Our Top Birding Lodges and Birding Reserves
Birding Map of Ecuador Birds Tours
The Andes Lodges
Jimenita Birding Lodge
Jimenita Birding Lodge is our main Lodge for all our Birding Tours in Ecuador. It is strategically located only 15 minutes from Quito Airport but yet with a Private Birding Reserve with more than 123 bird species. It is located about 30 minutes from Quito and close to 11 Birding Destinations, including Penas Blancas Birding Road, Antisana Condor Observatory, Cotopaxi Natinal Park and others. .It features:
- Accommodation: Excellent Suites with chimney and exceptional views to the Andes
- Private Birding Reserve: A Private 15 Hectares Birding Reserve with over 123 registered bird species
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes
- Facilities: Main House, Exterior Restaurant Deck, Hummingbird and Tanager Feeders, Bar & Cocktails Area, Gardens
- Activities: A Private Observation Birding Tower, Llama Feeding, Plant a Endemic Tree Projects, Archeological Pre-Inca Tunnel, Ecological Trails, Massages upon request, Exterior Jacuzzi
- Services: Laundry Services, Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- Elevation: 2,500mts or 8,200ft
East Slope Cloud Forest
Rio Quijos Lodge
Another of our Birding Lodges in the East Slope Cloud Forest is Rio Quijos Lodge located near Baeza and Cosanga Valley. Some of the highlights include Andean Motmot Feeders, Hummingbirds and Oropendolas Feeders, Torrent Duck at Quijos River, and Birding Trails. The lodge features:
- Accommodation: Double Rooms with optional balcony
- Reserve: A Private Birding Reserve with over 258 registered bird species
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes
- Facilities: Main House, Exterior Restaurant Deck, Hummingbird and Tanager Feeders
- Activities: Ecological Trails and Photography Feeders
- Services: Laundry Services, Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- Elevation: 1,900mts or 6,200ft
San Isidro Lodge
Another of our Top Birding Lodges in the East Cloud Forest Slope is Cabanas San Isidro Lodge. This excellent lodge is located near Cosanga Valley and close to Guacamayos Ridge Trail. One of the specialities is their Mountain Tapir Feeder and White-bellied Antpitta Hide. The lodge also features:
- Accommodation: Excellent Suites with views to the Cloud Forest
- Reserve: A Private Birding Reserve with over 300 registered bird species
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes, and also Amazonian Cuisine upon request
- Facilities: Main House, Observation Deck, Hummingbird and Tanager Feeders, Mountain Tapir Feeder
- Activities: Observation Deck, Owl-night Observation, River Trails, Cloud Forest Trails, Swimming Pool
- Services: Laundry Services, Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- Elevation: 2,000mts or 6,800ft
Wild Sumaco Lodge
Our Birding Lodge in the Upper Amazon is Wild Sumaco Lodge. The lodge is located between Sumaco National Park and Narupa Valley, a transition tropical zone towards the Lower Amazon Basin. We have a Private birding reserve with several pristine trails, hummingbirds and antwren feeders, toucan trails and night Owl Observation. The Lodge features:
- Accommodation: Excellent Double Rooms
- Reserve: A Private Birding Reserve with 628 registered bird species
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes
- Facilities: Main House, Exterior Observation Deck, Hummingbird and Tanager Feeders, Bar, Gardens
- Activities: Ecological Trails, Private Birding Reserve
- Services: Laundry Services, Limited Wi-Fi in Restaurant (when it rains, no Wi-Fi available)
- Elevation: 1,480 mts or 4,800 ft
Ojo de Agua Lodge
Ojo de Agua Hostería Lodge is another option for our Upper Amazon Basin Reserves. It is conveniently located near Coca City, in Loreto Town, and it offers access to a rich variety of Amazonian bird species in a lush tropical setting. The lodge is just 2.5 hours from Coca and is close to prime birding destinations, including Sumaco Reserve, Narupa Reserve, and the Loreto Road which is good for birding.
Accommodation: Comfortable rooms overlooking tropical gardens
Private Birding Reserve: A 30-hectare protected rainforest reserve with diverse Amazonian bird species and 2 species of monkeys
Restaurant: On-site dining with good Ecuadorian Meals plus vegetarian and vegan options
Facilities: Main lodge, outdoor dining area, hummingbird and fruit feeders, swimming pool
Services: Laundry services, Wi-Fi in common areas
Elevation: 600m or 1,970ft
Grand Hotel Lago Shushufindi
One of our partner Hotels in the Lower Amazon Basin near Limoncocha Reserve is Gran Hotel del Lago located in Shushufindi. The Hotel is approximately 40 minutes from Limoncocha Reserve. We use this location because there are no lodges in Limoncocha Area. The Hotel features:
- Accommodation: Excellent Double Rooms
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes
- Facilities: Main Lodge, Bar & Cocktails Area, Swimming Pool, Interior Sauna and Jacuzzi
- Services: Laundry Services, Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- Elevation: 200 mts or 800 ft
- Location: close to Limoncocha Reserve and Harpy Eagle Reserve
Sacha Amazon Lodge
Another of our Top Birding Lodes in the Lower Amazon Basin is Sacha Lodge. This lodge has a Pristine protected reserve of 2000 Hectare with more than 590 registered bird species. The Lodge features:
- Accommodation: Excellent Suites and Double Rooms with private balcony
- Reserve: A Private 2000 Hectare Birding Reserve with over 590 registered bird species
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes
- Facilities: Main House, Exterior Restaurant Deck, Bar & Cocktails Area, Swimming Lake Pool
- Activities: A Private Observation Birding Tower, Suspended Canopy Bridge, Kapok Towers, Amazon Trails, River paddle canoes
- Services: Laundry Services, Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- Elevation: 227 mts or 745 ft
Napo Wildlife Center
One of our Partners Birding Lodge located in the Heart of Yasuni National Park is Napo Wildlife Center. This luxury amazon lodge offers Birding, Wildlife and Naturalist Tours. To access this lodge requires a 2hr motor canoe from Coca and 2hr paddle canoe in Anangu Creek. This Lodge features:
- Accommodation: Excellent Panoramic Suites and Standard Cabins with views to the lake and amazon rainforest
- Reserve: A Private Birding Reserve with over 550 registered bird species
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes, Buffet or served meals
- Facilities: Main House, Exterior Restaurant Deck, Observation Towers, Bar & Cocktails Area
- Activities: 3 Observation Birding Towers, Amazon Trails, Giant Otter Observation, Paddle Canoe, Birding Hides, Parrot Clay Licks, Community Dances
- Services: Laundry Services, Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- Elevation: around 200mts or 600ft
Sani Amazon Lodge
Sani Amazon Lodge is a premier eco-lodge offering an immersive birding experience in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Nestled along the banks of the Napo River and surrounded by pristine rainforest, it provides opportunities to observe over 550 bird species. The lodge is located between Yasuni National Park and the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, making it one of the richest birding areas in the Amazon.
Accommodation: Comfortable cabins and New suites with private balconies overlooking the lagoon and rainforest.
Private Birding Reserve: A 42,000-hectare community-owned reserve with unparalleled biodiversity
Restaurant: On-site dining with traditional Amazonian cuisine, plus vegetarian and vegan options
Facilities: Main lodge, outdoor dining deck, bar & lounge area, cultural center
Activities: Exclusive canopy observation tower, guided birdwatching, canoe excursions, night walks, cultural interactions with the Sani indigenous community, photography hides, rainforest trekking
Services: Laundry services, Wi-Fi in designated areas
Elevation: 250m or 820ft
Sacha Nampi Basic Lodge
Sacha Nampi Basic Lodge is a rustic yet immersive lodge offering more wildlife and birding in remote location of the Amazon Rainforest. It is located in the border with Peru alongside river Napo and one of the highlights are the Pink Dolphins Observation.
Accommodation: Simple but comfortable wooden cabins and hammocks
Private Reserve: A community-managed protected area rich in Amazonian wildlife, including pink river dolphins, monkeys, and over 500 possible bird species
Restaurant: Traditional Amazonian meals
Facilities: Main lodge, open-air dining area, riverfront hammocks spots, cultural meeting space
Activities: Dolphin-watching boat excursions, guided rainforest hikes, canoeing through flooded forests, night wildlife spotting, cultural experiences with local indigenous communities
Services: Basic amenities, solar-powered electricity, Wi-Fi not available (perfect for disconnecting)
Elevation: 200m or 656ft
Ama Eco Lodge Misahualli
Ama Eco Lodge is another Amazon Lodge but in the Misahualli Area, opposite direction from Yasuni National Park. It is located near Misahuallí, it provides easy access to the Napo River and surrounding tropical forests, home to an incredible variety of bird species and wildlife. The lodge is just 30 minutes from Tena and close to top birding reserves like Paikawee Lagoon, Misahuallí Monkey Beach, Jatun Sacha Reserve and in season Fiery Topaz Feeders.
Accommodation: Cozy eco-cabins with private balconies
Private Reserve: A 25-hectare protected jungle reserve with diverse Amazonian flora and fauna
Restaurant: On-site dining with delicious local and international cuisine, including vegetarian and vegan options
Facilities: Main lodge, open-air dining area, hammock lounge, bird feeders, observation deck
Activities: Parrot Napo River Lek, Night walks, Waterfall hikes, cultural experiences with Kichwa communities, wildlife observation
Services: Wi-Fi in common areas
Elevation: 450m or 1,475ft
West Slope Cloud Forest
Guaycapi Lodge
Guaycapi Lodge is one of our partnet lodges that has extraordinary views to the Cloud Forest. It is located in the Upper Tandayapa Valley and strategically located in the heart of the Andean cloud forest, it offers great hospitality, tucan feeders right in front of the restaurant, and only 90 minutes from Quito.
Accommodation: Comfortable rooms with private balconies and stunning views of the cloud forest
Private Birding Reserve: A 20-hectare protected reserve with excellent trails and diverse birdlife over 150 bird species
Restaurant: On-site dining with delicious Ecuadorian cuisine, as well as vegetarian and vegan options
Facilities: Spacious main house, outdoor dining deck, hummingbird and toucan feeders
Services: Wi-Fi in Rooms
Elevation: 1,900m or 6,200ft
Sachatamia Lodge
In the West Slope Cloud Forest one of our partner lodges is Sachatamia Lodge. The Lodge is strategically located close to Milpe and Mindo Valley, Tandayapa Valley, and Rio Silanche Lowlands. Some of the highlights include extensive Birding Trails, an observation tower, hummingbirds and Umbrellabird Feeders.
- Accommodation: Excellent Cabins for our Clients with great views to the Cloud Forest
- Reserve: A Private Birding Reserve with over 399 registered bird species
- Restaurant: On-site with delicious Ecuadorian Meals, Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes
- Facilities: Main House, Exterior Restaurant Deck, Hummingbird and Tanager Feeders, Bar & Cocktails Area, Gardens
- Activities: A Private Observation Deck, Tilapia Pond, Insect and Amphibian Night Tours, Ecological Trails, Long-wattled Umbrellabird Photography Hide, Swimming Pool and Jacuzzi
- Services: Laundry Services, Wi-Fi in all Rooms
- Elevation: 1,717mts or 5,600ft
Andes Slope
Andes, Jimenita Birding Reserve
Our Jimenita “Giant Hummingbird Reserve” is located 30 minutes from Quito near the town of Pifo. Its a private reserve of 15 acres and is divided into Hummingbird and Tanager Feeders, Forest Trails and Observation Tower. There are over 123 registered bird species and you can observe at least 30 bird species within 2 or 3 hours! Its a hidden gem only 15 minutes away from Quito Airport! It is only possible to visit this reserve with reservation of our tours or lodging.
- Location: 15 minutes from Quito Airport near the town of Pifo
- Elevation: around 2,500 meters or 8,200 feet
- Type of Photo Feeders: Vermillion Flycatcher Feeder, Tanager Feeders, Brush-finch Feeders, Hummingbird Feeders, Woodpecker Feeders, Observation Tower
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Giant Hummingbird, Western Emerald, Black-tailed Trainbearer, White-bellied Woodstar, Sparkling Violetear, Great Thrush, Blue and Yellow Tanager, Golden Grossbeak, Rusty Flowerpiercer, Tropical Mockingbird, Masked Flowerpiercer, Blue and White Swallow, Harris Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Black Vulture, Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Shiny Cowbird, Yellow-bellied Seedeater, Strike-throated Bush-tyrant, Vermillion Flycatcher, Hooded Siskin, American Kestrel, Azara’s Spinetail, Buff-breasted Mountain Tanager, Grey-browed Brushfinch and others.
Andes, Antisana Condor Reserve and Secas Lagoon
Our Antisana Condor and Spectacled Bear Observatory is located near Antisana National Park around 1 hour from Quito. At this reserve we can observe the Andean Condors at close range from our observation tower or throughout the Paramo Grasslands feeding on death deer carcasses. There are only around 130 Andean Condors left in the Ecuadorian Andes because their habitat has been destroyed and their food poisoned. The Antisana Reserve is one of the last refugees of the Andean Condor and home to other 160 bird species. We have a conservation project to protect their habitat and plant 10,000 trees in this fragile ecosystem. Take action and help us plant a tree. Visit our Conservation Project.
- Location: Near Antisana National Park
- Elevation: from 3,000 meters to 4,200 meters or 9,800 to 13,000 feet
- Type of Observation: Photo Hides, Observation Deck, alongside main road
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Andean Condor, American Kestrel, Curved-billed Tinamou, Shining Sunbeam, Red-crested Cotinga, Mountain Velvetbreast, Black Flowerpiercer, Giant Hummingbird, Spectacled Redstart, Great Thrush, Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Andean Lapwing, Andean Ibis, Andean Gull, Yellow-billed Pintail, Andean Duck, Andean Teal, Ruddy Duck, Caranculated CaraCara, Ecuadorian Hillstar (at 12,000 feet), Great Horned Owl, Black-chested Buzzard Eagle, Aplomado Falcon.
Mammals: Spectacled Bear, Andean Fox, White-tailed Deer and others.
Andes, Zuro Loma Antpitta and Sword-billed Hummingbird Feeders
The Zuro Loma Reserve or “Bamboo Hill” is located near Yanacocha Reserve in the foothills of Pichincha Volcano, about 1hr 30 minutes from Quito, on a secondary gravel road. The reserve is a mix of a Temperate Neotropical Cloud Forest and Inter-andean Vegetation. In addition to the 171 registered bird species, we can observe 2 main Antpittas, the Equatorial Antpitta and the Chestnut-naped Antpitta. The show starts every day around 8am until around 10am. It is also possible to explore the 3 main trails to observe Hummingbird feeders, views to Guagua Pichincha Volcano and other species like White-throated Screetch Owl.
- Location: Bordering Yanacocha Reserve at Pichincha Foothills near Quito
- Elevation: 3,120 meters or 10,200 feet
- Type of Observation: Antpitta Photo Hides, Hummingbird Feeders, Observation Deck, Ocellated Tapaculo Forest Hide
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Chetnut-naped Antpitta, Equatorial Antpitta, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Black-tailed trainbearer, Shining Sunbeam, Andean Guan, Tyrian Metaltail, Buff-winged Starfrontlet, White-throated Screetch Owl, Andean Pygmy Owl, Ocellated Tapaculo, White-browed Spinetail, Barred Fruiteater, Crowned Chat-tyrant, Yellow-breasted Brushfinch, Black-crested Warbler, Russet-crowned Warbler, Yellow-bellied Chat-tyrant, Rufous-breasted Chat-tyrant, Blue-capped Tanager, Superciliared Hemispingus, Blue-backed Conebill, Tufted Tit-tyrant, Yellow-billed Cacique and others.
Andes, Papallacta Pass and Penas Blancas Birding Road
Papallacta Pass and Penas Blancas Birding Road in Ecuador is a high-altitude gateway between the Andes and the cloud forest, located within Cayambe-Coca and Antisana National Parks. This biodiverse corridor is the habitat for the Andean Spectacled Bear and several fauna in the paramo grasslands. Misty slopes and stunted Polylepis trees shelter rare hummingbirds, including thornbills. The pass offers stunning views and prime birding opportunities, despite the weather could be cold and foggy.
- Location: 45 minutes from Pifo Town and close to Quito Airport in route to the East Amazon Slope
- Elevation: 4,000 meters
- Type of Observation: Birding at the road, Spectacled Bear Habitat
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Rainbow-bearded Thornbill, Blue-mantled Thornbill, Purple-backed Thornbill, Giant Conebill, Pearled Treerunner, Tawny Antpitta, Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe, Variable Hawk and Spectacled Bear.
Andes, Yanacocha Botanical Reserve
Yanacocha Reserve is an Andean Cloud forest reserve located on the western slope of the Pichincha Volcano, just outside Quito, Ecuador. The terrain consists of lush montane and elfin forests, moss-covered trees, and a network of well-maintained trails.
The reserve is famous for its high-altitude bird species, including the rare and endemic Black-breasted Puffleg, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, and Andean Guan. Numerous other hummingbirds, tanagers, and mountain-toucans can also be found.
- Location: 1 hour from Quito City or 2 hours from the Airport
- Elevation: 3,200 to 3,600 meters
- Type of Observation: Birding at the road, Hiking, Hummingbird Feeders, Impressive Views
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Andean Guan, Imperial Snipe, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Scarlet-breasted Mountain Tanager, Black-chested Mountain Tanager, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Golden-breasted Puffleg, Sapphire-vented Puffleg and others.
West Slope Cloud Forest
West Cloud Forest - Alambi Hummingbird Paradise
The Alambi Hummingbird Paradise is one of our favorite destinations for birding and photography feeders in the West Slope Cloud Forest. It is located in Tandayapa Valley only 1 hour from Quito. There are over 30 species of humminbirds that you can observe in 15 minutes! The feeders also have Aguacatillos Trees, which attract frequently the Golden-headed Quetzal and Crested Quetzal. The Tandayapa River is alongside the feeders, which also brings some other aquatic bird species and nesting ground for Andean Cock of the Rock, Lyre-tailed Nightjar and Cloud Forest Pygmy Owl. The Reserve has 120 Hectares and around 90% is Primary Forest.
- Location: Near Tandayapa Valley in the Andean Choco Valley
- Elevation: 1,450 to 2,200 meters or 4,700 to 7,200 feet
- Type of Photo Hides: Hummingbird Gardens, Crested Quetzal and Golden-headed Quetzal Feeders, Woodpecker Feeders, Motmot Feeders, Tanager Banana Feeders, Andean Cock of the Rock Nests, Cloud-forest Pygmy Owl Nest
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Violet-bellied Hummingbird, Andean Emerald, Purple-throated Woodstar, Brown Violetear, Empress Brilliant, Green-crowned Woodnymph, Tawny-bellied Hermit, White-whiskered Hermit, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, White-necked Jacobin, Buff-tailed Coronet, Western Emerald, Violet-tailed Sylph, Booted Racket-tailed, Purple-bibbed Whitetip, Lesser Violetear, Collared Inca, Fawn-breasted Brilliant and also Rufous Motmot, Crested Quetzal, Andean Cock of the Rock, Pale-legged Hornero, White-capped Dipper, Flame-rumped Tanager, Blue and Grey Tanager, Golden Tanager, Buff-throated Saltator, White-lined Tanager, Golden-naped Tanager, Tricolored Brushfinch, Tropical Parula, Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Golden-olive Woodpecker and others.
West Cloud Forest - Guaycapi Toucan Feeders
Our Plate-billed Mountain Toucan Feeders are located in the West Slope in Upper Tandayapa Valley near Bellavista Road. There are around 38 species of hummingbirds registered in this area, 15 of them can be frequently observed in our feeders, 8 of them are endemic to this area including the Violet-tailed Sylph. This reserve has also our Guaycapi Lodge.
- Location: Upper Tandayapa Valley near Bellavista Road
- Elevation: 2,200 meters or 6,000 feet
- Type of Photo Hides: Toucan Photography Hide, Insect Feeders, Tanager Banana Feeders
- Focus: Birding and Photography
The Birding Sanctuary is surrounded by rivers and waterfalls, which creates a network of birding trails with Toucans, Woodpeckers, Hummingbird and Tanagers, Orchids and Bromelias Paradise, and viewing points to the Cloud Forest. The Feeders at the Reserve are a mixture of primary forest, pasture and secondary regenerating forest.
Target Birds: Violet-tailed Sylph, Velvet Purple Coronet, Glistening-green Tanager, White necked Jacobin, Brown Violetear, Toucan Barbet, Crested Guan, Crimson rumped Toucanet, Pale Mandibled Aracari, Plate-billed Mountain Toucan and others.
West Cloud Forest - Refugio Angel Paz and Antpittas Hides
Our best Antpittas Feeders and Andean Cock of the Rock Lek are located in Refugio Paz de las Aves. This is a Private birding sanctuary owned by Angel and Rodrigo Paz, birders and antpitta lovers, conserve this pristine secondary forest. In our tours we can observe possible 6 types of Antpittas, Andean Cock of the Rock, and Ocellated Tapaculo, in addition to Hummingbirds, Toucans, Potoos, Flycatchers and others.
- Location: Between Tandayapa and Mindo Valley in Choco Region
- Elevation: 1,900 meters or 6,250 feet
- Type of Photo Hides: Andean Cock of the Rock, Antpittas Feeders, Ocellated Tapaculo Hide, Hummingbird and Tanager Feeders, Woodpecker Hides
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Our tours to this reserve start at 4:00am from Quito or around 5:00am from Mindo. We first visit the Andean Cock of the Rock Lek (all year round) and then continue to possible 6 types of Antpittas. We will have a traditional breakfast around 8am of Empanadas (Plantains Dumplings), Coffee, Tea and Local Milk. Continue to explore main trails for Tanagers, Hummingbirds and Potoos.
Target Birds: Andean Cock of the Rock, Giant Antpitta, Yellow-breasted Antpitta, Chestnut-crowned Antpitta, Ochre-breasted Antpitta, Moustached Antpitta, Scaled Antpitta, Ocellated Tapaculo, Toucan Barbet, Common Potoo, Black-capped Tanager, Strong-billed Woodpecker, Plate-billed Mountain Toucan, Scaled Fruiteater, Bat Falcon, Orange-breasted Falcon and others.
East Slope Cloud Forest
East Cloud Forest, Guango Reserve
Guango Reserve is a small private reserve located near Papallacta, Ecuador, on the eastern slope of the Andes. The terrain consists of humid montane forest and temperate cloud forest, with moss-covered trees, dense undergrowth, and well-maintained trails along the Guango River.
The reserve is well known for its hummingbird diversity and the torrent duck trails. Ocassionally, its possible to observe the Mountain Tapir.
- Location: about 2 hour from Quito between Papallacta and Baeza Valleys
- Elevation: about 2,700 to 2,900 meters above sea level, 8,900 to 9,500 feet
- Type of Observation: Hummingbird Feeders, Forest Trails, Toucan Feeders, and Torrent Duck Trail
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Tourmaline Sunangel, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan, Mountain Cacique, Andean Guan, Torrent Duck, Grass-green Tanager, Montane Woodcreeper, Masked Trogon, Speckled Hummingbird, Turquoise Jay, Inca Jay and others.
East Cloud Forest, Rio Quijos Reserve
The Quijos Valley and Rio Quijos Reserve is one of our hidden gems as its surrounded with Humid Forests, Rivers and Waterfalls. There are around 258 registered bird species and some of the specialties and unique to this area are the Andean Motmot, Andean Cock of the Rock Peruvian Subspecie and Gorgeted Woodstar. The reserve features extensive forest trails, hummingbird gardens, tanager and oropendolas feeders, and torrent duck observation at Rio Quijos.
- Location: about 2 hours from Quito near El Chaco Town
- Elevation: about 3,300 meters or 10,900 feet
- Type of Observation: River Torrent Duck, Hummingbird gardens, Tanager Feeders, Andean Motmot Lek, Andean Cock of the Rock Lek
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Andean Motmot, Gorgeted Woodstar, Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan, Inca Jay, Turquoise Jay, Andean Cock of the Rock Peruvian Subspecie, Masked Trogon, Tawny-bellied Hermit, Speckled Hummingbird, Long-tailed Sylph, White-tailed Hillstar, Bronzy Inca, Booted-Rackettailed, Violet-fronted Brilliant, Rufouscent Tiger Heron, Subtropical Cacique and others.
East Cloud Forest, San Isidro Reserve
San Isidro Reserve is located in the East Slope Cloud Forest surrounded by rivers, waterfalls and pristine forests. San Isidro Reserve offers several marked and maintained forest trails that will lead through a variety of habitat zones typical of the region.. One of the rare species that we can frequently observe is the White-bellied Antpitta and with luck the Mountain Tapir come close to the feeders of the lodge. The Reserve has over 474 possible registered bird species.
- Location: about 2 hour from Quito between Baeza and Cosanga Valleys
- Elevation: about 2,000 meters or 6,800 feet
- Type of Observation: Antpitta Photo Hides, Hummingbird Feeders, Forest Trails, White-light Insect Feeders for Tanagers
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: White-bellied Antpitta, Brown-capped Vireo, Cinnamon Flycatcher, Chestnut-capped Brushfnch, Black-eared Hemispingus, Sickle-winged Guan, Squirrel Cuckoo, Yellow-billed Cacique, Andean Solitaire, Buff-throated Saltator, Red-crested Finch, Olivaceous Woodpecker, Booted-rackettailed (east), Flame-faced tanager (East), Many-Spotted Hummingbird, Roadside Hawk, Golden-tailed Sapphire, Collared Trogon, Yellow-headed Caracara, Violaceous Jay, Magpie Tanager and others.
East Upper Amazon Basin, Wild Sumaco Reserve
Wild Sumaco Reserve is located in the Upper Amazon Basin about 2 hours from Coca and near the town of Loreto. There are 650 possible registered bird species in this area with several trails, antpittas hides, birding roads nearby, Jacamar feeders and hummingbirds spots great for photography. Another highlight of Wild Sumaco Reserve is the early birding around the lodge for possible Wrens and Antbirds.
- Location: about 2 hour from Coca, near Loreto and Wawa Sumaco
- Elevation: about 1,500 meters or 4,500 feet
- Type of Observation: Antpitta Photo Hides, Hummingbird Feeders, Forest Trails, Birding Road
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Targets: Many-banded Aracari, Collared Trogon, Green-backed Trogon, Coppery-chested Jacamar, Channel-billed Toucan, White-backed Fire-eye, Peruvian-warbling Antbird, Musician Wren, Golden-collared Toucanet, Black-faced Antbird, Black Throated Brilliant, Ecuadorian Piedtail, Fork-tailed Woodnymph, Golden-tailed Sapphire, Green Hermit, Many-spotted Hummingbird, White-tipped Sicklebill, Wire-crested Thorntail, Goulds Jewelfront, Plumbeous Pigeon, Blue Dacnis, Silver-beaked Tanager and others.
Amazon Basin Slope
Amazon Basin, Limoncocha Biological Reserve and Birding Lagoon
The Limoncocha Biological Reserve is located in the Province of Sucumbios, about 30 minutes from Shushufindi and 1 hour from Coca. The reserve is around 4,613 hectares and includes Limoncocha Lagoon – best birding in the Amazon, a smaller lake called Yanacocha, wetlands, marshes, swamp areas and tropical rain forests that are near the area. The reserve is home to many birding and wildlife species, specially the Harpy Eagle, Hoatzins and over 560 bird species.
The possible origin of Limoncocha Lagoon as many medium size rivers in the Amazon, is that during rainy season the River Napo overflow the adjacent areas and flood the near banks, creating a Lagoon. However, in dry season this Lagoon remains with water, which there could be an aquifer that feeds the lagoon. This is magical place in our Birding Tours, full of diversity, both flora and fauna. It is spectacular to for birding with our private boat at both extremes of the Lagoon.
- Location: about 1 hour from Coca near Pompeya Norte and Shushufindi
- Elevation: about 200 meters or 850 feet
- Type of Observation: Antpitta Photo Hides, Ceibo Forest Trails, Scarlet Ibis Nesting Grounds, Harpy Eagle Nest (when active), Motor-canoe in Limoncocha Lagoon
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Blue-throated Piping-Guan, Greater Ani, Squirrel Cuckoo, Hoatzin, Purple Gallinule, Limpkin, Wattled Jacana, Large-billed Tern, Anhinga, Zigzag Heron, Rufescent Tiger-Heron, Cocoi Heron, Little Blue Heron, Striated Heron, Green Ibis, Greater-yellow Headed Vulture, Snail Kite, Crane Hawk, Tropical Screetch Owl, Tawny-bellied Screetch Owl, Ringed Kingfisher, White-eared Jacamar, Laughing Falcon, Yellow-headed Caracara and others.
Amazon Basin, Misahualli Reserve, Kawana and Paicawee Lagoon
Misahualli Reserve is located in the Lower Amazon Basin and close to River Napo. It is surrounded by Paikawee and Kawana Lagoon, spectacular for birding and observation of 8 species of monkeys from our private birding canoe. There are about 328 registered bird species in the reserve and surroundings, that are also great for birding in strategic spots including Ama Eco Lodge Observation Deck, Terra-firme Forest Trails, Ahuano Parrots Lek and Fiery Topaz Feeders.
- Location: Lower Amazon Basin alongside River Napo about 4 hours from Quito
- Elevation: 500 meters above sea level
- Type of Photo Hides: Observation Deck, Night Walks, Fiery Topaz Feeder, River Canoe
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Spangled Coquette, White-tailed Hillstar, Green Hemit, Black-throated Mango, Green-backed Hillstar, Fork-tailed Woodnymph, Many-spotted Hummingbird, Glittering-throated Emerald, Lined Antshrike, Black-billed Thrush, Spotted Tanager, Turquoise Tanager, Paradise Tanager, Bay-headed Tanager, Swallow Tanager, Cliff flycatcher, Southern Mealy Amazon, Dusky-headed Parakeet, Black-billed Mountain-Toucan, Fiery Topaz and others.
Amazon Basin, Napo Wildlife Center Reserve
Napo Wildlife Center Reserve is located on the right bank of the Napo River, it takes approximately 2 hours from El Coca (capital city of Orellana Province) by motor canoe. There are over 566 registered bird species, several species of mammals and one of the richest biodiverse places in the world.
The Añangu Community is situated inside of Yasuní National Park a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, the community is responsible for the conservation of 22,000 hectares within the tropical rainforest of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Some of the highlights included in our private birding tours are: Observation Towers, Terra-firme Trails, 8 species of Monkeys, Paddle-canoe Anangu Creek, Night Caiman Observation, Napo River Parrot Clay Licks and Scarlet Macaws.
- Location: Lower Amazon Basin alongside River Napo, about 2 hours from Coca by motor canoe
- Elevation: 500 meters above sea level
- Type of Photo Hides: Observation Towers, Night Walks and Caiman Spotting, River Paddle Canoe, Parrot and Macaws Clay Licks
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Hoatzin, Crane Hawk, Ringed Kingfisher, Cream-colored Woodpecker, White-throated Toucan, Orange-crowned Manakin, Gilded Barbet, Green Kingfisher, Yellow-headed Caracara, Tufted Woodpecker, Plum-throated Cotinga, Sungrebe, Flame-crested Tanager, Boat-billed Heron, Ivory-billed Aracari, Dot-backed Antbird, Wire-tailed Manakin, Green and Gold Tanager, Agami Heron, Leterred Aracari, Yellow-bellied Dacnis, Blue and Yellow Macaw, Scarlet Macaw, Red and Green Macaw, Chestnut fronted Macaw, Dusky-headed Parakeet Cobalt-winged Parakeet Scarlet-shouldered Parrotlet, Black-headed Parrot, Orange-cheeked Parrot, Blue-headed Parrot, Yellow-crowned Amazon, and others.
Amazon Basin, Sacha Lodge Reserve
Sacha Lodge Reserve is located also on the river back of the Napo River bordering Yasuni National Park with 2,000 hectares of conservation. It takes about 2 hours from El Coca to the lodge by motor and paddle canoe. There are 442 registered bird species, monkeys, anacondas, incredible wildlife like giant otters and more.
Some of the Highlights include walking across a bridge suspended over the rainforest canopy, paddling through creeks in search of monkeys and river otters, climbing to the very top of a giant kapok tree or swimming in a black-water lake pool, danta and crane observation towers, napor river clay licks and private canoe birding in the several streams of the reserve.
- Location: Lower Amazon Basin alongside River Napo, about 2 hours from Coca by motor canoe
- Elevation: 500 meters above sea level
- Type of Photo Hides: Observation Towers, Canopy Walk, Danta Tower, Night Walks and Caiman Spotting, River Paddle Canoe, Napo River Clay Licks
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: Hoatzin, Crane Hawk, Ringed Kingfisher, Cream-colored Woodpecker, White-throated Toucan, Orange-crowned Manakin, Gilded Barbet, Green Kingfisher, Yellow-headed Caracara, Tufted Woodpecker, Plum-throated Cotinga, Sungrebe, Flame-crested Tanager, Boat-billed Heron, Ivory-billed Aracari, Dot-backed Antbird, Wire-tailed Manakin, Green and Gold Tanager, Agami Heron, Leterred Aracari, Yellow-bellied Dacnis, Blue and Yellow Macaw, Scarlet Macaw, Red and Green Macaw, Chestnut fronted Macaw, Dusky-headed Parakeet Cobalt-winged Parakeet Scarlet-shouldered Parrotlet, Black-headed Parrot, Orange-cheeked Parrot, Blue-headed Parrot, Yellow-crowned Amazon, and others.
Pacific Coast
Pacific Coast, La Segua Marshes
La Segua Humedal is a coastal wetland located in the province of Manabi, Ecuador, near the town of Chone. The Humedal serves as a crucial stopover for migratory and resident bird species, as there are many schrimps farms nearby, which creates an extraordinary setting for birding. You can observe at least 50 – 100 bird species during the day.
The habitat consists of a mix of freshwater lagoons, marshes, mudflats, and coastal forest, offering a variety of environments for diverse bird species.
- Location: near Chone City in Manabi Province
- Elevation: 10 meters above sea level
- Type of Birding: Birding Trails and Private Canoe
- Focus: Birding and Photography
Target Birds: shorebirds, and waterfowl, such as the rare Pintail Duck, Whimbrel, Short-billed Dowitcher, and Lesser Yellowlegs, herons, egrets, and kingfishers. It is also a great location to spot the endemic Mangrove Cuckoo and the Osprey.
Galapagos Island
Galapagos, Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island offers diverse birding habitats, from coastal mangroves to highland Scalesia forests. Some of the key birding and wildlife areas include Los Gemelos Craters, where species like the Galápagos Rail, Vermilion Flycatcher, and Woodpecker Finch can be observed. El Chato Reserve, home to Galápagos Giant Tortoises and several Darwin’s finches. Tortuga Bay and Garrapatero Beach provide opportunities to spot Lava Herons, Flamingos (seasonal), Sea Lions, Marine Iguanas and shorebirds. Along the coast, look for Brown Pelicans, and Magnificent Frigatebirds.
- Elevation:Highest point is Cerro Crocker at 864 meters or 2,835 feet
- Main City: Puerto Ayora is the largest town in Galapagos
- Flora: Scalesia Forest endemic cloud forest vegetation, Giant Cactus is key for Galapagos Land Iguanas, Mangroves along the coast.
- Fauna: Giant Galápagos Tortoises (El Chato & Reserva Primicias), Galápagos Land and Marine Iguanas, Sea Lions, Lava Lizards, and Sally Lightfoot Crabs.
- Target Species: Galápagos Small and Medium Finches, Galápagos Mockingbird, Vermilion Flycatcher, Galápagos Rail, Dark-billed Cuckoo, Short-eared Owl, Magnificent and Great Frigatebirds.