How to get to Nueva Loja

Located in the northeast of Ecuador, the bustling city of Nueva Loja (often referred to as Lago Agrio) serves as the main "gateway" to the Amazon jungle and a popular starting point for eco-tours. If you are planning to travel to Nueva Loja, it is helpful to know about the available transport options, which range from quick flights to journeys by bus or car. We have compiled up-to-date information on how to reach Nueva Loja to ensure your journey begins as comfortably and efficiently as possible.

For travellers who value time and comfort, flying is the best choice. Unlike many remote corners of the Amazon, Nueva Loja has its own airport, Lago Agrio (IATA code: LGQ). Regular flights operate here from the capital of Ecuador, Quito. The flight time is only about 30–40 minutes, allowing you to avoid a long drive along mountain roads and immediately begin exploring the tropics.

The airport is located in close proximity to the city, so the transfer to the centre or the starting point of your tours takes minimal time. As a backup option (for example, if tickets are sold out), you can consider flying into the neighbouring city of Coca, located approximately 60–70 km away; however, a direct flight to Lago Agrio remains the most popular and logical route.

It is impossible to reach the city of Nueva Loja by train, as there is absolutely no railway service in this region of Ecuador. The country's railways were historically built in the Andean highlands and along the coast, bypassing the difficult terrain of the Amazon jungle, so there is no train station here.

Nearby settlements, such as Coca, also do not have access to the railway network, so planning a route with a train transfer is not feasible. The main modes of ground transport in this part of the country remain buses and cars, providing reliable connections to other regions.

Bus services connect the city of Nueva Loja with various regions of the country, offering travellers picturesque routes through changing landscapes — from mountains to jungles. The most popular route runs from the capital, Quito: the journey usually takes from 7 to 9 hours. Buses run regularly, including night services, which is convenient for those who wish to arrive by morning and immediately embark on a tour.

For those already in the Amazonian part of Ecuador, a convenient option is a trip from the city of Coca. The bus covers the distance of 80 kilometres in just 1.5–2 hours, making this route quick and untiring. This is an excellent opportunity to combine visits to several cities in the region into one trip.

If you plan to arrive from the Colombian side, you can use services from border towns. The road from the city of Puerto Asís will take approximately 3 hours, taking into account necessary border procedures. The journey from the city of Villagarzón, a distance of about 170 kilometres, will last around 4–5 hours.

Travelling by car allows you to plan your own schedule and enjoy views of the tropical forests on the way to the jungle. The fastest domestic route runs from the city of Coca: the distance of 80 kilometres can be comfortably covered in just one and a half to two hours. A taxi ride on this route will cost approximately 40–60 US dollars, making this option convenient for small groups or families.

For those making their way from the Colombian side, a logical starting point is Puerto Asís, from where it is about 90 kilometres to the city of Nueva Loja, taking around three hours including the journey to the border. If you are departing from the city of Villagarzón, expect to spend 4–5 hours behind the wheel to drive the 170 kilometres of highway connecting the two countries.

To ensure your trip to the city of Nueva Loja is comfortable and safe, it is worth preparing in advance for the specifics of the Amazon region. We have compiled practical advice to help you easily navigate local realities and get the most enjoyment out of your journey.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Given the hot and humid climate, opt for light, breathable clothing made from quick-drying fabrics. Be sure to bring a raincoat or poncho, as tropical showers can start suddenly, as well as comfortable closed shoes for walking; long sleeves are recommended as they provide protection against insects and are suitable for modesty.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to get around the city is via official yellow taxis, which are inexpensive here. For short trips, you can use motorcycle taxis, but it is better to agree on the price with the driver in advance, before the journey begins.
3. Finances: The official currency used by Ecuador is the US Dollar. Although major hotels may accept cards, it is extremely important to carry cash in small denominations (1, 5, 10, 20 dollars) to pay for taxis, purchases in small shops, and at markets.
4. Health and Safety: Never drink tap water; buy only bottled water. Be sure to use high-quality insect repellents. There are pharmacies in the city centre, but it is better to bring specific medicines with you from home.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Spanish. English is spoken primarily by guides and staff at major hotels, so knowing basic phrases or having an offline translator on your phone will be very useful when interacting with locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Ecuadorians are polite and welcoming people. When entering a shop or getting into a taxi, it is customary to greet people ("Buenos días" or "Buenas tardes"). A handshake is the standard form of introduction.
7. What to Avoid: Refrain from walking alone in poorly lit or remote areas of the city after dark. Do not openly display expensive electronics or large sums of money in crowded places to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
8. Important Detail: Although the official name of the city is Nueva Loja, locals and transport companies almost always call it "Lago Agrio". Keep this in mind when buying tickets or asking for directions to avoid confusion.

Following these simple recommendations will allow you to avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on what matters most — the amazing nature and atmosphere of the region. May your introduction to the gateway to the Amazon begin with exclusively positive emotions!