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Ecuadorian Amazon Tours & Travel Guide
Ecuador's Amazon region is largely thought to be the most biodiverse in the world. Somewhat off the beaten track, when compared to Peru or Brazil, the Ecuadorian Amazon is the place to go for incredible nature, birding, and wildlife spotting. Consider this as a still much undiscovered Amazon to visit before the crowds descend.
The Amazon is one of the longest rivers in the world (3,980 miles), second only to the Nile. It traverses 4 major countries in South America, including Ecuador. The Amazon Rainforest is the largest in the world, providing a home to hundreds of thousands of unique flora and fauna. A largely threatened area, touring the Amazon is a great way to learn about conservation and the importance of protecting these natural areas.
When one thinks of the Amazon, Ecuador may not immediately spring to mind. You may first think of Peru or Brazil - which makes sense. Some of the Amazon’s largest portions are in these two countries. Ecuador is part of the Upper Amazon, where the most biodiverse parts of the world are considered to be.
However, the Amazon of Ecuador is just as stunning, and remains largely less visited, providing an unique off the beaten path experience (and typically a less expensive one as well). Tours to Ecuador that visit the Amazon will focus heavily on the wildlife and many unique species that make their home here. The natural reserves are protective and protected areas, and you are required to visit with a naturalist guide.
The Ecuadorian Amazon is a hidden secret of natural reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and completely off the grid goodness. Visit for a look at what exploring the Amazon might have been 20 or 30 years ago and even farther back.
The journey can be comfortable, with many tucked away eco lodges along the river, and daily river cruises for floating the ancient waters. However part of the allure in Ecuador is in its undiscovered vibe. Thus expect some rustic traveling if you don’t splurge on a higher end lodge experience.
The vibrant capital city of Quito is a fairly standard home base for many of these activities.
1. Yasuni National Park - Established in 1979, this park covers 3,793 sq mi, and was designated a protected area by UNESCO in 1986. In the northeast part of Ecuador, bordering Peru, the park contains the unique Upper Amazon diversity of the converging Napo River and Curaray Rivers. It is (arguably) the most biodiverse rainforest region in the world.
The largest population of distinct amphibian and reptile species reside here. 150 amphibians and 121 reptiles to be exact. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the uniquely bright colors of these creatures against the bright green flora!
2. Antisana National Park - This ecological reserve was established in 1993, and is located in the Napo Province. It’s a popular birding tour destination, for those seeking one of the world’s largest birds, as well as one of its smallest. Antisana is home to both the elusive and enigmatic Condor - a national symbol of Ecuador - and the impressively fast and elegant hummingbird.
Although Antisana is a mecca for birders, there’s much more to see within this national park. Antisana Volcano beckons eager hikers looking to complete the very difficult, yet extremely rewarding climb. This is Ecuador’s fourth highest volcano, reaching a height of 18,870 feet, and roughly 800,000 years old. Looking down from the summit, multiple lagoons famously reflect the landscape back at you from their pristine blue surfaces.
Antisana is a great destination for camping, fishing, and hiking.
3. Limoncocha National Reserve - Swampy wetland in this reserve, located along the northern borders of the Napo River, provide an entirely different biodiversity than you’ll find in other areas of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Eco-tours are very popular in Limoncocha, particularly to visit the native tribes of the area, who live sustainably off the land.
Limoncocha is also one of Ecuador’s most popular birding spots. The area is home to 450 species of Amazonian birds, particularly noticeable around Lake Limoncocha. Tours will often make this a focus of their hikes through the forest and around the lake.
4. Go on a Chocolate Tour - The Ecuadorian Amazon has long been famous for its chocolate - the flavor of which is unlike any chocolate in the world. Chocolate production has a long legacy in Ecuador, with the city of Guayaquil holding much of the history.
Like it is with wine and gastronomy, chocolate tastes different based on where it is grown. Ecuador’s chocolate is so well renowned, it has it’s own special class designation “Arriba Cocoa.” 4% of the world’s chocolate comes from Ecuador - and it is highly coveted for its characteristic taste and natural properties.
Only in recent years has Ecuador begun to provide more tourism to chocolate farms and operators. This is a great way to learn about the history of chocolate in the country and gives you an incredible glimpse into what goes into growing, harvesting, packaging, and maintaining production of this most magical product.
5. Tena Region - With the Tena river merging with the Masahualli River, this Amazon region is not only one of the most beautiful, it’s also one of the most adventurous. Come here for some of the best river rafting, hiking, and kayaking in Ecuador.
The capital of the Napo region, Tena is a happening spot, very popular among travelers. There are also a number of reforestation efforts centered here.
The Amazon, like many jungles, is full of two things: water, and bugs. Prepare to face the elements as you hike through stunning greenery, through the home of incredible species, yes, including spiders.
Ecuador’s Amazon is possibly one of the most rustic Amazon experiences you can have as a tourist. The area is just undisturbed and underdeveloped enough to provide a uniquely authentic jungle vibe, while still managing to be comfortable enough (though this is an attraction more adventurous travelers will prefer).
Given this, be sure to dress appropriately to make your experience as enjoyable as possible.
Avoid clingy and absorbent material, such as cotton. Try to find lightweight and long-sleeved garments to avoid mosquito bites (light colors will also help in not attracting these annoying insects.
Long pants of durable material can also be helpful for avoiding bug bites and keeping your skin protected from mud and scratches.
Layers are key in the Amazon - the weather will be mainly humid and warm, but can get cool out on the water. It will also be very muddy!! Hiking shoes may not be as effective as rubber boots, which are often provided. Surprise rain storms can happen, which is why a spare poncho is always a good idea. These may often be provided as well by your tour guide, and if so, you’ll have an extra water resistant option for protecting your backpack and gear.
Great trip first to Napo then to Galapagos. We were delighted with the quality of service, organization and attention to details. There were so many moments to choo...
I hoped for a lot, but expected nothing (especially in the Amazon) but we saw more wildlife than I knew there was! And as for the Galapagos.....Sensational. Holida...
I have no regrets in taking this trip and if I could turn back time I would do exactly the same again. You already imagine this is the trip of a lifetime and for me ...
A holiday of 2 different locations both equal in enjoyment. Napo lodge in the Amazon was a stunning location on the edge of a lagoon deep inside the rainforest run u...
When booking a trip to the Galapagos one immediately thinks of Charles Darwin's adventures and the shift in thinking they caused. How could such a trip to the...
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