Anaconda Lodge Ecuador — Hotel in Ahuano

I recommend checking other lodges in the same place before coming to Anaconda. We never managed to reach the lodge because the owner decided we are not welcome. When we reached Ecuador we found out the whole country was on strike , it was very stressful and we honestly did not know if we would even stay in Ecuador in this circumstances and situation was changing from one minute to another. One of the roads still opened was the one for Anakonda, we decided to give it a try and go there and book one more night. The owner send me the invoice for the final amount ( I have already paid 30% of deposit earlier) I found it a bit dodgy he was insisting on paying full amount before reaching the lodge, specially taking into consideration situation in the country. I decided though to transfer the money after we come back from the whole day out in Quito. The owner started texting me demanding the transfer before I reached the hotel. Finally I was given ultimatum to pay till 10 pm or he will cancel our invoice and whole stay. I got upset and texted him back we were out and eating if he allows us, and I suggested using more trustworthy portals for money transfers. The invoice was cancelled before 10 pm! If anyone wants I have proof of all msgs. Only after that the owner would start pointing out to his policy that says all money have to be paid 5 days before. He ignored the fact he agreed for me to pay later and he forgot about fact that during strike different rules should apply. He decided he wont pay me back my deposit. He claimed as well he had to pay for boat and tax – later on we found out from the owner of other lodge that Anakonda lodge has their own boats… I have opened a case against the lodge on paypal and I managed to get back all my money. Even in his explanations in the case he stated I have called him names. This never happened after texting him there was no voice conversations between us , that I can easily prove, and I never wrote him anything this low. This is called defaming I have to mention as well we managed to book another lodge with amazing service and they did not ask us any money till last day! Not even deposit before coming! As a business owner u need to learn patience and how to talk to people , and even if you decided you don’t want to deal with someone , you should play fair and square and give money back without being forced to do so. Please read as well other negative comments and especially pay attention to aggression with which the owner answers to them, it should give you...

This has been the best stay of our 5 month trip in South America. Francisco and Sylvia were excellent hosts - really friendly and attentive. They have many native staff working with them - both to maintain the superb service and food at the lodge, and to provide tours and guide services - especially Cesar. We experienced all weathers whilst we were there, and it was amazing to see the tropical rainforest in all its different states. The jungle tours were very informative as well as fun. The tubing down river was hilarious.. The lodges were excellent. Sylvia supervised the kitchen, and each meal was a culinary delight. I especially enjoyed her coffee ice cream.

Although the most expensive part of our trip so far, it was definitely worth the experience. This isn’t just any old hotel - it’s a true jungle experience.

My only reservation was that WiFi was charged as an extra. Nowadays, especially for international travellers, it’s really a basic necessity. I think in such a beautiful chill-out place, people will self-regulate and avoid spending all their time on their phones. It should just be included. We were not the only guests who commented on this.

I would...

Where should we start - hardly ever have we felt so welcomed. If we ever wanted to live in the Amazons of Ecuador the hosts Francisco and Silvia are exactly the kind of people we would want to have around. Anaconda Lodge isn't just about having a bed to sleep in. If you are interested in learning about the culture, animals (cute dogs and cats included ;-)) and the beauty of this area but also eager to find out more about the political difficulties the rain forest and the people who live in it are experiencing these days then this is the perfect place for your stay. The hosts will make this breathtaking experience unforgettable for you. It's easy to tell that the lodge means so much to them. Not only is the Anaconda Lodge with all its friendly staff and delicious food a peaceful and quiet place to experience the rainforest with all its beautiful flora and fauna (trust me - Silvia and Francisco got some great trips waiting for you ;-) ) but it's also a place where hospitality takes on a new meaning. Thank you so much for taking care of us and for broadening our horizons. We truly felt like we were part...