Yunguilla | Community Tourism in Ecuador’s cloud forest

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Yunguilla

Ecuador

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Community tourism in Ecuador's cloud forest

Practical Travel Tips

Duration: at least 3 days

Budget: $ 55 per day

Yunguilla Corporation is a community-owned, sustainable development project founded by the 30 indigenous Quichua families of Yunguilla in the cloud forest region of Ecuador. The organization has been committed to promoting socio-economic and environmental sustainability since 2000. These include sustainable agriculture initiatives such as a coffee plantation, and the Agroforestry Program, which helps farmers implement low-impact farming techniques. They also support community-based tourism initiatives such as bird-watching tours, trekking to nearby waterfalls, and workshops on local cultural traditions.

Bird Watching 90% 90%
Hiking 95% 95%
Day-Trips 95% 95%
Culture 100% 100%

Yunguilla truly amazed me with its remarkable commitment to sustainability and stringent biosafety protocols. Since the year 2000, this community of 30 indigenous families has been a shining example of how sustainable production, environmental conservation, and community-based tourism can uplift livelihoods.

Yunguilla’s commitment to sustainability is a beacon of hope for many communities in Ecuador. By prioritizing environmental protection, building sustainable livelihoods through tourism, and maintaining their traditional culture, Yunguilla is an inspiration for other communities looking to create a better future for their people and the planet.

My experience in Yunguilla left an indelible mark on my heart, and I cannot wait to return to this hidden gem that holds the essence of Ecuador’s remarkable heritage.

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Mission

Since its inception in 2000, Yunguilla Corporation has implemented a number of ambitious projects with the goal of improving livelihoods for local families while preserving the environment. The community has already begun reforestation efforts and is actively promoting agroforestry as an alternative to traditional agricultural practices.

Yunguilla is an inspiring example of how communities can come together to create a better future that balances people’s needs with respect for the environment. A visit to this magical place is a must for anyone who wants to experience nature up close and explore sustainable development in a rural setting

Me at Frenchman's Cove Beach in Portland, Jamaica

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Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve

Yunguilla is located in the heart of Ecuador’s Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve. This reserve holds some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world and is home to thousands of species that are endemic to this region. It is an incredibly important area for conservation efforts, and Yunguilla is playing a key role in preserving it.

Deforestation is an enormous problem in Ecuador. Areas of pristine rainforest are rapidly being cleared to make way for cattle pasture, mono-crop plantations, and oil exploration projects. This has had devastating effects on the environment and local communities who depend on the forest for their livelihoods. Yunguilla’s commitment to sustainability serves as a model for other efforts around the country to curb deforestation and increase community-based sustainable development.

Yunguilla has invested heavily in forest regeneration projects that have successfully reforested degraded and deforested areas. The community also runs a number of initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, and they partner with organizations committed to environmental protection to ensure that their efforts are effective.

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Sustainable Agriculture

Yunguilla is also leading the way in sustainable agriculture. The community has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce their reliance on pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical inputs. These efforts are helping to protect soil fertility and conserve water for future use. Yunguilla farmers have also adopted agroforestry practices that promote biodiversity by planting a variety of crops in the same space and using natural pest control methods.

In addition, Yunguilla is committed to preserving traditional farming techniques and knowledge passed down from previous generations. This helps ensure that future generations have access to this valuable information and can continue to benefit from sustainable agricultural practices.

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Education & Community Engagement

Yunguilla is committed to providing educational opportunities for its people. The community has invested in creating a high school and primary school, so that everyone has access to quality education. In addition, Yunguilla is working with local universities and organizations to provide job training programs and other educational initiatives.

Yunguilla also engages in community outreach activities like workshops on environmental topics, tree-planting, and water conservation. These activities help the local population gain awareness and understanding of the importance of sustainability. Additionally, Yunguilla has organized events to bring people together and celebrate their cultural heritage.

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Protecting the future

Yunguilla’s Biosafety Protocols

Yunguilla has implemented a number of biosafety protocols over the years to ensure that their community remains healthy and protected from any potential environmental hazards. These protocols include strict water and waste management systems, which have helped to preserve the area’s natural resources while providing safe drinking water for community members.

Yunguilla’s Renewable Energy Sources

Yunguilla also has a strong commitment to renewable energy sources, such as solar power and biogas. These clean energy sources have helped to reduce the community’s carbon footprint while providing reliable electricity for homes and businesses.

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Unique Homestays in Yunguilla

Visitors to Yunguilla can enjoy a wonderful homestay experience where you get a comfortable guest room in one of the families’ houses. My time there was so enriched by the warm hospitality of the local families, who welcomed me into their comfortable homestays and shared their stories.

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Witnessing microenterprises firsthand

During my visit, I had the privilege of witnessing the community’s microenterprises in action and indulging in delicious local dishes at their community restaurant. The food in Yunguilla is something special! Enjoy traditional Ecuadorian fare such as encebollado, and tamales made from local ingredients. Plus, the restaurant uses locally-grown organic produce for their dishes, so it’s also a great way to support the local economy and farmers. The local craftsmen also made beautiful weaving and jewelry pieces, which I was able to purchase.

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Tours around Yunguilla

Yunguilla Cultural Tours

Visitors can also choose to take part in a cultural tour organized by Yunguilla that takes you to visit some of the historical sites in the area. Learn about traditional medicine practices, agricutural knowledge, and the unique way of life within this rural community.

Hiking & Bird watching

Yunguilla is an absolute paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike, offering an authentic and immersive experience of rural life in the Ecuadorian highlands. On my visit, I had the chance to explore the community’s fascinating trails. The forest walks were nothing short of magical, immersing me in the enchanting sounds and sights of nature. From the cloud forests, one can observe many species of hummingbirds and other birds, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

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Cultural activities

I also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that educate and engage visitors with local culture. These include traditional medicinal walks through the forest, and educational tours to learn about conservation practices and sustainable production techniques.

Cheesemaking

One of the most memorable experiences of my visit was learning about the process of making traditional cheese from a local family. We were able to take part in every step, from milking to curdling and shaping the cheese.

Jam making

I was particularly delighted to get involved in a jam-making workshop. I also had the chance to learn how to make traditional jams from fresh, local fruit, and also to sample some of the exquisite jams they produce in Yunguilla. The freshly made jams can be enjoyed with breakfast or as an accompaniment to other main dishes. Also a super nice souvenir to take home!

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Volunteering

As a volunteer, you’ll be assigned activities based on your interests and abilities, as well as the needs of the community. You may explore environmental education by conducting forest research or helping with the organic garden. If you enjoy hands-on tasks, you can assist with the construction and maintenance of trails, camping areas, and recreational areas, as well as composting systems and other infrastructure projects. In addition, you have the opportunity to participate in agricultural and forestry tasks, such as reforestation, alongside the community organization’s family members. Another way to immerse yourself in the community is by participating in mingas, which are communal gatherings to work towards common goals. Finally, you can try your hand at dairy and jam processing, which combines food science with sustainability. Overall, the volunteer opportunities presented here are a great way to both benefit the community and learn new skills

Get ready to travel Ecuador

How to get to Yunguilla from Quito

The easiest and most comfortable way is going by Uber. It takes about 90 minutes depending on traffic.

Best time to visit Yunguilla:

You can visit Yunguilla all year round. It is a beautiful destination and you’ll always find something to explore regardless of the weather. In June lots of indigenous celebrations are taking place throughout the months.

What to bring to Yunguilla

As you are pretty high up, the weather tends to be a bit more extreme. When it is sunny, it feels very hot but it cools down equally as quick. Bring comfortable and rather sporty clothes, and do not forget a rain jacket! Bring ample mosquito repellent, too!

Where to get money

Bring money before you head to Yunguilla.

Packing List Ecuador

As you see, there are plenty of things to experience in Jamaica. To come fully prepared, check out my packing list for Jamaica, which includes everything from eco-friendly toiletries to sustainable fashion and even the coolest travel gadgets!

Packing List

Traveling Ecuador?

Ecuador Itinerary

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Places to visit in Ecuador

Amazonas | Land between waters

Ecuador, South America | Culture, Nature, Wildlife

Ecuador’s rainforests are some of the most biodiverse in the world, and a visit there is unlike any other wildlife experience. Whereas in Africa you might travel by jeep to see animals in the savannah, or by boat to go whale watching, in Ecuador you have to travel on foot or by small boat.

Ecuador’s most beautiful beaches

Ecuador, South America | Beach, Party, Sea life

Many travelers decide to skip the Pacific coast (as Dani did). However, Ecuador’s coast offers excellent surfing, deserted beaches, and charming villages. Ecuador’s coast is a truly underrated gem that you should not miss.

Quito | the world’s highest capital

Ecuador, South America | City, Culture, Mountain, Party

Quito, the highest capital in the world bursts with diversity. The 65km long Andean capital is a Potpourri of emotions: ethnic diversity, fascinating nature, creative people, architectural masterpieces and stunning views.

Exploring the Essence of Community Tourism

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Exploring the Essence of Community Tourism

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What is community tourism?

Community tourism, which is often mentioned when discussing sustainable or responsible tourism, centers on the idea of travelers immersing themselves in a community’s local culture, traditions, and daily life. It goes beyond visiting tourist hotspots and seeks to create a more meaningful and authentic travel experience.

Understanding Community Tourism

Tourism has evolved from being a mere vacation activity to a means of experiencing different cultures and lifestyles. One such growing facet of tourism is community tourism, which focuses on fostering a deep connection between travelers and the local communities they visit. In this article, we will delve into the concept of community tourism, exploring its major advantages and disadvantages from both the traveler and local perspectives.

Everything to know about community tourism

– Pros and Cons of community tourism

– Community tourism in Ecuador

– Community tourism in Nepal

Pros and Cons of community tourism

Benefits of Community Tourism for Travelers

1. Authentic Cultural Immersion:

Community tourism allows travelers to break away from the tourist bubble and connect with the local culture. They can participate in traditional activities, festivals, and rituals, gaining a deeper understanding of the community they visit.

2. Unique Experiences:

Travelers get the opportunity to engage in activities not available in mainstream tourism, such as learning traditional crafts, cooking local dishes, or even staying with local families.

3. Personal Growth: Immersion in a foreign community fosters personal growth by promoting empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a broader worldview. Travelers often return home with a newfound appreciation for diversity.

4. Environmental Responsibility:

Many community tourism initiatives focus on sustainable practices, including eco-friendly accommodations and responsible wildlife viewing, which align with the growing trend of eco-conscious travel.

Challenges of Community Tourism for Travelers:

1. Limited Comfort and Amenities: Community tourism often means fewer amenities and comforts compared to traditional tourist destinations. Travelers may need to adjust to simpler accommodations and facilities.

2. Language and Cultural Barriers: While cultural immersion is a benefit, language and cultural barriers can be challenging for travelers. Effective communication and understanding may require extra effort.

Advantages of Community Tourism for Locals

1. Economic Benefits:

Community tourism can provide a vital source of income for local residents. It creates job opportunities, encourages entrepreneurship, and supports local businesses.

2. Preservation of Culture:

Interacting with travelers can motivate locals to preserve their traditions and cultural heritage, as they see the value in sharing these aspects with outsiders.

3. Mutual Learning:

Locals also gain insights into the outside world, breaking stereotypes and promoting cultural exchange. It can lead to a more informed and open-minded local community.

4. Infrastructure Improvement:

Tourism revenue can be reinvested into community infrastructure, such as better roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, benefiting both residents and travelers.

Disadvantages of Community Tourism for Locals:

1. Over-Tourism Concerns:

If not managed properly, community tourism can lead to over-tourism, putting strain on resources, infrastructure, and the environment. This can result in negative impacts on the local quality of life.

2. Loss of Authenticity: In some cases, the influx of tourists can lead to commercialization and a loss of the authenticity that initially attracted travelers.

Community tourism offers a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the world through a different lens while providing economic and cultural benefits to local communities. The advantages, such as cultural immersion and personal growth, can greatly enrich a traveler’s journey. However, both travelers and locals must remain vigilant to address potential disadvantages, like over-tourism and loss of authenticity, to ensure that community tourism remains a sustainable and mutually beneficial venture. When done right, community tourism can foster a win-win situation, where travelers and locals alike share in the joys of cultural exchange and economic prosperity.

Community tourism around the world

I decided to try a carry-on back with wheels after realizing that my office and electronics make my bag pretty heavy. I started to dread carrying it around on longer layovers.

Ecuador

Yunguilla

Prepare to be amazed by Yunguilla – a community that truly embodies the essence of sustainability. With their unwavering commitment and strict biosafety protocols, they have set the bar high for environmental conservation and sustainable production.

Since 2000, this close-knit community of 30 indigenous families has been a shining example of how sustainable practices, community-based tourism, and the preservation of traditional culture can profoundly uplift livelihoods.

Located in Ecuador, Yunguilla’s dedication to sustainability serves as a beacon of hope not only for their fellow communities but for the entire country. By prioritizing environmental protection, nurturing sustainable livelihoods through tourism, and staying true to their cultural heritage, they inspire others to create a better future for both people and the planet.

illustration of the impact of community tourism

Nepal

Homestay Network

The Community Homestay network is dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism in Nepal while supporting women empowerment and preserving their authentic culture. With a focus on women and housewives as Homestay owners, the CommunityHomestay.com platform enables families in local communities across Nepal to earn a sustainable livelihood through responsible tourism. The network provides training and coaching in Homestay Management, Hospitality, Basic English, and other essential skills, empowering these women to effectively engage with foreign guests and share their ideas and culture with visitors.

Explorar la esencia del turismo comunitario

El turismo comunitario ofrece una oportunidad única para que los viajeros experimenten el mundo a través de un prisma diferente, al tiempo que proporciona beneficios económicos y culturales a las comunidades locales. n este artículo profundizaremos en el concepto de turismo comunitario, explorando sus principales ventajas e inconvenientes tanto desde el punto de vista del viajero como del local.

Das Wesen des Community Tourism erforschen

Der Gemeinschaftstourismus bietet Reisenden eine einzigartige Gelegenheit, die Welt aus einer anderen Perspektive zu erleben und gleichzeitig wirtschaftliche und kulturelle Vorteile für die lokalen Gemeinschaften zu schaffen. n diesem Artikel werden wir uns mit dem Konzept des Community-Tourismus befassen und seine wichtigsten Vor- und Nachteile sowohl aus der Sicht der Reisenden als auch der Einheimischen untersuchen.

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How to Use Compression Packing Cubes

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Compression Cubes

Yay or Nay?

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Have you ever struggled to fit everything into your suitcase? You’re not alone! A mind-boggling 57% of travelers admit to overpacking, but there’s a game-changing solution: compression packing cubes. These nifty tools can revolutionize your packing game, and I’m here to show you how! As a seasoned traveler who’s circled the globe more times than I can count, I’ve mastered the art of packing light.

Trust me, once you learn how to use compression packing cubes, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without them. Ready to become a packing pro?

What are compression cubes?

So, what exactly are compression packing cubes? They’re like the superhero version of regular packing cubes. Imagine a zippered fabric container that not only organizes your clothes but also squishes them down to a fraction of their original size. It’s like having a mini vacuum sealer for your clothes, minus the need for any fancy equipment.

Why use compression packing cubes?

The purpose of these magical cubes is twofold: organization and space-saving. And boy, do they deliver on both fronts! I used to be the kind of traveler who’d throw everything into my suitcase and hope for the best.

But compression cubes changed all that. They give each item a designated spot, making it easy to find what you need without turning your suitcase into a disaster zone. Plus, the compression feature means you can pack more without upgrading to a bigger suitcase. Win-win!

Compression cubes vs regular packing cubes

Now, you might be wondering how these differ from regular packing cubes. Well, I’ve used both, and while regular cubes are great for organization, compression cubes take it to the next level.

Regular cubes are like helpful organizers, but compression cubes are like organizers with superpowers. They have an extra zipper that, when closed, compresses the contents, squeezing out excess air and reducing the overall volume.

I learned this the hard way on a trip to South America. I’d packed my regular cubes to the brim, feeling pretty smug about my organization skills.

But by the end of the trip, I’d accumulated so many souvenirs that I had to sit on my backpack to close it. If I’d had compression cubes, I could’ve easily made room for that extra pair of shoes I definitely didn’t need but bought anyway.

Benefits of compression packing cubes

The benefits of using compression packing cubes for travel are pretty sweet.

1. You can pack more in less space.

This is a game-changer for chronic overpackers like myself. I once managed to fit a week’s worth of clothes into a carry-on thanks to these bad boys. My back thanked me for not lugging around a heavy checked bag.

2. They keep your clothes wrinkle-free.

I used to arrive at my destination looking like I’d slept in my clothes (sometimes I had, airport floors aren’t comfy). But with compression cubes, my outfits stay pretty neat and tidy.

3. They make unpacking a breeze.

Instead of dumping everything out and creating a clothes mountain, you can simply transfer your cubes to drawers. It’s like having a portable dresser. This was a lifesaver during a hectic business trip where I was changing hotels every night.

How to pack compression packing cubes

1. Roll your clothes

Let’s start with advanced folding methods. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “folding is folding, right?” Wrong! The key to maximum compression is all in the technique. My go-to method is what I call the “burrito roll.” Start by laying your clothes flat, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly from one end to the other. It’s like making a clothing burrito, minus the guac (trust me, guac and clothes don’t mix – learned that the hard way).

For items like dress shirts, I’ve found that the military roll works wonders. Lay the shirt face-down, fold in the sides, then roll from the bottom up. It’s like creating a tiny shirt sausage that fits perfectly in your cube. And bonus – it helps reduce wrinkles too!

Mix cube sizes

Now, let’s talk about mixing cube sizes. This is where things get interesting. I used to just throw everything into the largest cube I had, but that’s a rookie mistake. The key is to use a variety of sizes strategically. I typically use larger cubes for bulky items like sweaters or jeans, medium cubes for t-shirts and pants, and smaller cubes for underwear and socks.

Don’t overpack

One thing to keep in mind, though – don’t go overboard with the compression. I once got a bit too enthusiastic and compressed my cubes so much that I couldn’t fit them all in my suitcase. Turns out, there is such a thing as too efficient!

In a nutshell, compression packing cubes are like the Marie Kondo of travel accessories. They spark joy by keeping you organized, maximizing space, and making packing (and unpacking) a whole lot easier. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without them. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go reorganize my travel gear. Again.

Packing tips from the Pros

After traveling 40+ destinations around the world: I have gathered some experiences in packing.

Backpack or suitcase

Find the best travel backpack with wheels

Pack like a pro

Explorar la esencia del turismo comunitario

Das Wesen des Community Tourism erforschen

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Gallo Pinto Recipe – THE Nicaraguan dish

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JAMAICAN ACKEE & SALTFISH RECIPE

Level

Easy

Time

35Min

SERVES

Gallo Pinto – Nicaragua’s national side dish

When you travel to Nicaragua, there is no way around Gallo Pinto. It is the Nicaraguan national dish. The Nicas have it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Gallo pinto accompanies almost every meal in Nica. Let us show you how to prepare the specialty with this easy Gallo pinto recipe!

Don’t let the name mislead you the “spotted rooster” is 100% vegetarian. If you traveled across south or central America, you have probably stumbled upon many slightly different version of Gallo Pinto. It’s interesting how the recipe varies from country to country.

The hearty and filling meal consists of rice and common red or black beans. You can eat Gallo pinto with literally anything, cold or warm. We love big, yummy breakfasts and usually had our first serving of Gallo Pinto with scrambled eggs and Nicaraguan cheese.

It takes some time to cook, so make your time worthwhile and cook a little extra!

Ingredients

1 cup of red beans
1 cup of white rice
2 garlic cloves
vegetable oil

Instructions

Gallo Pinto recipe

Pour the red beans into a larger bowl and start rinsing them. Drain them and rinse them again before covering them with water for at least 12 hours.
After soaking for 12 hours, rinse the beans again and put them in a pot. Cover the beans with water (about 3 cm), add the garlic. Bring to boil and simmer the beans until they are tender. This should take about 2-3 hours.
Turn off the heat and add a generous amount of salt before letting it sit for another 15 minutes. Drain the beans.
Heat up oil in a separate pot, add rice and fry for 2-3 minutes with constant stirring. Add 2 cups of water and bring to boil before lowering the heat. Cook rice until all liquid is absorbed.
Put some oil in a pan. Turn the heat up high and add the beans while stirring regularly. Don’t let them burn. Add rice after a couple of minutes and give it another twist.

More Nicaraguan recipes

Is it still ok to book an AirBnb?!

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Yunguilla | Community Tourism in Ecuador’s cloud forest

Discover Yunguilla, a sustainable project by 30 indigenous Quichua families in Ecuador’s cloud forest. Enjoy eco-friendly farming, bird-watching, waterfall treks, and cultural workshops since 2000.

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Pilau recipe – Fatima’s spice rice

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