Tena is the gateway to the Amazon basin and home to the indigenous Kichwa people who welcome visitors to learn about their forest culture. Indigenous-run tours offer authentic experiences including shaman rituals, homestays, craft teaching, and medicinal plant knowledge. The region hosts 50% of Ecuador's mammals and 5% of Earth's plant species. Local tour operators organize jungle hikes, canoe rides, wildlife watching, and river rafting adventures - all while directly supporting local communities.