Ecuadorian Amazon
The Ecuadorian Amazon is an astonishingly complex ecosystem, parts of which are remarkably accessible to the visitor
The Ecuadorian jungle region in the lowlands to the east of the Andes covers almost half of Ecuador’s surface yet forms only a tiny part of the total Amazon basin. This green and humid wilderness hosts an amazing biological diversity including some 10,000 species of plants – many endemic to the region.
It is also home to various indigenous ethnic groups like the Huaorani, Kichwa, Ashuar and Shuar peoples who still maintain their traditions and customs, which may include surviving by hunting in the forests. The Tageri, who are related to the Huaorani, were declared ‘intangible’ by the State in order to respect their wish to live without contact or interference from ‘civilisation’.
We can arrange safe and fascinating trips into the Ecuadorian Amazon region staying in comfortable Eco-Lodges which are located in or near the vast Yasuní National Park as well as other protected rainforest areas. Some experiences are more geared towards sighting wildlife, while others are more specialised and allow guests to become acquainted with the cultures and lifestyles of the people living in the forest. It is also possible to combine both experiences in an Amazon visit.
Marvel at some of the enormous trees, which tower hundreds of feet above the forest floor; learn how to use an eight-foot blowpipe from a Huaorani hunter; discover how certain leaves have medicinal properties; taste ‘lemon ants’ (yes they really do taste of lemon!); watch monkeys playing in the branches; go fishing for piranhas; and listen in awe to the ‘orchestra’ of insects that hum, buzz and chirp their way through the night.
The overwhelming complexity of the rainforest leaves one wondering how the ancestral knowledge of the indigenous groups has been passed down through the generations, and what other secrets may still be hiding inside these amazing forests.
To discover more about the unforgettable rainforest experiences in the Ecuadorian Amazon, give us a call or send us a message.