My favorite travel experience in South America
Staying at Tagua Lodge Hostel Manglaralto in Tena was an unforgettable experience. Nestled right in the heart of the Amazon, it gave me easy access to lush jungle trails, winding rivers, and incredible wildlife 🌱🐒.
It took about 3 hours from Quito on winding paths, finally arriving to the small town of Tena.
One of the highlights was getting to meet the Kichwa people — learning about their traditions, medicinal plants, and tasting their local cuisine made me feel connected to the culture in a way I’ll never forget.
I also went tubing down the river, spotted colorful birds, and enjoyed the peaceful sounds of the jungle. I highly recommend Tena for anyone seeking adventure, culture, and a true off-the-beaten-path Amazon experience! #lemon8partner
What it's really like inside the Amazon Rainforest goes beyond just the breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife—it’s a deeply immersive cultural and natural experience. Staying at Tagua Lodge Hostel Manglaralto provides more than just accommodation; it serves as an ideal gateway to explore the rich biodiversity and traditions of the Amazon basin. Located in Tena, Ecuador, this area is known for its verdant jungle trails and winding rivers, offering numerous opportunities for eco-adventure such as tubing, hiking, and birdwatching. The peaceful ambiance, filled with the sounds of tropical birds and rustling leaves, creates a serene backdrop for reflection and exploration. A key highlight of visiting this region is connecting with the indigenous Kichwa people. Their knowledge of medicinal plants and traditional customs enriches any traveler's experience, making the journey a cultural as well as a natural discovery. Sampling traditional Kichwa cuisine allows visitors to taste authentic flavors influenced by the rainforest's bounty. Traveling from Quito to Tena, travelers embrace the winding roads that add to the anticipation and adventure of reaching this off-the-beaten-path destination. Tena itself acts as a hub for jungle expeditions and cultural experiences, ideal for those seeking a genuine and sustainable travel experience. For those passionate about conservation and authentic encounters, Tena offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and immersion in one of the world's most remarkable rainforests. Whether tubing along the riverbanks, spotting colorful bird species, or learning from the Kichwa community, this part of South America leaves a lasting impression.