Macas

Macas is the capital of Morona-Santiago province in southeastern Ecuador and one of the oldest towns in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Set on a terrace above the Upano River valley at roughly 1,050 metres, it serves as a compact, practical gateway to the Amazon foothills, with the active Sangay volcano rising in the distance.

The city's history reaches back to Spanish colonial settlement in the 16th century, when it was founded under the name Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Macas. Its historic core still centres on the Purísima de Macas church, while the surrounding region preserves the living traditions of Shuar and Achuar indigenous communities.

Central Macas is easy to explore on foot, with the cathedral, Parque Cívico and Parque de la Amazonía forming its social heart. Beyond the city, the Upano River, the Quilamo viewpoint and the UNESCO-listed Sangay National Park offer volcano views, forest trails and birdwatching, making Macas a natural base for Amazon excursions.

As a provincial administrative and agricultural centre, Macas handles regional trade, livestock, commerce and public services. Its markets, cafés and small restaurants mix Amazonian and highland influences, while the town's hotels and tour operators support visitors heading into the rainforest.

For both leisure and business travellers, Macas combines practical regional connections, Amazon access and a calm small-city atmosphere. It is a starting point for jungle trips and community tourism, as well as a stop for those travelling between the Andes and the southern Amazon.