Omaere Ethnobotanical Park: A Rainforest Sanctuary

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.