Do I need a guide to visit Yasuní National Park?

Yes, access to Yasuní requires an authorized guide and entry permit, typically arranged through licensed tour operators.

Is it safe to drink the water?

No, drink only bottled, boiled, or purified water throughout Orellana, including in jungle lodges.

What should I pack for the Amazon?

Lightweight, quick-dry clothing, long sleeves/pants for mosquitoes, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking shoes, binoculars, headlamp, and high-SPF sunscreen.

Can I visit indigenous communities?

Yes, through responsible tour operators who have established relationships with communities. These visits should be respectful and mutually beneficial.

How do I get to Orellana from Quito?

Fly to Coca (45 minutes) or take a long-distance bus (6-8 hours). Flights are recommended for time efficiency.

Varies by nationality. Many countries get 90-day visa-free entry. Check with Ecuadorian consulate.

What vaccinations are required?

Yellow fever is mandatory. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or boiled water only.

What currency is used?

US Dollar (USD). ATMs are available in Coca but carry cash for remote areas.

Can I use credit cards?

Only in larger hotels and some tour operators; cash is king in the jungle.

What language is spoken?

Spanish and Kichwa. English is not widely spoken; learn basic Spanish.

Are there ATMs in Orellana?

Yes, in Coca, but they may run out of cash. Bring enough dollars.

Lightweight long sleeves, rain jacket, insect repellent, sturdy boots, binoculars, and a waterproof bag.

Is the internet available?

Limited in Coca; most eco-lodges have no WiFi. Expect digital detox.

Can I visit Yasuní National Park?

Yes, with a licensed guide. Permits are arranged by tour operators.

Are there dangerous animals?

Jaguars, snakes, and caimans exist but attacks are rare. Follow guide safety rules.

What is the food like?

Local dishes include tilapia, plantains, yuca, and exotic fruits. Try 'maito' (fish wrapped in leaves).

Orellana

ProvinceEcuador, South America

Orellana is a STATE in Ecuador, South America.

Orellana Province, named after Spanish explorer Francisco de Orellana, is the gateway to Ecuador's magnificent Amazon rainforest. This biodiverse wonderland offers unparalleled opportunities for authentic jungle adventures. The provincial capital, Puerto Francisco de Orellana (commonly called Coca), serves as the primary launch point for expeditions into Yasuní National Park, one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. Travelers can experience immersive ecotourism in jungle lodges along the Napo River, visit indigenous Kichwa and Waorani communities to learn about traditional ways of life, and witness incredible wildlife including pink river dolphins, monkeys, toucans, and countless other species. The province contains significant portions of both Yasuní National Park and the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, offering pristine primary rainforest, oxbow lakes, and complex river systems. Beyond nature, Orellana represents Ecuador's oil-producing heartland, creating an intriguing contrast between industrial development and conservation efforts. This is authentic Amazonia—remote, humid, and teeming with life.

Best time to visit Orellana

June to September (drier season) offers better hiking conditions and slightly fewer mosquitoes, though rain is possible year-round. Wildlife viewing is excellent throughout the year. Avoid heavy rain months (March-May) when trails become very muddy and some areas may flood. Festivals like the founding of Orellana (July 30) and local indigenous celebrations provide cultural insights.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Mostly clear
Temperature: 24°
Feels like: 28°
Humidity: 100%
Wind: 5 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 25-33°C, less rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Mid

Good for river trips

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

OCC

Francisco de Orellana Airport

Domestic

5 km away

UIO

Mariscal Sucre International Airport

International

230 km away

Getting around

"From Coca, travel is primarily by motorized canoe (lancha) along the Napo River to jungle lodges and communities. Within Coca, taxis are inexpensive and plentiful; agree on fares before riding. No ride-sharing apps operate here. For remote areas, small aircraft charters are sometimes used. Most visitors book all-inclusive tours with transportation included. Self-driving is not recommended due to limited roads and challenging conditions."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

10 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Limited to Coca and some lodges

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+593

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Jungle activities are safe with guides; urban areas require caution at night.

Night safety

6/10

Jungle activities are safe with guides; urban areas require caution at night.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Travel with registered, reputable tour operators for jungle excursions—never venture into remote areas alone. Petty theft can occur in Coca; secure valuables and avoid walking alone at night. Be aware of your surroundings in urban areas. In the jungle, follow guide instructions strictly regarding wildlife, river safety, and interactions with indigenous communities. Avoid political demonstrations. Road travel can be hazardous due to conditions and occasional protests related to the oil industry. The Ecuadorian military maintains a presence in some areas; always cooperate with authorities."

Police

101

Ambulance

911

Fire

102

Tourist Police

+593 6-288-1066

Entry and health

Health information

"Yellow fever vaccination is REQUIRED for entry into the Amazon region, including Orellana. Malaria and dengue fever are present; use CDC-recommended antimalarial prophylaxis, DEET repellent, and mosquito nets. Drink only bottled or purified water. Medical facilities are limited: Hospital General de Orellana in Coca provides basic emergency care, but serious conditions require evacuation to Quito. Pack a comprehensive travel medical kit including antidiarrheal medication, antibiotics for travelers' diarrhea, and any personal prescriptions. Consider travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect indigenous communities: always ask permission before taking photographs. Dress modestly when visiting villages. Tipping is appreciated for guides, lodge staff, and boat operators; 10% is customary for good service. Learn basic Spanish greetings. Be patient with 'Amazon time'—schedules are often flexible. Remove shoes when entering some indigenous homes or community buildings."

SpanishKichwaWaorani

Costs and practicals

Currency

United States Dollar (USD) · $

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs around $5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Eco-lodges can be $100-200/night all-inclusive. Guided tours add cost.

Timezone

America/Guayaquil -05:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

161,000

Area

21,676 km²

Government

Provincial Government with a Prefect and Municipal Governments

ISO code

EC-D

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: OR, EC-D, Орельяна, Orellana, Coca, Francisco de Orellana, La Coca, OCC, Puehrto-Fransisko-de-Orel'jana, Puerto Francisco de Orellana, bwyrtw fransyskw dy awrylyana, pu'erato phransisako di orelana, pu'erto phransisko de orelana, puerutofuranshisukodeoreryana, puyerto phransisako de orelana, pwyrtw fransskw ڈy awrylana, pwyrtw fransyskw dy awrlyana, pwyrtw fransyskw ډy awrlyana, Пуэрто-Франсиско-де-Орельяна, بويرتو فرانسيسكو دي أوريليانا, پویرتو فرانسسکو ڈی اوریلانا, پویرتو فرانسیسکو دی اورلیانا, پویرتو فرانسیسکو ډی اورلیانا, पुएर्तो फ्रांसिस्को दे ओरेलाना, পুয়ের্তো ফ্রান্সিসকো দে ওরেলানা, ਪੁਏਰਤੋ ਫ੍ਰਾਂਸਿਸਕੋ ਦੀ ਓਰੇਲਾਨਾ, ፖritu ፍranisisikwe de ʿorelana, ፖርቱ ፍራንሲስኮ ዴ ኦሬላና, プエルトフランシスコデオレリャナ

Capital CityMajor HubEcotourismJungleWildlifeAdventureIndigenous CultureRiver Cruises