Discover the heart of the Ecuadorian jungle on an Epic Trip where purpose meets adventure. Alongside a small group of like-minded travelers, you’ll help care for rescued monkeys, connect deeply with the local community throught immersive activities such as traditional indigenous jewelry workshop and tours to local markets and parks, and support a local conservation project. More than just an escape, this journey is about belonging, building soul-level friendships, and finding inspiration in experiences that create positive impact for both people and the planet.
Starting from
US$ 1,710 for 8 days
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Spend a week surrounded by nature, purpose, and genuinely good humans! Together we'll support wildlife conservation in a monkey sanctuary, experience local culture, and create the kind of connections that stay with you long after the trip ends. Open to everyone, with a neurodivergent-friendly environment where you can show up as your full self.
Show moreStarting from
US$ 1,710
Starting from
Join me on this trip of a lifetime!
Show moreStarting from
US$ 1,498
Flights must arrive by 12 PM so the driver can pick up the group at the arrivals area of the international airport.
The driver will safely take the group on a 5-hour journey with stunning landscapes from the airport to the project. Let the adventure begin!
Kick off your adventure with a special group dinner and try Chuchuguazo, a traditional liquor from the Ecuadorian Amazon—an authentic experience to start your journey with great energy. Plus, take home a unique souvenir: your exclusive Paseo de los Monos t-shirt!
Start your day with a delicious spread of fresh fruit, bread, cheese, eggs, yogurt, and drinks. Fuel up for the adventure ahead!
Get to know the project, explore the region, and learn about the impact of your visit on all 102 animals cared for at Paseo de los Monos. This one-hour tour is the perfect start to your experience!
Recharge with a nutritious meal at the project—fresh, local, and made with care!
Your first hands-on activity with the animals! Join a biologist to prepare and serve a special snack for the monkeys and other rescued wildlife.
Wrap up the day with a group dinner, then enjoy Canelazo, a traditional Andean drink, served by your hosts. Relax, play pool, and sing your heart out at karaoke for a fun evening at the project!
Start your day with a delicious spread of fresh fruit, bread, cheese, eggs, yogurt, and drinks. Fuel up for the adventure ahead!
Join a biologist to prepare and serve the animals' main meal of the day—a hands-on experience that connects you to their daily care.
Recharge with a nutritious meal at the project—fresh, local, and made with care!
The group will be taken to visit Centro Holístico Los Yapas, just 15 minutes from the project, for an afternoon of holistic therapies and self-discovery.
End the day with a shared meal, relaxing and reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Start your day with a delicious spread of fresh fruit, bread, cheese, eggs, yogurt, and drinks. Fuel up for the adventure ahead!
Join a biologist to prepare and serve the animals' main meal of the day—a hands-on experience that connects you to their daily care.
Recharge with a nutritious meal at the project—fresh, local, and made with care!
Learn the art of indigenous jewelry-making in this hands-on workshop. Create your own unique piece using traditional techniques and materials while immersing yourself in the local culture!
End the day with a shared meal, relaxing and reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Experience an authentic limpia (spiritual cleansing) led by a Kichwa shaman, a sacred tradition of the region. A deep, immersive journey into Ecuadorian culture!
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast before heading out for the day’s adventures.
Recharge with a nutritious meal at the project—fresh, local, and made with care!
After 3 days, you can enter monkey's parks and feed them directly!
End the day with a shared meal, relaxing and reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast before heading out for the day’s adventures.
Choose an optional tour (extra cost) with pickup from the project: Full Day in the Jungle or Full Day Adventure. Prefer to stay? Enjoy the river, play pool, or simply relax at the house.
Gather for a delicious group meal, sharing stories from the day’s adventures.
Start your morning with a delicious and energizing breakfast before heading out for the day’s adventures.
Join a 2-hour guided tour through this national park, spot local wildlife, and learn about the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Explore a vibrant regional market, discover Ecuadorian culture, shop for souvenirs, and experience the local gastronomy. Then, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch.
End the day with a shared meal, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Extend your adventure by exploring Puyo for the evening! The host will indicate trustworthy taxi contacts for the group.
Enjoy a final breakfast together, savoring the last moments of this incredible experience.
Say your goodbyes and take with you unforgettable memories of your journey! A driver will take the group back to the airport in Quito.
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Team up with a biologist to prep fresh, healthy meals that keep rescued animals happy and thriving!
Deliver food to the animals and watch them chow down: an up-close experience you’ll never forget!
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Head to a nearby holistic center for an afternoon of healing therapies and self-discovery.
Centro Holístico Los Yapas
Experience a sacred ‘limpia’ led by a Kichwa shaman—a powerful regional healing tradition.
En Paseo de Los Monos
Craft unique jewelry using indigenous techniques and natural materials.
In Puyo
Discover local culture at a vibrant market, find unique gifts, and savor an Ecuadorian meal.
Explore Ecuador’s biodiversity on a guided walk and learn about native plants and traditions.
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
A full day of adventure with rafting, caves, and more in the heart of the jungle.
Aprox. US$70
Full-day jungle tour with Indigenous villages, waterfalls, and unforgettable nature experiences.
Aprox. US$70
Explore downtown Puyo, visit local shops, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Aprox. US$15 - US$20
United Kingdom
I had a wonderful stay at the shelter, the staff were super friendly and inclusive, and did everything they could to make us feel comfortable and at home. They provided 3 warm meals a day, and plenty of water. There were a few challenges with the showers, as they rely on rainwater, and as we were a large group we often ran out of water for a few days- but there’s a fresh river near by that does the job! And these are challenges to be expected with accommodation like this! All in all a great experience- thank you the shelter !
5 days ago
United States
My experience at the shelter was absolutely incredible. Of course the monkeys and other animals were adorable, but the community / family that works and lives there is was truly made it a wonderful adventure. I would recommend this to everyone and I would go back in a heartbeat! Thank for you a 10/10 experience
12 days ago
United States
Majo and everyone at the shelter were amazing and welcoming! Juli cooks the most delicious food! You will learn a lot here and bring home great stories.
16 days ago
United States
I truly enjoyed my time in the Amazon Rainforest! 🌿🐒 The hosts were absolutely impeccable; so welcoming, friendly, and attentive throughout the entire experience.
One of my favorite parts was caring for the different types of monkeys and getting the opportunity to connect with nature in such a meaningful way. Being able to experience the Amazon from such a real and authentic perspective made the entire trip unforgettable.
It was truly an amazing experience from start to finish. 10/10—I would absolutely recommend! 🌳🐒✨
about 2 months ago
United States
My stay was absolutely amazing and an experience I will never forget. Everyone was extremely nice and there was plenty to do to keep you busy throughout the days. The WiFi works good in the main part of the building incase you need to use your phone at all. Overall I would absolutely recommend coming here if you get the chance, the monkeys were awesome.
2 months ago
United States
Had the best time on an Epic trip at El the shelter Manos! Such a positive and intentional environment!! Would love to come back.
3 months ago
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Experience an immersive stay at Paseo de Los Monos, where accommodations are located in the heart of the Amazonian rainforest. The project’s main house features five spacious shared rooms, each equipped with sturdy bunk beds to ensure comfort and rest. While offering privacy, the accommodations allow you to remain fully connected to the surrounding nature, with the tranquil sounds of the jungle enhancing your stay. The facilities include well-maintained bathrooms with hot showers, a communal space with a pool table for socializing, and a serene outdoor area where you can unwind in a hammock while observing the local wildlife, including playful monkeys. Fresh linens are provided, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your stay.
Breakfast is a self-served experience where the traveler can enjoy coffee, tea, seasonal fruits, yogurt, and granola at their own pace. Lunch and dinner are lovingly prepared by a local team, featuring hearty meals centered on authentic Amazonian ingredients with both protein and vegetarian or vegan options. Throughout the week, the group will share traditional Ecuadorian Amazonian dishes such as Mayto de tilapia and shrimp ceviche. Light snacks are also available during the day, ensuring the traveler is well-nourished while connecting over these communal culinary moments.
Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito and connect with your driver for a direct transfer to our sanctuary near Puyo. A direct return shuttle back to Quito Airport is also included at the end of the trip. Full details are in your program guide once your spot is confirmed!
Guided by a founder who spent decades traveling before launching the first wildlife rescue center in the Pastaza region, this sanctuary is born from a deep passion for conservation. Joined by a former lawyer who traded her career for animal welfare, the team has built a haven dedicated to rehabilitating trafficked wildlife. Regulated by conservation authorities, the project ensures a high quality of life for animals unable to return to the wild. It offers the traveler a rare opportunity to learn from experts and contribute to a legacy of protection in the heart of the Amazon.
Nestled in Puyo, the gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon, Paseo de los Monos is surrounded by lush rainforests, winding rivers, and an abundance of wildlife. Located in the Pastaza province, this region is home to diverse ecosystems, breathtaking waterfalls, and vibrant Indigenous cultures that have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. The lush jungle is teeming with exotic animals, from playful monkeys to colorful birds, offering a truly immersive Amazonian experience. Whether you're exploring hidden trails, swimming in the river, or simply relaxing in a hammock to the sounds of the rainforest, this is the perfect place to disconnect and reconnect with nature.
Paseo de Los Monos is more than a rescue center—it’s a hub for positive change. By training and employing local youth, the project provides hands-on experience that helps them grow professionally while making a real impact. The center also strengthens the local economy, including Indigenous communities, by attracting eco-conscious travelers. Through sustainable tourism and financial support, Paseo de Los Monos creates opportunities that benefit both people and nature.
Home to 102 rescued animals, Paseo de Los Monos is a leader in wildlife care and rehabilitation. The team works tirelessly to restore natural habitats and give these animals a second chance at life.
Paseo de Los Monos empowers young professionals by providing hands-on experience at the center, helping them grow in their careers. Plus, the project collaborates with local businesses to support a sustainable economy.
From reforestation efforts to river cleanups and wildlife protection, the project is committed to preserving the environment. Every visitor gets the chance to learn about sustainability and take part in real climate action.
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Worldpackers Group Trips offer a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful projects like eco-agriculture, wildlife conservation, and social activities, all while exploring new cultures. Upon successful sign-up, travelers secure their spot instantly - no waiting around for approvals to have their dream experience. To keep things smooth, they get a direct line to a support team and a complete program guide, all set for travelers to immerse themselves in service projects while also having the best time for personal and cultural exploration with like-minded travelers.
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Each of the Worldpackers Group Trips plans offer different cancelation & modification conditions, which are presented on the payment check-out page and on the Worldpackers Group Trips Terms and Conditions.
Each of the Worldpackers Group Trips experiences offer different benefits, which may include volunteer certificates. All benefits are stated on the openings’ pages, and you can check what type of certificates are available in each of them.
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