About Us
Akangau Jungle Expeditions is an indigenously owned micro tour agency
operating in Tena, Napo. Akangau Jungle Expeditions was founded in early 2009 by Misael Cerda in
his ancestral home of the Kichwa Community of San Bartolo de Uchuculin.
Misael has 13 years of experience as a guide and he is passionate about
preserving the jungle that he calls home. He brings that passion to
Akangau Jungle Expeditions and his desire to offer authentic jungle
tours steeped in the culture, heritage and traditions of his people.
Misael wants Akangau Jungle Expeditions to stand apart from other tour operators by being more than just a jungle
tour. It is a cultural exchange and a real chance to experience Kichwa
Community life.
In the last few years we have had the pleasure of receiving tourists from all over the world and teaching them about our indigenous customs. Many people with different backgrounds have helped us know more about other cultures as well. It has been an enriching and wonderful experience. We continue receiving our guests in the same spirit of friendship.
Responsible Travelling
As a tourist it is important to stop and think about where your money is going and who will benefit from it. By supporting indigenous tour agencies the money stays locally, helping indigenous people build a better future.
It is equally important to think of your personal safety. All our indigenous guides are certified professionals; they were born and reared in the jungle, therefore they have an innate knowledge of its hazards.
Tena is a very quiet and laid back town. Locals are very friendly and helpful. Often they will offer assistance or information especially if they see you with a map or your travel guide.
But a word of caution - if somebody approaches you and tries to sell you a tour whilst in a cafe or walking in the street they are not trying to be helpful. NEVER depart with your money, you have no comeback. This type of touting for business is frowned upon by the Ministry of Tourism and to protect the tourism reputation in Tena everyone must play a role to discourage this way of doing business. All reputable travel agencies in Tena have offices and when you book a tour you will be issued with a receipt.
The meaning behind our name and logo
"Akangau" is the name of an eagle that can be seen in the mountains, at lagoons, and in Biological Reserves. It takes its name from the sound it makes "AKANGAU, AKANGAU". When the natives from the Napo Runas (Kichwas of the Amazon) hear this bird calling they believe that the bird is warning them that something bad is going to happen. Their special sound also helps them fight against intruders who threaten their territory.
The symbol used by Akangau Jungle Expeditions is of an Omagua man. This man symbolises the ancient Kichwa Culture when men wore their hair long as a testament to their strength.
Our thanks to our friends
Akangau Jungle Expeditions has progressed with the help of many friends from home and abroad. They volunteered their time and contributed ideas to make Akangau Jungle Expeditions what it is today - a tour agency in the heart of the Amazon providing authentic jungle tours encapsulating many aspects of the Kichwa culture from the past and what is still practiced today. Our friends