The Amazon rainforest basin, or El Oriente, is a popular tourist destination, and a number of jungle lodges have sprung up in recent years. Most of them are centered around Tena, Puerto Francisco de Orellana (Coca), or Nueva Loja (Lago Agrio), which are transportation hubs in Ecuador’s eastern lowlands. Although each is quite unique, activities and basic features don’t vary too much.
Location is the first consideration. The lodges near Tena, such as Cotococha, are more easily accessible than those near Coca or Lago Agrio, but have significantly less wildlife. Getting from Quito to Tena is a relatively easy six-hour bus ride, whereas the buses from Quito to Coca or Lago Agrio take at least 10 hours. There are also flights to all major launching points in the jungle to and from Quito. Flights to both Coca and Lago Agrio take about 25 minutes and cost $120 round trip.
Another consideration is comfort. If your idea of a vacation always includes a pool, a buffet table and hammocks, there are jungle lodges that will provide that. If you're more interested in animals and birds than comfort, you should check out the more remote lodges, such as Sani Lodge and lodges in the Cuyabeno Reserve. If you're willing to pay, there are lodges that offer both comfort and good animal watching. Still other lodges, like Yachana Lodge, offer a closer look at local jungle communities, which can be fascinating as well.
See our packing list section for what to pack.