Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
other is from
Ambato via Baños and Puyo
. Farther south are two
more access roads from the highlands
via Cuenca
and
via Loja
.
There is also a developed road connecting Coca and Lago Agrio, to the
northeast.
By Air
The airport, located a few miles southeast of Lago Agrio,
has daily flights to and from Quito (except for Sundays).
TAME
, the national airline and carrier for this route, has
an office in Lago Agrio on Orellano near the plaza,
6-
830-113 (or in Quito,
2-2502-706 or 2-2564-969). Currently, they
have cancelled all flights to Coca and do not knowwhen servicewill be
resumed.
AEROGAL
flies to Coca every day except Sunday. They
have an office at the airport.
By Bus
Buses (less than $10) between Quito and Lago Agrio take
about eight hours; those between Quito and Coca take
nine hours. Many of the buses from Quito to Lago Agrio
run overnight, which is great if you need the rest, but do-
ing this trip during the day is well worth it for the spectacular views
as you drop down from the highlands to the tropical rainforest. Keep
in mind that the roads, which are poor under normal conditions, may
become impassible at times during the rainy season. Between Coca
and Lago Agria, the ride takes about three hours. There are also
buses to Tena, on the Upper Río Napo (see page 355).
When to Go
During the wet(ter) months of March through September,
water levels are higher in the Oriente and travel, i.e., navi-
gation, through themore remote regions, is easier. Temper-
atures during this time are generally cooler, which is
important in an area where humidity is typically 90-100%!
The drier season is accompanied by more heat and insects
near major waterways, but also allows for more hiking in
areas otherwise navigable only by dugout canoe. Either
way, expect an unforgettable experience!
Search WWH ::
Custom Search