Tea Time in the Amazon

The next superfood is brewing deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Guayusa tea packs twice the antioxidants of green tea and as much caffeine as a cup of coffee.

Local Kichwa people have long steeped the leaves to help them focus during hunts and help interpret dreams—and now, thanks to Brooklyn-based Runa, thirsty travelers can taste guayusa in its natural habitat and interact with Amazonian natives during a traditional tea ceremony.

Jeannette Kimmel is the editorial business manager for National Geographic Traveler magazine. Connect with her on Twitter @jeannettekimmel.

>More on Guayusa:

• Video: Guayusa Farming

> More From Jeannette:

• Tips for a Stress-Free Safari 
• The World in a Cuppa (Tea) 
• Traveling Slow in Costa Rica