Hamadryade Lodge

Hamadryade Lodge is in Tena, in the middle of the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle. Built on the site of an old gold mine, it blends in to its natural surroundings with the extensive use of natural materials like wood, stone and glass (in keeping with the lodge's environmental ethos, no trees were felled in its construction). The hotel’s French owners, Sebastien and Ambre, imbue the place with a homely atmosphere and will make you feel very welcome.

The rooms at Hamadryade Lodge are spread across luxurious bungalows, which, like the rest of the hotel, feature a stylish, contemporary design which nonetheless blends in seamlessly with the surrounding jungle. The floors and furnishings are made from beautiful dark wood, and the large stone showers use rainwater, while each bungalow is decorated with unique artefacts from the artistic traditions of different Amazonian ethnic groups. Your sense of immersion is enhanced by the large windows overlooking the rainforest and the Napo River. 

Food at Hamadryade Lodge is an ever-changing experience, with delicious local and international dishes served up based on the availability of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Breakfast takes the form of exotic fruits, fresh coffee and juices and delicious crepes courtesy of owner Sebastien, who doubles as the chef. Sebastien specialises in French and Japanese cuisine, but the lunch and dinner menus change from day to day. There is a great selection of South American wines to accompany your meal. Tuck in while enjoying the views over the pool, the river and the surrounding rainforest. 

The lodge’s pool is the perfect place for a refreshing dip after a jungle adventure, while a range of massage treatments and wellness packages are available, including a yoga retreat in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.

Adventurous types and nature lovers will be in seventh heaven staying at Hamadryade Lodge, and there is a range of cultural and outdoor activities on offer. The lodge works very closely with local communities. A two-hour jungle hike will take you deep into the rainforest, passing rich wildlife and beautiful scenery en route to meeting the people of the Valle Hermoso indigenous community. You’ll also get a chance to meet indigenous Kichwa people at nearby Shiripuno, where a women’s association will teach you about their history and cultural activities such as chocolate making, gold panning and traditional dance. 

Away from dry land, visit waterfalls and rainforest lagoons, while whitewater rafting, kayaking and canoeing are great ways to experience the pristine Napo and Anzu rivers up close.