Omaere Ethnobotanical Park: A Rainforest Sanctuary
Discover Amazonian plants and indigenous cultures at Omaere Ethnobotanical Park, a living museum of rainforest biodiversity in Puyo, Ecuador.
The Omaere Ethnobotanical Park, whose name means "nature of the rainforest" in the Waorani language , is located on the outskirts of Puyo, Ecuador. Founded in 1993 by a Shuar woman and two French women , this 15-hectare park was one of the first ethnobotanical parks in Latin America. Omaere aims to preserve and showcase the relationship between indigenous cultures and the plants that surround them. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of Amazonian plants used for medicine, shelter, spirituality, and nutrition. Guided tours, led by indigenous guides, biologists, and volunteers, take visitors through the park's trails, highlighting edible, medicinal, and culturally significant plants. You'll also learn about the Shuar and Waorani cultures, including their social life, architecture, weapons, and tools. The park features traditional houses where you can learn about the Shuar and Waorani cultures and see some of their tools and weapons. Located a few minutes' walk from the city center , the park is easily accessible and offers a tranquil escape into nature. The guided walks typically last one to two hours, depending on visitor interest, but shorter tours are available for those in a hurry. During the tour, you might experience the aromas of orchids, taste cinnamon, feel the spines of Cat's Claw Vine, and even be painted with Achotillo sap.
Local tips
- Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as Puyo is known for frequent rain.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the park's trails.
- Call ahead to reserve an English-speaking guide.
- Visit the shop for high-quality crafts and natural medicines.
A brief summary to Parque Etnobotánico Omaere
- justo antes del Puente Colgante, Paseo Turístico del Río Puyo 250 m al NE del Puente Multicolor, Puyo, 160150, EC
- +593985250864
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Puyo, head northeast towards the Paseo Turístico del Río Puyo. Follow the Malecón del Río Puyo , passing statues of women representing the seven ethnic groups of the Pastaza Province. Cross the footbridge over the river , continue past Hostal El Jardín and Hostería Flor de Canela , and walk approximately 200 meters further. The entrance to Parque Etnobotánico Omaere is just before the second large bridge. A taxi from the bus station to the park should cost around $1-2.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Puyo. Tell the driver to take you to 'justo antes del Puente Colgante, Paseo Turístico del Río Puyo 250 m al NE del Puente Multicolor'. The fare should be around $2-3 depending on your location in Puyo.
