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Republic of Ecuador

Crimson-rumped Toucanet Aulacorhynchus haematopygus ©Dubi Shapiro Website

Ecuador is a country in northwestern South America, bordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It also includes the Galápagos Islands in the Pacific, about 1,000 kilometres (c. 620 miles) west of the mainland. It has a population of over 18 million people and the capital is Quito with two million inhabitants, while its largest city is Guayaquil with well over three million. It has a total area of a little over 283,500 km2 (c.109,500 square miles), including the Galápagos Islands.

The country has four main geographic regions: La Costa (the coast) consists of the provinces to the west of the Andean range, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, El Oro, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas and Santa Elena. It is the country’s most fertile and productive land, and is the home of large banana exportation plantations. This region is also where most of Ecuador’s rice crop is grown. The truly coastal provinces have active fisheries. The largest coastal city being Guayaquil. La Sierra (the highlands) consists of the Andean and Inter-Andean highland provinces of Azuay, Cañar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Imbabura, Loja, Pichincha, Bolívar, Cotopaxi and Tungurahua. This land contains most of Ecuador’s volcanoes and all of its snow-capped peaks. Agriculture is focused on the traditional crops of potato, maize, and quinua and the population is predominantly Amerindian Kichua. The largest Sierran city is Quito.

La Amazonía, also known as El Oriente (the east) consists of the Amazon jungle provinces – Morona Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbíos, and Zamora-Chinchipe. This region is primarily made up of the huge Amazon national parks and Amerindian untouchable zones, which are vast stretches of land set aside for the Amazon Amerindian tribes to continue living traditionally. It is also the area with the largest reserves of petroleum in Ecuador, and parts of the upper Amazon here have been extensively exploited by petroleum companies. The population is primarily mixed Amerindian Shuar, Waorani and Kichua, although there are numerous tribes in the deep jungle which are little-contacted. The largest city in the Oriente Lago Agrio in Sucumbíos. La Región Insular is the region comprising the Galápagos Islands in the Pacific Ocean. There is great variety in the climate, largely determined by altitude. It is mild year-round in the mountain valleys, with a humid subtropical climate in coastal areas and rainforest in lowlands. The Pacific coastal area has a tropical climate with a severe rainy season. The climate in the Andean highlands is temperate and relatively dry, and the Amazon basin on the eastern side of the mountains shares the climate of other rainforest zones. Because of its location at the equator, Ecuador experiences little variation in daylight hours during the course of a year. Both sunrise and sunset occur each day at the two six o’clock hours.

Parque Nacional Yasuní – ©Agencia Latinoamericana de Información CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Ecuador is one of the seventeen mega-diverse countries in the world according to Conservation International and it has the most biodiversity per square kilometre of any nation.

There are c.1,600 bird species (15% of the world’s known bird species) in the continental area and many endemics in the Galápagos. In addition to more than 16,000 species of plants, the country has 106 endemic reptiles, 138 endemic amphibians, and 6,000 species of butterfly. The Galápagos Islands are well known as a region of distinct fauna, as the famous place of birth to Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ecuador has the first constitution to recognise the rights of nature. The protection of the nation’s biodiversity is an explicit national priority as stated in the National Plan. Objective 4, ‘Guarantee the rights of nature’, and Policy 1 is to ‘Sustainably conserve and manage the natural heritage, including its land and marine biodiversity’, which is considered a strategic sector. As of the writing of the plan (2008), 19% of Ecuador’s land area was protected, however, the plan also states that 32% of the land must be protected in order to truly preserve the nation’s biodiversity. Current protected areas include 11 national parks, 10 wildlife refuges, 9 ecological reserves, and other areas

Birding Ecuador

Located in the heart of the Tropics, crossed by the equator, yet Ecuador has virtually all the climate types because it ranges from the Andes to the sea covering almost all the climate steps vertically so it is considered a mega-biodiverse country. The Ecuadorian mountains allow you to travel after breakfast from the high snowcaps, across the Andean valleys, through the highland rain forest and stop in the middle of a steep subtropical forest for lunch. During the afternoon, going down to the tropical forest, one crosses humid and dense green areas while observing enormous rivers. After arriving in the Amazon basin, you can drive east or west and lay down on the beach while waiting for dinner. All this in one day!

Cajas National Park – ©Delphine Ménard CC BY-SA 2.0 FR via Wikimedia Commons

It is impossible to get bored on any birdwatching trip. Ecuador has an inventory of 1600 bird species in an area no bigger than Colorado State. Spanning 4 natural regions, Ecuador offers a range of experiences. During the last decade or so, the country has developed a great paved and concrete road system all around the three mainland areas. Now the coast region, the highland range and eastern Amazonian lands are all connected by excellent roads that provide a fast, safe and totally enjoyable trip from region to region. There is a huge variety of lodges suiting every pocket, many are luxurious and specialise in birdwatching. Tour operators will help with all the details of your trip to Ecuador’s world-class bird sanctuaries.

On the Galapagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin, 30 amazing endemic birds are present. The Galapagos Hawk, the Blue, Red and Nazca Boobies, the Huge Black-browed Albatross and a nice selection of Darwin finches, are commonly found on specific islands. There are less expensive land tours to some of the nearby islands. Or, one can take a special cruise that sails around the islands looking for the special fauna on each island. (See the offshoot page for links and information.)

Beginning just behind the Guagua Pichincha Volcano, west of the city of Quito, is the Choco Corridor area. It was once a forest that survived the ice age, and is now a marvellous birding hot spot and wildlife refuge. The area is geographically diverse with hundreds of bird species depending on the different climate zones. The area offers an easy birding experience. Enjoy the steep slopes of the subtropics, the canyon structure of the upper tropics and the humid lush tropical forests. In this area you will have the best bird photography opportunities and a chance to see ground, canopy, and water birds. Specialised lodges offer excellent birding opportunities for everyone from the novice to hard cores birders.

The Eastern area, which includes the Paramo, the Andean Cloud Forest, the Upper Tropical Forest and the Amazon Basin provides a good selection of affordable hostels and deluxe lodges. The area covers several National Parks located in different climate zones. These areas protect the Andean Condor, the high barren plains birds, and hundreds of passerines and non-passerines birds. The mountainous geography allows observation of birds almost directly at eye-level, making for easy to moderate birding.

Amazonian Ecuador – ©Leosanchez2011 CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

In the Amazon basin, birding is different. The sides of the rivers offer open viewing, moderate viewing is offered in the open areas and a more difficult viewing opportunity is experienced in the swamps. The use of recording and the skills of a top professional guides are almost a necessity for a successful day in some places.

Fresh, extremely diverse and delicious food is offered in Ecuador. All types of native fruits and vegetables are grown as well as all types of meats and seafood. Every place you go, you will find different tastes and many freshly harvested ingredients. Ecuadorians expect fresh products in their diet.

A new Ecuadorian environmental policy has imposed strict rules to protect nature. A two-year prison sentence can be imposed if you are arrested for removing timber or destroying natural resources in protected areas. The creation of Socio-bosque partnership, between owners and the state, offers protection for thousands of pristine forests. The State conservation program gives a certain amount of money to the owner of a forest, and in return, the owner cannot disturb the natural forest for 20 years. This land protection is monitored by satellite. Currently 20% of the total country is protected in this way. The protection project is expected to cover 33% of the paradise of Ecuador!

The State has a scheme of low tax loans to small and medium land owners and local communities to create eco-tourist businesses and improve the safe and clean standard of living to all Ecuadorians. Ecuadorian people are generally very friendly to foreigners. Their natural happiness is contagious! What is more, health care in Ecuador is provided free for everybody by law, including international visitors, and there are dozens of new hospitals with modern equipment.

So, welcome to Ecuador, a top world-birding Eden!

For detailed information on Birding Northern Ecuador or Birding the Galapagos Islands click the links below:

| Galapagos | Northern Ecuador |
Contributors
Number of Species

  • Number of bird species: 1696

    (As at November 2024)

    National Bird: Andean Condor Vultur gryphus

Endemics

  • Number of endemics: 9 (Mainland)

    The following are endemic to mainland Ecuador or its offshore islands excluding Galapagos Islands:

    Violet-throated Metaltail Metallura baroni  
    Black-breasted Puffleg Eriocnemis nigrivestis  
    Esmeraldas Woodstar Chaetocercus berlepschi  
    El Oro Parakeet Pyrrhura orcesi  
    White-necked Parakeet Pyrrhura albipectus
    Ecuadorian Tapaculo Scytalopus robbinsi  
    Darwin's (Little Vermilion) Flycatcher Pyrocephalus nanus  
    Pale-headed Brush-finch Atlapetes pallidiceps  
    Blue-throated Hillstar  Oreotrochilus cyanolaemus  

    There is one 'breeding endemic' that nests only on one small off-shore island (and on the Galapagos Group) Waved Albatross Phoebastria irrorata

Checklist

  • Avibase

    PDF Checklist
    This checklist includes all bird species found in Ecuador , based on the best information available at this time. It is based on a wide variety of sources that I collated over many years. I am pleased to offer these checklists as a service to birdwatchers. If you find any error, please do not hesitate to report them.

  • Wikipedia

    Annotated List
    This is a list of the bird species recorded in Ecuador including those of the Galápagos Islands. The avifauna of Ecuador has 1666 confirmed species, of which eight are endemic to the mainland and 31 are endemic to the Galápagos. Four have been introduced by humans, 78 are rare or vagrants, and one has been extirpated. An additional 41 species are hypothetical (see below).

  • eBird

    PDF Checklist
    This checklist is generated with data from eBird (ebird.org), a global database of bird sightings from birders like you. If you enjoy this checklist, please consider contributing your sightings to eBird. It is 100% free to take part, and your observations will help support birders, researchers, and conservationists worldwide.
Useful Reading

  • Birding Northeast Ecuador

    | By Steven L Herrmann | Steven Herrmann | (2016) | Paperback | 307 pages, b/w maps | ISBN: 9781539089261 Buy this book from NHBS.com

  • Birding Northwest Ecuador

    | By Steven L Herrmann | Steven Herrmann | (2016) | Paperback | 300 pages, b/w maps | ISBN: 9781534600058 Buy this book from NHBS.com

  • Birds of Ecuador

    | By Juan F Freile & Robin L Restall | Christopher Helm | (2018) | Paperback | 656 pages, 291 plates with colour illustrations; colour photos, colour distribution maps | ISBN: 9781408105337 Buy this book from NHBS.com

  • Birds of Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands

    | By Juan F Freile & Murray Cooper | Helm | 2023 | Paperback | 224 pages, 400 colour photos, 1 colour map | ISBN: 9781472993373 Buy this book from NHBS.com

  • Birds of Western Ecuador

    | By Nick Athanas & Paul J Greenfield | Princeton University Press | (2016) | Paperback | 448 pages, 1500 colour photos, 946 colour distribution maps | ISBN: 9780691157801 Buy this book from NHBS.com

  • Ecuador: Birds / Aves

    | By Robert Dean| Rainforest Publications | (2018) | Unbound | 13 pages, colour illustrations | ISBN: 9781888538021 Buy this book from NHBS.com

  • Pocket Photo Guide to the Birds of Ecuador and Galapagos

    | By Clive Byers | Bloomsbury Publishing | (2017) | Paperback | 144 pages, colour photos | Out of Print | ISBN: 9781472937902 Buy this book from NHBS.com

  • Wildlife of Ecuador

    | A Photographic Field Guide to Birds, Mammals, Reptiles, and Amphibians By Andrés Vásquez Noboa, illustrated by Pablo Cervantes Daza | Princeton University Press | Paperback | April 2017 | 286 Pages | 341 Distribution Maps | 411 Colour Photographs | See Fatbirder Review ISBN: 9780691161365 Buy this book from NHBS.com
Birding Aps

  • All Birds Ecuador

    Apple iOS |
    | (A complete field guide to identify all bird species recorded in Ecuador - incl. songs + calls!) | Mullen & Pohland GbR | 2.3 GB | Requires iOS 11.0 or later. |

    Planning to go bird watching in Ecuador? Then this is the app for you. This app fills a gap in the region and is the only app available for Ecuador! It is based on renowned reference work of the Helm Guide Series "Birds of Northern South America" by Robin Restall, Clemencia Rodner, and Miguel Lentino. The creation of apps from the book is a co-production between Bloomsbury Plc and Sunbird Images. The app contains 5,000 illustrations and more than 3,000 bird songs and calls in total.

  • Birds of Ecuador

    Android
    This is the interactive mobile field guide version of The Birds of Ecuador by Robert S. Ridgely and Paul J. Greenfield. Like the paper edition, it is the most complete and authoritative field guide to the more than 1600 bird species found throughout Ecuador. Every distinct plumage is covered in superb, high-quality color illustrations. This mobile version includes all of the content included in the print edition, and much more.

    Upgraded for 2021 and newer android version This new version of the app fixes a bug that caused issues for a few users when first opening the app. It also has a few other performance improvements and new content! Enjoy the app and happy birding!
Museums & Universities

  • Andes and Amazon Field School

    Website
    Experience the Amazon while completing an internship, fulfilling requirements for the undergraduate degree, carrying out graduate projects, studying Quichua, teaching, or researching. Open to adventurous students and alumni from any college or university…

  • Guandera Biological Station

    Information
    The volunteer program at Guandera offers a unique oppportunity to live and work in the only extensive primary inter-Andean cloud forest in Ecuador. The forest is awe-inspiringly beautiful. Giant ancient trees, twisted and gnarled, coated with mosses and orchids, extend into a thick green canopy that hangs in the mists overhead. The expansive Andean grasslands above are equally impressive with their panomaric vistas of snow-capped volcanoes and their lush gardens of soft-leaved Frailejon plants.
Organisations

  • Aves Y Conservación

    Website
    Our mission is to contribute to the conservation of birds, their habitats and the biodiversity of Ecuador, for the benefit of the people and with their active participation.

  • Fundacion Jatun Sacha

    Information
    Welcome to the Jatun Sacha Foundation - Research and teaching for the conservation of Ecuador’s Biodiversity

  • Fundacion Natura

    Website
    Natura Foundation is dedicated to activities of conservation of the biological diversity of Ecuador. The main actions carried out are aimed at supporting the management of protected natural areas (national parks, ecological reserves and others) where most of the country's biological diversity is located.

  • Nature Conservancy

    Webpage
    We work in one of the biggest biodiversity hotspots on Earth: protecting this country's nature is imperative for global human wellbeing.

  • Rainforest Concern

    Website
    https://www.rainforestconcern.org/projects?cat=ecuador

  • World Land Trust Ecuador

    Website
    World Land Trust’s work in Ecuador spans the country from rainforests of the Amazon basin, dry forests towards the Pacific coast, to cloud forest and Paramo of the Andes. Despite its small size (not much bigger than the UK), the diversity of its habitats makes it one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. With 1,600 bird species, it has 17% of the world’s total bird species and 16,000 species of plants (25% of which are endemic).
Reserves

Abbreviations Key

  • *List of national parks in Ecuador

    InformationSatellite View
    Interactive list of National Parks, Ecological Reserves, Biological Reserves, Wildlife Refuges etc

  • BR San Jorge de Quito Botanical Reserve

    InformationSatellite View
    San Jorge de Quito Botanical Reserve is located 10 minutes from the main avenue of Quito city. Its part of the 10.000 hectares Pichincha Protected Forest that surrounds the western area of the capital. San Jorge is the only private reserve speciaised in birdwatching in Quito. Actually it is the only reserve that has trails and feeders for birds and touristic birdwatching service in all the city. Cover 3 climate zones, Andean valley, Highland Rain Forest and Paramo. There are around 30km of trails and a 110 bird species inventory. Hummingbird feeders, tanagers and finches feeders are observable in the gardens of the historical colonial hacienda. The perfect place to birdwatch in pristine nature without leaving the city.

  • BiR Bigal River Biological Reserve

    WebsiteSatellite View
    Biodiversity levels within Bigal River Biological Reserve boundaries and surrounding areas are incredibly high. Close location of Sumaco Volcano (3732 meters), a mere ecological haven, is incrementing chances of endemism amongst native flora and fauna. The area’s botanical level of diversity is one of the highest in Ecuador, harboring many unique species. Furthermore, the Bigal River´s banks, from its source on the outskirts of the volcano at 1500 metros de altura, until it reaches the Payamino River at 300 metres above sea level, represents a biological corredor of ultimate importance and that needs urgent protection.

  • BiR Kinde Sacha

    WebsiteSatellite View
    Formarse como un Centro de Observación de aves liderando en el manejo ambiental y la conservación de la especies para ser reconocidos por brindar un servicio de calidad…

  • BiR San Jorge De Milpe

    WebpageSatellite View
    Positively bursting with life, with an abundance of butterflies, moths, plants, reptiles, mammals, including 300 species of orchids, and over 450 species of birds. This private pristine natural reserve is connected to 15,000 hectares Mashpi Canyon Protected Forest. Located at 1,000 meters o.s.l., this transition area (Upper Tropical Forest) provides excellent opportunities to observe birds and natural untouched environments, less than 2 hours from Quito. The Tropical Rainforest features well-kept birding trails, 11 waterfalls, and a hilltop birding area with a 360º view of the surrounding valley forests and fields. It is the perfect place to go birding and watch mixed flocks come through - with the possibility of up to 70 species before breakfast! Milpe is in the vicinity of Mindo, one of the world's most famous birding areas, and a major birdwatching destination in the world. Birds to see: Banded-ground Cuckoo, Glistening-green Tanager, Esmeraldas Antbird, Blue-fronted Parrotlet, Red-masked Parakeet, Tiny Hawk, Double-toothed Kite, Osprey, Plumbeous Forest Falcon, Long Wattled Umbrella Bird, Dark-backed Wood Quail, Gray and Gold Tanager, Olive finch.

  • BiR Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary

    WebsiteSatellite View
    San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Reserve (1500m) is part of the Choco Bird Area of northwest Ecuador where many as 500 species endemic birds live. Here nature lovers and birders have the opportunity to take in spectacular panoramic views and spot a wide variety of Cloud Forest birds. Twenty-four varieties of hummingbirds are found here throughout the year along with numerous species of tanagers. Common Birds include: Grass-green Tanager, Blue-winged Mountain Tanager, Andean Cock of the Rock, Smoke-colored Pewee, Tropical Kingbird, Social Flycatcher, White-capped Dipper, Roadside Hawk, Cinamon Becard, Ecuadorian Thrush and Great Thrush.

  • NP Machalilla

    InformationSatellite View
    The Machalilla National Park, is the unique protected area in the country where you can find three ecological zones: Continental zone, Islands and Marine zone. Located south of the Manabí Province, this National Park is one of the best alternatives to know and enjoy these important eco-systems as well as learn about the different cultures dwelling these region…

  • NP Podocarpus

    InformationSatellite View
    Ecuador's southernmost national park is a hidden gem. Large tracts of virgin forest shelter a bewildering array of climates and residents; some of the most spectacular scenery lies within easy access of Loja and Vilcabamba. Even as poaching, illegal colonizing, and especially mining take their toll on Podocarpus, the relative few tourists that visit come away knowing they've seen something special - whether it's the fairy-tale high-altitude forest or one of the flashier of the park's hundreds of bird species.

  • NP Sangay

    WebpageSatellite View
    Some 400-500 bird species may be present, although comprehensive inventories have not been compiled. The park contains two Endemic Bird Areas, the Central Andean páramo, home to ten bird species of restricted range, and the Eastern Andes of Ecuador and northern Peru, home to 15 restricted-range species…

  • NP Sumaco Galeras

    WebsiteSatellite View
    Wildsumaco Wildlife Sanctuary S.A., a small private company dedicated to conservation, is determined to save what we can of this fine forest and its wildlife before it disappears. Our land is a choice, sustainable and bird-rich piece of rainforest, and as an important part of our conservation plan we are building a comfortable and convenient lodge for 20 guests on land that was previously cleared for farming. Wildsumaco Lodge should be completed and ready for guests in late 2007…

  • NR Antisana Ecological Reserve

    WebpageSatellite View
    Above an altitude of 4800 meters very little vegetation exists, as this area is covered with snow year-round. Between 3600 & 4800 meters, however, we entered a habitat called the paramo, in which the plant and animal life are both highly adapted to the extreme conditions which are the norm here. Due to the high winds that regularly sweep this habitat, nothing taller than the grass and low lying succulents are found in the open…

  • NR Dos Reservas Papallacta

    WebsiteSatellite View
    Dos Reservas, located between Papallacta and Cuyuja, is a unique destination for nature and biodiversity enthusiasts. Recognized as a birdwatching hotspot, it is home to a variety of species, including the Torrent Duck and the Quetzal.

  • NR Los Cedros

    WebsiteSatellite View
    There can be few experiences as wildly enchanting as waking up that first morning in the cloud forest. First the low guttural moan of the howler monkey draws you out of your sleep, the jungle alarm clock! And then your ears and imagination are overwhelmed by the morning crescendo of hundreds of delightfully different and new bird calls…

  • NR Rio Guaycuyacu

    WebsiteSatellite View
    Resident animals include monkey, ocelot, jaguarundi, kinkajou, tayra, agouti; spiders and snakes, butterflies and beetles. 170 species of birds are on our list of sightings, among them four species of toucans. Characteristic plants include copal, rubber, pambil palm, tree fern, passion flowers and bromeliads.

  • NR Sachatamia

    WebsiteSatellite View
    A private reserve which sports an Umbrellabird lek… Sachatamia is a marvelous, private, ecological reserve exceeding 120 hectares of cloud-rain forest. Other areas include recuperated forest, as well as, forest undergoing processes of reforestation. Sachatamia has the privilege of being located next to the Protected Forest of Mindo-Nambillo. The zone is renowed as one of the foremost in terms of the wealth of biodiversity that is rich in flora and fauna. it has attained first place in the annual count of bird species on a global level.

  • NR Tinalandia

    WebsiteSatellite View
    Tinalandia rests on the Western slope of the the Ecuadorian Andes at the southern end of the Choco Bioregion which stretches from Columbia to Ecuador. The late ornithologist Ted Parker and botanist Al Gentry proclaimed this area to be the most bio-diverse region in the world, and the ideal location of Tinalandia at 2000 feet takes advantage of most of what this region has to offer. Located about 2 hours from Quito, Tinalandia is one of the most accessible wildlife areas from the Ecuadorian capital. Tinalandia is perhaps best known for its exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Over 350 species, have been recorded by some of the world`s most renowned birding experts.

  • NR Yanahurco, Cotacachi - Cayapas Reserve

    WebsiteSatellite View
    Considered one of the most important protected areas in the world due to its high biodiversity. Do the adventure activities until you reach the summit of the Yanahurco hill.

  • WR Yanayacu

    WebpageSatellite View
    San Jorge de Cosanga - Yanayacu Wildlife Reserve, located at 2400m and joined to the Antizana National Park holds the world record Christmas Bird Count for 2011 with 460 bird species. Surrounded by several National Parks such as Cayambe-Coca, Sumaco, Napo Galeras, Antizana is one of the most remote and pristine areas in the country . 60 miles from Quito.

  • WRs Cuyabeno

    InformationSatellite View
    The bird life is particularly spectacular: over 515 species have been recorded such as the prehistoric-looking hoatzin, umbrella bird, blue-headed parrots, white-eared jacamar, scarlet macaw and the awesome harpy-eagle with its eight-foot wing-span…
Guides & Tour Operators

  • BirdQuest

    Tour Operator
    The Ultimate specialities tour of both slopes of the Andes and the Chocó

  • Birding Ecotours

    Tour Operator
    Ecuador lies both on the equator and over the spine of the Andes, affording it some spectacular birding. The western slope holds some staggering birding, especially hummingbirds — from the amazingly long-billed Sword-billed Hummingbird to the visual candy of Velvet-purple Coronet. Antpittas, owls, tanagers, and the many Choco specialties make the western slope so appealing…

  • Birds By BIJS

    Tour Operator
    Ecuador is a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Boasting a whopping 1632 species of birds, hundreds of orchid species, striking wildlife, and vibrant culture, Ecuador has so much to experience.

  • Dana Tours

    Tour Operator
    Any birding tour in Ecuador will definitely be an unforgettable experience, taking you along diverse landscapes and the best birding sites in the world.

  • Eagle-Eye Tours

    Tour Operator
    Imagine dazzling flocks of multicolored Tanagers flitting through the mists of an east slope cloud forest...

  • Ecuador & Galapagos Insiders

    Local Tour Operator
    Ecuador, and its amazing cloud forest is a paradise for birdwatchers, our Ecuador Birding tour offers the chance to explore areas with about 330 different species of birds, many of which are more easily found here than anywhere else in the world

  • Ecuador Birds Tours

    Local Tour Operator
    We are a Local Expert Birding Team specialized in Birding and Wildlife Tours in Ecuador including Airport Transfers, Private Transportation, Excellent Birding Lodges, Exotic Birding Reserves and Hidden Natural Gems, Observation Towers, Waterfall and Orchids, Top Birding Guides, Delicious Ecuadorian Food, Local Flights, Quality Services and Recommended in Trip Advisor.

  • Exploraves

    Local Tour Operator
    BIRDING TOURS ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

  • FieldGuides

    Tour Operator
    Discover what makes Ecuador one of the greatest birding tour destinations on Earth in this overview of Field Guides itineraries.

  • Magic Birding Circuit

    Local Tour Operator
    The Magic Birding Circuit, the first of its kind in Latin America, owns five nature reserves , three birding lodges plus birding van fleet. Enjoy all-inclusive birdwatching , photography & natural history tours in eight eco-systems within a two hour radius of Quito. Experience our birdwatching tours and eco-adventures at their best as you visit the High Barren Plains, Highland Rainforest, Paramo, Cloud Forest and Tropical Rainforest. We also own three Eco-Lodges which are located inside the reserves! San Jorge Eco-Lodges are beautiful, rustic, comfortable and environmentally friendly, providing quality services. Exclusive trips offer 1,300 species, 60 Hummingbirds, 45 Tumbesian and Choco endemic birds , orchids, butterflies, flora-fauna, waterfalls

  • Naturalist Journeys

    Tour Operator
    Ecuador birding tours with Naturalist Journeys are the perfect way to immerse in the birds of Ecuador, as well as in Ecuador's rich culture. We strive to get to know the local culture and take in a sense of place while we are birding in Ecuador.

  • NatureTrek

    Tour Operator
    Once part of the Inca Empire, Ecuador came under Spanish rule in 1563 until it achieved independence in 1822.

  • Neblina Forest

    Tour Operator
    Neblina Forest is an ECUADORIAN company established in 1994 to promote Ecuador's avifauna and its wilderness. However, after six years of running nature and birding trips to Ecuador and the Gal

  • Neotropical Nature & Birding Trips

    Tour Operator
    Looking to make the most of your time in Quito?

  • Oriole Birding

    Tour Operator
    This Ecuador birding tour makes a perfect holiday for anyone who wants to see some of the most iconic birds of South America with as much ease and comfort as possible...

  • Rockjumper Birding Tours

    Tour Operator
    Ecuador

  • Tandayapa Bird Tours

    Local Tour Operator
    Over 600 bird species occur within a two hour drive of Tandayapa Bird Lodge. Experienced guides will take you to the best sites in Northwest Ecuador and help you find the specialities of the Choc

  • Tropical Birding Tours

    Tour Operator
    The Neotropics are widely regarded as being packed with thousands of confusing birds in difficult birding conditions. This can be true, but the rewards of birding here are unsurpassed.

  • WINGS

    Tour Operator
    Ecuador: Mindo and the Northwest Andes

  • Wild About Travel – Ecuador

    Tour Operator
    Wild About Travel specialises in wildlife holidays, bird watching tours and culture tours to the countries that we and our local partners know best – India, Ecuador, Panama, Sri Lanka and Spain.
Trip Reports

  • 2019 [09 September] - Dom The Birder

    Report
    Most birders visit Ecuador as part of an organized tour, and most of the online trip reports are either from tour guide leaders or their clients. There is nothing wrong with that – a lot of this information is very good. However, there are far fewer resources available for those who want to “go it alone” and bird Ecuador independently, so I hope that this report is especially useful for those who don’t want to shell out the big bucks for a tour.

  • 2020 [01 January] - Anres Vasquez

    PDF Report
    Once again this tour has proven why it is the best-selling tour we have. The large amount of birds found in only 8 days of birding is unmatched, as is the variety of ecosystems that we bird at; from the steamy and hot rainforest lowlands of Silanche to the high paramo above 14000ft in Antisana, and from the cloud forests of Tandayapa to the dry scrub valleys of Calacali, plus the various transitional ecosystems in between. With 382 species of birds recorded in only 8 birding days, this tour can be difficult to beat.

  • 2020 [02 February] - Anres Vasquez

    PDF Report
    The second Introtour of the year and the second one I had the pleasure to guide in a row. This was a great way for me to show you that every single time we run this itinerary only great fun can come out of it. This one, compared to the previous tour ran back in January had better luck in terms of weather and in terms of some rarities seen but not in terms of total numbers. This just proves that regardless of the conditions, the tour always delivers so much.

  • 2021 [01 January] - Sam Woods

    PDF Report
    This Andes Introtour did what it set out to do; show people the wonder and extraordinary diversity of tropical birds, in the mountains of Ecuador.

  • 2021 [03 March] - Andres Vasquez

    PDF Report
    Not only was the birding was superb, scoring lots of outstanding birds and seldom seen rarities, but also the group was so enjoyable; all participants got along so well that laughs and good camaraderie were constant throughout the tour. These dynamics were particularly great during a tour during the pandemic, when it is even more important to be respectful and considerate for others to avoid unnecessary exposure.

  • 2021 [06 June] - Sam Woods

    PDF Report
    This tour aimed to introduce those who took part to an extraordinarily rich part of South America, the Andes of Northwest Ecuador, which is situated in the wet Choco bioregion.

  • 2021 [08 August] - Sam Woods

    PDF Report
    This Ecuador tour is one of the most popular tours for Tropical Birding and looking back at our 8 days of birding it was easy to understand why. We spent the whole time in the Andes (at varied sites ranging in elevations from 500m/1640ft up to 4100m/13,450ft during the main tour and high Andes extension). The main tour was spent on the western slope of the Andes Mountains, in the Choco bioregion of Northwest Ecuador, which brought some specialty birds...

  • 2021 [10 October] - Jose Illanes - Eastern Ecuador

    PDF Report
    This short tour visited a fantastic lodge in the foothills of the Andes on the east slope, but also squeezed in some birds of higher elevations on the way there. It was a great tour, with some of the special and most popular birds seen including White-lored and Plain-backed Antpittas, Gray-tailed Piha, Plain-winged Antwren, Brown Nunlet, Coppery-chested Jacamar, White-chested Puffbird, White-chested Swift, Ecuadorian Piedtail, Black- throated Brilliant, Buff-throated Tody-Tyrant, Military Macaw, Green-backed and Ecuadorian Hillstars, Andean Cock of the Rock, Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe, and Gould’s Jewelfront. Our final tally was over 270 species, of which more than 230 were seen by at least one in the group

  • 2021 [11 November] - Galo Real

    PDF Report
    This 18-day northern Ecuador set departure tour began at 9,350 feet (2,850 meters) above sea level in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. From here we explored to the east, stopping at the Antisana Ecological Reserve for the iconic Andean Condor and many other highland specials. As we continued east up and over the Papallacta Pass, at 14,000 feet (4,200 meters), the scenery quickly changed from Inter-Andean valley grasslands to Polylepis Elfin forest and paramo. We then continued down the slope to the Guango River where we saw a variety of hummers including the ridiculous-looking Sword-billed Hummingbird and a multitude of mixed tanager flocks.

  • 2022 [02 February] - Daniel Lien

    PDF Report
    ...A share of which were heard only. The avian highlights must be the more than 60 species of Hummingbirds, Crested and Spectacled Owl, 30 + species of Tanager, Sunbittern, incredible views of the Torrent Duck, Toucan Barbet and Plate-billed Mountain-toucan, the Cock-of-the-Rock and Umbrellabird. And perhaps the best moment, after many attempts, the outrageous views of the Lyre-tailed Nightjar...

  • 2022 [03 March] - Vivian Jacobs

    PDF Report
    Our trip resulted in 715 bird species, the highest number of species for any of our trips so far. The highlight birds for our group were Sunbittern, Andean Condor, Great Jacamar, Ecuadorian Hillstar, Horned Screamer, Sapayoa, Plate-billed Mountain Toucan, Hoatzin, Black-and-white Antbird, Black-spotted Bare-eye, Orange-eyed Flatbill and the many owls (e.g. Great Horned, Spectacled, and Black-banded). We also saw a nice selection of mammals, including a range of monkey species, Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus) in Papallacta, and Lowland Tapir (Tapirus terrestris) and Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) in Sani. Snakes were also common, we saw Fer de Lance (Bothrops asper) twice in Canandé Reserve as well as other species of snakes...

  • 2022 [04 April] - Dave Sargeant

    Report
    ...Several hours produced a reasonable selection including Green Thorntail, Sickle-winged Guan, Empress Brilliant, Purple-throated Woodstar and Strong-billed Woodcreeper...

  • 2022 [04 April] - Jean Hugé

    PDF Report
    ... I managed to see and hear my first Croaking Ground Doves, which are scarce in the Quito area. I also spotted a stunning male Vermilion Flycatcher, and Black-and-White Seedeaters in an overgrown orchard north of the hotel along Calle Luis Burbano. The hotel lobby/seating area has been turned in a bird hide – ideal conditions to watch the birds in the garden while processing your jetlag. Three species of hummingbirds were present in the garden: the Western Emerald, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird and Sparkling Violetear. I had great views of Blue-gray Tanagers, and of the rarer Scrub Tanagers and Blue-and-Yellow Tanagers. Around the hotel, I also spotted Golden Grosbeak, Hooded Siskin, Cinereous Conebill, Tropical Mockingbird, Streakthroated Bush-Tyrant and many Saffron Finches...

  • 2022 [10 October] - Luis Gonzalez

    PDF Report
    Obviously, in such a short time, I couldn’t get all the targets of the region and I even missed some expected targets, but with seeing 40 species of Hummingbirds, 57 species of Tanager and allies, and point-blank views of 8 of the 11 Antpittas encountered throughout the trip, I can only say it was a success!

  • 2022 [11 November] - Bram Vogels

    PDF Report
    ...Going back to our hotel we added Lava gull, Nazca booby, Ruddy turnstone, Spotted sandpiper and Elliot’s storm petrel and Brown noddy just from the city center...

  • 2022 [11 November] - Galo Real - Northern Ecuador, Birding Paradise

    PDF Report
    This 16-day Ecuador birding tour across the north of the country covered both the eastern and western slopes of the Andes, giving us a large selection of classic neotropical birds. We started in the capital, Quito, before heading west to the Mindo area and the Ecuadorian Chaco, where we found iconic species, including Sword-billed Hummingbird, Plate-billed Mountain Toucan, Long-wattled Umbrellabird, Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Golden-headed Quetzal, Moustached Antpitta, and Powerful Woodpecker, to name but a few. As we moved east of Quito, we encountered the likes of Andean Condor, Giant Hummingbird, and other high Andean specials at Antisana Ecological Reserve. From here, we continued east, staying over in the San Isidro area and at Wildsumaco Lodge in the east Andean foothills, where we encountered Torrent Duck, Paradise Tanager, White-bellied Antpitta, Military and Chestnut-fronted Macaws, and an array of other sought-after species.

  • 2023 [01 JanuaRY] - Birding Ecotours

    PDF Report
    ...We recorded many iconic South American birds, such as Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Torrent Duck, White-capped Dipper, Lyre-tailed Nightjar, Oilbird and some of the most sought-after western specials and Chocó endemics, such as Toucan Barbet, Plate-billed Mountain Toucan, Moss-backed Tanager, Black Solitaire, Orange-breasted Fruiteater, Glistening-green Tanager, Rufousthroated Tanager, Chocó Trogon, Chocó Vireo, Chocó Toucan and Scarlet-breasted Dacnis, to name a few...

  • 2023 [01 January] - Rob Jansen

    PDF Report
    ...We still observed Golden-plumed Parakeet, Bearded Guan (both of which turned out to be quite common in the reserve) and many Orangebanded Flycatchers. Playing the tape of the latter brought in 8 individuals!

  • 2023 [09 September] - Rob Furrow

    PDF Report
    ...When Danny Karp and I (Rob Furrow) conceived of the trip, we knew we had only a short time to spend in Ecuador, so we decided to focus on seeing as many habitats as possible to observe maximal biodiversity, rather than dedicate extra time to specifically target local and endemic birds...

  • 2023 [11 November 1] - Carlos Sanchez

    PDF Report
    After various transfers from the international airport in Quito and Coca (from the previous Ultimate Amazon Ecuador segment), we gathered in the historic dining room of the Cultura Manor Hotel. This stunning old hacienda won the architectural prize for the city of Quito in 1933! After getting to know each other and a briefing of the upcoming trip, we settled in for the night for an early flight the following morning.

  • 2023 [11 November 2] - Carlos Sanchez

    PDF Report
    After various transfers from the international airport in Quito, we gathered in the evening at the restaurant of our hotel where we enjoyed a fantastic meal and discussed our birding plans for the next few days of the tour

  • 2023 [11 November] - Wes Larson

    PDF Report
    : We saw an astounding number of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians (and butterflies) on our unforgettable trip to the cloud forests, rainforests and mountains of Ecuador. Avian highlights included too many hummingbirds to count, Scarlet Macaw, Yellow-throated Toucan, Toucan Barbet, Agami Heron, Masked Trogon, Longwattled Umbrellabird, tons of tanagers, flocks of parrots, Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Crested Heron, Hoatzin, Zigzag Heron, Equatorial Antpitta, Blue-and-yellow Macaw, Andean Condor, Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl and many more! However, the bird voted most memorable and impressive by our group was the White-booted Racket-tail (bird of the trip). It wasn’t an easy decision though, and we had a lot of candidates for bird of the trip as we truly saw such an amazing amount of beautiful and charismatic birds.

  • 2023 [11 November] -Henk Hendriks

    PDF Report
    This was my fifth trip to Ecuador and this time I mainly focussed on missing target species in the North West (Choco area), the Eastern foothills and in the Amazonian lowlands. After finishing my succesful trip to South Ecuador in February 2020 with Marcelo Quipo I made an arrangment with him to do this trip end of 2020.

  • 2023 [12 December] - Andrea Molina

    PDF Report
    Experiencing Ecuadorian culture, staying in colonial haciendas, birding in National Parks and exploring the highlands, sometimes above 13.000 feet!

  • 2023 [12 December] - Jim Rose

    Report (Blog)
    This blog documents a birding trip undertaken by five members of the Buckinghamashire Bird Club departing on 20th November and returning on 4th December 2023. The aim of the trip was to explore the southern parts of Ecuador and to see as many birds as possible with a particular interest in any scarce species, those with restricted ranges and Hummingbirds. Four members of the group had visited Ecuador before but in areas in the north of the country and closer to Quito. We used the services of Diego Cruz from Ecuador Birds Tours (https://www.ecuadorbirdstours.com) to organise the trip and he arranged for our guide, plus transport and all accommodation. We just had to arrange our flights to Guayaquil.

  • 2024 [02 February 1] - Dušan Brinkhuizen

    PDF Report
    Our birding journey started at the hotel in Quito, where a Tropical Mockingbird was among the first birds we saw. Continuing our way to the Yanacocha Reserve, we made several stops, spotting species such as Plaincolored Seedeater and a striking male Blacktailed Trainbearer...

  • 2024 [02 February 2] - Dušan Brinkhuizen

    PDF Report
    Our Antisana day trip started at the observation deck of Tambo Condor, where we enjoyed some warmbaked Carlitos brought in from Pintag as a snack. The hummingbirds here put on quite a show, with species like Sparkling Violetear, Shining Sunbeam, Tyrian Metaltail, Great Sapphirewing, dazzling us with their vibrant colors and swift movements.

  • 2024 [02 February] - George Watola

    PDF Report
    Having first visited Ecuador in February 2020, just before Covid struck, I was keen to get back and see some target species and explore a lot more of the country. My non-birder wife Julia (though her eyes and ears are far better than mine) was accompanying me, so it wouldn’t be particularly hardcore birding dawn to dusk. A couple of quotes for guided birding over a week or so worked out as more than my intended month’s budget, so it then became a matter of arranging the best independent means of seeing many birds.

  • 2024 [03 March] - Andrea Molina

    PDF Report
    Southern Ecuador contains several restricted and endangered ecosystems ranging from swamps, deserts, arid scrub, deciduous forests, rainforests, montane cloud forests, high altitude elfin forests, and paramo

  • 2024 [03 March] - Bruce Wedderburn

    Report
    This was five-week birding trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, which took a lot of planning in order to optimise travel logistics and birding opportunities.
Places to Stay

  • Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve

    Accommodation
    Visit Bellavista, a cloud forest lodge and 700 hectare reserve 1 hour 40 minutes northwest of Quito - look for the 330 plus bird species seen within the reserve and in the surrounding Tandayapa Valley. Specialities include Tanager-Finch, Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan, White-faced Nunbird, Toucan Barbet, Dark-backed Wood-Quail, Ocellated Tapaculo, Giant Antpitta and many more. Bellavista is right in the middle of the Hummingbird Capital of the World and many visit our feeders daily, including Gorgeted Sunangel, Collared Inca, Brown Inca, Violet-tailed Sylph, Booted Racket-tail, Purple-bibbed Whitetip, and Buff-tailed Coronet. 10km of trails, unique and comfortable lodging in the Geodesic Dome, Bamboo House, Trailhead House or Cabin in the Woods. Camping or hostelling options for the budget-minded - electricity, hot showers, private bath, full bar service, hammocks, and library; Spanish, English, French and German spoken. Specialist bird guide available.

  • Black Sheep Inn

    Accommodation
    The Black Sheep Inn is an inexpensive ecologically friendly hotel high in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. Perched on a hillside our rural lodge is a perfect place to discover centuries-old culture and diverse ecosystems. Our comfortable hostel offers affordable accommodation and provides you with a great base

  • Boutique Hotel Cultura Manor

    Accommodation
    Quito hotel

  • Cabanas San Isidro

    Accommodation
    Cabañas San Isidro was first founded as a typical Ecuadorian Hacienda-style cattle ranch over forty years ago by the Bustamante Family of Quito, Ecuador. Always with a deep concern for proper natural resource management as well as for the urgent need to protect the unique flora and fauna of the zone, Simón Bustamante left the majority of his vast property untouched and forested.

  • Casa del Suizo

    Accommodation
    La Casa del Suizo is a tranquil Amazonian refuge located on the shore of Ecuador

  • Cuyabeno Lodge

    Accommodation
    When Cuyabeno Lodge started operating in 1986, Neotropic Turis believed that the rainforest traveler should be hosted in conditions, which would be both in harmony with the surrounding environment and attuned with the needs of the modern visitor. Operating as an ethical eco-lodge, we work with local indigenous guides together with bilingual naturalist guides and have a close relationship with the local community, power our dining hall with solar panels and practice environmentally sensitive tourism in all aspects of our programs.

  • El Monte Lodge

    Accommodation
    Is an ecotourism operation that consists of three wooden cabins and a central lodge for dining and socializing. We have designed El Monte with sustainability in mind and use Permaculture as a general guideline while organically producing many of our own fruits and vegetables

  • El Nido B&B

    Accommodation
    El Nido Bed & Breakfast is located in Cumbay

  • Hacienda Zuleta

    Accommodation
    Dating from the late XVI century, Hacienda Zuleta lies in the spectacular Andean mountain range of Ecuador at 9,600 feet (2,800 meters) above the sea level, and only two hours north of Quito, the capital of Ecuador

  • Hotel Bambu

    Accommodation
    This newly-built hostal run by a friendly Dutch- Ecuadorian couple provides the best in seaside R&R, while the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities to quench your thirst for adventure

  • Huasquila Amazon Lodge

    Accessible Accommodation
    Huasquila Amazon Lodge is the best way to discover the magic of the Amazon with all senses for nature lovers in an exclusive, accessible and responsible way. Located at 2750 feet above sea level, Huasquila

  • Kapawi Ecolodge

    Accommodation
    Kapawi is a great place for birding. In ten days you can get a list of almost 400 species. The river islands often have Horned Screamers and Orinici Geese. Muscovy Ducks are more prevalent than at any other place and they are even in the Kapawi Lake. Pavonine Quetzals are nesting on the Kapawi-Montalvo trail as the Rofous Potoo, and there are also black necked, red cotingas, pearly antshrikes and pheasant cuckoo.

  • La Selva Jungle Lodge

    Accommodation
    At LA SELVA Jungle Lodge, situated high on Lake Garzacocha, deep in the Ecuadorian Amazon region, we offer you the ultimate in luxury jungle experience. Ours is a very special way to visit the Amazon rainforest, and we hope that this web page will answer many of your questions about how to visit us. We have many exciting excursions that will give you a genuine feeling for this important, beautiful and richly biodiverse region of the world. It is our hope that your stay with us will give you an experience of, and a relationship with our jungle which you will never in your life forget.

  • Las Terrazas de Dana - Mindo

    Website
    Ecuador currently accounts for 0.03 percent of the planet’s surface and despite its small territory contains one of the largest concentrations of birds in the world, with about 1,600 species. Ecuador belongs to biodiversity hotspot regions of the world, in which is a large number of endemic plant and animal species and their nature is particularly vulnerable and attractive. Conservation biologists have found that viewed globally, such regions with a high density of endemic species are generally near the equator, like it’s the case of Mindo and Ecuador too...

  • Mindo Garden Lodge

    Accommodation
    Mindo Garden is a deluxe hotel for the naturalist who wants something extra. Excellent local and international cuisine; only a few steps from the reserve. Our private forest and sub-tropical vegetation includes orchids, bromeliads, anturios, giant ferns, a variety of old trees, hummingbird feeders and much more…

  • Sacha Lodge

    Accommodation
    Imagine yourself drifting down a narrow, winding creek surrounded on all sides by a lush, endless sea of tropical greenery. All that separates you from the deep black Amazon waters is a canoe hand-carved out of a single tree trunk. As you manoeuvre around a bend something unidentified crashes off into the underbrush, and you catch a glimpse of two magnificent, colourful macaws startled into flight. Suddenly, the forest erupts with a roar so loud that all you can imagine is some giant, fierce predator on the prowl. But as you turn to face your destiny, the menace is revealed as a family of furry red howler monkeys huddled together in a treetop. With a sigh of relief you continue onward, deeper into the unknown.

  • Sachatamia Lodge

    Accommodation
    The Lodge is located in a private reserve next to the Protected Forest of Mindo-Nambillo

  • San Jorge Eco Lodges

    Accommodation
    Spectacular legendary mountainside ranch in the foothills surrounding Quito, Ecuador. Only 10 minutes away from city center but a natural and comfortable world apart. San Jorge is an ecologycal way to enjoy nature and countryside, still being close to everything you need about the city. View Quito from above, instead of being down in it.

  • San Jorge Lodges

    Accommodation
    A number of especially designed birding Lodges in Ecuador's prime birding areas

  • Shiripuno Lodge

    Accommodation
    At Shiripuno Amazon Lodge is where birding takes a different dimensions: the core of the Amazonian avifauna in Ecuador is right here. Rare birds, abundance numbers of mixed flock everywhere, typical antbirds, woodcreepers, curassaws, 6 species of manakins in a single trail, our trails are flat in most of the cases

  • Tandayapa Bird Lodge

    Accommodation
    Over 300 bird species have been recorded in the Tandayapa Valley. For the new birder to the Neotropics, Tandayapa Bird Lodge is an excellent place to first experience the marvel of the Andean mixed species feeding flocks. From the Lodge Patio you can see Blue-winged Mountain, Golden, Golden-naped, Beryl-spangled, White-winged, Yellow-rumped, Black-capped, and Metallic Green Tanagers, feeding with Fruiteaters, Becards, Whitestarts, Flower-piercers, Saltators and a myriad of flycatchers. When you walk quietly along one of our trails you will enter the realm of the Sub-oscine Passerines with whole new families such as Woodcreepers, Antbirds, Antthrushes, Antpittas, Tapaculos, Manakins and Cotingas. Luckily there will always be staff and guides available to help with identification.

  • Wildsumaco Lodge

    Accommodation
    New in Ecuador's eastern foothills, Wildsumaco Lodge offers comfortable accommodation in a spectacular setting, near Sumaco National Park. Our 10 double rooms feature private bathrooms with hot water showers. Wildsumaco's still-growing bird list contains nearly 400 species, including Coppery-chested Jacamar, Gray-tailed Piha, Yellow-throated Spadebill, Chestnut-crowned Gnateater and Foothill Elaenia. Many-spotted Hummingbird, Ecuadorian Piedtail and Gould's Jewelfront are among the hummingbirds that frequent our feeders

  • Yachana Amazon Lodge

    Accommodation
    We offer relaxed, comfortable accommodations and a kaleidoscopic range of activities for the ecology minded traveler. Bird watch, bug watch, and frog watch on more than 20 kilometers (7.5 miles) of rain forest trails. Harvest your own dinner from our organic Permaculture Farm and drink lemonade made from wild forest fruit and crystal clear spring water. After a stimulating day, relax in your deck side hammock and watch as the spectacular sunset fades into an amazing chorus of rain forest sounds.

  • Yacuma Lodge

    Accommodation
    Yacuma Lodge has 2 areas: 1 bigger complex of typical quechua bungalows built with traditional materials. All bungalows accomodate 2 guest each with beds, mattresses and mosquito nets. Kitchen and dining areas and a toilet/shower area are located nearby. A smaller area has 3 bungalows with private facilities (toilet/shower).
Other Links

  • Ecuador Forest Birds

    Website
    Two years previously I`d volunteered on the same project, and had thoroughly enjoyed the untangling, but I was a little concerned that I would have to relearn the technique. My fears were groundless and as soon as I touched my first bird, it all came back to me
Photographers & Artists

  • Photographer - Dubi Shapiro

    Gallery
    See many of Dubi's photos on Fatbirder pages

  • Photographer - Dušan Brinkhuizen

    Gallery
    Sapayoa Nature Photography - Ecuador Bird Photo Galleries & more!

  • Photographer - Glen Bartley

    Gallery
    Large gallery of excellent photographs..

  • Photographer - Sam Woods

    Gallery
    I have been based in Quito since 2005 as a base for my guiding job with Tropical Birding. These photos have been taken during many Ecuador tours and trips in that time. With around 1600 species in this small Andean country, Ecuador is one of the most diverse and exciting places to bird on Earth.

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