|
 The
Amazon region in Ecuador is an exotic paradise that boasts a
seemingly endless variety of animal and plant species. It is home to
almost half of the planet's 8,500 bird species, more than 1,000
butterflies, and thousands of reptiles and mammals under which we
find primates, rare pink river dolphins, the elusive jaguar,
twenty-foot long anacondas and schools of carnivorous piranha to
name just a few. All of these species thrive amidst a primordial
setting of black-water lagoons, winding creeks, and towering Amazon
trees.
Travelers often find the Amazon rainforest's abundance and variety
of flora and fauna overwhelming. An Amazonian tree can host more ant
species than all of the British Isles put together and one hectare
of forest boasts about as many frog species as all of North America.
In addition to its incredible plant and animal life, Ecuador's
Amazon rainforest is home to thousands of indigenous inhabitants
from many distinct tribes, including the Siona, Secoya, Cofan,
Shuar, and the infamous Huaorani. The indigenous tribes that live in
Ecuador's rainforest are the ancient keepers and guardians of the
Amazon’s biological heritage.
Ecuador’s share of the Amazon rainforest (known as the Oriente)
provides unparalleled opportunities to experience the magic of the
jungle. Surprisingly, travelers may access the wild green expanse of
the Ecuadorian Amazon relatively easily. All but the most remote
areas of the Ecuadorian Amazon can be reached by a 45-minute plane
ride (or an 8-hour bus ride) from Quito followed by a short but
delightful canoe ride from rainforest towns such as Coca, Tena, and
Misahuallí. Only in Ecuador can you wake up in the Andes and watch
the sun set while sipping on a cocktail, poolside at your isolated
jungle retreat deep in the Amazon rainforest. |
