Itinerary – Birdwatching Expedition to Ecuador
Day 1: Arrival in Quito
Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in the city. Overnight at Go Hotel or Hotel Mercure, both offering comfortable accommodations for your first night in Ecuador.
Day 2: Zuroloma – Tandayapa Valley – Alambí – Guaycapi Lodge
After breakfast, we head to Zuroloma Reserve, a high-Andean site known for its stunning hummingbirds and occasional sightings of the Spectacled Bear. We then continue to the Tandayapa Valley, one of the most biodiverse areas in the Chocó Andean region, and visit the Alambí Hummingbird Garden. After lunch, transfer to Guaycapi Lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Birding at Guaycapi and Surroundings
We begin the day early by exploring the feeders and trails at Guaycapi Lodge, offering excellent opportunities for hummingbird and tanager photography. The rest of the morning is dedicated to birding in nearby forest areas. After lunch at the lodge, you can relax or continue birding on your own. Overnight at Guaycapi Lodge.
Day 4: Refugio Paz de las Aves – Sacha Tamia
Early morning visit to the renowned Refugio Paz de las Aves, famous for sightings of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock and antpittas. Enjoy a traditional brunch at the refuge before heading to Sacha Tamia Lodge, where lunch is served. In the afternoon, visit the lodge’s feeders, with chances to spot the Beautiful Jay and possibly the Turquoise Cotinga. Overnight at Sacha Tamia.
Day 5: Sacha Tamia – Visit to Mindo Area
Morning birding session at Sacha Tamia’s blinds and feeders, ideal for close-up views of elusive species. Later, we head to the Mindo area, one of Ecuador’s most famous birdwatching hotspots. Time permitting, enjoy a stroll through the town or optional birding at local gardens. Overnight as per logistical convenience.
Day 6: Mashpi Area – Return to Quito
Early departure for a full-day visit to the Mashpi area, an important conservation zone and biological corridor with unique bird species. Explore the trails and feeders before returning to Quito in the afternoon. Overnight in the city, followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Departure or Antisana Excursion
Depending on your international flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport. If your flight is in the evening, a full-day excursion to Antisana Ecological Reserve is available. This high-altitude reserve offers chances to see the Andean Condor, páramo species, and breathtaking volcanic scenery. After the tour, direct transfer to the airport for departure.
What’s included:
° Expert guidance and transport service
° Airport transfers and visits described in the itinerary
° Accommodation (in a standard room and meals, as described in the itinerary
° Entrance fees to all natural reserves described in the itinerary
All the Meals
Not included:
° Soft and alcoholic beverages
° Tips
° Wi-Fi (due to the remote location of some of the places we will visit, internet connection may be intermittent and low-bandwidth)
° Personal expenses (extra nights, late checkout, laundry, gifts, etc.)
° Accommodation and meals not described in the program
Conditions:
*Please note that the itinerary offers our planned program of excursions. However, adverse weather & other local considerations can necessitate some re-ordering of the program during the course of the tour, though this will always be done to maximize the best use of the time and weather conditions available.
*Please be aware that this is a sample itinerary. We can customize the package based on your request and send you a quote. This program and its accommodation options are subject to availability.
*All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
General notes:
*All baggage must be securely packed, and be properly, clearly labeled. Liquid, fragile, perishable and/or other items that are not packed as such will be transported at the guests’ own risk.
*We recommend that you keep important travel documents (passport, visa), important medication and/or valuables on you at all times. These items are the full responsibility of the guest at all times.
*We are not liable for the loss of, or damage of, of any aforementioned personal items. We reserve the right to charge for the return of personal items left at the hotels.