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Cordillera de Kutukú
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The Cordillera de Kutukú is a sub-Andean mountain range located in southeastern Ecuador, within the Morona Santiago province, situated between the Upano and Coangos rivers. Geologically, it forms part of the Andean foreland fold-and-thrust belt, reaching elevations of up to 2,480 meters above sea level. The area is almost entirely covered by tropical rainforest and hosts an extraordinary level of biodiversity, including numerous endemic bird species and rare orchids. This region is the ancestral territory of the Shuar indigenous people, who have managed the forest's resources sustainably for centuries. Due to its isolated location, the ecosystem has remained largely spared from large-scale deforestation, though it faces increasing pressure from mining interests. The Kutukú region serves as a critical biological corridor connecting the Amazon basin with the higher elevations of the Andes mountains.
- Location: Ecuador
- Nearby: Archidona (52 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 20 | 20 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 125 | 131 | 165 | 168 | 155 | 155 | 114 | 102 | 91 | 131 | 134 | 133 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Cordillera de Kutukú is a remote area in eastern Ecuador, typically reached from towns like Macas or Sucúa through organized expeditions or local transport arrangements.
Best season
Due to its location in the Amazon basin, it is humid year-round, with the months featuring lower rainfall between August and January being preferred for exploration.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is extremely demanding, characterized by dense montane rainforests, steep slopes, and pristine wilderness that require excellent physical condition.
What to bring
For expeditions, robust hiking boots, full rain gear, trekking poles, and a comprehensive first-aid kit are essential, along with sufficient water supplies.
Parking
There are no official parking areas in the wilderness of the Cordillera; vehicles must be securely parked in the base towns before heading into the area.
Safety
This is a very isolated area with no infrastructure; treks should only be undertaken with experienced guides and permission from local communities (Shuar).
Time needed
Expeditions into this mountain range typically last from several days to a week due to its remoteness and the challenging nature of the trails.
Geography
Facts
- The highest elevation in the range reaches approximately 2,480 meters.
- It covers an area of about 300,000 hectares in the Morona Santiago province.
- The range is a significant center for endemic vertebrate species in Ecuador.
- Geologically, the range consists primarily of limestone and sandstone formations.
- The region receives between 3,000 and 4,000 mm of annual rainfall.
- It was declared the 'Kutukú-Shaimi' Protective Forest in 1990.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cordillera de Kutukú?
An isolated mountain range in eastern Ecuador that belongs to the Amazon basin.
Who lives in this region?
The region is ancestral territory of the indigenous Shuar people.
Is the area protected?
Yes, a large part is designated as a protected forest (Bosque Protector).
What animals can be found there?
Rare bird species, jaguars, and spectacled bears can be found there.
Can you visit the region?
Visits are difficult and often require permission from local communities.
Cordillera de Kutukú: where is it located?
Cordillera de Kutukú is located in Ecuador.
Cordillera de Kutukú: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Sep.
Cordillera de Kutukú: why is it worth visiting?
The Cordillera de Kutukú is a sub-Andean mountain range located in southeastern Ecuador, within the Morona Santiago province, situated between the Upano and Coangos rivers.
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Nearby cities
Macas
The Emerald City of the East, an Amazonian settlement that was isolated for a long time.
Puyo
The dynamic commercial center on the threshold of the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest.
Tena
The heart of Amazon tourism, known for world-class whitewater rafting and jungle tours.
Archidona
Archidona is a historic colonial town in the Amazon, surrounded by spectacular stalactite caves and rich Kichwa culture.
Gualaquiza
Gualaquiza is a charming Amazonian town known for its lush rainforests, rivers, and gold mining history.
Misahuallí
Misahuallí is a popular Amazonian river port, famous for the wild monkeys living in its central plaza.
Riobamba
Often called the Sultana of the Andes, surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes.
Sangolquí
A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.
Ambato
The city of flowers and fruits, famous for its annual festival of the same name.
Otavalo
The indigenous capital of Ecuador, known worldwide for its colorful craft market.
History & landmarks
Sanctuary of the Virgin of Holy Water
A neo-Gothic Catholic basilica in the spa town of Baños, attracting pilgrims from all over South America.
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Basilica of the Virgin of El Quinche
A monumental Catholic sanctuary where the miraculous wooden statue of the patron saint of Ecuador is venerated.
Mariscal Sucre Airport
The most modern international airport in Ecuador, located on the Tababela plateau outside Quito.
Cross of Ilaló
A monumental iron cross on the extinct Ilaló volcano, illuminated at night and visible from the Tumbaco and Los Chillos valleys.
Nature
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Puyo Monkey Park
A sanctuary for orphaned and rescued monkeys on the edge of the Amazon basin, offering interactive encounters.
Llanganates National Park
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El Altar
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Cordillera del Cóndor
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Tungurahua
Tungurahua is a highly active volcano above the town of Baños, known for its frequent ash eruptions and lava flows.
Antisana
Antisana is a massive stratovolcano known for its large glacier fields and the rich birdlife on its slopes.