Oriente, Amazon region in Ecuador
Oriente is a rainforest region in eastern Ecuador stretching from the foothills of the Andes to the Peruvian border. Dense vegetation covers rolling terrain crossed by wide rivers, remaining difficult to access in many parts.
Until the 1960s the region remained largely isolated before oil discoveries brought road construction and new settlements. These changes drew workers and companies from other parts of the country and transformed the area fundamentally.
Local people still rely on inherited knowledge of medicinal plants and hunting methods passed down through generations. Many families live in wooden houses along riverbanks, using canoes for travel and depending on fishing and small gardens for their daily needs.
Small planes connect the main towns with Quito, from where off-road vehicles and boats are needed for onward travel. Rubber boots and rain protection are essential gear since paths are often muddy and rivers run deep.
A protected area within the territory shelters people who refuse all contact with the outside world and live in complete isolation. Scientists have counted more tree species on a single hectare there than exist in all of North America.
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