Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Upper
Amazon Basin
~ Northern Oriente ~
W
elcome to the wildest place
on earth! Ecuador's upper
Amazon Basin, referred to locally
as the Oriente, awaits you.
Spanning most of the Sucumbíos
Province, this region is unques-
tionably one of the most biologi-
cally diverse regions on the
planet. Here, you can experience
incredible wildlife viewing and
bird-watching, nature photogra-
phy, jungle hikes, dugout-canoe
excursions, and a unique mix of native people adapted to life in the
heart of the tropics. From bird-size butterflies to butterfly-size birds,
from piranhas to vampire bats, from poison-arrow frogs to monster
anacondas, and from spider monkeys to howler monkeys, the sky is
the limit for the spirited soul.
IN THIS CHAPTER
History
322
Flora & Fauna
323
Getting Here &
Getting Around
324
Visitor Information
327
Touring & Sightseeing
328
Adventures
329
Eco-Travel
332
Where to Stay
342
Where to Eat
350
Go now, while the jungle is still there. Make your voice heard and help
tomake it last. Don't forget your insect repellent and rubber boots. Be
prepared for adverse weather conditions: hot, humid, and wet, and
wet, humid and even chilly. And if you can't handle a few bugs, stay in
the highlands. Scared yet? Don't be. Most of the time, the climate is
actually bearable and often quite pleasant in the Oriente throughout
much of the year, and it's more than worth any of the minor discom-
forts that come with traveling through a tropical rainforest. What-
ever you want in accommodations, Ecuador's upper Amazon Basin
has it all, from traditional primitive facilities with indigenous com-
munities to world-class ecolodges with plenty of amenities.
Keep in mind, though, that exotic animals are far from common here,
primarily thanks to heavy damage to the land by humans, and larger
mammals are secretive and often nocturnal. Hidden wonders are
here, but they require exploration, patience, and quiet contempla-
tion.
Search WWH ::
Custom Search