All of our facilities were built from eco-friendly materials and sustainable building methods. Our rooms and cabanas were carefully designed to provide comfort for our students while preserving the ambiance of the environment. They are light and airy, and are naturally climatised with high ceilings and large windows.
Each of our cabanas has a veranda with hammocks. These provide a relaxing dwelling for enjoying the view of the river and forest by day, or the nocturnal songs of the Amazon by night.
All private and shared rooms include private bathrooms with hot water, secure screens for bug-free ventilation, electrical lighting and outlets.
All GAIA programs include three meals per day.We offer an array of delicious dishes—a cuisine that includes traditional Amazonian recipes and flavors as well as national and international favorites. All meals are made with fresh ingredients, largely sourced from local communities in our area. **Our kitchen staff can accommodate vegetarian preferences, as well as other dietary restrictions. Please let us know in advance.**During your stay at GAIA, you will always have access to complimentary purified drinking water, tea, and coffee.
Sheets, blanket, pillow and a towel are provided for each student.
GAIA runs on its own water supply, which included pumps, cistern and carbon filters. Additionally we provide drinking water that is always available and complimentary for our students.
Rooms and bathrooms are cleaned by our staff three times per week. Towels and bed linens are replaced weekly.We offer use of laundry facilities for US $5
Students placed in a shared room can upgrade to a private room for US $75 per week, depending on availability. This fee can be shared by a couple or small group of friends who want to occupy a private room.
GAIA is located on the southern bank of the upper Napo River, 400 meters above sea level.
The average yearly temperature is 77°F (25°C). The area receives almost 200 inches of rain each year. The lowest rainfall occurs from November to January, and the highest occurs from April to July. June is typically the wettest month of the year.
Nighttime temperatures can be quite cool in comparison. In many areas, temperatures can fall to 50°F and can feel cooler due to the frequent rainfall.
GAIA Amazon Spanish and Kichwa school is located in the Ecuadorian Amazonia (the Amazon rainforest), one of the most ecologically unique areas in the world. The great biodiversity and rich culture here, provide a unique and fascinating setting for learning a foreign language.
Our center’s location was carefully chosen to ensure that our guests feel nestled within the natural environment of the rainforest. Our facilities have been designed to maintain the integrity of the natural ambiance, while providing comfort. GAIA overlooks the majestic Napo River, and is surrounded by a dense forest of cocoa trees . This privileged view of the forest, river and mountains gives our visitors ample opportunity to relish the nuances of the rainforest from dawn till dusk.
GAIA is located 3.5 kilometers east of the town of Ahuano, between the Napo River and the route to the village of Campanacocha. We can easily be reached from the village of Ahuano by canoe, bicycle, truck, or even foot. This strategic location provides access to various tourist attractions and volunteer projects, while retaining a ‘remote’ ambiance.
• Flashlight and batteries (necessary for each person)
• Camera and binoculars
• Water bottle
• Plastic bags to protect cameras and binoculars from rain
• Insect repellent
• Sun protection (cream / sunglasses / hat or cap)
• Toiletries (soap and shampoo)
• Lightweight pants and shirts / blouses with long sleeves for walks
• Shorts and shirts / blouses with short sleeves for the hotel and its surroundings
• Swimwear
• Rain coat or light rain jacket.
• Comfortable walking shoes and cotton socks.
• Slippers. In the lodge and rooms we only use socks, slippers or bare feet. Shoes are not allowed.
• We wear rubber boots for almost all excursions. We provide these from sizes 35 to 44.There are also shops in Ahuano that carry almost all sizes for approx. $12. However, if you wear an uncommon boot size, you may want to bring your own.
Although tropical diseases here are rare, it is always advisable to consult your physician about health precautions and vaccinations before traveling to a foreign country—preferably four to six weeks before departure. Please bring any medication you may need with you, as our first-aid kit is limited.
There is a medical clinic located in the Ahuano village, four kilometers from GAIA. This clinic provides basic medical care including dental, and emergency services. The closest hospital is located 34 km (45 minutes drive) from Ahuano, in the city of Tena.
