Ecuador's Oriente is a large region in the lowlands of the Amazon basin that includes several of the country's provinces. It is divided into a northern and southern part by the Río Pastaza. Both parts include huge areas of rainforest and it is excellent for people interested in natural history, ecology, tropical habitats, indigenous tribes, bird watching and jungle treks. The main towns in the province are Coca, Macas, Puyo, Tena and Lago Agrio. Not far from Tena is the town of Puerto Misahuallí, where jungle tours are available.
Most roads south of the Río Pastaza are unpaved and experience frequent landslides and floods during the rainy season. During the months of June and August, unexpected delays are nearly a certainty, so din't plan your schedule too tight. The best time to visit Ecuador's Oriente are late August and the months from December to February. North of the Río Pastaza the infrastructure is much better and less dependent on weather conditions.
From Quito it is possible to fly into Oriente, or to get there by bus or motorized canoe.
Find a flight to Oriente