Tena
Nestled between lush hillsides and snaking rivers is the town of Tena, the whitewater capital of Ecuador. Many travelers come here just to raft or kayak on the many rivers that come raging down from the Sierras. For those looking for a drier experience, the surrounding wildlife and indigenous communities also offer a great way to spend your time.
The green jungle hillsides shrouded in mist make up for the lackluster appearance of Tena. This is the largest of town in the Amazon, yet the warm locals give it a friendly, small-town feel. Recreational opportunities abound, and ecotourism is the mainstay of Tena’s economy. There are many hotels and activities to choose from.
Frequent, tropical rains can be expected both in town and in the surrounding rainforests. However, the many nearby rivers seem to produce a cooling effect, and the intense heat of the Amazon is a bit more bearable here.
Tena is the whitewater capital of Ecuador. A torrent of rivers rush down from the surrounding mountains, making the rafting and kayaking some of the best around. The Tena and Pano rivers offer several stretches of fantastic whitewater. A range of rapid classes (there’s everything from Class I to Class V) make this a great spot for beginners to get their feet wet, while also keeping the experts’ adrenaline levels high.
For those who want to stay on land, there are many opportunities for hiking, with several trails leading to spectacular waterfalls. Bird- and animal-watching is another worthwhile activity, and there are several indigenous communities nearby. These communities provide visitors with a unique opportunity to see and experience Amazonian culture.
Where to stay in Tena
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Tena accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Anaconda Lodge
Anaconda Island is a magical place of 27 hectares located between the Napo and Arajuno rivers in the heart of the Amazon rainforest of the Napo province in Ecuador. It is a meeting of two ancestral cultures of the Amazon: Kichwa and Waorani, a mystical Island with many stories.
Itamandi Eco Lodge
Guests of Itamandi Eco Lodge get to stay in accommodations on the grounds of a nicely appointed reserve. There are a total of 19 guest rooms and lots of communal spaces where guests can take in the incredible setting.
Wildsumaco Lodge
Wildsumaco Lodge was built by three individuals with different skills and interests but a shared love of birds, birding and conservation. The Rio Pucuno Valley and the Andes beyond are seen from Wildsumaco Lodge, which is perched on a ridge in the Eastern Foothills of the Andes. Volcanoes Antisana, El Altar, and Tungurahua, which are in the distance and are covered in snow, shine white against the magnificent blue sky on clear days. The Sumaco Volcano can frequently be seen peaking through the clouds and mist that surround its heights in Sumaco National Park, which is located to the north of the lodge. You can see Napo Galeras National Park from other sections of our reserve, and you may let your mind and eyes wander to the distant Amazonian lowlands that reach out beyond as you look out to the south and east. The comfortable elevation of Wildsumaco Lodge is approximately 1480 meters (4900 feet), and the size of our forest reserve is between 1200 and 1600 meters (3900 to 4900 feet).
Tena itineraries
Explore hand-picked Tena itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
15 days · Quito, Tena, Riobamba, Cuenca +4
Couple
Ecuador is a wonderful country where we were able to travel by road for over 1200 KM during our two weeks trip and see the different parts of the country.
Ecuador
15 days · Quito, Tena, Baños, San Cristobal +2
Couple
Embark on a two‑week Ecuador adventure that juxtaposes bustling Andean capitals with remote volcanic islands, delivering a vivid contrast of urban energy and pristine nature. Traverse Quito’s historic streets, soar over the crater lake of Quilotoa, then island‑hop to the Galápagos for lava tunnels, Santa Cruz highlands, and sea‑lion encounters. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll taste traditional cuisine, hear indigenous stories, and return with a deep appreciation for Ecuador’s cultural richness and extraordinary biodiversity.
Ecuador
12 days · Quito, Tena, Cuenca, San Cristobal
Solo
I loved my trip. It was well organized
Ecuador
13 days · Quito, Tena, Baños, San Cristobal
Friends
Joyce explored Ecuador’s diverse landscapes on an adventure that combined highland culture and coastal wonders. She trekked from Quito’s historic center to Baños’ volcanic landscape, then sailed to the Galápagos for island tours of Lobo, León Dormido, and San Cristóbal. Guides shared indigenous stories, local cuisine, and conservation insights, leaving Joyce with a lasting appreciation for Ecuador’s vibrant ecosystems and warm hospitality.
Ecuador
9 days · Quito, Tena, Baños
Couple
If adventure, nature, and culture are at the top of your travel to-do list, then prepare for a trip that you won’t soon forget. Experience the rugged beauty of Ecuador.
Ecuador
9 days · Quito, Tena, San Cristobal
Couple
Natural beauty, graceful architecture, rugged excursions, and a destination that’s on every “Must See in Your Lifetime” list… Yes, Ecuador has all of this and more.
Ecuador
9 days · Quito, Tena, Baños, Cuenca
Solo
Blaze your own trail on this safe solo adventure as you walk in the footsteps of the Incas. Explore the highlands and the valley, history and culture, and cuisine.
Ecuador
16 days · Quito, Mindo, Otavalo, Tena +2
Family
Go on an unforgettable journey as you traverse the landscapes of Ecuador. Volcano tours, the city in the ‘middle of the world’, and cloud forests are just a few of the wonders.
Ecuador
9 days · Quito, Tena
Family
Need a family adventure that will have everyone discovering the beauty of the world instead of looking at screens? You'll love this expertly crafted Ecuadorian getaway!
Ecuador
10 days · Quito, Tena, Santa Cruz
Friends
Need to blow off some steam with your friends? Then go on a once in a lifetime adventure with them when you explore Ecuador’s Galápagos islands and Amazon jungle.
Ecuador
10 days · Quito, Tena, Baños, Montañita
Friends
Go on a trip with your friends that isn’t the usual travel cliche. Enjoy adventure, nature, and the chance to get unplugged. Take pictures, but live in the moment!
Ecuador
19 days · Quito, San Cristobal, Guayaquil, Cuenca +2
Couple
We spent almost 20 days exploring all parts of the country — from the mainland, to the coast, to the Amazon. I can say we did it all!
Ecuador
12 days · Quito, Tena, San Cristobal
Couple
What a memorable trip to Ecuador! We really enjoyed the hikes in the jungle, and learning about the indigenous cultures and the Amazon Basin.
Ecuador
12 days · Quito, Tena, Baños, Cuenca
Couple
From the lovely city of Quito to the highlands of Cuenca, our vacation to Ecuador was filled with rich cultural experiences and a superlative experience to remember.
Ecuador
