Deep in Colombia’s Orinoco basin, Akuani River Lodge offers anglers access to some of South America’s most exciting freshwater fishing. Surrounded by dense rainforest and remote river systems, it combines the thrill of serious sport with the comfort of a permanent riverside base. The waters here are prolific, unpressured, and home to predators that deliver some of the hardest fights in freshwater.
Peacock Bass are the headline catch, with Temensis reaching over 20lb and known for savage topwater strikes and relentless power. Payara, the so-called Vampire Fish, add explosive variety with aerial battles that test tackle and nerve. Arowana, Pacu, Piraiba Catfish, and countless other Amazonian species are also present, ensuring constant action and the chance of something unexpected. Fishing is primarily boat-based, exploring channels, backwaters, and lagoons, with topwater lures, streamers, and jigs all effective. The season peaks as waters fall and fish concentrate, producing aggressive, visual sport.
The lodge sits on the riverbank in the heart of the jungle. Comfortable en-suite cabins provide welcome respite from the tropical heat, while shaded communal areas overlook the river. Dining is a highlight, with Colombian and international dishes prepared from fresh local ingredients, and evenings are spent enjoying the tranquillity of the rainforest.
Non-anglers can explore the jungle, kayak backwaters, or experience the region’s extraordinary wildlife, from monkeys and caimans to colourful birdlife.
Akuani River Lodge blends serious fishing with comfort in the wilderness. For anglers chasing trophy Peacock Bass and Payara in remote, pristine waters, it represents one of the most distinctive and rewarding fishing holidays in South America.
The season runs from January to March.
Season: January to March
Peak: February
Weight: 1lb to 28lb
Average Weight: 8lb
Season: January to March
Peak: February
Weight: 4lb to 20lb
Average Weight: 5lb
Season: January to March
Peak: February
Weight: 1lb to 6lb
Average Weight: 2lb
Season: January to March
Peak: February
Weight: 1lb to 30lb
Average Weight: 10lb
Depart Any international airport - Arrive Bogota
Depart Any international airport - Arrive Bogota
Depart: TBA
Arrive: El Dorado International Airport
General Note
General Note
Please note: Depending on your chosen international airport, an overnight flight and/or hotel stay may be required, which may affect your departure and return dates. Your itinerary will be finalised once travel arrangements are confirmed.
Independent flight/travel arrangements can be accommodated, though our flight-inclusive packages are recommended to ensure seamless integration into your holiday plans.
Transfer from Bogota Airport to your overnight hotel
Transfer from Bogota Airport to your overnight hotel
Once you’ve arrived and collected your luggage, a representative from our partners will transfer you to your overnight accommodation. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to relax at the hotel or take a stroll and explore the local area at your leisure.
Hilton Garden Inn
Overnight Accommodation
Hilton Garden Inn in a Twin Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Bogota Airport
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Bogota Airport
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred back to Bogota Airport for your short flight to Puerto Inírida. The flight time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Depart Bogota - Arrive Puerto Inírida
Depart Bogota - Arrive Puerto Inírida
Depart: El Dorado International Airport
Arrive: César Gaviria Trujillo Airport
Transfer from Puerto Inírida Airport to Vichada
Transfer from Puerto Inírida Airport to Vichada
Once you have landed in Puerto Inírida and collected your bags, you will be transferred by tuk-tuk to the Vichada River, a journey of approximately 10 minutes.
On the way to the river, you’ll stop at some local shops, giving you the chance to have a look around or pick up any last-minute supplies you may need before heading into this remote and exciting fishing destination.
Travel from Vichada up the Vichada River
Travel from Vichada up the Vichada River
Once you arrive at the river, the boats will be ready to begin your four-hour transfer to Akuani River Lodge. The journey itself is a memorable experience, offering fantastic sightseeing opportunities as you travel deep into this remote and beautiful region.
Lunch will be served onboard during the transfer, and upon arrival at the lodge, you’ll be welcomed with a cold beverage and light snacks. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to unpack, relax, and prepare for your exciting week of fishing ahead.
Akuani River Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Akuani River Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Fishing
Fishing
During your first two fishing days, you will get a taste of the fantastic fishing on offer on the Vichada River in Colombia. This famous waterway is home to excellent numbers of Peacock Bass, including fish of trophy-sized proportions.
At the Akuani River Lodge, it’s possible to fly or lure fish, depending on your preference. The waters around the camp are diverse, featuring a vast array of structures and tranquil lagoons. Each day offers new fishing spots and thrilling opportunities.
Akuani River Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Akuani River Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Travel from the Vichada River to the Orinoco River
Travel from the Vichada River to the Orinoco River
On the morning of your third fishing day, you’ll journey to Payara Camp and the legendary Maipures Rapids on the Orinoco River, ready to experience one of the most iconic and exhilarating fisheries in the region.
Fishing
Fishing
The fishing on the Orinoco River will give an adrenaline-pumping fishing experience amidst imposing rocks and fast currents, wetting a line for Payara (Vampire Fish), Sardinata, and Pacu from rocky outcrops.
As night falls, you will unwind in comfortable tents beneath the jungle canopy.
Payara Camp
Overnight Accommodation
Payara Camp in a Twin Bedded Tent on a Full board basis
Fishing
Fishing
On your fourth fishing day you’ll enjoy more action on the Orinoco River, fishing for the hard-hitting Payara. For this little excursion, you’ll be fishing with the same guides for both days.
Travel from the Orinoco River to the Vichada River
Travel from the Orinoco River to the Vichada River
Once your fishing day is over, you will be transferred back to Akuani River Lodge.
Akuani River Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Akuani River Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Fishing
Fishing
On your last two fishing days, you will be back on the Vichada River, fishing for the Peacock Bass. Throughout all your days on the Vichada, you’ll be fishing from Bongos. These are large, comfortable canoes equipped with chairs, casting platforms, and coolers stocked with beer, soft drinks, and water. Each boat accommodates two anglers and a guide.
For Peacock Bass fishing, you’ll have the same 2 guides for four days. For Payara fishing on the Orinoco River, you’ll be accompanied by different guides.
Akuani River Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Akuani River Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Travel back up the Vichada River to Vichada
Travel back up the Vichada River to Vichada
After breakfast, you will be transferred by boat back to Vichada. The journey takes approximately four hours and is a fantastic experience, offering wonderful sightseeing opportunities as you travel through this remote and beautiful region.
Lunch will be served onboard during the transfer, allowing you to relax and enjoy the final stretch of your adventure.
Transfer from Vichada to Puerto Inírida Airport
Transfer from Vichada to Puerto Inírida Airport
When you reach the shore and disembark from the boats, tuk-tuks will be waiting to transfer you back to Puerto Inírida, a journey of approximately 10 minutes.
Upon arrival in Puerto Inírida, you will board a short internal flight back to Bogotá. The flight time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Depart Vichada - Arrive Bogota
Depart Vichada - Arrive Bogota
Depart:
Arrive: El Dorado International Airport
Transfer from Bogota Airport to your overnight hotel
Transfer from Bogota Airport to your overnight hotel
Once you’ve arrived and collected your luggage, a representative from our partners will transfer you to your overnight accommodation. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to relax at the hotel or take a stroll and explore the local area at your leisure.
Hilton Garden Inn
Overnight Accommodation
Hilton Garden Inn in a Twin Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Bogota Airport
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Bogota Airport
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred back to Bogota Airport for your return flight home.
Depart Bogota - Arrive Any international airport
Depart Bogota - Arrive Any international airport
Depart: El Dorado International Airport
Arrive: TBA
General Note
General Note
Please note: Depending on your chosen international airport, an overnight flight and/or hotel stay may be required, which may affect your departure and return dates. Your itinerary will be finalised once travel arrangements are confirmed.
Independent flight/travel arrangements can be accommodated, though our flight-inclusive packages are recommended to ensure seamless integration into your holiday plans.
Prices are shown per person and are based on twin rooms and two anglers per guide unless stated otherwise. All prices are accurate at the time of publication but may vary slightly depending on factors such as travel dates, booking time, airline pricing, or fuel surcharges set by the operators.
Flights are always priced at the most competitive rates available at the time of enquiry to ensure you receive the best possible value when booking.
Proudly an ATOL bonded company, our trips are complete packages, including all flights, transfers, accommodation, and fantastic fishing and shooting experiences.
| From | To | Days | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06/01/2027 | 15/01/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 13/01/2027 | 22/01/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 20/01/2027 | 29/01/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 27/01/2027 | 05/02/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 03/02/2027 | 12/02/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 10/02/2027 | 19/02/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 17/02/2027 | 26/02/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 24/02/2027 | 05/03/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 03/03/2027 | 12/03/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
| 10/03/2027 | 19/03/2027 | 10 | £5,320 | Enquire |
If your preferred week or travel dates do not appear in the calendar above, please get in touch. Many lodges release availability in stages, and some dates depend on tides, seasons, guide schedules, or short-notice changes. By speaking with us directly, you will receive the most up to date availability and clear guidance on securing the strongest options before popular weeks fill.
Enquire now and we will check live availability for the dates you are considering.
Our ATOL protection, means you have financial security on your booking.
All our destinations are thoroughly researched by our team of experts.
We have worked hard to be able to provide you with the best prices possible.
We offer complete holiday packages, making booking a holiday simple.
"I am fortunate to have travelled to many destinations around the world to fly fish. I have had the pleasure of visiting Akuani Lodge 3 times now, and it never disappoints. The camp is incredibly beautiful, the food and hospitality are exceptional, and the guides are knowledgeable and make every effort to put you on the fish. In my experience, there isn’t anywhere with the quantity of Peacock Bass in the world. I highly recommend Akuani... you will not be disappointed."
"I have been twice to both Peacock Bass fishing lodges in Colombia and I must say both are fantastic operations. They have both been so well run and organised with amazing fishing way out in the wilderness. The food and staff were also top drawer and they are trips that I would highly recommend."
"This is a super operation and the location is stunning. All the staff are very dedicated to make certain there guests want for nothing, are well fed, happy and catching fish. I enjoyed a fantastic trip and would thoroughly recommend it. "
At Akuani River Lodge, nestled in the Mataven jungle, you’ll immerse yourself in the Sikuani culture. The lodge is situated atop a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Vichada River. It features four spacious cabins, each with two queen beds, private baths and ceiling fans. The cabins and dining area have 110V electricity, the same as in the US.
The Payara Camp offers a more rustic experience, featuring double-occupancy tents and cots. This camp serves as the starting point for an exciting expedition to the Maipures Rapids, set in an otherworldly landscape.
During your stay at Akuani River Lodge, all meals and drinks are included, excluding spirits, which you’re welcome to bring from duty-free or request in advance for the team to arrange.
Each day, you’ll enjoy three freshly prepared meals cooked by the camp’s private chef. Expect a mix of local flavours and familiar international dishes, all served in a relaxed and comfortable setting. While out on the water, your boat will be stocked with lunch, cold drinks, and snacks, allowing you to enjoy a break by the river without missing a moment of the experience.
Even though the camp is so remote, it’s still equipped with first aid kits, satellite phones and Starlink internet. Global Rescue is also available and something which we would highly recommend.
Note: As an optional add-on, it’s possible to book a professional photographer to join you and your group throughout the duration of your trip, creating lasting memories of your fishing experience.
To learn more about the first-class fishing experience at Akuani River Lodge and the fantastic and wild fishing opportunities available in Colombia, visit our YouTube channel.
Nestled deep in the untouched Mataven jungle of Colombia, Akuani River Lodge offers travelling anglers a unique opportunity to explore two exceptional and contrasting river systems in a single, action-packed trip. With access to both the Vichada River, known for its colourful and aggressive Peacock Bass, and the Orinoco River’s Maipures Rapids, home to the hard-hitting Payara, this experience blends variety, challenge, and adventure in equal measure.
The main lodge sits high on a cliff overlooking the tranquil Vichada River. Here, anglers are accommodated in four well-appointed cabins, providing a comfortable and welcoming space to return to after a full day on the water. For the more rugged portion of the journey, the Payara camp offers a back-to-basics experience with double-occupancy tents, the launch point for your expedition into the dramatic Maipures region.
What sets Akuani apart is its balance of comfort and raw adventure. The staff are attentive, and every detail is carefully handled to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay, even in such a remote setting. Local, bilingual guides with deep knowledge of the rivers and surrounding ecosystems will tailor each day to match your preferences and fishing goals, all while offering valuable insight into the region’s remarkable biodiversity.
For anglers seeking something off the beaten track, remote, rich in species, and far from the crowds, Akuani River Lodge delivers a rare combination of thrilling jungle fishing and genuine wilderness comfort.
During your stay at the incredible Akuani River Lodge, you’ll have the chance to fish two distinct and remote river systems, the Vichada River and the Orinoco River. Each offers its unique style of fishing, scenery, and challenges, making this a well-rounded and truly memorable experience for both fly and lure anglers.
Set against a backdrop of calm lagoons and lush jungle, the Vichada River is a dream for those in search of Peacock Bass. Known for both numbers and size, this river system provides consistent action with real potential for trophy fish. Whether you’re casting a fly or working a lure, the fishing here is diverse, rewarding, and largely untouched. Each day, you’ll venture out by specialised bongos (local fishing boats) to explore new spots, giving you fresh water to fish and new opportunities at every turn.
In contrast to the Vichada’s tranquil pace, the Orinoco River and its Maipures rapids deliver fast-paced, adrenaline-filled sessions. After an exhilarating speedboat ride into the rapids, you’ll be cast from rocky outcrops into powerful water, targeting aggressive species such as Payara (Vampire Fish), Sardinata, and Pacu. It’s an entirely different setting, wilder and more rugged, perfect for anglers looking to combine excitement with technical fishing.
This trip is designed to give you time on both rivers. Typically, your week begins with two days fishing for Peacock Bass on the Vichada, staying at the well-equipped Akuani River Lodge. From there, you’ll transfer to the Orinoco for two days, one night, under canvas in comfortable riverside tents surrounded by jungle. After your Payara adventure, you’ll return to the lodge for two final days back on the Vichada to round out the trip. Whether you’re after numbers, size, or variety, this unique itinerary delivers all three, with expert guides, incredible scenery, and a level of comfort that’s rare in such a remote setting.
Fishing at Akuani River Lodge in Colombia offers the chance to target an exciting mix of hard-fighting jungle species, all set within one of South America’s most pristine and biodiverse freshwater environments. While the rivers are home to a wide range of fish, two standout species dominate the experience: the Peacock Bass and the Payara.
Arguably the most iconic sportfish in South America, the Peacock Bass is a must-catch for any serious freshwater angler. Native to the Amazon and Orinoco basins, these fish are known for their explosive surface strikes, vibrant colouration, and powerful fights. They can reach lengths of up to 100cm and weigh over 30 pounds, offering a challenging and rewarding experience whether you’re casting flies or lures.
Nicknamed the “Vampire Fish” due to their long, protruding fangs, Payara are aggressive, fast-moving predators that inhabit the fast-flowing, rocky waters of the Orinoco. With their silver sheen, sleek bodies, and powerful bursts of speed, they provide heart-pounding action. These apex predators can grow over one metre in length and exceed 30 pounds, making them a thrilling target, especially in moving water.
Beyond these headline species, the waters around Akuani also hold plenty of surprises. Anglers may encounter Redtail Catfish, Shovel Nose Catfish, Amazon Pellona, Arowana, and Matrinxã, among others.
At Akuani River Lodge, each week is limited to just eight anglers, ensuring a personalised and immersive experience. Guests fish in pairs, with each boat accompanied by a native guide who knows the Vichada and Orinoco Rivers intimately. These experienced guides are there to help you get the most from every session on the water, so if there’s a particular species you’re keen to focus on, they’ll tailor the day to suit your goals.
Note: Although the guides are not fluent in English, they can communicate essential information. Additionally, an English-speaking host will be available to assist with all your needs. For Peacock Bass fishing, you’ll have the same two guides for four days and for Payara fishing on the Orinoco River, you’ll be accompanied by different guides.
Fishing days are thoughtfully structured, offering a relaxed but purposeful rhythm that maximises both comfort and time on the water:
6.30am – Breakfast
8.00am – Leave for morning fishing session
12.30pm – Lunch from the coolers, eaten by the water
14.00pm – Afternoon fishing session
17.30pm – Return to the camp, to freshen up
20.00pm – Evening meal
This trip is more than just great fishing, it’s a journey into Colombia’s wild, unspoiled heart, delivered with a level of comfort and service that sets it apart. In partnership with award-winning operators recognised by ProColombia for innovation and exceptional tourism experiences, Akuani blends luxury and sustainability in a way that few remote lodges can. With a strong focus on social and environmental responsibility, this adventure offers a truly exclusive and authentic look at Colombia’s natural beauty, designed for anglers who want their trip to be as meaningful as it is memorable.
I am fortunate to have travelled to many destinations around the world to fly fish. I have had the pleasure of visiting Akuani Lodge 3 times now, and it never disappoints. The camp is incredibly beautiful, the food and hospitality are exceptional, and the guides are knowledgeable and make every effort to put you on the fish. In my experience, there isn’t anywhere with the quantity of Peacock Bass in the world. I highly recommend Akuani... you will not be disappointed.
I have been twice to both Peacock Bass fishing lodges in Colombia and I must say both are fantastic operations. They have both been so well run and organised with amazing fishing way out in the wilderness. The food and staff were also top drawer and they are trips that I would highly recommend.
This is a super operation and the location is stunning. All the staff are very dedicated to make certain there guests want for nothing, are well fed, happy and catching fish. I enjoyed a fantastic trip and would thoroughly recommend it.
This exclusive Solo Traveller week has been specially crafted to give single anglers the chance to experience one of South America’s most exciting freshwater adventures, chasing Peacock Bass and Payara deep in the Colombian jungle, with no single supplements or surcharges to pay. Split between two remote river camps, this memorable journey combines explosive jungle fishing, expert guiding, and wild Amazonian species.
The Akuani Floating Camp is nestled in the heart of the untamed jungle in Colombia's pristine wilderness, and it provides an unrivalled fly and lure fishing experience for trophy Peacock Bass, fierce Payara, Pacu and a range of different Catfish. Every cast promises a memorable encounter in some of South America's most biodiverse and unspoiled waters.
Kendjam Lodge in the Xingu basin, which the Iriri River is part of, is now the first official sport fishing operation in Brazil, located inside an Indigenous Territory. It offers the most intense jungle fishing experience found anywhere in South America and the World, giving freshwater fly anglers the chance to enjoy some truly wild, explosive mixed fishing.
Across this spectacular wilderness territory, the protected, mythological Xingu River, flows over granite bedrock, running clear and allowing for sight-fishing opportunities for a wide variety of species. But what sets Xingu apart from anywhere else in the Amazon are the impressive numbers of large Payara - one of the hardest-hitting and strongest fighting fish in the Amazon.
The fishing at the Rio Marie Lodge is some of the best found anywhere in Brazil, and this isn't just a guess; it's a fact. The river holds at least double the quantity of trophy-sized Peacock Bass compared with any other destination in the Rio Negro basin and offers travelling rods the chance to sample some explosive sport.
