The largest of Ecuador’s 24 provinces features the country’s most diverse plants and animals, seven indigenous nations and very powerful rivers.
Largely untouched by development, with much of its forests remaining virgin, the province of Pastaza is one of South America’s most biologically diverse places. Visit this least populated of the mainland provinces, which nevertheless has seven indigenous nationalities.
The small capital, Puyo, is slowly developing to accommodate tourism and today has all the features needed for a comfortable stay on the edge of the Amazon Rainforest. Find hotels, tourist information and tourism operators serving the province. It is connected by road to the town of Ambato and less than a 5-hour drive from Quito.
Take a stroll along Rio Puyo Riverwalk next to the River Puyo that cuts through the city’s center. Discover swimming areas, parks ideal for bird watching and riverfront restaurants serving local cuisine as you traverse the city. Outside the city, the river feeds into the larger Pastaza River, which eventually flows into the surging Amazon River.
Find many of the attractions of the region in the area surrounding the capital. Visit Parque Omaere, an ethno-botanical park on the outskirts of the city, to learn about the indigenous people of the region. Nearby, the Orchid and Botanical Garden is a great place to discover the variety of native flowers that grow throughout Pastaza.
Drive 30 minutes outside the city and you’ll be surrounded by natural wonder. Embark on the short walk to reach the stunning Hola Vida Waterfall, a fantastic photo opportunity. Pastaza province is a great place to experience adventure sports. Find kayaking, rafting and fishing operators in Puyo. See the Amazon Rainforest from above by signing up for a scenic flight, which departs from the oil town of Shell.
Pastaza shares a border with Peru and is located in eastern Ecuador. Its capital is connected by road to major transportation hubs including Quito. Find tourist accommodations throughout Puyo and eco-hotels in the surrounding jungle region.