This magnificent journey takes you through three diverse ecosystems in Ecuador: The Amazon rainforest, the cloud forest in the Andean Chocó, and the mountainous Andes near the city of Baños. Each of these regions boasts astonishing biodiversity across various taxa, including birds, mammals, and plants, as well as the primary focus of the tour: Ecuador’s reptiles and amphibians. Not only do the region’s cloud forests, Andean slopes, and rainforests exhibit extraordinary biodiversity, but they also host some of the most remarkable and sought-after reptiles and amphibians on Earth.
An incredible 570 amphibian species inhabit Ecuador’s diverse ecosystems, nearly half of which are endemic to the country. Among the fascinating families we’ll have the chance to encounter -as we explore the forests- are tree frogs, glass frogs, poison arrow frogs, monkey frogs, and mushroom-tongued salamanders. Equally impressive is Ecuador’s reptile diversity, with over 450 species, more than 160 of which are found nowhere else. Anoles, tegus, wood lizards, boas, vipers, turtles, and crocodilians are just some of the exceptional reptiles we’ll be searching for during both daytime and nighttime excursions. Our after-dark walks will offer a rare and mesmerizing glimpse into the hidden micro-ecosystems of these incredible habitats.
On this special itinerary, we’ll visit the Ecominga Reserve -an essential conservation project dedicated to protecting Ecuador’s threatened cloud forests in the Andes. Covering 1,629 acres, this reserve is home to a vast array of species, including many endemic frogs, which will be one of our primary targets under the expert guidance of our herpetologist. As we explore this remarkable sanctuary, we’ll make the most of every moment searching for its incredible wildlife.
When you combine this exciting itinerary with Ecuador’s welcoming people, short travel distances, and high-quality lodges, it’s easy to see why this is an unmissable opportunity for any passionate naturalist!
Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN QUITO – TRANSFER TO HOTEL
Arrival in Quito, one of South America’s most attractive colonial capitals. Nestled at the foot of the Pichincha volcano, Quito is the second-highest capital in the world at 9,000 feet above sea level. Hotel check-in is usually available in the afternoon. Settle in and relax; dinner tonight is at your leisure. Overnight at Mercure Hotel
DAY 2-4: QUITO – MINDO CLOUDFOREST (CHOCÓ ANDINO BIOREGION)
It is just a one hour and 40 minute drive from Quito to our first lodge, nestled in the heart of the Mindo cloudforest. Here the chance to witness an impressive array of species begins right at a wonderful lodge with spectacular mountain views. Within easy reach of the lodge, we’ll also have the opportunity to observe two iconic and soughtafter species with remarkable rostral appendages; the Pinocchio Lizard (Anolis proboscis) and the Pinocchio Rainfrog (Pristimantis appendiculatus). Locating shy and elusive snakes is always challenging, but with our expert herpetologist guide we have the best possible chance to find some stunning species; Eyelash Viper (Bothriechis schlegelii), Campbell´s Toad-headed Pitviper (Bothrocophias campbelli), Osborne’s Lancehead (Bothrops osbo rnei) and Regal Coral Snake (Micrurus ancoralis) are just a selection of the diversity here.
Anole lizards are one of Ecuador’s specialties and, along with the Pinocchio Lizard, there are some of Ecuadors’ most beautiful species in Mindo and it’s where we’ll hope to find Fraser’s Anole (Anolisfraseri), O’Shaughnessy’s Anole (Anolis gemmosus), and Equatorial Anole (Anolis aequatorialis). Glass frogs will be high on the wish-list of many tour participants and again Mindo obliges with some exquisite species such as Nicaragua
Giant Glass Frog (Espadarana prosoblepon), and the Red-spotted
Glassfrog (Nymphargus grandisonae). Rainfrogs are particularly numerous in this region and along with Pinocchio Rainfrog, Blue-thighed Rainfrog (Pristimantis crucifer), Mindo
Rainfrog (Pristimantis mindo), Ornate Rainfrog and many more. Tadapi
Treefrog (Hyloscirtus alytolylax), Executioner Treefrog (Dendropsophus carnifex) and the gorgeous Diablito ‘Little Devil’ Poison Arrow Frog (Oophaga sylvatica) are all possible during our time here. Around the lodge we can find lizards such as Western Basilisk (Basiliscus galeritus) and we’ll make an excursion to find the striking Red-eyed Woodlizard (Enyalioides oshaughnessyi).
There will be moments during the daytimes for a rest as we re-charge our body (and camera!) batteries for our searches along the trails at night in search of those nocturnal species listed above. For those with endless energy, Mindo is a magnificent place to birdwatch. Over 450 species of birds have been recorded within the valley and just a few of the tantalizing possibilities are Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan, Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager; Golden, Black-capped and Summer Tanager. Velvet-purple Coronet; Brown Inca; Violet-tailed Sylph and the spectacular Empress Brilliant. The endless list continues with Crimson-mantled and Powerful Woodpeckers, Strong-billed Woodcreeper, Toucan Barbet, Golden-headed Quetzal, Streaked Tuftedcheek, Redbilled Parrot, Scaly naped Amazon, Slate-throated Whitestart, Western Hemispingus, Beautiful Jay and many more, all of them are frequent visitors of feeders and hides around the lodge, so your chances to get great pictures are huge. Overnight at Sachatamia Lodge. (B, L, D)
DAY 5-6: ECOMINGA RESERVE IN BAÑOS
After wonderfully exciting days in the cloud-forests of Mindo and the Chocó Bioregion, we’ll make a two- and half-hour journey to Volcan Cotopaxi where we will stop to enjoy lunch and views of the second highest summit in Ecuador, at 5,897m. From here it will be just a two-hour drive to the town of Baños where we will be based in a comfortable tourist hotel for our excursions into the Ecominga Reserve.
The full range of reptiles and amphibians inside the reserve is still being released with ongoing surveys and analysis. Searches so far have been very fruitful and there is a rich herpetofauna-biodiversity. It is just a
15-minute walk to the reserve entrance from the nearest road. Once at the entrance there are more than 10km of trail to explore. We’ll take a
packed lunch with us so that we can enjoy the whole day exploring and enjoying all the reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals and flora that the reserve offers.
Of the known rich amphibian diversity inside the reserve, we’ll search for such lovely species as Cochran’s Glassfrog (Nymphargus cochranae), Shreve’s Sarayacu Treefrog (Dendropsophus sarayacuensis) and Espada’s Rainfrog (Pristimantis galdi). Other highlights in the reserve include Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Giant Antpitta, the endangered Black-and-chestnut Eagle and a beautiful, rare, tree named after Sir David Attenborough, Blakea attenboroughi.
After two exhilarating days in Baños, we’ll enjoy a restful night at the comfortable Miramelindo Hotel before continuing to our next destination – the gateway to the
Amazon: Misahuallí. (B, BL, D)
DAY 7-8: MISAHUALLI – AMAZON AT 500 m.a.s.l.
After breakfast we shall head 285km east to the lower foothills of the Amazon at 500m. Here we’ll encounter a whole new range of families of reptiles and amphibians! Keep in mind the lowlands rainforest is one of the most biodiverse hotspots for reptiles & amphibians in Ecuador, and changing altitudinal ranges will provide new chances to admire other species.
A wide range of snakes are represented here and some of the varied beautiful species we can hope to find are Amazon Tree-boa (Corallus hortulana), South American Coral Snake (Micrurus lemniscatus), Boa constrictor, Black-
backed Coralsnake (Micrurus melanotus), Common
Lancehead (Bothrops atrox), and the mesmerizing Rainbow Boa (Epicrates cenchria). There are plenty of special amphibians to discover here too including Brownbelly Monkey
Frog (Phyllomedusa tarsius), White-lined Monkey Frog (Phyllomedusa vaillanti), South American Common Toad (Rhinella margaritifera), Ecuador Poison Frog (Ameerega bilinguis), Zaparo’s
Poison Frog (Allobates zaparo), Variable Poison Frog (Ranitomeya variabilis), Marbled Treefrog (Dendropsophus marmoratus), Reticulate Treefrog (Dendropsophus reticulatus), Midas’ Glass Frog (Teratohyla midas), and Upper Amazon Glass Frog (Hyalinobatrachium munozorum) amongst many others.
In Misahualli we’ll stay at Suchipakari Lodge in the heart of the forest. (B, BL, D)
DAY 9-11: COCA – LOWLANDS OF THE AMAZON
After sensational days and nights in the amazon, it will be time to leave and drive just two hours to our next stop, the Coca region in the lowlands of the Amazon.
This morning we’ll continue our journey towards the heart of the amazon, heading further east where we’ll be based on the River Napo. We’ll break the journey into two manageable journeys, stopping for lunch and a walk near Loreto Waterfall. Driving all the way through this road is just a lush experience in terms of unique landscapes.
Around Napo River, we’ll have the chance to spot some of Ecuador’s more aquatic reptiles, including the infamous Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus), Black Caiman (Melanosuchus niger), Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus), Suriname Toad (Pipa pipa) and Northern Caiman Lizard (Dracaena guianensis) and the littleknown and superbly cryptic Mata-mata Turtle (Chelus fimbriata). Giant Parrot Snake (Leptophis ahaetulla), Neotropical Blunt-headed Treesnake (Imantodes cenchoa), Banded Cat-eyed Snake (Leptodeira annulata), and Broad-headed
Woodlizard (Enyalioides laticeps) are a selection of the other reptiles we can find here.
At night we’ll enjoy searching on the trails for the exquisite Orinoco Lime
Treefrog (Sphaenorhynchus lacteus), Milk Frog (Trachycephalus cunauaru), Polka-dot Treefrog (Boana punctata), Manaus Slender-legged Treefrog (Osteocephalus taurinus), Troschel’s Treefrog (Boana calcarata) and many others.
Mammals we may encounter here include Spotted Paca, South American Tapir,
Common and White-bellied Spider Monkeys, Nine Banded Armadillo and even Jaguar! Some of the birds include Hoatzin, Blue-gray Tanager, Silver-beaked Tanager, Bluecrowned Manakin, Yellow-tufted Woodpecker and White-throated Toucan amongst many others! In Coca, we’ll be based at Yarina Lodge right on the Napo River (B, BL, D) DAY 12-14: NAPO WILDLIFE CENTRE (NWC)
This morning we’ll take a short boat journey downriver to Napo. Here we have our best opportunity to find some hugely impressive Black Caiman. Here too we’ll also have another chance at Rainbow Boa, Amazon Tree-boa, Common Lancehead and Boa constrictor. We’ll also have a great chance to see Yellow-spotted Amazon River Turtle (Podocnemis unifilis), South American River Turtle (Podocnemis expansa) and Yellow footed Tortoise (Chelonoidis denticulatus). Our night searches here provide the opportunity to find the splendid Two-striped Forest-pitviper (Bothrops bilineatus).
The area surrounding our lodge is home to a total of 11 species of monkeys including Squirrel Monkey, Saddle-backed Tamarin and White-fronted Capuchin Monkeys. Rarer species include Monk Saki, Spider, Woolly and Golden-mantled Tamarin Monkeys. Additionally, whilst searching for arboreal herps, we can hope to spot a wonderful Three toed Sloth. Whilst scanning the river for caiman, we’ll hope to spot a family of Giant River Otters.
Some of the beautiful birds we may find include Many-banded Aracari, White-throated Toucan, Scarlet Macaw, Paradise Tanager, Spangled Cotinga, Green Honeycreeper, Wire tailed Manakin, Yellow-crowned Parrot, Ringer Kingfisher, Crested Owl and the superbly camouflaged Great and Common Potoo.
We’ll be based at Napo Wildlife Centre, an excellent ecolodge located in the renowned
Yasuni National Park. (B, BL, D)
DAY 15: NWC – GUANGO A GATEWAY TO THE RAINFOREST TO THE EAST
Today will mark the beginning of our journey home, as we take a 45-minute flight from Coca to Quito, but with a final destination lined up for us to explore before our onwards journeys.
A fter landing in Quito, we’ll make just the onehour transfer across to
Guango in the highlands of eastern Ecuador. Here we’ll target some very special amphibians indeed. Linda’s
Treefrog (Hyloscirtus lindae), the rare
Papallacta
Rainfrog (Pristimantis acerus), Riobamba Marsupial Frog (Gastrotheca riobambae) Papallacta Valley Rainfrog (Pristimantis gladiator) and Bruised Rainfrog (Pristimantis lividus). Reptiles here include the diminutive yet elegant Shieldhead Gecko (Gonatodes caudiscutatus), Mountain Pholiodobolus (Pholidobolus montium) and Günther’s Whorltail Iguana (Stenocercus guentheri).
Guango is exceptional for birding too, particularly for hummingbirds! Tourmaline Sunangel, Chestnut Breasted and Buff-tailed Coronet, Collared Inca, White-bellied Woodstar, Long-tail Sylph, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Tryian Metaltail and Shining Sunbeam just part of the kaleidoscopic line-up.
We’ll be based at Guango Lodge a comfortable lodge with wonderful vistas. (B, L, D)
DAY 16: BACK TO QUITO – TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT (DEPARTURES)
After an unforgettable exploration of Ecuador’s reptiles and amphibians, we’ll enjoy a final breakfast in the lush rainforest before making our way back to Quito for our onward journeys. Various trip extensions are available, including the opportunity to visit one of the world’s most iconic destinations for herpetologists -the Galapagos Islands–. For those interested, we would be delighted to arrange an extension to this extraordinary archipelago. (B)
Important Notes and Information:
Ecuador – Enigmatic Reptiles & Amphibians – Highlights
This itinerary has been designed to guarantee the best wildlife-viewing opportunities at several of the most gorgeous reserves and landscapes in mainland Ecuador.
° Explore Ecuador’s three diverse ecosystems and their captivating reptile and amphibian inhabitants.
° Immerse yourself in the magic of cloud and rainforest, home to a myriad of extraordinary species.
° Incredible reptiles including Pinocchio Lizard, Mata-mata Turtle, Eyelash Viper and
Rainbow Boa
° Beautiful amphibians including Poison Arrow Frogs, Monkey Frogs and Glass Frogs. ° The best of cloud and rainforest for herpetologists and anyone who is curious about these amazing species.
° Superb fauna-and-flora-rich habitats to explore diurnally and nocturnally.
° Contribute to conservation by visiting the Ecominga Reserve, protecting threatened cloud forests.
° Our passionate herpetologist will guide you through the dense and vibrant landscapes, revealing the mesmerizing world of Ecuador’s endemic reptiles and amphibians. ° From nocturnal explorations to daytime treks, each moment will unveil rare and remarkable creatures.
° Extend your holiday with a visit to the Galapagos Islands.
Departs: All year round.
Grading and Focus: Level 2. Moderate. The focus of the tour will be finding and photographing Ecuador’s reptiles and amphibians while noting the birds, mammals and any special flora we encounter along the way. This tour is perfect for the keen naturalist who has an interest in reptiles and amphibians and has a desire to see some of the world’s most spectacular species whilst learning about their fascinating biology.
This is a traditional lodge-based wildlife tour. Whilst some of the lodges are appointed simply, each is comfortable and has in-suite facilities. A certain level of fitness is required for the tour, as the terrain may be a little rough or slippery in parts. Night searches are an important part of the tour, as many of our target species are nocturnal. The time spent up at Guango will be at over 2,800m in altitude. All walking with be naturally easy paced as we search thoroughly for the wonderful fauna and flora.
Weather: During this tour we will experience a variety of different climates. In the mountains out from Quito and Baños, temperatures are generally pleasant during the day; cool in the early morning (50s) to warm at midday (60s to 80s at lower elevations). Lowland areas can be warm-to-hot temperatures at midday (typically 70s to low 90s) depending on cloudcover. We may also get caught in an occasional rain shower.
In the Western Andes you can shed layers as the day warms up (or add them as it cools down). We can expect the rain to show up mostly in short intervals and often only at night. We may possibly be out in at least some mist or light rain; cloud cover, and even fog can be the norm in the Andes, so a good umbrella or light rain jacket is essential.
In the Amazon rainforest it is best to be prepared for all kinds of weather. At times it can be hot and sunny, but a cool rainstorm may appear at a moment’s notice during any time of the year.
Clothing and equipment: The tour covers a wide range of elevations, ecosystems, and habitats on the western Andean slopes and therefore presents somewhat varying climatic conditions as we ascend/descend in elevation and we advise you to be prepared to layer your clothing as temperature and weather conditions change.
Dress is casual or informal throughout the tour, we suggest dark or dull-colored field pants and shirts, not whites, and avoid startling patterns that frighten the birds and other wildlife. We suggest lightweight long-sleeved shirts that dry quickly (long sleeves are not essential, but offer additional protection from sun and biting insects). Also important are a hat and sunscreen for sun protection and a rain jacket, poncho, or umbrella.
For the Andes think layering as we ascend the mountains, considering warm, or even lightweight long-sleeved button shirts over a short-sleeve or long-sleeve undershirt in most areas visited, along with a sweater or jacket for layering to provide extra warmth at higher elevations.
Amazon portion: Lightweight pants and long-sleeved cotton shirts are ideal for walks in the forest. Dark or muted-tone trousers and shirts for outdoor use. Plenty of rain ponchos are available at the lodge with no charge if you do not have your own, and they also supply rubber boots for walks in the forest interior. Comfortable shoes (or sandals), shorts and tshirts are fine for walking on boardwalks and around the lodge during meals and free time.
A strong waterproof torch is essential and amongst the options available a powerful headtorch will be most useful, which keeps your hands free for balancing.
Footwear: Good footwear is essential, we strongly suggest sturdy mud boots or waterproof hiking boots. A second, lighter pair to change into during downtime around the various lodges. Athletic shoes are acceptable but will not keep your feet dry and can become soiled from muddy conditions. In any case, your footgear for the field should at the very least be rated “water-resistant,” as this is a damp climate. On the Amazon rainforest, much more walking is required, up to 3 miles (4.8 km) a day, and sometimes on trails that are very muddy (the lodge provides rubber boots), and accessing the canopy tower requires climbing up 118 ft. (36 m.) via a sturdy and well-made staircase.
What’s included:
° Expert guidance
° Transport service
° Airport transfers and visits described in the itinerary
° Accommodation (in a standard room) and meals, as described in the itinerary
° Drinking water provided during the day
° All entry fees to natural reserves
° Domestic flight Coca – Quito
Not included:
° Soft and alcoholic beverages
° Gratuities
° 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
° Travel / Medical Insurance
° International flights
Conditions:
*Please be aware that the itinerary outlines our planned program of excursions. However, due to adverse weather conditions and other local factors, it may be necessary to adjust the schedule during the course of the tour. Rest assured, any changes will be made to ensure the best possible use of available time and weather conditions. The trip itinerary is created months in advance, and while we make every effort to plan thoroughly, unforeseen changes may arise during the trip. These changes could be caused by weather, road conditions, safety concerns, or other circumstances. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the tour leader(s) to carefully assess and implement suitable alternatives. Any additional costs resulting from these changes will be the responsibility of each individual participant. No refunds will be issued due to changes in the itinerary.
*Please be aware that this is a sample itinerary. We can customize the package based on your request and send you a quote.
*Accommodation options are subject to change based upon availability.
*All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
*Rates for domestic flights included in this program are subject to change until we have issued the tickets according to the requested travel date.
General notes:
*Baggage: The airlines now strictly enforce baggage regulations. Excess baggage charges, which can be substantial, are the personal responsibility of each participant. Please consult your airline to find out specific weight restrictions. Bear in mind that domestic airlines in Ecuador have a limit of one piece of checked luggage not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kilos) and 17 pounds (8 kg) for hand luggage and 1 personal item (handbag, camera bag, laptop, etc.). The costs for excess weight or a second piece of checked luggage is at your own expense. As a precaution against lost luggage, we suggest that you pack a change of clothes, toiletries, medications, your travel documents, optics, and any other essential items in your carry-on bag. These items are the full responsibility of the guest at all times. Kindly note that tripods are not allowed as carry-on and must be packed in your checked baggage.
*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 are not liable for loss or damage to baggage and/or any other personal item during air travel. We are not liable for baggage stored in shore-side facilities.
*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.
*TRAVEL INSURANCE: To safeguard against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance, that covers trip cancellation/interruption, as soon as possible after making a deposit.
* Visa requirements differ by country, nationality of the traveler and duration and purpose of your intended stay. It may be necessary to obtain a visa or an electronic travel authorization in advance of your travel. It is therefore vitally important that you check with your travel agent/consulate/embassy for exact visa requirements.
*Please DO NOT book any flights until the Neblina Forest Team have officially confirmed the tour.