Ecuador's Biggest National Park Is The Most Biologically Diverse Destination On Earth

Nestled amongst the trees in the Amazon rainforest is a 3,800-square-mile space that scientists have labeled one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet. It is so diverse, in fact, that in just a 2.4-acre section of its forest, you could find as many as 650 different tree species. Yasuni National Park in Ecuador was listed in National Geographic's 2022 list of the top places in the world to visit. Why is that? For one, it's one of the world's best places to view wildlife. With thousands of species of plants and animals, it is easy to see what makes this area so interesting to scientists and nature lovers alike. Secondly, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the last continuous tracts of virgin tropical forest in eastern Ecuador, meaning it has been able to grow and thrive without significant outside disturbances. 

Set at the base of the Andes Mountains and just south of the Equator, its location makes for a convergence of distinctive ecosystems. The area is also very important because it provides protection and housing for many endangered and threatened species, among them jaguars, white-bellied spider monkeys, giant otters, golden-mantled tamarin, and the giant armadillo. The area is not only home to plants and animals, but tribes as well. The Waorani people have been relying on the forest for survival for centuries. Although some sub-sects of the tribe are now in touch with modern facilities, the Tagaeri and Taromenane tribes remain isolated, living deep within the forest. A visit to this unique park is not easily done, however, what awaits upon arrival is a unique experience fit for every outdoor adventure bucket list. 

What is one to do on a trip to the Amazon? Well, for starters, watch some wildlife! Pull out your camera or binoculars and take a look around you. Yasuni is overflowing with so many species it's hard to keep track. 12 different types of monkeys live within the border of this massive rainforest, along with giant otters, tapir, wild boar, deer, capybara, anteaters, and armadillos. Black caiman alligators and anacondas prowl the black water lagoons, so maybe leave any meat-scented perfumes at home. If the thought of alligators lurking below the waters doesn't scare you off, many tour companies offer kayak and canoeing adventures along the rivers.

Over 100,000 different species of insects can be found buzzing around, and the area is also home to around 610 bird species. In fact, birdwatching is so popular in the area that some lodges offer guided tours for spotting some of these magnificent creatures. Each day parrots, parakeets, and macaws make their way to lick mineral-rich soil at parrot clay licks, making this an excellent opportunity for those who want to spot beautiful wildlife.

 Another fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature? Strap on your boots and go hiking! The area is teeming with unique plant life, and it is one of only nine places in the world with more than 4,000 vascular plant species. For those brave enough, many tour groups offer night tours of the jungle as well — a great way to spend an evening under the stars. Lastly, spend some time in the trees by visiting a Yasuni observation platform and admire the stretch of incredible jungle before you.

Accessing Yasuni National Park is not easy, but the adventure is well worth it. The only way to get here is by boat from the town of Coca. Permission is needed to enter the park, so while you can try and access Yasuni without booking a tour, it is not recommended. Since it takes about two to three hours by boat to access the park, it is suggested that visitors take their time exploring the area. However, taking your time means needing a place to sleep. Luckily, a few companies offer full services to help you gain access to the park and make your stay comfortable.

A variety of accommodation packages are available to suit different budgets for an Ecuadorian adventure. For those willing to splurge, luxury options often feature charming thatched-roof cabins with cozy beds, Wi-Fi, meals, and tours included. They also typically include pickup from Coca and a guided trip down the river to your accommodation. Check out the Napo Wildlife Center Lodge, the Napo Cultural Center Lodge, and the La Selva Jungle Lodge for an upscale experience.

For something cheaper but equally incredible, check out Madari Panga. Less luxurious than the options above, visitors here stay in safari-style tents. Unlike most tent camping, however, these do still include beds for a comfortable night's sleep. Those staying here have a multitude of tour options to choose from, including bird watching, nature trips, and photo safaris. For lovers of "Survivor," a few tour companies also offer real down-in-the-dirt experiences where visitors can spend their days trekking and camping under the canopy of trees. No matter your desired trip, a visit to Yasuni National Park should be at the top of every nature lover's list.