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15/04/2024How to prepare for your first visit to the Amazon?
There are colors everywhere and a symphony of sounds that come from dawn until when the sun sets.
The Amazon is an immense and quite beautiful region, full of life from the smallest drop of water to the gigantic trees that run through the territory of each country in South America. It is exactly this biological wealth that makes the rainforest one of the most desired destinations to visit.
The Amazon rainforest is one of the emblematic settings of Ecuador, its exuberant vegetation covers six provinces in the east of the country, from the Andes mountain range that crosses the Sierra region of the country, huge rivers flow down that give life to all those who live and visit this area. Something important that you should know is that this region comprises around 54% of the Ecuadorian territory and the annual temperature varies between 15 and 40 °C.
What is the best season to travel to the Ecuadorian Amazon?
In terms of climate, the rainforest has a fairly humid tropical climate throughout the year; but there are seasons that can elevate your experience much more. Between the months of December to May the rivers rise and usually flood the low banks, so some nearby forests tend to remain under water; during this season the rains are very frequent and if your interest is to explore riverside flowers.
Although if what you want is to see the terrestrial fauna up close, during the months of June to October the climate is a little drier, the frequency of the rains is less so exploring the jungle will be easier and you will be able to walk among the gigantic trees and the possibility of sighting species will increase.
Although the intensity and frequency of the rains is different in both seasons, it always rains in the Amazon, even if it is only a light drizzle, so it is important that you bring a light raincoat and quick-drying clothing.
Where to stay in the Ecuadorian Amazon?
One of the most visited places in the Amazon is the Yasunà Reserve and its surroundings. Among the places to stay in this area is Yacuma Ecolodge, a comfortable and quite charming place that is located in its own private reserve also called Yacuma. In the area, the people of the Kichwa community of Chontayacu live in harmony, and all the diversity of flora and fauna; the people of the community are the same ones who are at the lodge to welcome visitors and help them during their stay. All the people are warm and are experts in the life that takes place in the reserve.
What do you need to bring to the Amazon?
When it comes to clothing:
The climate of the Amazon rainforest is humid, so you should choose wisely the fibres of the clothes you will wear; try to make them waterproof or breathable. Basic items of clothing include a pair of long trousers, suitable for hiking; if you can find trousers that can be converted into shorts, it can be much better. A pair of quick-drying or cotton t-shirts or sweatshirts that are not too tight will also be very useful. And to be equipped, always bring a waterproof jacket, which does not allow water to pass through and is light.
Other personal items:
Among other basic clothing and accessories are a swimsuit, sunglasses and a cap to protect you from the sun; it is also useful to bring sunscreen, because if you explore the banks of the Napo River you will find yourself directly in the sun; so try to bring one with an SPF of 50 or more.
Additionally, insect repellent will be your best friend if you go during the rainy season. Regarding toiletries; the lodge has them in a biodegradable version so as not to affect the jungle as much.
Regarding specific footwear for walking; during the excursions, you should not worry, as long as you bring appropriate footwear to reach the Amazon and to walk inside the lodge it is fine; for the excursions we will give you special long boots so that you can move with total ease in the middle of the jungle.
And as a final recommendation about what to bring to the Amazon: try to travel with light luggage, so that the explorations are easier to carry; especially if you are looking for a place immersed in the heart of the forest, because to get to Yacuma Ecolodge we must cross two rivers, the first is the great flow of the Tena River, then we cross a small beach to the Chontayacu River and after a short 15-minute canoe trip we finally arrive at the lodge.
Among the ways you could distribute your luggage you can add a day pack. This will be the suitcase you take on daily excursions; the suitcase can be waterproof or you could purchase a rain cover for your backpack.
Points to consider at the Lodge
A professional camera, the right lenses to capture that special bird that lives in the highest treetops. Please note that Yacuma Ecolodge’s private bungalows do not have electrical outlets. All equipment is charged at reception.
What species will I be able to see in the Amazon?
The Amazon is home to birds, they sing all day long, among the best known are several species of macaws, orioles, herons, woodpeckers and some owls; although the ground is also a fascinating area to admire species, you can see some Amazonian pigs, tapirs, and snakes if you go on a night excursion, as well as several species of amphibians.
In the Yacuma rainforest reserve there is life at every angle you look.
If you are looking for an authentic experience in the Ecuadorian Amazon, we await you at Yacuma Ecolodge to explore the hidden treasures and unforgettable experiences that this magical place has in store.
