Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
suspension bridges over deep river gorges, undisturbed rainforest,
and the people of the Achuar and Shuar culturesmake the tripworth-
while.
Situated above the Río Upano Valley, Macas is the provincial capital
of Morona-Santiago, with close to 10,000 inhabitants. The town itself
offers a laid-back and pleasant atmosphere. Dating back several hun-
dred years, this colonial jungle town remains clean and relatively un-
tainted by the spoils of modern development. Lacking much of a
tourism infrastructure (though this is changing), Macas maintains
its “lost in time” appeal. It is also the closest population base with an
airfield nearby. Unfortunately, the discovery of oil in the vicinity is
changing Macas rapidly, though its historical foundation helps to
maintain the colonial atmosphere.
From Puyo, along mostly dirt roads, the better part of a day is re-
quired to reach Macas on the vía a Macas. TAME offers a few weekly
flights toMacas fromQuito. FromMacas, opportunities to explore the
southern Oriente include the Río Pastaza area and Kapawi Lodge
(page 378), as well as the lower eastern side of the isolated Sangay
National Park.
Adventures
On Water
Rafting & Kayaking
From the headwaters of the Amazon River, the eastern
slopes of the Andean mountain range provide year-round,
world-class white-water rafting and kayaking opportuni-
ties through spectacular gorges and breathtaking rain-
forest. The many rivers and seasonal variations in rainfall provide
prime choices for any level of difficulty and intensity, all within close
proximity to Tena.
The
Upper Río Napo
, known locally as Jatunyacu (Quichua for “Big
Water”), is one of themost popular trips in the region. TheNapo offers
classic, big-wave, Class III fun with a great jungle backdrop. On one
of the two main tributaries of the Amazon River, enjoy a perfect com-
bination of exciting rapids and calm pools. For the timid, the river is
also big enough so you can avoid the largest waves and take an easier
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