Blue Lagoon (Amorancachi) Tena - Ecuador

                                                ($ 2 per person, 8am to 5pm)
In ancient times known as Amorancachi, they are a series of four natural pools surrounded by the Amazon jungle in the Kichua community called Alukus. They are formed by the passage of a small river that flows into the Jatunyacu River. Before flowing out form these natural pools of a bluish green color. Visitors bathe in its crystal clear water and it is possible to launch from the surrounding stones and lianas tied to trees around the lagoons. The pools are surrounded by primary forest, which makes this place a natural charm to have a good time.

The aboriginal community is responsible for the place. There is a bridge that facilitates access to the upper pools. They also have bathrooms, dressing rooms and small shops where you can buy snacks. Additionally, local people prepare aboriginal food such as Maito de pescado or guanta. It is also common to prepare chontacuro which is a worm taken from the remains of the chonta tree. All this accompanied by yucca and the famous guayusa drink.

The main pool is the largest and deepest. This empties into the Jatunyacu River through a small waterfall that is very strong and dangerous. There are two ropes before the small waterfall for those who neglect the current. However, once past the Kurds inevitably falls into the deadly waterfall from which it is almost impossible to leave or help out. The upper pools are smaller and without risks so it is recommended for children and families.

The inhabitants of Tena have a habit of going to nearby rivers to kill the suffocating heat of the afternoon. They mostly choose nearby balneareos. However, blue lagoon is relatively far (15Km, 40 min) so there are few visitors during the week and is more crowded during the weekends. Visiting the place will take one morning and it is advisable to take mosquito repellent.

                                        

                                                        There is no public transport to the place. There are local buses from the Tena to the communities of Pano and Talag ($ 0.5, 30 min) that are halfway. However, the easiest and fastest way is to hire a van from Tena ($ 20, 30 min). Half of the road is paved (8Km) and the second half is only ballast (8Km). This can hinder the entry of small cars in rainy season.

There are also tours from the city of Tena to the jungle that include the blue lagoon in your itinerary ($ 25) and tours from Quito daytrip ($ 40). These tours include transportation, food, bilingual guide, hikes through the jungle, visit to a waterfall and orchid that are on the way to the blue lagoon.
                                                        
                                                    

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