Bas & CatalinaTraveling to the Amazon in Ecuador is an experience you will never forget. The rainforest is a vast and diverse ecosystem, home to an incredible array of plants and animals. You will learn about the traditional way of life of the indigenous people who live in the Amazon.
When is the best time to visit the Ecuadorian Amazon?
The best time to visit the Amazon in Ecuador is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. The weather is more pleasant during this time, and there is less rain. However, the Amazon can be visited year-round.
We visited the Ecuadorian Amazon at the beginning of July. We had terrific weather. We did have one day that rained, but that gave us a beautiful rainbow over the Napo River.
What is the weather like in the Ecuadorian Amazon?
Be prepared for the heat and humidity. The average temperature in the Amazon is 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit), with high humidity.
How can I get to the Ecuadorian Amazon?
There are a few different ways to get to the Amazon rainforest in Ecuador. You can fly into Quito or Guayaquil and then take a bus or boat to the rainforest. A few tour operators also offer transportation, accommodation, and activities packages.
We love to travel with Gate 1 Travel. Their trips include accommodation, transportation, most meals, plenty of activities, a knowledgeable guide, and meaningful experiences.
What accommodations are available in the Ecuadorian Amazon?
There are many different places to stay in the Amazon in Ecuador. You can stay in a lodge, a tent, or a treehouse.
When we traveled to the Ecuadorian Amazon with Gate 1 Travel, we stayed at La Casa del Suizo, and it was an incredible experience. They have a lot of activities, educational opportunities, and ways to explore the Amazon.
Source: Kathy D Travels
What is an excellent lodge to stay in the Ecuadorian Amazon?
An excellent lodge to stay in the Amazon is La Casa del Suizo. Casa del Suizo offers many activities, educational opportunities, and ways to explore the Amazon.
Source: Kathy D Travels
Do I need a guide to explore the Amazon in Ecuador?
It is a good idea to travel to the Amazon with a guide. This will help you to stay safe and avoid getting lost. A guide can also teach you about the rainforest’s plants and animals and help you have a more meaningful experience.
When we traveled to the Ecuadorian Amazon with Gate 1 Travel, we had our own tour guide. Still, La Casa del Suizo also provides local tour guides that are passionate and full of information. Our tour guide, Juan Carlos, taught us many things about the rainforest’s plants and animals. Exploring the Amazon with him was not only a great experience but was also very educational. We even got to try lemony ants!
What should I wear in the Ecuadorian Amazon?
The overall recommendation is to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect yourself from the sun and insects. I would also recommend wearing a hat and sunglasses. Another vital thing to remember is hiking boots. The Amazon can get muddy, and many insects and critters are on the ground. I am prone to twist my ankles, and the ground on the Amazon is uneven; therefore, hiking boots were essential to me. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are a must.
Finally, remember to carry a small backpack with essentials such as a raincoat, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
With all that said, during our last trip to the Amazon, I wore shorts and a T-shirt to visit a local indigenous family. Later, I wore long, quick-dry pants and a tank top to hike through the Amazon.
My husband and son wore quick-dry pants and t-shirts for all activities in the Amazon.
What should I pack for the Ecuadorian Amazon?
Packing for an Amazon trip can be confusing. You are thinking of hot, humid weather, but remember you must also protect yourself from insects and crawlies. Most experts recommend packing long sleeve shirts and long pants to protect yourself from the sun and insect bites. You should also pack some T-shirts and shorts, even just for lounging around your lodge. The heat and humidity can be daunting if you are not used to it.
We explored the Ecuadorian Amazon this past July, and here is my packing list for this portion of the trip.
- Quick-dry pants
- Shorts
- Tank tops
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeve easy-breath workout shirts
- Raincoat
- Mid-ankle socks
- Hiking boots – I love my Columbia boots.
- Bathing suit
- Hat
- Small backpack
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Go-Pro
- Hair ties
- Small First-aid Kit
- Extra allergy pills such as Allegra or Benadryl.
- Extra clothes (things can take a while to dry in the Amazon’s humidity).
What activities can I do in the Amazon in Ecuador?
You can enjoy various activities in the Amazon rainforest, including hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching, and jungle tours. You can also learn about the rainforest’s unique ecosystem and indigenous cultures.
When we stayed at La Casa del Suizo in Napo, Ecuador, we were able to partake in many activities. We truly enjoyed the nature hikes and the opportunity to navigate the waters of the Napo River on a log raft.
We also loved meeting a local indigenous family that shared many of their traditions and way of life with us. I particularly loved when we were taught the entire process of making Chicha. My son loved talking to the Shaman.
My son and husband love adrenaline, and they couldn’t get enough when they did the canopy adventure in the jungle. It also included a nice steep hike with a rewarding view at the top.
Do you need vaccines to go to the Amazon?
Vaccinations are not required to enter Ecuador or the Amazon; however, the CDC recommends the Yellow Fever vaccine and Malaria treatment. Check out the CDC Website for Official information because we are not Medical Professionals
Where can I get the Yellow Fever vaccine in the U.S.?
The easiest, most effective way to get your yellow fever vaccine is by contacting your local health department. By doing this, you will be able to save money and time rather than going through other online companies.
Do you need the yellow fever vaccine for the Amazon Rainforest?
Vaccinations are not required to enter Ecuador or the Amazon; however, the U.S. CDC recommends the Yellow Fever vaccine and Malaria treatment. Check out the CDC Website for Official information because we are not Medical Professionals
How long before I travel should I get the yellow fever vaccine?
You need to get your vaccine at least ten days before traveling. Check out the CDC Website for Official information because we are not Medical Professionals
How long does the Yellow Fever vaccine last?
A single dose of the Yellow Fever vaccine provides lifelong protection. Check out the CDC Website for Official information because we are not Medical Professionals
How can I get malaria medication for my upcoming trip to the Amazon?
The easiest, most effective way to get malaria medication is by contacting your local health department. In addition, you may contact your health care provider, who can prescribe the medication, and you can fill it at your local pharmacy. Check out the CDC Website for Official information because we are not Medical Professionals
Things to keep in mind when planning a trip to the Ecuadorian Amazon.
- Please do your research: There are a lot of different tour operators and lodges to choose from, so it is essential to do your research and find one that is a good fit for you.
- Book your trip in advance: The Amazon rainforest is a popular destination, so it is important to book your trip in advance, especially if you are traveling during the dry season.
- Be flexible: The Amazon rainforest is a wild place, so be prepared for anything. The weather can change quickly, and there may be times when you have to change your plans.
- Respect the rainforest: The Amazon rainforest is a fragile ecosystem, so it is important to respect it. Be careful not to litter, and do not disturb any wildlife.
No matter how you choose to travel to the Amazon in Ecuador, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. The rainforest is a truly magical place, and you will be amazed by the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
