The Ecuadorian Amazon, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, is home to dense rainforests, winding rivers and Indigenous communities that have lived here for centuries. It is a place where nature and culture are closely connected, and where survival depends on a deep knowledge of the land. My time in this region introduced me to its beauty and challenges, as well as the remarkable ways people adapt to life in the rainforest.
The Ecuadorian Amazon is unique because of its vast biodiversity, warm and humid climate and dense vegetation. It is home to thousands of plant and animal species, many of which cannot be found anywhere else. The Amazon River system serves as the region’s highways, connecting remote communities. The land is rich in natural resources, but it is also fragile and threatened by deforestation and climate change.
The rainforest provides everything needed for survival—food, water, shelter and medicine. Many plants have medicinal properties, and the rivers provide fresh water and fish. The forests are also a source of materials for building homes and crafting tools. Traditional knowledge, passed down through generations, allows people to navigate and use these resources sustainably.
