Ecolodge

Since the discovery of oil in the 1960s, the Huaorani have been forced to deal with the presence of oil companies and other outsiders on the land they have called home for at least a thousand years.

Huaorani leader Moi Enomenga, made famous by articles in the New Yorker magazine and as the principle character in Joe Kane's Savages (1995), as well as in an NBC television documentary telling of his struggle to protect Huaorani land from oil companies, believes that ecotourism is a means by which his people can receive an income while maintaining the integrity of their culture and conserving their rainforest territory.

Moi is currently the president of the Ecotourism Association of Quehueri`ono, which represents five communities on the upper Shiripuno River, and has signed an agreement with Tropic to develop this joint venture for the next ten years.

Tropic - Journeys in Nature is an award-winning company committed to the principles of sustainability. Tropic has been supporting indigenous campaigns since its inception with income generated by ecotourism programs and with donations from former clients, foundations and other supporters. Tropic has developed a close relationship with the Huaorani beginning in 1994, and with its guidance, but under Huaorani control, has developed a joint venture to bring visitors to this remarkable territory. Tropic facilitates the sales, marketing and management of this venture until such time as the Huaorani choose and are able to take over all aspects of this conservation and tourism program.