Stop 1 · Morona
National Sanctuary of the Most Pure Virgin of Macas
Start the morning in central Macas; don't miss the 6-metre white Christ and the stained-glass windows.
Macas and Sevilla Don Bosco: faith, viewpoints and living culture
The gateway to Morona Santiago: the Purísima sanctuary, a grotto beside the Upano River, sunset from El Quilamo and a full day with a Shuar community on the banks of the Yuquipa River.
A short, well-rounded route to discover the soul of the provincial capital. Day one explores the faith and landscapes of Macas: the cathedral with its white Christ and stained-glass windows, the grotto hidden on the banks of the Upano and, to finish, the El Quilamo viewpoint, where the city and the rainforest turn orange as the sun goes down. At night, rest with a pool and spa in Sevilla Don Bosco.
Day two is all about rainforest and culture: a full day in the Buena Esperanza community, with hiking, local flora and fauna and a boat trip on the Yuquipa River.
Before you go
- Book the Cabañas Etsa full day in advance: visits are by appointment only.
- Wear closed shoes for the grotto steps and bring a change of clothes for the river.
- Climb El Quilamo an hour before sunset to catch the best light.
Stop 2 · Sevilla Don Bosco
Grotto of the Purísima Virgin of Macas
A 10–20 minute walk down steps to a cave on the banks of the Upano River.
Stop 3 · Morona
Quilamo Viewpoint
At 1,404 m above sea level: arrive before sunset to see Macas and the Upano Valley.
Stop 4 · Sevilla Don Bosco
Hostería Arrayán y Piedra
A restful night with a pool and spa on the Macas–Puyo road.
Stop 1 · Sevilla Don Bosco
Etsa Cabins – Yuquipa River
Full day with hiking and a boat trip on the river; advance booking required.
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