Tayos cave Facts
The Cueva de los Tayos is located to the east of the Andes mountain range, in the Condor mountain chain, situated in the middle of the tropical rainforest of the Ecuadorian Amazon (province of Morona Santiago, Limón Indanza canton). It is 460 kilometers from Quito by road (approximately 9 hours), followed by a canoe journey on the Namangoza and Santiago rivers, and then a trekking segment through the virgin jungle in the rugged mountainous area for about 2 hours.
There are three types of caves: those formed by morphological accidents, volcanic caves, and karstic caves. The Cueva de los Tayos belongs to the latter. It is important to note that this geological formation is made of sandstone, a unique feature in Ecuador and in that region of South America. This composition led to the cave's unique formation, resulting in smooth, flat walls with symmetrical divisions that appear to have been man-made.
The formation is estimated to be 200 million years old. One of the cave's notable features is the blocks that form its walls and ceilings, seemingly constructed more than 300 meters underground.
The cave has three registered entrances; however, only two are accessible with a rope system. The main entrance, known as the "chimney," involves a descent of 55 meters in depth. The other entrance, called "Altar," is 72 meters long. Inside the cave, there are various tunnels estimated to measure a total of 17.9 kilometers, though the cave has not yet been fully explored.
Inside the cave, each gallery features unique and stunning formations, many named by the English expedition. There are immense chambers like the Cathedral, others so small that only the human body can pass through them, requiring reptile-like crawling. There are also large galleries adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, majestic waterfalls, sinkholes, and areas that remain largely unexplored or completely unexplored.
The Sink
The Rich Ecosystem Inside
One defining characteristic of the cave is its diverse ecosystem. The name "Tayos" is derived from the oilbirds (Steatornithidae) that inhabit its depths. These nocturnal birds, capable of echolocation, navigate through the cave's darkness in search of food, showcasing a unique adaptation to their subterranean habitat.
In addition to the oilbirds, the cave is home to a variety of bat species, tarantulas, amblypygids, snakes, insects, and amphibians, each playing a vital role in the cave's ecological balance. Crabs and shrimp also inhabit the cave, further enriching its biodiversity.
Surrounding the cave, the Amazon rainforest thrives with an abundance of flora, including towering trees, vibrant orchids, and a variety of medicinal plants valued by indigenous communities such as the Shuar and Achuar. This biodiversity underscores the ecological importance of preserving not only the cave itself but also its surrounding habitat.
Tayo Bird or Oildbird
Scorpion
Cultural Significance
Beyond its geological and ecological wonders, the Cueva de los Tayos holds profound cultural significance for the indigenous communities of the Amazon. For centuries, the cave has been part of local folklore and spiritual beliefs, considered a gateway to the spiritual world and a repository of ancestral wisdom. The Shuar and Achuar people revere the cave as a sacred site, where rituals and ceremonies are conducted to honor their ancestors and seek guidance from the natural world.
Shuar Dance Ritual
Guardians of the Cave
Around 1500 B.C., the first Shuar people began to settle in the area. The Shuar are an indigenous ethnic group of the Amazon region in Ecuador and Peru. They are known for being a warrior people and for their skills in hunting, fishing, and agriculture, as well as for their ancient practice of head shrinking, known as tsantsa.
To enter the Cueva de los Tayos, official permission from the Shuar Arutam people is required, as it is located within their territory. The Shuar have traditionally lived in extended families dispersed throughout the Amazon, practicing animism that involves belief in the spirits of nature and ancestors. Their economy is primarily based on itinerant horticulture of tubers, supplemented by hunting, fishing, and gathering fruits and insects.
Currently, much of the traditional hunting territory is being replaced by pasturelands for cattle ranching, resulting in progressive soil depletion and reduced land availability. This has led to a sedentary settlement pattern, which is producing changes in their socioeconomic system.
In recent years, for the Shuar in Ecuador, the main threat is the impact on their territories due to mining expansion, which many experts believe violates their ancestral rights to use their forests.
The ethnic group that was never conquered
The Shuar people are famous for being the only ethnic group that has never been conquered. Neither the Inca Empire nor the Spanish conquest managed to control this territory. In 1490, they repelled the Incas, and in 1549, they thwarted the first Spanish incursions. In 1599, the Shuar, led by Kirup, definitively expelled the Spaniards from their territory. The Spaniards gave them the name "jíbaros" as a synonym for savages due to the practice of tsantsa. Subsequently, the Spaniards established settlements and gold mines in the valleys of the Zamora and Upano rivers in the 16th century and attempted to force the Shuar to work in the mines and pay tributes in gold to Spain, but the Shuar refused. In a famous rebellion at the end of the 16th century, they attacked and destroyed one of the main Spanish settlements.
About Tsantsa Ritual
Tsantsa is an ancient macabre practice that instilled terror in their enemies, consisting of shrinking human heads. This practice had ritual significance and was primarily carried out in contexts of intertribal conflicts or as an act of vengeance.
The process of creating a tsantsa was complex and ritualized. First, the head of the deceased individual was removed by making an incision at the nape. The skull and brain tissues were then removed, and the head was boiled to reduce its size. After this process, the head was stuffed with herbs and resin, and the lips were sewn shut. Finally, it was smoked and decorated with natural pigments.
For the Shuar, the tsantsa had significant symbolic and ritual value. It was believed that capturing the enemy's essence allowed them to control their spirit and protect the community from its negative influence. Over time, this practice has considerably diminished due to the influence of Western culture and laws prohibiting human mutilation.
The People Behind the Legend of the Tayos Cave
Carlo Crespi
The first chapter in the story of the Cueva de los Tayos involves the so-called "Collection of Father Crespi," gathered by the Salesian priest, researcher, and explorer of Italian origin, Carlo Crespi (1891-1982). In the 1920s, Father Crespi conducted several investigations in the Ecuadorian Amazon, where he contacted the Shuar tribes and learned about the existence of the Cueva de los Tayos. He made a documentary about the native Shuar in 1927.
A variety of pieces were found in the cave by the priest and later exhibited in Carlo Crespi Croci's private museum in Cuenca (Ecuador). The objects found are related to Mesopotamian, Shuar, and pre-Shuar cultures, with only a few photographs and videos documented since most were sold or stolen when the church burned down in 1962.
Juan Móricz
An enthusiast of anthropology and ancient languages, politically persecuted during World War II and imprisoned by the communists in his native Hungary, Móricz later traveled to Argentina, where he became a citizen. He arrived in Ecuador in 1964, involved in the mining concessions area, exploring the Amazon region.
During his trip to the Amazon, Móricz came into contact with the jíbaros (now called Shuar), gaining their trust. On dates and under circumstances that Móricz never disclosed, the natives allowed him to enter the cave system. There, he allegedly found an ancient library with metal plates and other valuable objects. Among the pieces found were metal plates with engravings reminiscent of Sumerian mythology, dating back to 2,900 years before Christ in Western Asia, detailing the history of humanity and its relationship with beings from the sky, inhabitants of the ocean land, or the underworld.
Móricz reported the discovery to the President of Ecuador, José María Velasco Ibarra, on June 24, 1969. On July 21, he officially recorded it with Dr. Gustavo Falconí Ledesma at the Fourth Notary Office in the city of Guayaquil.
"I have discovered in the eastern region, province of Morona Santiago, within the limits of the Republic of Ecuador, precious objects of cultural and historical value for humanity, consisting of metal plates that contain the historical account of an entire lost civilization."
Regarding what was found in the depths of the cave, Móricz added enigmatically: "They can call me crazy, but there are superior beings underground."
On July 26, 1969, Móricz formed a new expedition with the sponsorship of the Ecuadorian government, this time with a group of Ecuadorians. This first official expedition attracted international attention to the caves due to photographs taken by Móricz's team showing a surprising underground world: tunnels and spacious rocky galleries, topped by what appeared to be lintels of straight lines that Móricz considered the result of ancient human interventions.
Erich von Däniken
Swiss writer Erich von Däniken, famous in those years for his controversial theories of extraterrestrial influence on early human culture, visited Ecuador, attracted by the story of the expedition. In March 1972, he met Móricz in Ecuador. Von Däniken held the notarial document of Móricz and copied the photographic material. A few months after the meeting, Däniken published the information in his controversial book, "The Gold of the Gods."
The story of the caves, its alleged treasure, and the photographs in this book made it a bestseller. Four years later, the British government financed the largest mission to the Tayos caves to date. The military junta that governed Ecuador at the time provided full cooperation to the new expedition and declared it of "national interest."
The British-Ecuadorian Expedition
In 1976, Scottish engineer Stan Hall organized an expedition to the Cueva de los Tayos, involving a dozen institutions (62 British and 40 Ecuadorian participants). Documentation indicates that this expedition retrieved several crates of unknown objects. The British provided financial support, and the Ecuadorian Army cleared a landing zone near the cave and handled logistics for transporting 45 tons of equipment, provisions, and personnel into the virgin jungle. Ten transport vehicles, three planes, a small aircraft, and two helicopters from the Ecuadorian Armed Forces were used in a total of 42 trips.
Neil Armstrong
Elements of the Ecuadorian Armed Forces provided security for the researchers, and the expedition's special guest was Neil Armstrong, the American astronaut and first human to walk on the Moon. According to a report in a Spanish newspaper, Armstrong allegedly said, "I was the first to be up there and I wanted to be the first to be down here."
Upon returning from the jungle to Quito, a journalist asked Armstrong, "What was more exciting: exploring the Moon or the Cueva de los Tayos?" Armstrong replied, "It's hard to compare, but in both cases one feels they are entering unknown territories and learning new things; in this sense, they are similar experiences."
Will Smith's Visit the Cueva de los Tayos
Will Smith's visit to the Cueva de los Tayos drew significant attention to this intriguing site. Known for his adventurous spirit and curiosity, Smith's exploration of the cave was part of his broader journey to discover unique and mysterious places around the world in his series "Welcome to Earth." During his visit, Smith ventured into the depths of the cave, experiencing its unique geological formations and the mysterious aura that has surrounded it for decades.
Smith's visit not only highlighted the cave's enigmatic history but also renewed interest in its controversial claims and associated scientific research. His journey to the Cueva de los Tayos was documented, showcasing his encounters with local guides and experts who shared insights into the cave's cultural and scientific significance. By exploring the Cueva de los Tayos, Will Smith helped reignite global fascination with the site, emphasizing its allure and the mystery that continues to captivate adventurers, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.
Impact and Future Directions
In recent years, our understanding of the Cueva de los Tayos has seen significant advancement, highlighting its importance as a site of historical, cultural, and ecological significance. The findings have spurred further interest and research into the cave, with ongoing efforts to ensure its protection and to continue exploring its depths. The collaboration between international researchers and the Shuar community has set a precedent for respectful and inclusive exploration, ensuring that the cultural heritage and natural environment of the Cueva de los Tayos are preserved for future generations. It would be crucial for the Shuar people to see tourism as their main source of income instead of mining or logging.
Exploring Cueva de los Tayos: A Journey into Ecuador's Mysterious Underground
Day 1: Arrival to Quito and Preparation
Upon arriving in Quito, we check into a comfortable hotel, readying ourselves for the adventure ahead. We meet our certified guides and receive a briefing on what to expect, ensuring we're well-prepared for the journey. After this we embark on a guided tour of Quito's historic downtown, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Renowned for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant culture, we wander through centuries-old streets, visit ornate churches, and indulge in local cuisine at a traditional restaurant. This exploration of Quito's rich history and culture sets the stage for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Into The Jungle
Early in the morning, we depart from Quito for an expedition into the southeastern province of Morona-Santiago. After 9 hours of a scenic drive through Ecuador's diverse landscapes, we arrive at Namangoza River and transition to a traditional canoe for 20-minute ride along the Santiago River. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Amazon rainforest, this journey prepares us for the adventure ahead. In the late afternoon, we embark on a challenging trek through dense jungle trails, heading towards a remote Shuar village near Cueva de los Tayos. The 3 km hike offers intimate encounters with the region's diverse flora and fauna, providing a glimpse into the ecological richness of the Amazon. Upon reaching the village, we are welcomed by the Shuar family, guardians of the cave and keepers of ancient traditions. A hearty traditional dinner awaits us, followed by settling into our camping accommodations beneath the starlit sky—a million-star hotel indeed, where the sounds of the Amazon night serenade us to sleep.
Day 3: Exploration of Cueva de los Tayos
After a local breakfast, we embark on the next phase of our journey—exploring the depths of Cueva de los Tayos. Guided by local guides, rope experts, and equipped with essential gear, we make our way to the Chimenea entrance of the cave. Descending into this geological marvel, we discover a world unlike any other. The cave's intricate formations—stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers—paint a picture of millions of years of natural sculpting. As we traverse its chambers and galleries, we encounter unique cave-dwelling fauna, including the famed oilbirds after which the cave is named.
Day 4: Shuar Culture and Exploration of a Tropical Rainforest
After breakfast, we spend the day immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the Shuar community. The morning begins with a trek to a nearby waterfall, where we can swim in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the natural beauty of the Amazon rainforest. Upon returning to the village, we participate in a series of cultural activities. The Shuar community shares their knowledge of traditional medicine, demonstrating the use of various medicinal plants found in the jungle. We learn about their ancient healing practices and the deep connection they have with their environment. In the afternoon, we engage in a cooking demonstration, where we learn about Shuar gastronomy. The community teaches us how to prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients, providing insight into their culinary traditions. We enjoy a communal meal, savoring the flavors of the Amazon. As the day draws to a close, we gather for a cultural exchange, sharing stories and experiences with our Shuar hosts. This day offers a profound understanding of the Shuar way of life, deepening our appreciation for their customs and traditions.
Day 5: Departure from Cueva de los Tayos and Return to Quito
On our final morning in the village, we enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared by the Shuar community. After bidding farewell to our hosts, we begin our trek back through the jungle to the Santiago River. Boarding the canoe, we take a tranquil ride back to Namangoza, where our vehicle awaits us. We then drive back to Quito, reflecting on the profound experiences and discoveries of our underground adventure. Upon arrival in Quito, we check into a comfortable hotel to rest after a long day.
Day 6: Back Home
You will take a transfer to the airport or continue the adventure in Wild Ecuador
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