The Limoncocha National Reserve

La Bamba tree photo by Dawn Wohlfarth

The Limoncocha Reserve, located on the north shore of the Napo River between the Coca and Aguarico rivers, is on mostly level ground characterized by the presence of wetlands and swamps. The Limoncocha Reserve is one of the most bio-diverse areas in the world, but its flora and fauna are continually threatened by increasing oil activity. Scientific studies have identified over 450 bird species in the area, and unique trees such as the giant ceibo, cedars, laurel, the balsa and the Pambil are common. The Reserve also contains the Laguna Limoncocha, which is famous for being an excellent birdwatching site.

Lowland Quichua families live nearby the lagoon and mostly farm for a living. Petroleum activities during the 1980s and 1990s have negatively impacted this region and its people. Therefore, the community is open to eco-tourism and other alternative uses of their fragile environment.

The best way to access the Reserve from Quito is by taking a plane to Coca or Lago Agrio. Buses also travel to these two destinations as well as directly to the town of Limoncocha. There is also water transportation from Coca to two small ports (Puerto de Palos and Puerto Pompeya).

National Park

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