OUR STORY
A strory rooted in nature.
Created for birdwatching, hiking and a deeper connection with nature.
SINCE THE 1960s
OUR PLACE
Rooted in nature.
Secluded in the green mountains of Nova Friburgo, Eco Lodge Itororó is surrounded by the living beauty of the Atlantic Forest.
Here, birdsong is your soundtrack, trails begin at your doorstep, and time slows down. Whether you’re here to explore, observe, or simply be, you’ll find space to breathe, rest, and reconnect.
-
EARLY 1960s
A family retreat in the mountains
Dr. Fritz Dungs and Gisela Maria Dungs acquired the land where Itororó stands today. A small log house soon became the family’s summer retreat — a rustic escape from Rio de Janeiro, surrounded by mountains, forest and a profound sense of adventure.
-
FOR OVER 20 YEARS
A home for botanical discovery
Itororó became the research base of Dr. Fritz Dungs and Dr. Guido Pabst during their extensive study of Brazilian orchids. More than two decades of research resulted in Orchidaceae Brasilienses, an important work dedicated to the country’s extraordinary orchid diversity.
-
1998
The Eco Lodge journey begins
With little more than passion and determination, the family began transforming Itororó into an eco lodge. Non-native eucalyptus and Japanese pine plantations were gradually removed, allowing the Atlantic Rainforest to return and thrive once again.
-
SINCE 2001
Welcoming guests from around the world
What began with just two guest rooms slowly grew into a place for travelers seeking nature, tranquility and discovery. Since 2001, Itororó has welcomed guests from around the world to experience the Brazilian rainforest.
-
MAY 2014
A new chapter in birdwatching
A meeting with Andy and Cristina Foster opened a new path for Itororó. Birdwatching groups began arriving, bringing guests with a deep passion for birds, wildlife and the natural world — and creating the need for the lodge to grow.
-
2015 — 2016
Growing together, one step at a time
Bettina Dungs joined the team in 2015, while family and friends worked together to expand the lodge. Six new rooms were completed in early 2016, allowing Itororó to welcome nature and birdwatching groups with greater comfort.
-
TODAY
Rooted in nature
Today, Eco Lodge Itororó offers eight suites and two cabins immersed in the surrounding forest. Comfort, warm hospitality and modern amenities now exist alongside the same commitment to nature and sustainability that has shaped Itororó for generations.
THE HEART BEHIND ITORORÓ
A family story that continues.
What began as a family retreat slowly became a sanctuary shared with the world.
Itororó is more than a place, it’s our home, our heritage and our shared purpose. Today, a new generation continues to care for this land, this lodge and every guest who becomes part of our story.
