A Town Built on Rivers

(Above) A view of Río Tena in the center of town. The river is an important part of life here. On weekends people spend time relaxing in the park by the river and swimming at the beach areas. The town covers the area on both sides of the river and pedestrian and vehicle bridges crisscross the river to provide access.

(Above) People are drawn to the many hostels, homes, restaurants, ice cream vendors, tourist shops, etc that line the Río Tena. Therefore the river also proves to be an economic resource.

(Above) Just outside of town the Río Tena is also an important resource and provides water for laundry.

(Above) The Río Jatunyacu (Big River in Kichwa) is the bread and butter of commercial rafting in the area. It provides an awesome day trip with fun, splashy class II/III rapids, a delicious Ecuadorian style lunch on the beach, and great guides.