The Amazon rainforest takes up much of Ecuador’s eastern half, and a visit to the jungle offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the rivers and flooded forest of the world’s largest rainforest.

The Rio Napo is one of the Amazon’s main tributaries, and the Manatee Amazon Explorer sails on the river, mostly in the lowland rainforest of the Yasuni National Park. Staying on a coat allows you to visit different parts of the jungle while staying in relative comfort, with air conditioning and hot showers. Excursions include exploring oxbow lakes, trekking through the jungle and visiting native communities.

If you prefer to stay on the ground, the Sacha Lodge is beautifully set on a blackwater lake, just off the Napo River, in a private 2,000 hectare reserve. The lodge, one of the best in Ecuador, has beautiful public areas, including a bar overlooking the lake. The rooms are simple, but comfortable, with electricity and private bathrooms with hot showers. The lodge has a 275-metre canopy walkway, allowing you to see the jungle treetops from 30 metres above the ground.