La Selva Eco Lodge & Retreat
Ecuador
La Selva Eco Lodge & Retreat
Av. De Los Shyris 186, Quito, Ecuador
www.laselvajunglelodge.com/
HOTEL INFORMATION
Group
Golden Experiences & Travel
Shareholders
Privately owned
Date of Creation
1986
Hotel General Manager
Miguel Carrera, Hotel Manager at La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat, holds a degree in Ecotourism. He began his tourism career as a French translator on a boat and has extensive experience in Amazonian lodges. With over 30 years in the sector, Miguel has developed skills both as a guide and in administrative roles.
Hotel Positioning
5 star boutique
Luxury brand – XO private
Development Strategy
La Selva focuses on enhancing its facilities and services while prioritizing ecosystem conservation. Through the lodge, we cater to high-end clients (luxury) while minimizing environmental impact. Local communities play an active role in both direct and indirect services offered by the lodge.
La Selva Eco Lodge & Retreat
History & Story
La Selva Ecolodge & Retreat began as a small lodge in the heart of Ecuador’s Amazon, gradually transforming into an ecolodge with a focus on birdwatching and wildlife encounters. Over time, it evolved further, adding features like a butterfly garden and gaining recognition as a premier destination for Amazon exploration. Today, La Selva offers an authentic and complete experience, combining wildlife adventures led by naturalists and native guides, meaningful connections with local communities, and a wellness retreat featuring spa treatments and yoga amidst nature. This seamless blend of adventure, culture, and well-being sets La Selva apart as a sanctuary for reconnecting with the Amazon an oneself.
Date Renewal
Renovated in 2022
Date added extensions
N/A
Main Strengths, Special Touch
La Selva Ecolodge & Retreat offers a harmonious balance of adventure, wellness, and authenticity. Its privileged location in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions grants unparalleled access to extraordinary wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, guided by expert naturalists and local native guides.
Designed with exclusivity in mind, La Selva provides an intimate atmosphere where every moment feels personal and meaningful. Guests can enjoy thrilling jungle explorations complemented by yoga sessions, tranquil spa treatments, and exceptional dining crafted by skilled chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With a dedicated team delivering premium hospitality, we are a purpose-driven retreat that strengthens connection, respect for nature, and one-of-a-kind experience.
Location
La Selva Ecolodge & Retreat is nestled in Ecuador’s Yasuní Biosphere Reserve, within the buffer zone of Yasuní National Park. Accessible via the Napo River from Coca.
Key sites/activities in the area
Every activity invites to connect deeply with the Amazon. Canoe across Lake Garzacocha for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, or even fishing, or explore the untouched serenity of Lake Mandi. Climb the Observation Tower for breathtaking canopy views, or witness parrots gather at the Parrot Clay Licks in a dazzling display of nature. Wander jungle trails with expert and native guides who reveal the secrets of the rainforest, from medicinal plants to hidden wildlife. Quiet canoe rides bring you closer to caimans and monkeys, while cultural visits to Kichwa communities offer authentic connections. As night falls, experience the Amazon’s magic with a nocturnal safari that unveils the jungle’s hidden life. Every moment here is designed to make you feel part of this extraordinary ecosystem.
Fun Facts
La Selva Ecolodge & Retreat is full of unique and fascinating highlights. Once a butterfly farm, it has transformed into a sanctuary deeply connected to the Amazon’s biodiversity. Located in the buffer zone of Yasuní National Park in Sucumbíos, it offers incredible opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, such as spotting Anhingas, Tiger Herons, and Many-banded Aracaris, along with 6–8 species of monkeys during a single canoe ride on Lake Garzacocha. Its team, made up of over 85% local Kichwa members, adds an authentic cultural touch to every stay, blending adventure, community, and the natural wonders of one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
Children’s Corner
The Little Explorers Program at La Selva Ecolodge offers children aged 7+ a fun and educational Amazon experience. Guided by expert naturalists, kids embark on jungle walks, canoe rides, lagoon kayaking, and hands-on fishing adventures. Families can relax together at the natural pool, and kids enjoy pizza and ice cream festivals after a day of exploration.
Each child receives a Little Explorers Kit with binoculars and earns pins for identifying animals, culminating in a Little Explorers Certification. Safe, enriching, and unforgettable, this program connects families to the magic of the Amazon. Children under 7 may join with a signed waiver.
HOTEL FEATURES
Accommodation
• Number of suites: 3 Family
• Number of Luxury rooms: 16 Luxury
• Number of rooms, (keys) in all: 38 keys in the entire lodge
Restaurants & Bars
La Selva’s all-inclusive restaurant, led by Chef Elvis, offers dishes inspired by Amazonian flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Guests enjoy a mix of Ecuadorian and international cuisine in an open-air dining area overlooking Lake Garzacocha. With attentive hospitality and fresh, sustainable meals, dining at La Selva is a true highlight of the Amazon experience.
Wellness
La Selva Ecolodge offers a serene wellness experience in the heart of the Amazon. Guests can rejuvenate with spa treatments using locally sourced, natural ingredients, or find balance through yoga sessions in a tranquil open-air pavilion overlooking the rainforest. The natural pool by Lake Garzacocha provides a refreshing retreat, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. At La Selva, wellness and nature come together to restore mind, body, and spirit.
Corporate & Celebration Events
La Selva Ecolodge offers a one-of-a-kind setting for corporate retreats and private celebrations, with a capacity of up to 48 people. Our versatile spaces and tailored approach allow us to tailor every detail to your needs, whether it’s an intimate gathering or a team-building experience. Surrounded by the Amazon’s tranquility, your event will be as unique as the location itself. Our team will provide and help to design your perfect event.
Extra Notable Features
• Yoga Pavilion: Open-air yoga sessions with rainforest views.
• Spa Treatments: Relax with natural, Amazon-inspired therapies.
• Natural Pool: Refresh by the serene Lake Garzacocha.
• Cooking Experiences: Discover Amazonian flavors with our chefs.
Hotel and restaurant Awards
• South America’s Leading Eco-lodge 2024
• Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice 2024
• Trip Advisor’s Travellers Choice 2023
Number of employees
37