Important things to know
Traveling to Ecuador’s jungle takes your experiences to another level. Even most experienced travelers are impressed by this region and its surroundings. There are different rustic lodges that have gourmet food, luxury sections and relaxation spots in which you can also appreciate nature and life. There is no doubt that the Ecuadorian Amazon or the Oriente has captivated many tourists, adventurers and scientists.
Creating new memories means exploring and discovering new paths into an area that has piqued the interest of travelers for decades. Keep reading for a glimpse of what to expect when visiting the Amazon in Ecuador.
What to expect?
A visit to the Napo River into the compact primary Amazon forest brings you up close and personal with the many creatures that call the jungle their home. In the beautiful green forest and muddled waters, you’ll see monkeys, Caiman Alligators, Pink River Dolphins, Sloths, and a dizzying array of colorful birds. Magnificent Rainforest scenery and landscapes make for absolutely incredible trip photos, and friendly neighborhood tribes eagerly await visitors to share their cultural traditions.
Here you’ll get the chance to take some trekking and cano rides that will take you deep into the forest, where your local guide will point out wildlife and demonstrate the many medicinal benefits of jungle plants. Visits to tribal communities to gain knowledge about their traditions and way of life are examples of cultural activities
Best time to visit (Climate)
The wet rainforest season in Ecuador lasts from February to July, with daytime temperatures around 24 degrees Celsius and 35cm of rain. On the other hand, the dry season (August to January) is hotter, with highs in the mid-30s Celsius and less rainfall. The dry season can be quite hot and humid. Above all, because the wildlife, plants, and tribal people are present all year, there is no best or worst time to visit.
Make sure to go on hikes!
Hikes from lodges through compact primary forest place visitors in the midst of the jungle’s wildlife. Long-lived trees shade the forest floor, where animals like Tapirs, Pygmy Marmosets, and Emperor Tamarins can be found in the bushes and on trees.
Days needed for a full experience
Ecuador Amazon visits should last four, five, or eight days. At least, that is the amount of time cruises run. We suggest the full 8-day trip itinerary, which takes you from Coca City down the Napo River to the Peruvian border, with stops at the famous Yasuni National Park along the way.