Ecuador: Part 1: Tena, Amazon Jungle, Baños

Our first night began in Quito with a brief meeting with our guide Giovanny. Some of us went out to dinner where within twenty minutes the power went out, again. We ate over candle light and headlights of a car. Power did not return until early the next morning. What a way to begin a trip!

The following morning we arrived by bus to Tena. After a few hours of roaming the streets we gathered for dinner at Chuquitos. After a drink and the rain clearing we gathered at a small stadium for the cultural celebration Napo Raymi. Numerous indigenous dances were performed by children and adults.

The next morning four of us; Bill, Troy, Tara and myself decided to delay our jungle excursion for a few hours to raft the Rio Jatunyacu. The river is a class 3, not as intense as I am used to but still entertaining. Since the water was a bit calmer we were able to play around a bit more. Our two safety guides let us take turns in the ducky to make it more challenging and give a new perspective to the river. After a fun filled day spent in the water we met up with the rest of the group and settled into our jungle lodges.

Before we set off for our hike Giovanny made sure all of us had our faces painted with natural pigment. Myself and four other travelers opted to hike the more challenging four hour route (roundtrip). The climb was challenging. Our local guide used his machete to cut a narrow pathway through the jungle. Hot and exhausted, finally arriving at our destination, a swim along a waterfall was welcome relief.


During our descent it began to pour. Samuel cut down large leaves to use as a natural umbrella. A large bowl of soup awaited us upon our return. Later that afternoon we were shown how they make local drinks, string from surrounding trees and crafts- all natural and organic. We also took turns with a blow dart, a bunch of bananas being our target.


At night we were treated to a performance of traditional Quichua dance and song. After the children and adults performed all of us were invited to dance as well. I showed numerous photos of my travels to the family. Everyone, kids and parents alike were enthralled with my camera. A few kids had taken photos of a soccer game we played earlier that day and were really excited to see images of themselves.
Sadly, the next morning we had to leave for Baños. I absolutley loved the community visit, could have stayed longer. If I ever make a return visit to Ecuador this would be a priority.

A ride on the back of a truck and a bus ride brought us to the small town of Baños. Here we saw three waterfalls. For one fall we had to take a cable car across a wide ravine to gain a closer view. Another fall included a short hike and crossing a swing bridge. Upon our return to Baños I toured the town for a couple of hours before my spa appointment. For $35 I spent an hour trapped in a steam box and received an hour facial and body massage. Absolute heaven! A great reward to myself for all the hiking Ive done.


The relaxation didn´t last too long. The next morning JiaMin, Daniela and I went on another hike. About 30 minutes into our journey we had a spectacular view of the town. We continued our trek in hopes of a glimpse of Tunguraha Volcano. Somehow we must have taken a wrong turn, or maybe it was just the cloud cover- we did not see the volcano. Still a great morning exercise and an opportunity for some great photos.