10 Things to Do in Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Tena, Ecuador



Tucked away in the Eastern Amazon region of Ecuador, the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is an untouched paradise of lush rainforest, crystal clear rivers, and abundant wildlife. The reserve is a protected area of over 600,000 hectares, making it one of the largest protected areas in Ecuador. It is home to a variety of species, including jaguars, sloths, monkeys, and over 500 species of birds.

The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is a perfect destination for those seeking an adventure and a chance to get up close and personal with nature. Here are 10 things to do in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, Tena, Ecuador.

1. Take a Jungle Trek: One of the best ways to explore the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is to take a jungle trek. There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. Trekking through the jungle is an amazing way to observe the diverse wildlife and plant life of the reserve.

2. Visit the Laguna Grande: Laguna Grande is one of the most popular attractions in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. The lagoon is located in the middle of the reserve and is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, caimans, and turtles. Visitors can take boat tours of the lagoon, or even take a swim in the crystal clear waters.

3. Go Bird Watching: The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is a bird watcher’s paradise. The reserve is home to over 500 species of birds, including macaws, toucans, and parrots. Bird watching is a great way to observe the beauty of the reserve, and can be done from the comfort of a boat or from the shore.

4. Go Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. The rivers are home to a variety of fish, including piranhas, catfish, and electric eels. Fishing trips can be arranged with local guides and can be a great way to explore the rivers of the reserve.

5. Take a Canoe Ride: Canoeing is a great way to explore the rivers of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Canoe trips can be taken on the Cuyabeno River, and provide a great opportunity to observe wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and caimans.

6. Visit the Caiman Lagoon: The Caiman Lagoon is a popular destination in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. The lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, including caimans, turtles, and anacondas. Visitors can take boat tours of the lagoon, or even take a swim in the crystal clear waters.

7. Take a Night Safari: Night safaris are a great way to observe the nocturnal wildlife of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Night safaris can be taken on the Cuyabeno River, and provide a great opportunity to observe wildlife such as bats, frogs, and caimans.

8. Visit the Yacuma River: The Yacuma River is a popular destination in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and anacondas. Visitors can take boat tours of the river, or even take a swim in the crystal clear waters.

9. Visit the El Chaco Lagoon: El Chaco Lagoon is a popular destination in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. The lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, including caimans, turtles, and anacondas. Visitors can take boat tours of the lagoon, or even take a swim in the crystal clear waters.

10. Take a Wildlife Photography Tour: Wildlife photography tours are a great way to observe the diverse wildlife of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Tours can be taken on the Cuyabeno River, and provide a great opportunity to observe wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and caimans.