Napo
The province of Napo, located in the Amazon region of Ecuador, is an impressive and diverse tourist destination that combines nature, adventure, culture, and ecotourism. It is known for its lush rainforest, towering waterfalls, and rich biodiversity that attracts nature and adventure lovers.
An Ecological and Touristic Territory, Napo is the magical gateway to the northern Amazon region of Ecuador. Exploring it is an unforgettable experience. Its natural sites and cultural manifestations make it one of the best tourist destinations in the world.
There are two major indigenous nationalities in eastern Ecuador: the Amazonian Kichwas and the Huaoranis. Their production is based on local resource trade, tourism, livestock, and agriculture. The major extraction industries, such as timber and agriculture, have earned Napo the nickname "Land of Cinnamon." It was one of the first areas to be colonized, where settlements began exporting spices and agricultural products that early explorers ventured to trade.
Tourist Attractions in Napo:
Tena:
Tena is the capital of the province and a key starting point for travelers seeking adventures in the Amazon rainforest. Known as the "rafting capital" of Ecuador, Tena offers exciting rafting on the Jatunyacu and Misahuallí rivers, ideal for kayaking, rafting, and water sports enthusiasts.
Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park:
This protected natural site includes cloud forests, tropical rainforest, and the eastern Andes mountain range. It is home to the Sumaco Volcano and offers hiking opportunities and exotic wildlife and flora observation, including spectacled bears, pumas, and a wide variety of birds.
Waterfalls:
Napo is famous for its stunning waterfalls, some of the most popular being:
San Rafael Waterfall:
The highest in Ecuador, with a 160-meter drop, located on the border of Napo and Sucumbíos provinces.
Las Latas Waterfall:
Located near Tena, perfect for short hikes and refreshing swims in natural pools.
Hollín Waterfalls:
A scenic site surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for hiking and kayaking jumps.
Antisana Ecological Reserve:
Partially located in Napo, this reserve is a spectacular ecotourism destination. Visitors can explore the Antisana Volcano, see Andean condors, and hike through paramo and rainforest areas, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers and hikers.
Puerto Misahuallí:
A small town on the banks of the Misahuallí River, known for its friendly capuchin monkeys that roam freely in the area. It is also a starting point for exploring the Amazon by canoeing down rivers, visiting indigenous communities, and trekking through the rainforest.
Kichwa Indigenous Community:
Napo is home to several indigenous communities, such as the Kichwas, who offer tourists the opportunity to learn about their traditions, culture, and knowledge of the Amazon rainforest. Visitors can participate in cultural ceremonies, learn about medicinal plants, and enjoy local hospitality.
Paikawe Lagoon:
A beautiful spot offering canoe rides through wildlife-filled lagoons, where travelers can observe exotic birds and caimans. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the serenity of the Amazon.
Tourist Activities in Napo:
Rafting and Kayaking:
Napo’s rivers are ideal for adventure sports lovers. The Jatunyacu River, considered one of the best whitewater rivers in Ecuador, offers an exciting challenge for both beginners and experts.
Hiking and Trekking:
With various trails through tropical forests, mountains, and volcanoes, Napo is perfect for hikers of all levels.
Wildlife and Flora Observation:
The province is rich in biodiversity, making it a prime spot for observing tropical birds, mammals, and reptiles. Visitors can see everything from pink river dolphins to monkeys, sloths, and caimans.
Ecotourism and Community Tourism:
Many communities in Napo promote sustainable tourism, offering authentic experiences that allow visitors to interact with nature responsibly and learn about indigenous culture.
Napo is a gem of the Ecuadorian Amazon that offers a unique combination of wild nature, adventure, and cultural connection, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the rainforest and enjoy unforgettable experiences.
Gastronomy
Tilapia Maito: Wrapped in bijao leaves and served with yucca, palm hearts, and garabato yuyo. This dish has pre-Hispanic origins, using river fish (catfish, bocachico, cachama, pintadillo) wrapped in bijao, plantain, or shiguango leaves, tied with natural fiber, and cooked over charcoal embers.
Trout: This gastronomic specialty is found in all the restaurants of Quijos. Trout is the signature dish of this region, prepared in various ways to suit the preferences of customers.
Amazonian Cocoa: It thrives in Napo under agroforestry systems that create true productive forests. It functions similarly to the natural forest while maintaining organic or green production, promoting biodiversity.
Pincho de Patas Muyo or White Cocoa: This wild-growing product in the Amazon is a typical Napo food. The seeds are roasted on a bamboo stick and served with yucca or chonta chicha. Ecuadorian Amazonian cocoa is globally recognized as unique.
Chicha de Chontaduro and Yucca: A fermented drink made from chonta fruits, known as chontaduros. This chicha often replaces the more common yucca chicha in local diets.
