Frequently Asked Questions
Sacha Lodge books your outward and return flights between Quito and Coca, and can organize airport assistance at both ends.
It is always advisable to consult your physician about health measures and vaccinations before traveling to a foreign country. Although Sacha is well-isolated from local populations and tropical diseases are extremely rare here, during your stay in Ecuador you may pass through areas of slightly higher risk.
Please note that your trip to Sacha will bring you from Quito, which is located at almost 9,000 feet (2,850 meters) above sea level, to the lowland tropical rainforest region at less than 900 feet (300 meters) above sea level. Please bring any medication you might need with you, as the selection in our first-aid kit is limited.
We keep a complete first aid kit for any minor injuries or ailments you may experience. However, please bring any special medication you might need with you. In case of serious injury or illness, there is a modern medical center located within 40 minutes of Sacha Lodge.
At all times we have five staff members on duty patrolling of our reserve as park rangers to keep both the lodge and the surrounding environment safe.
Anyone can enjoy Sacha Lodge, regardless of physical ability or challenges. Much of the lodge is wheelchair-friendly and accessible, and there are a host of activities—such as exploring creeks by canoe—that can be undertaken without the need to stand or walk.
Sacha Lodge is ideal for groups wishing to explore to Amazon. Contact us for more details.
For the flight to Coca, airlines require that checked baggage be limited to a weight of 50 pounds (23 kilograms) per person. However, heavier items, such as cameras and books, can be carried in your handbag (limited to 25 pounds (12 kilograms)) if necessary.
For the ride to Sacha from Coca, our canoe is covered against sun and rain, but a light jacket can be useful for the wind and spray. Be sure to wear sun protection, as the reflection off the water can sometimes cause sunburn. All suitcases will be placed in waterproof bags for the trip down the Napo River, for protection against spray and rain.
In the tropical rainforest, it's best to be prepared for all kinds of weather. A common question we receive is about the “dry and rainy seasons” of the Amazon, but it's best not to trust such generalizations to plan a trip. At times, it can be hot and sunny, but a cool rainstorm may appear at a moment’s notice during any time of year. We have air conditioning and a ceiling fan in each room for hot afternoons, but at night, especially after it rains, some guests are surprised at the need for a sweatshirt.
Sacha Lodge provides laundry service (washing and drying) for our guests. Please consult with our lodge administrator for charges.
Lightweight pants and long-sleeve shirts are ideal for walks in the forest. However, if you're more comfortable wearing short sleeves, remember that exposed skin may need a light application of insect repellent.
During the rain, full waterproof clothing can be uncomfortable as it often gets you wet with sweat instead of water, but rain ponchos are recommendable for tropical cloudbursts. Plenty of ponchos are available at no charge if you do not have your own, and we also supply rubber boots up to men’s size 14 for walks in the forest.
Comfortable shoes or sandals, shorts and T-shirts are fine for walking on boardwalks and around the Lodge during meals and free time. And don’t forget your bathing suit!
- Passport
- Binoculars
- Flashlight and batteries
- Camera, film, and flash
- Insect repellent
- Sun protection (sunscreen/sunglasses/hat or cap)
- Water bottle
- Lightweight long pants and long-sleeve shirts for walks
- Shorts, short-sleeve shirts, and bathing suit for the Lodge
- Comfortable shoes and extra socks
- Small day pack
- Plastic bags to protect cameras, binoculars, film, etc. from rain
Internet connections are available in rooms and the lodge social areas at no additional charge.
In your shower you will find dispensers of biodegradable soap and shampoo. Although all runoff water is treated with ozone, we recommend the use of these amenities as an extra measure to protect the environment. You will also be provided with fresh towels each day.
All drinking water provided at Sacha, including ice, comes from a local well and is purified with a UV purification system. The water is tested regularly and has proven perfectly safe for human consumption. If you prefer, however, you may purchase bottled water from the bar.
The use of drones is prohibited by Amazon care regulations for the protection and safety of the rainforest's wildlife.
