The Amazon’s importance for Earth’s biodiversity has been particularly emphasized in our current struggle against climate change. As the world’s largest tropical rainforest, it holds more plant and animal species, fresh water, and biodiversity than any other place on the planet. All of this has become conventional knowledge; people associate the Amazon with life itself, with animals bigger than humans, and abundant wilderness. But the Amazon is spread across 9 South American countries, meaning the diversity within its borders is greater than it seems on a large scale, and far greater than we can begin to understand.

Ecuador’s largest mainland region, the Oriente, is made up almost in its entirety by the Amazon: it envelops six provinces, including Morona Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbios, and Zamora Chinchipe. Even though Ecuador’s share of the Amazon is small, it is a rich host to some of the highest concentrations of trees, birds, plants, and species on Earth. With the objective of protecting and sharing this biodiversity with the world, Ecuadorian national parks and reserves work alongside the region’s indigenous communities to promote sustainable ecotourism. Thanks to these efforts, visitors can witness one of Ecuador’s most rich and plentiful ecosystems in a guided way that also considers the communities that have been living there for millennia.

Despite its share being small in comparison to other countries (Brazil has nearly two-thirds), Ecuador’s Amazon has one of the best infrastructures for ecotourism, giving visitors an accessible, affordable (at least relatively), and fun opportunity to experience the Earth’s cradle first-hand. Amazon tours are relatively similar in the types of activities they offer. However, distance from Quito (and other transportation hubs) and length of tour do affect cost. It’s worth noting that most Amazon tours generally depart from the three hubs below, meaning you’ll have to factor in a trip from Quito or any other city to these hubs in the Oriente. Most tour operators include this in their itineraries as a bus trip, but flights are available and you’ll have to inquire about them specifically if you’re interested:

• Lago Agrio – Capital of the Sucumbíos province, Lago Agrio is also Ecuador’s northernmost hub in the region. This is the connecting hub for the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and the Limoncocha Biological Reserve, which differ in infrastructure and cost-effectiveness (Limoncocha is less developed and thus, more affordable). A trip from Quito to Lago Agrio by bus between 8-10 hours. Amazon tours departing from Lago Agrio then take a truck or van to the mouth of the reserve/river, and then begin a two-hour canoe ride to the lodges.
• Coca – Located in the Orellana province, Coca intersects both the Coca and Napo Rivers, and is about a 10 hour bus ride from Quito. It is the connecting hub for Yasuní National Park, the Huaorani Reserve (also known as the Huaorani Protectorate), the Limoncocha Biological Reserve, and some parts of the Cuyabeno Reserve (although these last two are more commonly and easily reached via Lago Agrio). Generally, because of its proximity to Yasuní, lodges around this transit point tend to be more expensive.
• Tena – Capital of the Napo province, Tena is generally considered less remote than the other transportation hubs mentioned here, but the city’s infrastructure is considerably more developed. Many visitors using this transit point to the Amazon take day trips, as opposed to staying at remote lodges for multiple days (such as in Cuyabeno). This day-trip experience is understandably less remote, diverse, and also less abundant in wildlife, but it is an option nonetheless. Tena is a connecting hub for the Jatun Sacha Biological Station, the Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park, and Puerto Misahuallí.

All that to say, you have many options for choosing our Amazon tours from Quito or any other tourism hotspots in Ecuador. Whether you want to “rough it” for a few days or really need hot showers and high-end meals, the Ecuadorian Amazon will have something that suits you. So, why do we highlight the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve? Well, for starters, we think if you have the chance to visit Ecuador’s Amazon at its depth, you should take it. Cuyabeno offers that, in addition to a concentration of lodges that range from affordable to fancy, and more in between. But most importantly, because we’ve experienced it first-hand and can attest to its lush charm and the thrilling adventure that awaits you there!

ABOUT THE CUYABENO WILDLIFE RESERVE

The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is spread across 6,034 km² in Ecuador’s Napo and Sucumbíos provinces, and it is most easily reached via the transit hub of Lago Agrio. The Cuyabeno River, its tributaries, as well as the Aguarico and San Miguel Rivers make up Cuyabeno’s water sources. Additionally, Cuyabeno has a system of 14 lagoons called Imuya that is especially full during the wet season and surrounded by igapó forest (meaning it is primarily black-water flooded). Laguna Grande, its biggest lagoon, is a green oasis surrounded by lowland rainforest, and you can enjoy one of the most stunning sunsets on Earth at its center

Cuyabeno’s natural endowment owes itself to its evolutionary history: once a part of the Pleistocene refuge, the evolution of its wildlife and plants has been continuous, even during periods in which surrounding areas were frozen still. As a result, biological diversity in Cuyabeno (and in Ecuador, generally speaking) is one-of-a-kind, and an abundant concentration of tropical richness and allure. Cuyabeno is home to over 500 species of birds, 350 species of fish, and 100 species of mammals. Among them, 10 different species of monkeys are especially amusing to spot, as well as an entire cosmos of fascinating critters such as the zesty lemon ant.

But the full story of the Ecuadorian Amazon, the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve included, is not all kumbaya. Cuyabeno was designated a protected area in 1979, but its boundaries were subject to many changes afterwards, due to the oil boom and the push to extract as much petroleum from the area as possible. This attack on Cuyabeno’s biodiversity, and that of the Amazon in general, was met with resistance from its indigenous communities and various NGO’s. But even though this resistance stirred the conversation towards sustainability, the region continues to battle exploitation in many forms.

CUYABENO’S INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

Before we get into depth about the wildlife that abounds at the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, we believe its human inhabitants merit a formal introduction and some recognition. The Ecuadorian Amazon’s indigenous communities are few among the Amazon’s nearly 200 communities (or better said, nations), but their presence is threatened and growing ever more important as the area suffers from invasion, extraction, and climate change. They are the real gatekeepers of the rainforest’s secrets: its rhythm, its animals, its plants, and its collective history.  In recognition of the wisdom only they can offer, and to honor their right to activity on their land, many lodges are involved with the indigenous communities to offer more responsible tourism.

CUYABENO’S WILDLIFE

If your idea of a jungle tour involves iconic animals, the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is for you! The sheer concentration of species in the region is astounding and will keep you on the edge (of your canoe, that is) for the duration of your stay. Moreover, the variation within species will overwhelm you — who knew there were more than 500 types of tropical birds in one space?! There are also 350 species of fish, in addition to the more common creatures like the capybara, tapir, and the many, many monkeys – 10 species of monkeys, in fact!

Below are some of the most beloved animals of the Cuyabeno, all of which you are likely to see if you pay attention to your guide and look close enough:

• Between 500-600 species of birds (including scarlet macaws and toucans!)
• Pink freshwater dolphins
• Caimans
• 10 species of monkeys (including the red howler and squirrel monkeys, and the only nocturnal monkey in the world!)
• Lowland Tapirs
• 350 species of fish (including paiche and piranhas)
• Snakes (tree boas and anacondas)
• River otters
• Frogs and toads
• Turtles

Watching these animals engage with their natural habitat, and each other, is surreal. Nothing beats spotting the tiniest monkey in the world (the pygmy marmoset) sucking sap from a tree, listening to the synchronized croaking of frogs and toads at night, and feeling your canoe sway to the rhythm of dolphins following schools of fish. Not to mention the world of critters among the trees: ants, grasshoppers, spiders, lizards, they will all make it so that your walk through the rainforest is as noisy as it will be enchanting!

It is quite possibly the only place in the world where an igapó – the Portuguese word describing the blackwater-flooded root forests found only in the Amazonian jungles — is located at the foot of a mountain range, resulting in a wide array of flora and fauna that are found nowhere else. This nearly permanent swamp hosts dolphins, two species of otters, two species of deer, piranha, and much more.

The Cuyabeno is also home to the more common species of Amazonian jungle wildlife. Countless rodents, bats, insects, and snakes scramble about the mosses, vines, and lichens beneath the jungle’s canopy of tropical trees and wide fronded plants. Boa and anacondas, jaguars and puma, and innumerable frogs and toads round out the incredible collection of the wildlife reserve.

Igapó accounts for less than 3% of the entire Amazonian ecosystem, making Cuyabeno one of the most interesting regions in the world. Biologists, botanists, wildlife enthusiasts, backpackers and hikers, and kayakers will revel in the sheer abundance of wildlife unique to the area, and bring back photos and personal stories filled with features found nowhere else on earth!

And, the Cuyabeno Park consists of several other geographical and topographical features that harbor hundreds of more species of protected plant and wildlife. The lowlands and highlands provide drier soil that sustains a wide array of trees not found in the swampier lands, while the River itself attracts every manner of creature in the area.

Wildlife Conservation

We have all heard the stories about the depletion of the Amazon Rainforest, which has sadly been going on for decades and continues to this day. The Amazon Rainforest is often called “the lungs of the world” due to its significant contributions to air quality and oxygen levels, and demands immediate action to preserve. The interaction of the climate and the rainforest is a complicated, and closed circuit, system of water and carbon dioxide filtering and exchange which cannot be replaced. Yet, almost nothing is being done to protect this precious region which accounts for as much as 20% of all the breathable oxygen in the earth’s atmosphere.

Studies suggest that human activity has resulted in the loss of as much as 10% or more of the rainforest’s trees in the last 50 years alone! Given this widespread devastation, compounded with the pollution and industrial waste from across the globe, the carbon dioxide levels have risen to dangerous heights, which has lead to widespread disease, and can even be tied to the extinction of hundreds of forms of both plant and animal life.

Of course, it not only provides one of the essential components for human life, it is also home to several tens of thousands of insects, birds, lizards, mammals, and fish found in no other region on earth – most of which have yet to even be identified! Changes to this delicate ecosystem have resulted in massive ramifications to other localized ecosystems all over the globe, which has impacted both the world’s climate and weather patterns in what is accurately known as “The Butterfly Effect.”

Preserving this rainforest is paramount to protecting the earth, the environment, and quite literally all forms of life. But, decades of neglect and illegal logging, mining, and drilling have taken their toll.

By visiting the Cuyabeno Wildlife Park, tourists can not only record history as it currently stands (and hopefully will for many generations to come), but also be part of an emerging method of alternate, economic support for the area which now relies on logging, unsustainable industrial fishing, and drilling for oil. Hopefully, one day, tourism and other economic models based on ecological sustainability will replace those that are destroying the Amazon rainforest and damaging the environment.

Simply visiting the Cuyabeno Wildlife Park is a step in the right direction and provides much-needed funding to keep the rainforest and its wildlife thriving and protected.

CUYABENO LODGES AND ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES

The variety of ecotourism lodges in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve provide ample options for every kind of traveler. While they mainly vary in location, cost, and amenities, most engage the traveler in similar activities: animal spotting, bird watching, day and night jungle walks, leisurely canoeing, sunset watching at Laguna Grande (and swimming in it if you’re up for it!), and visiting the local communities. Most lodges have a structured itinerary with designated days and times for each activity, while also giving guests room to explore on their own (if your lodge has a bird-watching tower, this is a great solo activity!).

Our personal favorites are animal spotting and sunsets at Laguna Grande. The guides at Cuyabeno lodges are so experienced and knowledgeable, they can spot a bird from a mile away! They do a great job of engaging you in their graceful search for wildlife, often giving you hints about an animal’s location so you can experience the thrill of spotting it yourself. After long days walking through the jungle and learning more than you thought possible about all sorts of animals, most lodges end the day with a canoe ride to Laguna Grande, where you can enjoy the sunset and the harmonious buzz of critters transitioning into the night.

Below is a listing of Cuyabeno lodges we recommend. We suggest looking further into each for details that might influence your decision, and information to better prepare for your stay. Cuyabeno lodges are mostly built from ecological materials (wood, bamboo, straw) and each have multiple cabins with a variety of room arrangements (private and dorms). All are equipped with electricity and water, although each will vary in their availability (and how plentiful the hot water is!) Most offer tours from 3 days/2 nights – 5 days/4 nights.

• Cuyabeno Dolphin Lodge ($260-330): Cuyabeno Dolphin Lodge offers 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day tours. It is a 20-minute canoe ride from the Laguna Grande. From the hammocks at their pier, you can spot freshwater dolphins (hence the name!)
• Cuyabeno Lodge ($100-635): Cuyabeno Lodge was the first in the reserve, so it pioneered ecotourism efforts and prides itself on that. It is located right on the Laguna Grande. They offer 4-day and 5-day tours, with an option to also visit Papallacta on the way to Lago Agrio.
• Cuyabeno River Lodge ($220-300): Cuyabeno River Lodge offers 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day tours. They can arrange for a direct bus from Quito to Cuyabeno, which cuts travel time (but should be arranged beforehand and price isn’t included in the itinerary). In addition to many other activities, they take their guests on early morning bird walks upon request!
• Siona Lodge ($340-420): Siona Lodge offers 4-day and 5-day tours, and is known to have some of the best cabins in the reserve. Their main lodge has a spacious dining area, fully equipped with a bar, and their food is reputed for its quality!
• Guacamayo Lodge ($250-350): Guacamayo offers 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day tours. For the avid birdwatchers, they also offer a 6-day tour specifically tailored to spotting the world’s most fascinating bird species.
• Jamu Lodge ($262-406): Jamu offers 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day tours. They are located 15 minutes down the river from Laguna Grande. The heart of their lodge, their dining area, is spacious and also features a bar!
• Green Forest Lodge ($250-395): Green forest offers 3-day, 4-day, and 5-day tours. Their fourth day includes an opportunity to kayak the black waters of the Cuyabeno River, which you won’t want to miss!

Whichever lodge you choose, remember that your greatest companion will be a thirst for adventure and fearless exploration. Visiting the Ecuadorian Amazon is a one in a lifetime experience, and one that lives up to our globe-trotting ethos: travel, learn, and contribute to the preservation of the Earth’s most valuable ecosystem! See our Cuyabeno Jungle Tour!

What can you do in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve?

Ecuador’s celebrated Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is the second largest protected area in the Amazonian region, with just under 1-1/2 million acres! Located at the foot of the Andes mountain range, its unusual interior is almost inaccessible except by the narrow Cuyabeno River for which it is named.

However, recent roadways have opened up the area to tourists who can enjoy the park’s vast biodiversity, engage in unique activities, and study the cultures of the indigenous tribes that have remained isolated from the rest of the world until very recently.

Visitors should pack lightly, as the vegetation is dense and very wet, but bring a poncho or raincoat, a blanket for the cool evenings, and a camera or camera-ready device with plenty of backup batteries. Internet connectivity is spotty, at best, and electrical outlets are not plentiful, so one should also keep this in mind when putting together a backpack.

What can you do in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve During the Day?

As noted above, the river’s channel is so narrow that one can almost literally reach out and touch the teeming wildlife on either bank (but probably shouldn’t). Kayaking and canoeing is not just educational and enjoyable, it is necessary if one wishes to explore the interior of the park, as there are no other roadways.

The local cuisine is largely based on the many fish found in the rivers and lakes that make up the Cuyabeno Park, and includes recipes rarely found in the outside world. Boosted by the flavors of the indigenous herbs, mushrooms, and vegetables located nowhere but Amazonia, some dishes may challenge tourists’ palettes and even test the constitutions of their stomachs, but all are worth tasting!

It is also an opportunity to spend more time with the indigenous peoples of Amazonia and observe the culture and traditions of their everyday lives. While more and more people of the modern world take up Minimalism and seek to “declutter” their lives, these tribes have lived peacefully alongside one another for millennia, without electricity, telephones, Internet, or even plumbing, in some cases!

New roadways, telephone lines, and access to electricity and the Internet are certain to alter the region forever. While these advancements bring new opportunities, they also bring permanent change to an area that had remained unmolested until the late 20th Century. As industrial progress finds its way into the Amazonian jungle, now could be one of the last chances to visit this area and see it much as it once existed.

Sightseeing is a wonderful way to spend the day. Armed with nothing more than a camera and maybe an electronic tablet or notebook, one can while away the hours simply observing the interactions of the wildlife through the shadows playing on the leaves.

Many of the indigenous animals are diurnal and, despite the fact that it is often raining, the sun provides excellent lighting for capturing them in their natural habitat. Cinematic experiences await in the lush rainforest filled with brightly colored birds, multicolored snakes prowling amongst the glossy fronds, and mischievous monkeys swinging from vine to tree!

What can you do in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve at Night?

Many species in the Cuyabeno region are nocturnal, so they are rarely, if ever, seen during the day. The moonlit nights provide fantastic opportunities for what could be award-winning photographs! While the jungle’s canopy is difficult to penetrate, the starlit nights – unaffected by the pollution of large city lights – still illuminate the ground floor and its many inhabitants.

Average daily temperatures normally range in the 70°s (Fahrenheit), though it gets slightly cooler at night. Depending on where one is, a light blanket should suffice, and the sounds and surroundings of the Amazon jungle provide the perfect backdrop for peaceful sleep. Of course, the rainforest also provides the perfect conditions for as many as 8,000 species of insects, so a tent (and possibly some bug spray) will also come in handy.

What can you do in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve to Support the Local Community?

As mentioned previously, the Amazon Rainforest is classified as endangered due to rampant, and all too often illegal, corporate expansion and exploitation of the natural resources throughout the region. Sadly, these industries are too lucrative for both their owners and customers to be discontinued any time soon.

By promoting the local tourism trade, visitors are directly supporting the peoples and areas that matter most. If proven effective, this alternate economic model may one day replace even the most financially prosperous endeavors that ravage the jungle today. To those ends, choosing Cuyabeno for a vacation means taking a vacation with a purpose.

The local communities can also find means of supporting themselves through crafts and souvenirs, in addition to working as tourist guides for visitors, researchers, and sightseers. In particular, professional photographers, researchers, scientists, and explorers will find a wealth of information and subjects in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, including the peoples of the indigenous tribes and their way of life.

Learn About Indigenous Cultures

No fewer than eight indigenous tribes thrived in this region with almost no contact to the outside world prior to the 1980s (when the first roadways were built). These are the Sionas, Cofanes, Shuaras, Secoyas, Huaoranis, Quichuas, Achuar, and the Zaparos tribes.

Visitors will learn the traditional method for making cassava bread, recipes based on the local flora and fauna that have been passed down for centuries, as well as more about the spiritual traditions that have sustained the Sionas and other tribes for millennia. One or more of the communities’ shamans will speak to tourists about the traditions, history, and rich culture of the Siona Indian Tribe.

As mentioned, these peoples and their way of life has been disconnected from our modern world until very recently. Much of their culture, history, and traditions exists only in oral form. Recording these discussions for future generation of scholars could prove helpful in many forms of research, and possibly lucrative for budding and seasoned authors.

The Cuyabeno is unique for many reasons, but this particular opportunity is one of the most revered experiences for tourists to explore. Far beyond mere pictures, hearing the teachings of the indigenous tribes while being immersed in their traditional ways is priceless – even if it is for only a few days. These memories will last a lifetime and provide riveting conversational material for any occasion.

Relax!

There is little to no Internet connectivity in the midst of the Ecuadorian jungle, so it is the perfect place to turn off the phone, set your “Away” status, and simply relax.

Tucked deep in the verdant rainforest, far from the background noise of traffic, airplanes, and televisions, and surrounded by the unique sounds heard in few other places around the world, one can truly logoff entirely from the modern world and reconnect with Mother Nature.

Canoeing, hiking, ample opportunities for plant and wildlife photography – the Cuyabeno has more activities than you can fit into a lifetime, much less a week, and leaves no time for things like e-mails, newsfeeds, and snarky social media forums! Besides, once you return to your everyday life, you will have more stories, photos, and memories to share than anyone you follow.

But you do not have to be doing anything; the Cuyabeno is also the absolute best place to just be. Take the time to soak it all in and enjoy the peace of mind that only a place like the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve can provide.

The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is not only a unique, absolutely one of a kind, vacation, it also supports the local economy, the Amazon Rainforest, and the environment. It is the perfect opportunity to actually enjoy doing one’s part for the environment, for others, and for one’s self.

Het bericht The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve: Ecotourism in Ecuador’s Amazon verscheen eerst op Community Adventures Ecuador.

The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands nestled in the Western Hemisphere in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with their closest neighbor being Ecuador. Famed naturalist Charles Darwin mused over and studied the islands incessantly because of their enormous number of unique endemic species. In fact, Darwin’s findings while on the islands heavily contributed to his groundbreaking theories on evolution thanks to the discovery of natural selection.

Galápagos Islands are Breathtakingly Beautiful

One of the biggest draws of the Galápagos Islands is that they are a stunningly beautiful natural location. Man has only inhabited the islands for a short 150 years, which has gone a long way in preserving the environmental majesty of the location. The islands boast the generally expected treasures, such as soft sandy beaches, lush green highlands, clear blue seas, and magnificent underwater communities and seascapes; but they have so much more to offer than that.

Because of the diverse geology of the islands, of which there are 61 in total, the landscapes are different in every direction that you look. You can hike from the ocean shores, to a lush, thriving forest area, then straight on up to the volcanic mountains while traveling. Because much of the land mass is covered in volcanoes, the physical geographic layout of the islands shifts constantly. While that does not bode well for the map makers, it makes the Galápagos Islands a fascinating location to visit.

The Galápagos Wildlife Should Not be Missed

As previously mentioned, Charles Darwin himself was completely enamored with the Galápagos Islands thanks to the robust wildlife that inhabited them. We have these species to thank for our current day understanding of evolution and natural selection. And while most may assume that the wildlife that lives on the Galápagos Islands is large and diverse, they would be wrong. In fact, compared to other locations in the Amazon basin, their mere 25 (or less) species of reptile is laughable as far as the Amazon is concerned, with their more than 300 reptiles.

The impressive thing about the Galápagos wildlife is that it has somehow figured out a way to endure on the isolated, harsh landscape. These animals have evolved so that they are now born with the required equipment to not only survive, but thrive, on the otherwise uninhabitable land.  Because of these nontraditional living conditions, natural selection is rife on the islands. Any new species that spawns or travels there must be ready to really want it. If they do not evolve, well, let us just say it was nice knowing them. Conversely, thanks to these remote and uninviting conditions, the Galápagos Island are one of the most pristine locations on Earth, thanks to the lack of invasive species being introduced to the ecosystems. Silver linings are everywhere.

The Galápagos Islands have no wildlife quite so prevalent as their birds, for no other reason than it was easier for birds to get there than any other species other than fish. With over 181 species of both land and sea birds, with smaller birds like finches particularly thriving, there is no shortage of bird watching opportunities available. Some other species found on the islands include Galápagos Hawks, short-eared owls, mockingbirds, and Galápagos Doves; as well as such sea birds like flamingos, frigate birds, the waved albatross, and the red-footed, Nazca, and blue-footed boobies.

There are also several fishes, marine animals, and mammals that call Galápagos home, such as sea turtles, sea lions, sharks, rays, parrot fish, sergeant-major, king angelfish, dolphins, whales, rice rats, bats, and many others.

Guided Galápagos Excursions are a Must Do

The Galápagos Islands do not mess around when it comes to their guided tours. In fact, since 1975, every visitor that steps foot on to the islands must be accompanied by their own personal certified naturalist guide. These guides must take and pass an officially mandated course, and help by not only guiding tourists, but by being the eyes and ears of the natural park service, reporting introduced species, enforcing rules, informing staff about trails that need grooming and maintenance, etc.

There are four different types of naturalist guides:

• Class one: Guides that have graduated high school and taken and passed the course.
• Class two: Guides that have spent at least four years as a class one guide and that pass an additional test.
• Class three: Guides that have a degree in tourism, biology, or another relevant field and speak at least two languages in addition to Spanish. They also must meet all class two criteria.
• Marine Reserves: Class one, two, or three guides that also are certified to guide scuba trips in the Galápagos Marine Reserve.

Your guide accompanies you on every land outing and is an expert on the local flora and fauna and wildlife. Many tourist testimonials praise their guide as one of the best parts of their trip, thanks to their endless knowledge and cheerful dispositions.

The Scuba Diving is Something You Can Never Forget

The Galápagos Islands have some of the most breathtaking underwater seascapes in the world. In the year 2000, it was named the world’s top dive site by Rodale’s Scuba Diving and has been chosen as the top spot for “Best Value,” “Best Big Animal Dive,” “Best Fish Life,” “Best Advanced Diving,” and “Healthiest Marine Environment.” If scuba diving is on your bucket list of things to do, Galápagos is the place to do it.

Experts have happily shared some tips when it comes to diving in and around the Galápagos Islands, and novice and expert divers alike would be wise to heed their advice.

• The costs of Live Aboards is the same all year long, but from April to May and September to October, airfare to and from Ecuador typically slightly decreases.
• Wolf and Darwin Islands are a must see because of the habitual sightings of enormous schools of hammerhead sharks, as well as whale sharks.
• While there is good diving to be had all year long, the best times tend to be between June and December, thanks to the presence of whales, hammerheads, rays, and other large marine animals.
• You are going to want to procure a dive package if you choose the live aboard options, because they take care of every single element of the adventure from start to finish.
  If you inquire at your hotel about combining land and diving tours, you may find more availability and accommodations.
• Dive trips and packages that are offered daily to and from Santa Cruz and San Cristobal allow divers to experience all of the diverse underwater seascapes that the Galápagos Islands have to offer.
• Gordon Rocks is an out of this world dive site as it allows the diver the opportunity to get up close and personal with Galápagos sharks, hammerheads, and rays.

Every single underwater adventure is curated and executed by your own island guide, so it is sure to be a memorable experience, one that you are not likely to soon forget or regret.

Snorkeling is Also Available for the Slightly Less Adventurous

Thanks to the healthy reef and marine life in the Galápagos Islands, one does not have to pass a test to experience the wonder of the sea. Snorkeling offers visitors a magnificent opportunity to see the unspeakable beauty of the underwater communities surrounding the islands. With only a mask and a snorkel, you have the opportunity of coming face to face with a penguin, a sea turtle, and an octopus all within the same day.

Every boat tour in the Galápagos Islands offers snorkeling opportunities, and after quickly suiting up and a quick dip in the ocean, you too can create these memories that last a lifetime. Just do not forget to bring your underwater camera!

There Are Options for Adventure Travelers

If you are one of those travelers that fancies themselves adrenaline junkies, Galápagos may just be the place for you. The islands now offer special adventure travel packages that go far beyond the typical tourist activities previously discussed above. The Galápagos active travel adventure allows visitors to horseback ride, kayak, mountain bike, or snorkel up close and personal with fearless marine life. These packages are typically a combination of land and sea adventures and offers visitors the opportunity to travel between islands via speedboat or private plane, while also partaking in their favorite adventure sports.

Some tour highlights of  Community Adventures:

Floreana Tour: Hike to the Asilo de la Paz visitors site. Snorkeling with endemic animal of the island.

Santa Fe Tour: Visit the Santa Fe cliffs. Snorkeling (Hidden Beach).

North Seymour Tour: Hike through lava pillows. Snorkeling with endemic animal of the island.

Isabela Tour: Sierra Negra Volcano Trekking.

Pinzon Tour: Snorkeling with endemic animals.

Bartolome Tour: Hiking and Snorkeling.

Galapagos Island Hopping Tours: Visit Loberia Beach on San Cristobal Island where you can go snorkeling. Visit PEace Asylum on Floreana Island and see the Giant Tortoises. Make a volcano hike mon Isabela Island and visit the Cabo Rosa Tunnels. Get to know  visit the Tintoreras Islet and visit Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz.

More information about our Galapagos land based tours.

Island Hopping Gives You a Chance to See it All

These specialized tours give travelers the opportunity to visit and stay on up to three different islands within the area. Each tour offers different sights, experiences, adventures, and accommodations, so it is important to know what you want to see before you lock yourself into anything.

Some of the tours offered include the Galápagos full pack, the Darwin Footsteps tour, the Sea Lion expedition, the Flight of the Albatross tour, The Penguin Pursuit, the Forgotten Path and Beyond, the Cabinet of Evolution, and the Golden Finch trail. Each of these tours and expeditions includes visiting different islands, which also includes seeing different wildlife, plant life, and topography. While none of the tours are disappointing, they do not all offer the same things, so research is key.

Hotel Based Tours Help Take the Anxiety out of Planning

For those travelers who prefer a more land locked approach to their adventures, hotel-based tours are a great option. These tours keep you on solid ground while still offering day trips to different islands so that your travel experience is a rich and diverse one. These tours also offer more freedom as to what islands you see and when you see them.

Travel services in the Galápagos islands have partnered with local communities to ensure that each tourist is receiving the best possible travel experience, while still ensuring that the splendor of the natural and fragile environment is protected. Not only do these services handle every aspect of your daily itinerary from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, they provide you your naturalist guide so that you have the full Galápagos experience.

Some of the tours offered through the hotel programs are Treasure Quest, Galápagos Dream, Express Program, and Island Secrets. Any one of these tours would provide an exceptional tourist experience for every traveler.

The Galápagos Climate Allows for Year-Round Travel

The Galápagos Islands do not tend to reach higher than 77 degrees Fahrenheit. That is the average temperature during their warm months, which runs from December to May. Their cooler season, which runs from June to November, tends to hang right around the 72-degree mark, making it a nearly perfect vacation spot. During the warm season, the wind is still, the rain is sporadic, and there are clear, blue skies almost every single day. Whereas in the cooler months, steady, chilly winds blow in from the south and southeast, dense fog covers the islands, and there are frequent cold drizzles that typically last the better part of the day. These conditions obviously shift depending on the terrain, altitude, and general island location, as conditions are wont to do. The higher up the mountain you go, the colder it gets, it stays more humid in the forested areas, and the breeze is always stronger on the ocean.

Anyone that choose Galápagos for their vacation destination has a trip of wonder in store for them. There is so much to do and see on the islands that you better be ready to go, go, go all day, every day.

Het bericht Things to do in the Galapagos Islands verscheen eerst op Community Adventures Ecuador.

20 things to do in Ecuador:

Hit the streets of Old Town Quito & New Town

Come and join us on our Free Walking Tour to get a full Historic Center experience, come and learn about the colonial plazas, traditional food markets, the historic churches of Quito that are lined with gold. Take in the panoramic views from the towers of the Basilica.

The north part of the city is also a bustling metropolis waiting to be explored, explore the gardens in beautiful Parque La Carolina or duck into some quaint cafes for a recharge.

Ride up Pichincha Volcano on the TeleferiQo

Take the Gondola up to 4,100 meters above sea level and enjoy the views of Quito and if you are lucky the neighboring volcanoes. If you are feeling up to it there is an additional hike from the Teleferico to the summit of Rucu Pichincha, it is about a 4-5 hour hike to the summit where the views are even more spectacular. During the winter season it is best to go in the morning before the clouds roll in.

Check hours & pricing.

Mitad del Mundo

When in Ecuador, what better to do than  visit Latitude Zero. Here in Quito we have 2 locations to mark the equator. The Museo Inti ñan is the GPS calculated line where you can defy gravity and bust some myths. At the museum you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of Quito and how they knew that we were on the equator, also see some of the solar clocks used by the indigenous communities. Just 200 meters around the bend is the historic monument called Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, at this location you can get a picture with the widely recognized monument and explore the shops of local goodies (more information about the Mitad del Mundo).

For daily transport to Mitad del Mundo check out our Middle of the World Tour.

Take in the beautiful sights and colors of Otavalo

Otavalo is highly recognized for its Plaza de Ponchos which is the largest outdoor artisanal market in Ecuador. For around  85 years of history the Saturday market in Otavalo is a must see and do while in Ecuador. All of the various communities from around the area come to the market to display and sell their handicrafts, you can find anything and everything here: artwork, clothes, ceramics and even local food.

The market is not the only wonder that Otavalo and its province have to offer, if you are able to stay in the area and explore you won’t be disappointed. There are scenic hikes around Cuicocha lagoon and the thundering Peguche waterfalls are all great areas to explore around Otavalo.

Check out our Otavalo Market Tour.

Explore the beauty and nature of the Cloudforest Mindo

Mindo is a beautiful, small village nestled in the north part of the Andes in Ecuador with a subtropical forest climate which is home to a great diversity of flora and fauna. If you are a avid bird-watcher then Mindo is the place for you, with over 400 different exotic bird species you will not be disappointed. But you will not only find birds in Mindo, there is also an abundance of butterflies and orchids to apease the nature lovers. For the more adventurous folks there are plenty of options; zip-line though the canopy of the cloud forest, ride the “tarabita” across to the waterfalls and hike, or tube down the river to cool off, taste the divine Ecuadorian chocolate at the factories.

Whether you want nature or adventure Mindo is a great place to escape for a couple of days (more information about Mindo).

If you are on a limited time schedule and want to explore Mindo in one day see our Mindo Cloudforest Tour.

Get lost in the Amazon in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Have you ever imagined yourself swimming in the lake in the middle of the jungle as the sun sets around you? If you answered yes then Cuyabeno is right up your alley. The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, is  an oasis of peace and adventure in the Ecuadorian Amazon, it is truly one of the country’s best treasures.

Among the various experiences travelers love about this area is the spontaneous sighting of the reserve’s flora and fauna – birds, monkeys, caimans, frogs, bullet ants, turtles, pink river dolphins, electric eel, boas, and if you’re lucky, an anaconda. The guides in Cuyabeno are all native and very knowledgeable about the species you will encounter, so you will learn about the region’s botany and the intriguing properties of your surroundings.

You can plan a 3, 4 or 5 day experience to the Cuyabeno with us: Cuyabeno Jungle Tour.

Stand above the clouds at the top of Cotopaxi

One of the top things to do when beeing in Ecuador: Have you ever imagined yourself walking above the clouds? If so then you are in luck!

Cotopaxi volcano is Ecuador’s second highest peek, if you are an avid mountain climber and want to challenge yourself this is the one for you. The summit sits at 5, 897 meters above sea level and if you do reach the peak you will be rewarded with the most spectacular views imaginable. The ascent to the summit takes about 2-3 hours, and for those who don’t want to reach the summit but just explore the beauty of the National Park you can do a smaller hike up to the refuge at 4,600 meters.

A popular way to visit Cotopaxi is on a Hike and Bike tour for one full day.

Check out our Cotopaxi Bike and Hike Tour.

Loop around the Quilotoa Crater Lake

When it comes to breathtaking, must see landmarks in Ecuador; the Quilotoa Crater lake is one of them. You have many options when it comes to Quilotoa which sits at 3, 814 meters, you can hike down to the turquoise, sulphuric water. There is a path laid out to hike from the rim down and you can even kayak in the lake, to get back up you can challenge yourself to a straight uphill hike or rent a mule to do the work for you. If you are more avid hiker you can tackle the 5-6 hour hike around the rim of the crater lake, or do the infamous Quilotoa Loop which is about a 2-3 day hike around Quilotoa to all the small towns that neighbor the national park. No matter how you do it, make sure you check Quilotoa off your bucket list.

If you only have 1 day to visit, check out our Quilotoa Tour.

Baños de Agua Santa, adventure or party?

One of hte highlights of Ecuador: If you are the kind of person that loves adventure and extreme sports, then Baños is the perfect place for you. This small(ish) city is jam packed with activities, from the thundering waterfalls that surround Baños to the gravity defying swings if you want to take the leap of faith. Some of the most popular attractions in Baños are the Casa del Arbol, where you can swing into the most amazing views of Tungurahua Volcano. And out of all the waterfalls in Baños, el Pailon del Diablo (Devil’s Cauldron) is definitely the most grand with its roaring water surrounded by lush vegetation, make sure you have a poncho or raincoat as you will get soaked! Or if you want to take a more relaxing approach you can visit one of many spas and thermals in Baños.  If after all of that you are not tired, Baños has an excellent night life where you can dance till dawn.

White water rafting in Tena and its surrounding areas

If you are looking for a shorter Jungle experience then Tena is perfect, located in the center of the amazon region. If you are a water sport junkie then look no further than the great rapids of Tena, one of the best destinations for white water rafting in all of Ecuador. You will have a variety or rivers and categories to choose from.

While in Tena you can also visit the Amazon, Puerto Misahualli is just off the Napo River and you can get a feel for the jungle. With the capuchin monkeys living freely around you and also visit a Kichwa community native to that area. Also in that region you will find the Caverns of Jumandy which are not extremely well known but definitely worth the visit. Inside the caves you can see the underground water currents and the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over the years.

Take a ride into the Devil’s Nose

One of the most unique wonders of Alausi is the Devils Nose Train, this zigzag path into the Chanchan river gorge climbs 500 meters in only 12 kilometers. Don’t let the Devils Nose scare you, it is one of the most beautiful train rides in Ecuador. Even though Alausi is a small town nestled in the Province of Chimborazo, it has plenty to offer. From the delicious, traditional food in the market to the wondrous sights of the Lagunas de Ozogoche. You can also trek up to the statue of San Pedro to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the town.

Our hostel is located right in front of the Alausi train station, so hop on over the tracks and purchase your ticket: Community Hostel Alausi.

Visit the Ruins of Ingapirca

The largest known Inca ruins in Ecuador are Ingapirca or translated to english would be “Inca Wall”, located in the town close to Cañar. The most significant building of the ruins is the Templo del Sol its elliptically shaped building or whats left of it was constructed in the Inca way without mortar and hand chiseled to fit together perfectly. To see this spectacular sight for yourself you can take a tour from Cuenca for the day or if you want to stay near by there is lodging in the surrounding towns of El Tambo or Cañar. Or if you are a hiker/nature lover you can also tackle the 3 day Inca Trail hike that can start from Alausi and takes you though many sights until you arrive to the ruins.

Cuenca, our own little piece of Europe

Cuenca is the capital city of the Azuay province, and its largely recognized for its UNESCO world heritage sight city center. It resembles Spain due to its 16th and 17th century colonial architecture which is what makes Cuenca so popular. They are also well known for their textile industry, such as hats and shoes. It is also known as the city of 4 rivers, which surround the city and allow for walks along the riverfront such as the Tomebamba river which goes along the colonial center of Cuenca. Many people also choose Cuenca as their go to place to retire, so you know it must be beautiful and relaxing.

El Cajas National Park

Take a hike through the highlands of Ecuador,  in this park about 30 km west of Cuenca. With around 270 lakes and lagoons inside the park, it is home to to many endemic species of animals some of which are highly endangered. Even if you are not an avid hiker, El Cajas still has plenty to offer. You can go climbing, fishing, camping and bird watching. So if you are heading south in Ecuador make sure you take the time to stop in this national park, even if for only a day it’s a nature experience you can’t miss.

Eat your heart out in Guayaquil

Guayaquil is Ecuadors largest city and the country’s main port, with nice hot weather year round to keep you sweating! While it does have lots to offer in term of landmarks, Guayaquil definitely stands out for its FOOD, honestly some of the best food in Ecuador. Basing heavily on seafood (which is obvious since they are on the coast), they also  have the best “menestra” around; which is rice, grilled meat and lentils or beans.

For all the foodies coming to Ecuador you have to make the time and room in your stomach to go and try all the varieties of cuisine in Guayaquil. If you want to walk off all that food you can stroll through Las Peñas and brave the 444 stairs up Cerro Santa Ana to the majestic white and blue lighthouse. You can also enjoy a walk along the Malecon which goes along the River Guayas and go up for amazing panoramic sights in the ferris wheel of La Perla.

Party like a beach bum in Montañita

Just 3 hours north of Guayaquil on the Ecuadorian coast line in most likely one of the funnest places to stay. Montañita is a true beach party town, it is just a small-town but jam-packed with thrills.

A great spot for surfing with consistent, strong waves always available and the most ideal summer weather year round. After all the water sports you can hang out in one of many beach bars and enjoy an ice cold beer or cocktail! It is very easy to get trapped for much longer than you planned in Montañita, it truly is a one of a kind place that won’t let you leave its sandy shores.

Explore the wonders of Playa de los Frailes

This white sand, crystal blue beach is truly one of Ecuadors most beautiful spots. Inside the National Park of Machalilla it is a great place to stop for the day if you are traveling the coast line. Since it is a national park there is no camping or accommodation at Los Frailes. So you are only able to visit for the day, but it is recommended to bring everything you will need with you. You can also go snorkeling along the half-moon shaped shoreline. Or if you are looking to scuba dive in Los Frailes you can pick up a tour from Puerto Lopez, since this beach inside the national park it is only accessible via private car or taxi.

Truly a place for all ages to come and enjoy, a sight you can’t miss!

Get a sneak-peek of Galapagos in Isla de la Plata

Sometimes known as the poor man’s Galapagos, Isla de la Plata is a part of the National Park of Machalilla and is just off the coast of Manabi.  Here on the island you can get a small taste of what the Galapagos islands have to offer, you can see 3 different species of the booby bird and some sea lions as well. You can pick up a tour to the island from Puerto Lopez to go out for the day, see the animals and do some hikes. So for those of you that can’t make it over to Galapagos this time around, try and make the trip out to Isla de la Plata!

Discover the uniqueness of Galapagos Islands

Prepare to be enchanted by the Galapagos Islands, a cluster of volcanic islands just off the coast of Ecuador; it truly is a once in a lifetime experience. Here you can lay on the beach next to the sea lions and iguanas who most likely will not get up and move to give you a spot on the sand. You will also get a chance to photograph many of the islands endemic species such as the giant tortoises, blood red crabs, the boobies, the Galapagos penguin and so many more.

You can dive in many places around the islands and get a glimpse into life under the sea, or if you want a more relaxed approach under the water you can easily get some snorkel gear and take the plunge. Another great way to see the islands is via bike, especially the volcanic coastline of Isabela Island.

Come and see for yourself why the Galapagos are Ecuador’s most precious treasure! See our Galapagos land based tours.

Always go local!

Finally this is just some of our personal advice for wherever in Ecuador you end up. Try, taste, hear and see the local ways. Sometimes the best foods are hidden away in the local markets in every city or town. The best way to really experience a country is by giving the food and culture a shot.

Even if it’s a strange animal part you never thought about eating, you might be surprised at just how good it is. Indulge in all the vibrantly colored fresh fruit that is offered. Skip the fancy restaurant for one night and go explore the streets cause it’s usually those hole in the wall food places that will have the best tasting food!

Het bericht 20 things to do in Ecuador verscheen eerst op Community Adventures Ecuador.