Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
monies, andway of life. They also lead excursions into the reserve, en-
abling you to see the prolific wildlife.
Steve's Lodge lies on a fairly developed, cattle-grazed plot of land, but
it is quite popular and maintains a good reputation. Perhaps it's the
family atmosphere. Simple and rustic, the lodge has a good view of
the river and comfortable double rooms with shared baths and elec-
tricity. $$$
Steve and Laura Tarjanyi are the owners. Contact them at Casilla
187, Esmeraldas, nagy@pi.cro.ec.
FromBorbón, catch amotorized canoe for about $20 (bargain hard) or
a regular passenger canoe for about $2. Arriving without notice at
Steve's Lodge is usually not a problem, or you can make prior ar-
rangements with the Tarjanyis to be picked up in Borbón. Ask for a
discount if you're traveling with a group.
Verdes Tropicos (Green Tropics) Choco Lodge is a bit farther
up the Río Cayapas from Steve's Lodge. Contact FUNDEAL, Verdes
Tropicos Choco Lodge, 1227 Reina Victoria and Calama, Quito,
2-
2507-245 or 2-2507-208, fax 2-2238-801 or 2-2507-284, fundeal@pi.
pro.ec. This community-based ecocultural tourismproject operates in
conjunction with FUNDEAL, the Foundation for Alternative Devel-
opment, in and around their own reserve.
FUNDEAL actively supports community
initiatives to conserve nature, preserve culture,
and promote community development with
ecotourism as
an
alternative
to
forest
exploitation.
Set back in a small clearing, the Choco Lodge is next to the river and
surrounded by forest near the community of Santa María. Cabañas,
built in the traditional Chachi style, have thatched roofs and are
raised on stilts. Visitors enjoy relaxing views as they swing fromham-
mocks and watch the tropical world float by. Although the comfort-
able facilities often make it seem difficult to leave, there are places to
go, people to visit, and things to see. Four- or five-day tours (about
$100 per person per day) take in everything fromChachi shamanism
to Afro-Ecuadorian marimba music. $$$
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