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Experience Life in the Jungles

Allow the indigenous Waodani tribe to be in the driver's seat

For the first time in the Waodani tribe’s history, there are a growing number of elderly people that some members of the younger generation have decided to care for. In an effort to create an economy to support the older generation, a group of Waodani Christians from the tribe has asked ITEC and ITEC Ecuador to help them in hosting short-term experiences in the jungle. These visits will expose outsiders to a true hunter/gatherer lifestyle that can only truly be created by those who have lived it.

Upcoming 2024 Trips

July 10-19
More Trip Details
Trip Overview
This trip will offer an exposure of different cultures and people, while also allowing the indigenous people to be in the driver’s seat. The team will fly into Quito, travel down to Shell, where they will spend 1-2 nights before heading out to the jungles for 4-5 days. The village where the teams will be staying in the jungle is right outside of Tzapino. In the jungles, you will spend time living the Waodani lifestyle. This could include things like hunting and fishing, building a garden, or learning how to make hammocks. While we are in the jungles, the Waodani are in charge. After leaving the jungles, we will have a couple days in Shell. During this time, a team leader from ITEC will process through material that will help challenge your perspective on missions. We will take the last two days to see Ecuador and experience the culture as we head back up to Quito. The time in Quito will include a trip to the equator.
Cost
The cost of this experience is $1,550 plus airfare from the U.S. to Quito, Ecuador. This fee will cover all of your expenses from the time you arrive in Ecuador until the time you leave. The only additional expense you might have would be for any souvenirs you decide to purchase on the trip.
Schedule A Custom Trip
Our trip dates don’t work with your schedule? Schedule your own trip to the Jungle with us! Make a group of 8+ people. (over 15+ people and it could be just your group) Then fill out the application selecting “Custom Trip Date” so we can work on finding dates for the vision trip.
WAO Vision Trip Forms

For those going on a Wao Vision Trip, please fill out the following forms:

Past Trip Photos

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand you might have numerous questions, but our trips are intentionally crafted to leave some queries open-ended. Our philosophy is rooted in relying not solely on our understanding but trusting in the Lord, navigating by faith rather than sight!

The Wao people are the true experts in their habitat, and our purpose is to humbly learn from them, embracing life from their unique perspective, not imposing ours. Soon, you'll come to appreciate their lifestyle, finding simplicity and creativity embedded in the natural wonders that God has bestowed upon the jungles.

That being said, here are some commonly asked questions along with their answers.


1. Will I need a water filter or purifier at any time? 

  • Not required as the water the Wao provide is good water, however it is a personal preference. Clean bottled water can be purchased outside the jungle.


2. While in the jungles will there be any electricity or opportunity to charge camera batteries, phones, hair dryers, etc.? 

  • No electricity or plumbing at all. Some have brought a battery pack or solar chargers, which if we have sunny days, can be quite effective.


3. Can I leave my cell phone safely behind in Shell when we move into the jungle? 

  • All items left in Shell will be secure.


4. Will there be additional vaccinations, medications (such as anti-malarial drugs) required for the trip? 

  • None that are required, however there are some suggestions. It is a good idea to be up to date on all routine immunizations such as tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, etc. There are vaccinations for both Hepatitis A and typhoid should you be so inclined. Both can be obtained through your physician or a travel clinic. Insect-borne illness such as malaria and dengue-fever are always possibilities as well.


5. When you talk about a backpack and a carry-on for the plane are we allowed to bring 2 carry-on items onto the plane? 

  • Airlines typically allow one carry on and one personal item; the backpack is your personal item; airlines can differ, but that has been the standard. Please check with your airline to verify.


6. Regarding packing for when not in the jungle, I see we are to bring 1-2 outfits for travel? 

  • On this adventure, we won't be attending any churches – we'll be deep in the jungles! For Quito, just think comfy clothes and shoes, as we'll be strolling quite a bit some days. Toss in a light jacket for Quito, and if it's waterproof, even better – it can tag along into the jungle where it rains daily.


7. Can I take a camera on the trip? 

  • There's a 10-pound limit for the jungle essentials pack. Keep in mind, the jungles are very humid, and rain can surprise us anytime. If it squeezes into that 10-pound bag, you're good. Don't forget to bring some zip lock bags for waterproof storage, just in case of rain.


8. What can I expect for weather conditions? 

  • Ecuador is on the equator. It is cool in the evenings and warm during the days. Temps range from 70-80 daytime, 50's nighttime. Rains daily!


9. What are the logistical arrangements at the airport in Quito? 

  • We will meet in the waiting area after getting through Customs. Team leaders will be wearing I-TEC hats and shirts. We will be together until we arrive back at the airport. All in-country transportation is provided.


10. Any Spanish or Wao phrases we could memorize beforehand? 

  • We will discuss on the trip. The Wao will also teach you.


11. Any voltage concerns while in Quito or Shell? 

  • None. Standard plugs are used and of course there is NO electricity in the jungle.
Did you see the Packing List? Your questions might be answered there.

You can download Wao Packing List HERE.

Still have a question? Feel free to contact our team. We would love to help answer any questions you might have.

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