Ecotourism

Want to be the solution? We have an application-only ecotourism program for guests bringing special skills and connections to our grassroots conservationists.

Local cuisine

Amazon food

Fish in the river

Fish in the river

Amazon trek jungle
Embera Putumayo

Jungle trek

Amazon taita

Visit Embera Chami

Fin del mundo Putumayo

Ceremony experience

Amazon rainforest

Visit Fin del Mundo

Reforest Putumayo

Putumayo jungle

Reforestation

Ecoturism river putumayo
Ecoturism Putumayo

    1. I can't find a trip to Villagarzòn (VGZ) on [a popular travel site]. What airline is it? I can't find a trip to VGZ on [a popular travel site]. What airline is it?

      Satena airlines services flights. You must book on their website.

    2. Why do I have to fly into Bogota?

      Bogota (BOG) airport is the closest international airport and Satena services flights to and from it.

    3. Why should I stay in Bogota for at least a day before and after my trip to the jungle?

      Satena flights are typically early-morning flights. After international travel, it is best to rest for the night at a hotel or hostel. This will also let you check out experiences that Bogota has, take a tour, or even shop for an item you forgot to pack. After you’re rested, you’ll return to the airport to catch the Satena flight to VGZ.

    4. I’m having trouble buying tickets for Satena on their website because of credit card security issues. Can you help?

      We can probably help. We’ll address it on a case-by-case basis.

    5. I missed my flight on Satena. What do I do?

      Historically, they’ve been accommodating if you had a good reason. Speak with an airline representative at the airport. It is possible, however, that they will not issue any refund. Additionally, be sure to notify our operations team on WhatsApp of any delay in your travels.

    6. How do I contact Satena’s customer service?

      Their office open at 8 a.m. CST or you can speak with a representative at the airport. They do not have 24-hour customer service.

    7. Can you (Savimbo) contact Satena to have them make a change for me?

      Laws here prevent us from making changes to anyone’s travel.

    1. What types of luggage or bags should I bring?

      You should have one primary backpack (think internal frame bag) for the majority of your items - plus a small day hiking pack for essentials like snacks, water, insect repellent, etc.

    2. I’d like to bring a hammock. What’s the best setup to have?

      We highly recommend Hennesy hammocks, but you should get a quality one with mosquito netting and a rain fly. If at the end of your trip, you’d like to donate the hammock, we’d love it - and will make sure it can be used by future ecotourists!

    1. Can I pay for the ecotourism program once I arrive?

      No. A significant amount of work goes into pre-planning your arrival, itinerary, meals, etc. Payment must be made in full ahead of your arrival by way of a payment link that will be provided to you.

    2. Can I make payments toward my trip?

      If someone is making payments for a group of people, we can help arrange this on a case-by-case basis. Part of the payment will be non-refundable. That said, it is easier if everyone pays their own way separately.

    3. Can I pay my hosts directly?

      No. Your ecotourism trip is a complete package, including tips. However, feel free to bring a small gift for hosts or small things for children, such as colorful pencils.

    4. Is there a place in VGZ that can exchange money?

      No. You will need to bring Colombian pesos.

    5. I tried to pay for something, but my bank/credit card is locked out.

      Most banks will flag any foreign activity. ALWAYS advise your card services department of your travel plans, including buying of tickets and the date range of your travel, as well as the names of each location you’ll be in. Lastly, always have a backup card or access to money.

    6. How much money should I bring with me?

      We recommend 200,000 to 500,000 COP in small bills ($50-$120 USD).

    1. Is it customary to bring a small gift for my host(s)?

      While this is not required, bringing a small gift for your host is welcomed. Think candles or small ceramic items - things that are unique and charming. During your trip, you’ll likely see a lot of children as well. They’re fascinated by visitors. Feel free to bring inexpensive things like foreign coins, colorful pencils, or games that multiple kids can play with.

    1. Can I fill out a waiver for someone else that is traveling with me?

      The waiver is a legally-binding document and each ecotourist must sign their own.

    2. Can I sign the waiver in-person when I arrive?

      This is not permitted. See the “Booking” FAQ section.

    1. Can I sleep in a tent?

      Tent camping here is dangerous. Many creatures of the jungle WILL find a way into your tent with you.

    2. Can I walk around barefoot?

      Perhaps in some places, but not in the jungle. Even indigenous persons wear boot because of venomous bugs, snakes, thorns, etc.

    3. I don’t speak Spanish. Will a translator be available?

      You’ll have a translator available throughout your stay.

    4. Would I be able to store some luggage at the VGZ office?

      This is on a case-by-case basis but is possible.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • "My experience in the jungle was pretty intense. I enjoyed hiking in the forest, it felt great to be surrounded only by nature, with animals, strange insects, and plants to discover everywhere! It felt like the natural way to live.

    — Johanna C. (Savimbo ecotourist)

  • “Ecotourism is a catalyst for the circular economy, where resources are valued, reused, and regenerated, creating a sustainable cycle of economic prosperity and environmental stewardship.”

    — Ellen MacArthur Foundation

  • “In the tapestry of life, indigenous peoples are the vibrant threads that weave together biodiversity, cultural heritage, and sustainable futures.”

    — United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

  • “Ecotourism is a powerful tool for biodiversity conservation, allowing visitors to experience and appreciate the natural world while supporting conservation efforts and local communities.”

    — Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

  • “Empowering indigenous communities is not just a moral imperative; it is an essential step towards building a more inclusive and sustainable world, where diverse voices and cultures contribute to the richness of our shared humanity.”

    — United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Ecoturism putumayo food
Ecoturism reserve putumayo