Napo (Provincia de Napo) is a province in the north-central part of the Ecuadorian Amazon (región amazónica).
Capital: Tena (also called the "capital of the Amazon").
Name: Named after the Río Napo, a major river that rises in the Andes and flows into the Amazon; it is the lifeblood of the region.
Landscape: Begins in the high Andes (with paramo, thermal springs such as Papallacta, and volcanoes nearby) and transitions into dense tropical rainforest.
Characteristics: Very high biodiversity (part of Yasuní National Park borders it or is nearby – one of the most biodiverse places on earth).
Many indigenous communities, primarily Kichwa (Quichua) and, to a lesser extent, Waorani/Huaorani.
In 2000, it was the province with the highest percentage of indigenous population in Ecuador (approximately 56%).
Little industrial development; the economy relies primarily on agriculture, fishing (ecotourism), some logging, and (sometimes) mining.
Tourism & attractions (very popular for jungle experiences): Tena as a starting point for jungle treks, canoeing on the Napo River.
Puerto Misahuallí (monkeys on the beach, boat trips).
Waterfalls (including San Rafael – the highest in Ecuador).
Jumandy Caves.
Papallacta thermal baths.
Eco-lodges and visits to indigenous communities.
Birdwatching, hiking, canopy tours, visits to clay licks (parrot licks).
In short: Napo = gateway to the northern Ecuadorian Amazon, a combination of mountains → jungle, indigenous culture, and spectacular nature – perfect for adventure and ecotourism.
