Connected by Nature: Ecuador Amazon Expedition
January 7-14, 2027. Step into the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon for an unforgettable, family-friendly journey into one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Based at Waita Lodge, this immersive experience blends nature exploration, science, and optional photography in a way that’s welcoming to everyone, no camera required, but you will be guided by world-class photographers.
Guided by expert scientists and world-class photographers, you’ll explore rainforest trails and waterways in search of incredible wildlife, from monkeys and sloths to vibrant birds and fascinating insects. Along the way, you’ll uncover the science behind these ecosystems and gain a deeper understanding of how rainforest biodiversity connects to our everyday lives.
With opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and meaningful cultural experiences, including a unique opportunity for conversations around coffee and its roots in tropical ecosystems, this journey is designed to spark curiosity, connection, and discovery for all ages.
For more information on the Amazon trip, click here.
What to Expect
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A typical day begins early with guided explorations, by canoe or on foot, when wildlife is most active, offering opportunities to observe birds, mammals, and insects while learning the science behind their behaviors and roles in the ecosystem. Throughout the day, hands-on experiences and informal discussions connect what you’re seeing in the rainforest to broader ecological processes and even the products and systems we rely on in daily life. As evening sets in, optional night walks reveal a different side of the ecosystem, deepening your understanding of how all parts of the rainforest are connected.
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Each instructor is well-versed in the research on these remarkable species. Along the way, you’ll naturally learn how they contribute to their ecosystems and how that knowledge connects to the broader world—and to our own lives.
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Instructors are not only scientists but also world-class photographers who are capable of guiding you to the perfect picture. We can prepare you on which lenses to bring and how to adjust your settings to get the perfect shot.
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Waita Lodge is an eco-lodge nestled deep within Ecuador’s Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. Surrounded by pristine rainforest, winding rivers, and blackwater lagoons, it offers an immersive base for exploring the Amazon through guided canoe excursions, jungle walks, and close encounters with wildlife including monkeys, birds, pink river dolphins, and countless insects.
Designed for both comfort and connection, the lodge blends authentic rainforest experiences with knowledgeable local guides and a strong focus on conservation and community, creating a meaningful and unforgettable Amazon experience.
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What’s Included
Comfortable lodging (double occupancy; optional single depending on location)
All meals throughout the workshop once everyone arrives
Domestic flights
Instruction from world-class photographers and scientists
Access to field sites and guided excursions
Hands-on photography guidance and natural history learning
What is NOT Included:
Alcohol
Tips
Souvenirs
Additional add on activities
Cancellation Policy
90+ days before: Full refund minus $50 fee
60 days before: 50% refund minus $50 fee
30 days or less: No refunds
Itinerary: The Jungle
** Subject to change as needed.
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Most people arrive at night to Quito, we will transport you to our Quito hotel, San Jose de Puembo.
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Breakfast at the hotel. Your morning flight is included from Quito to Coca. Once we land in Coca, we will get a 2-hour bus ride to the river, where we can eat our boxed lunch, and then get a 3-hour boat ride to Waita Lodge.
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Encounters with Amazonian Wildlife
Monkeys, Watson Birds, Pink River Dolphins, Incredible Insects, Sloths, Agoutis, Bats, Hummingbirds, Tayra, Toucans, Motmots, Kingfishers, Tree Frogs, Glass Frogs, Flue Morpho Butterflies and so much more. -
Travel back to Coca. Overnight at the Auca Hotel. Morning flight to Quito.
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Catch a flight from Coca to Quito at 10:30AM. We arrive around noon. Most flights home from Quito leave around midnight so we will get lunch and then will visit the Wikiri: Frog Park. We will then get dinner overlooking the city at 6 pm and be back to the Airport around 8-9 pm.
meet your instructors
Camille de Boissel
Camille is a sustainability and regenerative agriculture expert whose work connects biodiversity conservation with community-driven coffee production in places like Gorongosa National Park. She will have a guest presentation on how ecosystems, livelihoods, and global commodities like coffee are deeply intertwined, helping participants see the real-world connections between nature and everyday life.
Piotr Naskrecki
Piotr is a world-renowned entomologist, conservation biologist, and photographer based at Harvard’s Museum of Comparative Zoology, known for bringing hidden biodiversity to life through science and imagery. As an instructor, he blends natural history, conservation, and photography to help participants see and understand the natural world in entirely new ways.
John and Kendra Abbott
John and Kendra are professional nature photographers, scientists, and educators based at the University of Alabama, combining expertise in entomology, ecology, and conservation with world-class visual storytelling. In addition to their work in research and education, they collaborate on nature documentary projects, using film and photography to communicate science and connect audiences with the natural world.
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and register for a workshop.
Your Questions, Answered-
Families, nature lovers, and photographers of all levels, no experience required.
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Not at all. Photography is optional; you can simply enjoy the wildlife and learning experience.
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We combine world-class photography, science, and immersive nature experiences in a way that connects ecosystems to everyday life.
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Yes, but we will be in the field every day, engaged in nature so kids should be old enough to be able to go on a 2-3 hour day out in nature. Our trips are designed to be engaging for curious kids and adults alike.
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Family-friendly + elite instructors + photography+science storytelling
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A camera with a macro setup for small animals like bugs and/or a long zoom lens for larger animals. We’ll provide guidance based on your setup.