Things To Do
in Puyo
Puyo is a vibrant gateway to Ecuador's Amazon rainforest, perched along the Pastaza River. It blends jungle ambiance with a bustling town center, where markets, cafes, and river views shape daily life. The surrounding rainforest teems with wildlife, inviting day trips to Indigenous communities and jungle lodges.
With easy access to nature and a friendly local scene, Puyo offers an authentic Amazonian base for explorers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Puyo and settle into your cozy accommodation surrounded by lush greenery. Take some time to enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian breakfast at a local café. Prepare for an adventurous journey ahead by familiarizing yourself with the area and its rich biodiversity.
Explore the bustling town center of Puyo, visiting local markets and crafts shops. Immerse yourself in the culture by chatting with friendly locals and sampling street food specialties. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Puyo River for stunning views and a refreshing breeze.
Wind down with a serene dinner at a riverside restaurant, basking in the sounds of nature. Savor local dishes while watching the sunset over the lush rainforest. End your day with a night stroll to appreciate the vibrant nightlife and perhaps catch a glimpse of local musicians.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading out on a guided tour to Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. A boat ride through the tranquil waters allows you to witness the incredible flora and fauna unique to the Amazon. Spot colorful birds and playful monkeys as you glide through the lush vegetation.
Enjoy a packed lunch in the reserve while keeping an eye out for wildlife sightings. Afterward, embark on a nature hike guided by an expert who will share insights about the ecosystem and its inhabitants. Capture stunning photographs of exotic plants and animals in their natural habitat.
Return to Puyo, where you can share meals and stories from your adventure with fellow travelers. Experience local dishes loaded with flavors from the Amazon region. As the evening settles, relax with a soothing drink and reflect on the wonders discovered during the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to lush rainforest and wildlife within a short trip from town
- Affordability and friendly, welcoming locals
- Rich cultural experiences with nearby Indigenous communities
- Easy day trips to rivers, markets, and nature lodges
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Heavy rainfall and humidity can be challenging
- Some remote areas require guided tours and transport from Puyo
- English is not widely spoken outside tourist spots
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante cercano?" - Could you recommend a good nearby restaurant?
Places to Visit in Puyo
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections along the river with boats, locals, and colorful market activity as a backdrop.
Vibrant, crowded stalls offering textiles, fruits, and fish—great for street photography and candid portraits.
Open area along the river where the sun dips behind the jungle silhouette for dramatic silhouettes.
Elevated platforms near lodges provide panoramic rainforest views and wildlife silhouettes above the trees.
Food in Puyo
Puyo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish wrapped in bijao leaves and steamed with coconut milk, typically served with rice and yuca.
Must-Try!
Shrimp cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers, often accompanied by plantain chips.
Traditional palm weevil larvae, skewered and grilled in some communities; a regional delicacy for the adventurous eater.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can buy fresh fruit, yuca, fish, herbs, and local snacks. Try fresh juices and traditional breads.
Along the market area you’ll find empanadas, patacones, yuca frita, and grilled fish skewers—perfect for a quick bite between activities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a simple 'Buenos días/tardes' or 'Hola'. Ask before taking photos of people or private homes, and remove hats indoors and in religious spaces.
Respect local customs, ask before entering private areas, and support community-approved tours when visiting nearby villages.
Casual, modest clothing is appropriate for town; in rural areas, light modest attire is preferred when visiting communities.
Safety
Tipping in Puyo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ecuador, a 5-10% tip is customary if service is not included. In tourist areas, a small tip for guides and drivers is appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash (USD) is widely accepted in Puyo, with many places also taking credit/debit cards. Smaller markets and some eateries may be cash-only; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to September tends to be drier and slightly cooler, making outdoor activities like hiking and river trips more comfortable. Humidity remains high, and evenings can still be cool and humid.
October to May brings frequent rain and higher river levels; trails can be slippery, and mud is common. Pack waterproof gear, insect repellent, and quick-dry clothing.
Puyo at Night
Hiking in Puyo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail along the Pastaza River offering wildlife viewing and a close rainforest experience; guide-led options available.
Short canopy walk or treetop platforms providing elevated rainforest views and birdwatching opportunities.
Trails starting from nearby communities that combine nature walks with cultural insights and medicinal plant knowledge.
Airports
How to reach Puyo by plane.
Small regional airport in Coca; typical way to reach the Amazon region; expect road transfer to Puyo taking several hours.
Major international hub from which you can connect to Coca or other Amazon-area destinations; long overland transfer to Puyo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The town and surrounding areas have a mix of mestizo residents and nearby Kichwa-speaking communities, with rural Shuar groups in more remote areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport; local teams and informal play common in plazas and schoolyards.
Kayaking and gentle rafting on the Pastaza River are popular, especially for visitors with guides.
Residents and visitors enjoy forest trails and rainforest treks around Puyo.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puyo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy plantains, yuca, beans, rice, and fresh fruits. Ask for simple preparations without fish or meat and request oil-free or minimal oil options when possible.