Birdwatching
The best birdwatching in Ecuador
Birdwatching tour at Mashpi
The world of birdwatching is experiencing an incredible boom, and Ecuador continues to stand out as a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 1,600 bird species residing throughout the country’s diverse habitats. Mashpi Lodge, situated in Ecuador’s spectacular Andean Choco bioregion, is one of the definitive places for birdwatchers to experience countless species of birds while enjoying a luxurious and all-inclusive rainforest expedition hotel as your homebase!
The private Mashpi Reserve, where the Lodge is located, spans 5,000 hectares of untouched cloud and rainforest, making it a hotspot for many birds. Within the Mashpi Reserve, nearly 400 bird species have been identified, with 36 classified as endemic, meaning they can’t be found anywhere else globally. Among them are three different toucan species known for their distinctive beaks and colorful feathers. Such majestic tropical birds are just a glimpse of the incredible diversity of birds that will surround you at Mashpi!
Ready your binoculars and tune your ears
The best way to thoroughly experience Mashpi’s world of birds is by embarking on a comfortable and exciting trek down any of its numerous trails. Each trail offers different insights into the habitats of the forest and the different species of birds that can be found along each path.
Several other activities at Mashpi—such as the Dragonfly Canopy Gondola, Observation Tower, Life Center, and our Hummingbird Garden—will provide extraordinary vantage points to appreciate and marvel at the birds that thrive in the Reserve. In the case of the last option, you’ll be close to and surrounded by the buzzing energy of dozens of colorful hummingbirds!
That being said, you also don’t need to travel far from the Lodge to witness the feathery creatures surrounding us. Whether it be from the comfort of your room and through its floor-to-ceiling windows, the Lodge’s different communal and exterior spaces, the world of Mashpi’s avian friends flourishes right outside and can be admired from the comfort of the Lodge’s extravagant interior.
Achieve greater insight, alongside a seasoned companion
Mashpi Lodge’s Naturalist Guides are passionate bird experts who will share their in-depth knowledge of the local species with you as they take you along each path. From their feeding habits to their mating rituals, they will answer all your questions regarding the birds at Mashpi. The Guides’ impressively keen eyesight and hearing will help you spot them.
Whether you choose to explore with your smartphone or a professional camera, you will have all the time you need to take amazing photos of the birds that inhabit this unique jungle. And while doing so, you’ll listen to the fascinating stories and facts the Guides provide.
Mashpi Lodge represents the pinnacle of birdwatching experiences in Ecuador, inviting all to come and connect with nature unlike anywhere else. So, when you’re ready to explore birdwatching in one of the most amazing places, Mashpi Lodge in Ecuador’s Andean Choco Bioregion is the perfect destination for you!
What’s it like?
Some of our trails are leisurely and flat, ideal for a brief one-hour stroll, like the walk to the Life Center or the Hummingbird Garden. Others, such as the Magnolia and Howler Monkey Trails, present moderate challenges with varying ascents and descents, typically taking over an hour or more to loop around. The forest’s wet and misty conditions can sometimes make trails slippery, so suitable footwear is essential. Whether you’re looking for a short, educational walk or a more demanding hike, Mashpi provides options to suit various physical abilities.
Sandy Lara
Destination Expert
María Emilia de los Reyes
Destination Expert
Rosa Mena
Destination Expert
Rosa has been so helpful planning my trip and her extensive knowledge of the islands is very much appreciated! I will definitely recommend Metropolitan Touring to everyone!