikes put together. We should have just sat there. When I expressed my concerns to the elusive manager—who had never even greeted us—he was sympathetic. The guide would never be hired again! But if this mgr did the hiring, who will he choose next? As we left in a.m., he held the boat rope but didn’t even say goodbye to us. Spend $1300+ for less than 40 hrs elsewhere!

We spent three days at Yarina Eco Lodge and were thoroughly impressed. The entire package – transfers, accommodation, meals, and activities – was very well designed and executed with a high level of professionalism. Everything ran smoothly, allowing us to fully enjoy the Amazon experience. The accommodation offered good comfort while maintaining a genuine rainforest setting. The kitchen was excellent, with varied and flavorful meals showcasing local ingredients. The entire staff – from service and housekeeping to maintenance and boat drivers – were friendly, attentive, and consistently helpful. Our guide, Livio, deserves special recognition. He played a key role in shaping and delivering our activities, making the experience truly exceptional. Through his deep knowledge and engaging approach, he brought the rainforest to life during jungle walks with wildlife spotting (birds, monkeys, frogs, insects) and insights into the impressive flora, including towering trees and medicinal plants. He also guided us on boat trips along Napo tributaries, piranha fishing, and memorable night excursions both on foot and by canoe. A visit to a local Kichwa family added valuable cultural context. Highly recommended for a well-rounded and authentic Amazon experience.

Staff was excellent in helping me adjust and also help me in getting a tour guide last minute. My room upgrade was wonderfully amazing and everything was very clean. Breakfast was delicious and I really enjoyed my time here. My experience in Machupicchu was incredible and this hotel made it perfect! Highly recommend this hotel to anyone coming to Machupicchu!

Henry, our guide took great care of us. We liked that the lodge was more casual, no staff in pressed white shirts. We highly recommend Yarina Eco Lodge!

Unha experiencia