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Shushufindi Oil Field
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Industrial site
The Shushufindi Oil Field is located in the Sucumbíos province within the Ecuadorian Amazon and is one of the most productive and historically significant fields in the country. Discovered in the late 1960s, it marked the beginning of Ecuador's oil boom, which fundamentally transformed the nation's economic development. The field is currently operated by Petroamazonas, employing advanced secondary recovery techniques to maximize yields from its mature reservoirs. Despite its age, Shushufindi continues to produce tens of thousands of barrels of crude oil per day, providing a vital contribution to the national budget. The region surrounding Shushufindi has seen massive infrastructural growth due to the oil industry, though it also faces major ecological challenges regarding rainforest conservation. It remains a central hub for the pipeline network that transports oil from the jungle to refineries and export terminals on the Pacific coast.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Padre · San Vicente · Iglesia Católica San Francisco de Asís
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 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 149 | 178 | 234 | 223 | 237 | 227 | 178 | 149 | 146 | 189 | 217 | 204 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Shushufindi Oil Field is one of the largest and most productive in the Ecuadorian Amazon, serving as a central pillar of the national energy industry. It supplies crude oil to the country and attracts professionals from around the world interested in oil extraction.
Visiting
The oil field itself is closed to the public; only authorized personnel may enter. However, from the edge of the buffer zone or from viewpoints along the access road, the drilling rigs and facilities can be seen from a distance.
Where to view it
The best public viewpoint is along the main road that runs past the eastern edge of the field. From there, views of the extraction facilities and the surrounding Amazon vegetation are available.
Local products
The region primarily produces crude oil, which is transported via pipelines to coastal refineries. Travelers can purchase Amazonian handicrafts and tropical fruits at nearby markets in Shushufindi and Lago Agrio.
Active season
Oil extraction at the Shushufindi field runs year-round with minimal seasonal variation. Peak activity occurs during the dry season from June to September, when access roads are more passable and maintenance work is carried out.
Nearby
A visit to the oil field can be combined with a tour of the nearby Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, one of the most biodiverse protected areas in the Amazon. The indigenous Siona community in the area also features cultural insights.
Geography
Facts
- Discovery of the field occurred in 1969
- Considered one of Ecuador's 'giant' oil fields
- Operated by the state-owned company Petroamazonas
- Uses modern water injection for enhanced recovery
- Produces between 40,000 and 60,000 barrels per day
- Key starting point for the SOTE pipeline network
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Shushufindi Oil Field (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Shushufindi Oil Field?
One of the most productive and historically significant oil fields in Ecuador's Amazon basin.
What city is nearby?
The city of Shushufindi in the Sucumbíos province serves as the supply hub for the oil field.
Is it a tourist destination?
No, it is an industrial area; tourists visit the region more for the nearby Cuyabeno Reserve.
What role does it play for Ecuador?
It contributes significantly to state revenues through the export of crude oil.
How is the environmental situation?
There are constant efforts to minimize the impact of oil production on the sensitive rainforest.
Shushufindi Oil Field: where is it located?
Shushufindi Oil Field is located in Ecuador.
Shushufindi Oil Field: what is there to see?
Highlights include Padre, San Vicente, Iglesia Católica San Francisco de Asís.
Shushufindi Oil Field: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Sep.
Shushufindi Oil Field: why is it worth visiting?
The Shushufindi Oil Field is located in the Sucumbíos province within the Ecuadorian Amazon and is one of the most productive and historically significant fields in the country.
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