Yasuni National Park: Ecuador’s largest protected paradise

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The Yasuni National Park is a park of jungle origin and extends over an area of approximately 10,000 square kilometers between the provinces of Napo and Orellana. It is the largest protected area in mainland Ecuador and was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

It is a destination not to be missed and one of the best tours in Ecuador. In short, visiting Yasuni National Park is an option that we, at Howlanders, recommend 100%. As we know that you want arguments and proof that it is a worthwhile destination, we are going to give them to you. Do not lose detail!

Flora and fauna in the Yasuni Reserve

Yasuni is one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth. There are studies that speak of diversity in the fauna of 173 species of mammals, 567 species of birds, 83 species of reptiles, 97 species of amphibians, and 249 species of fish. Don’t you think it’s a spectacle? You can start looking now!

The Yasuni Biosphere Reserve is listed as one of the most diverse areas per square meter on the planet. More than 99% of the Biosphere Reserve is represented by original natural vegetation. Speaking in numbers, 2,113 species have been identified and it is estimated that there are about 3,100 species.

Tribes in Yasuni National Park

Three large indigenous communities live within the reserve: the Waorani, Kichwa and Shuar. Within the protected area also inhabit the last settlement in voluntary isolation of Ecuador. They are two ancestral communities that have decided not to maintain contact with the people of the city: the Tagaeri and Taromenani who are characterized by being brave warriors.

What to do in Yasuni National Park

Visit the Yaku Kawsay interpretation center

It is a museum where you can learn more about Yasuni National Park: culture, history, flora and fauna. The indigenous women will be the protagonists of the visit. At the end of the museum, you will be able to buy handcrafted souvenirs and help the members of the community.

Navigate the waters of the Añangucocha Lagoon

Its waters are black but with little sediment, which forms a mirror of water in which you can perform tourist activities. It is located in the heart of the Yasuni National Park and on its shores is the Napo Wildlife Center, one of the best eco-hotels in the world. You deserve this exclusive experience in this unique environment, don’t you think?

Fishing in Jatuncocha

It is also known as the large lagoon or lagoon of mirrors. In the lagoon of Jatuncocha, you can see an infinity of birds and butterflies of different colors. You can also practice sport fishing, piranha fishing, walk through the forest and watch alligators. A little bit of everything!

The truth is that the plans are endless: kayaking, camping, bird watching or trekking is just one part. Discovering nature, community, ancestral, health, or adventure tourism may become your main motivation.

You’ll let us know!

As far as we are concerned, we know that from the first lines we have convinced you of how wonderful Yasuni National Park is, but we wanted to continue to make sure that you will visit the incredible reserve at 100% and not at 99%. Have we succeeded?