The Ecuadorian Amazon: a paradise in South America, and activities you must do there /

Have you ever wondered where in the world is the most biodiversity? The Ecuadorian Amazon offers one of the most beautiful and special ecosystems in the world, with different species of flora and fauna. Home to several national parks and reserves such as Yasuní, Cuyabeno, Sumaco-Galeras and Cayambe-Coca. The biodiversity in this region is so incredible that Yasuni National Park alone is home to 10% of all recorded species in the world.

Did you know that the Ecuadorian Amazon has an area of ​​more than 10 million hectares? This represents 43% of the entire Ecuadorian territory. A curious and important fact is that the famous Amazon river was discovered in the Ecuadorian jungle, in 1492 during the Spanish conquest, a well-known explorer named Francisco de Orellana led the expedition that started from the city of Quito and also discovered several areas of the region for that reason, one of the 5 provinces has adopted his surname as its name. See Amazon rainforest activities and more features of this South American paradise.

1. When seeing unique species, bring binoculars.

Is one of your objectives on this journey to discover the biodiversity of fauna and flora? The Ecuadorian Amazon is the perfect destination for that, as you can encounter about 150 species of amphibians, 120 species of reptiles, about 200 species of mammals and about 600 different bird species. You will find beautiful and unique wildlife in every corner you explore in this part of the world. Entering the deepest parts of the jungle, you will have the opportunity to observe the famous pink dolphins, which offer a unique natural spectacle as they jump into the currents of the Amazon River. The region’s forests are a nature lover’s paradise, with more than 1,000 recorded tree species, including mahogany, ceiba, rubber, guadua, cedar, and balsa. Many bird watchers come here to check different species off their list, so don’t hesitate to pack your bird books and get ready for an excursion into the jungle.

2. Living with some communities, what do you learn from them?

In the region there are 11 registered Amazon nationalities, each with ancestral cultures, throughout history their inhabitants have been protectors of the territories, defending the sustainability and protection of their rivers and forests, they are found in the 6 provinces, some nationalities Are:

• kichwa
• Shuar
• Sapara
• Achuar
• Shiwiaar
• Waoroni

The Amazon Basin is home to many different nationalities, each with its own established community. If you travel to the Ecuadorian Amazon, you may have the opportunity to live with one of these communities for a while, if you wish. Visitors are often welcome to participate in activities such as artisanal fishing, folkloric dances, picking nuts, preparing traditional dishes, shamanism (a ritual performed by certain cultures to cleanse the soul and body of bad energies), explanations about natural medicine, etc. The Kichwa nationality also offers tourists a chocolate-focused experience in the community of Santa Rita. You will learn about the production process and taste delicious 100% natural desserts. Excursions include canoeing on rivers and hiking on trails where you can observe some of the local flora and fauna.

3. Horse riding, it’s time to gallop

If you’re looking for an activity that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age or experience, horseback riding is an excellent option to explore the trails of the Amazon rainforest. The rides usually last between 45 minutes and 3 hours, depending on expectations and time visitors want to allocate to the activity, kids usually love this activity and it is a memory not easily forgotten. Imagine putting on your rubber boots, helmet and gloves and getting on the back of your new friend, a horse. You cross streams and get to know the flora and fauna up close while feeling the wonderful climate of the region. You feel like you’re in an adventure movie.

4. Discover the typical flavors of the area, learn how to prepare them.

When you visit the Amazon you can enjoy some of the freshest and most flavorful food in the country of Ecuador. The dishes are prepared with local and organic ingredients, so you can really taste the difference. There is a variety of different traditional dishes in the area, so you will be able to find something that suits you.

• ¨Maito de pescado¨: This dish is typical of the provinces of Napo and Pastaza. Freshwater fish from the catfish, cachama and pintadillo rivers can be used for its preparation. The fillets are wrapped in bijao leaves and cooked on the grill over low heat. Yucca, plantain, potato, onion, tomato and white cocoa should not be missing as companions.
• ¨Uchumanka¨: The name comes from two words: uchu, meaning chilli, and manka, meaning food. A delicious spicy soup, prepared with heart of palm, chili peppers, kallamba (wild mushrooms), pitun and supplemented with smoked fish or chicken. Accompany it with cassava, plantain and boiled potato.
• ¨Casabe de Yuca¨: A delicious omelette, which takes a long time to prepare, starting with the grated cassava, which is then pressed with the sënoriya (a scarf-shaped tool made from the fibers of a local tree called sënorijati). It is placed in an earthenware pot, and the dough is evenly placed in a circle and cooked over low heat. Finally, it is hung and dried in the sun.

In addition, you can enjoy unique experiences such as tasting the famous ¨chontacuro¨, a worm that grows on the chonta tree. It is also a very good source of natural protein that can be cooked on the grill, baked or eaten raw. It has medicinal properties as it prevents flu-like illnesses, a delicacy hidden in the Amazon rainforest that you must try. You cannot leave the Ecuadorian Amazon without trying the local drink ¨Guayusa¨, an iced or hot tea with natural properties. Its main feature is that it is a natural energizing drink and it also has antioxidant properties. It is an ancestral drink that is still important in the new generations.

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5. Discover waterfalls and rivers. You can’t resist nature.

Water is an essential part of life, and you’ll feel it more than ever on an Amazon trail. Feel the magic of nature by visiting and feeling the cool waters of beautiful rivers and natural pools formed by waterfalls. You will feel free and adventurous as you jump off small cliffs and take unforgettable photos that will last a lifetime. You can’t swim in crystal clear water with such a beautiful landscape every day, can you?

You can also enjoy canoe trips on different rivers such as: Napo, Curaray, Tigre, Pastaza and many more. If you’re looking for an amazing natural wonder to explore, don’t miss Hola Vida Waterfall. Located in the middle of a protected forest in the province of Pastaza, this 21-meter waterfall is home to an incredible variety of butterflies, birds and mammals. You can also enjoy a beautiful walk through a secondary forest with a rich tribal history. And of course you can take a dip in the natural pool formed by the waterfall.

6. Adventure Activities: Rafting and Kayaking. The action begins.

The Ecuadorian Amazon is the perfect destination for thrill seekers and adventure seekers. With its diverse range of rivers, it offers something for everyone – from beginners to experts. And with all the necessary safety precautions, you can be sure to have a great time. So put on your life jacket, grab your camera and get ready to have the time of your life rafting and kayaking through one of the most amazing places on earth. Rafting in the Ecuadorian Amazon is an adventure you will never forget! The tour usually lasts from 45 minutes and the adventurers enjoy every moment of the journey. You’ll have the chance to test your skills on some of the most challenging rapids in the world, so don’t delay! Put on your life jacket and vest and grab a paddle – the adventure is about to begin.

7. Legend of the birth of the Ecuadorian jungle, a magical origin.

The Shuar people have a rich history and tradition of storytelling. One of their most famous stories is that of the origin of the Amazon. According to legend, the Amazon was once a very different place. The only thing growing there was a grass called unkuch. The people of the Amazon lived on this grass, but one day it disappeared. Without this source of food, humans began to die out.

Nuse was a brave woman. Seeing her children weakening, she decided to walk until she came to a river. There she did not hesitate to jump in and found some white pieces floating. These pieces turned out to be cassava, she collected several pieces of this food to bring to her children, but she saw a woman’s face in the sky. This woman introduced herself as Nunkui, the ruler and owner of the vegetation. She explained to him that two demons stole all the unkuch. Nunkui was very impressed with Nuse’s courage to reach this place. She decided to reward her efforts by filling the plain with food, trees and animals. She also ordered some of her spirit daughters to accompany Nuse and her people so that they would never lack for anything.

This is without a doubt a beautiful Ecuadorian Amazon origin story, what do you think? Want to know more about this legend?

Now that you know more about the Amazon and its treasures, you should come and discover them for yourself, pack your suitcase, binoculars, sunscreen, sunglasses and get ready to take home the best postcards you’ve ever imagined. ¡A jungle adventure awaits!

Marcel Perkins is CEO of Latin Trails. Latin Trails is an inbound destination management company specializing in customized travel with a focus on providing unique experiences throughout Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands and Peru.

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