Mashpi Lodge: What Kind of Guides Work There?

Located in the virgin forest of Chocó, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth and home to thousands of species of plants and animals, Mashpi Lodge represents an unparalleled opportunity to unleash the scientist within and experience the world like never before.

But who can guide you on this incredible journey to discover some of the amazing hidden treasures of nature? What kind of guides work at Mashpi?

Are there guides specialized in birds or other wildlife?

 

Although it may sound cliché, all guides at Mashpi are highly specialized in the bird species that call Mashpi their home. They are also experts in other forms of wildlife inhabiting the area. Some of the guides were raised just a few kilometers from the Mashpi Reserve and draw on their deep knowledge and personal experience to identify, describe, and even mimic the birds of Mashpi and other animals. Their keen eyes can surely identify both large and small species while exploring the visitation sites – like the Life Center and the Hummingbird Garden – or along one of the forest expeditions. Mashpi guides are filled with interesting information, fascinating stories, and accurate data, allowing them to expertly point out endemic plant, animal, and bird species and describe their differences and adaptations in detail.

Are Mashpi Lodge guides biologists?

Not all guides are biologists, but some are. Those who are biologists have master’s degrees in biology and have conducted in-depth research as part of their thesis projects. While all guides have a special knowledge regarding many details of the species present in the Mashpi Reserve, they are also fantastic at simplifying explanations for visitors who do not have professional biology experience.

What kind of training have they received?

All guides working at Mashpi have received advanced first aid certification, which is renewed every two years. Additionally, they conduct monthly emergency evacuation drills, not only from the Lodge but also from the Dragonfly and the Aerial Bike – all of them have specific certification in high-altitude rescue operations.

Often, new guides are hired initially as assistants who accompany the lead guides on expeditions until they acquire all the necessary knowledge to become a lead guide, a process that usually takes between six months and two years.

Guides also receive specialized language training throughout the year to enhance their fluency and pronunciation. All guides speak English and Spanish, but in some cases, Mashpi Lodge subcontracts guides who also speak French and German based on guest requests.

What are the expeditions like?

The expeditions are an incredible experience; an opportunity to see the cloud forest firsthand and observe species in their native habitat. There are four different difficulty levels, meaning that all visitors can enjoy an adventure in the spectacular Mashpi Reserve. Expeditions usually consist of a maximum of four people and one guide. Depending on the selected trails and activities, an assistant (also known as a Local Guide) will accompany the Naturalist Guide to help carry equipment and act as an extra set of eyes and ears, assisting guests and spotting the more elusive species of Mashpi.

Almost all Mashpi guides have been employed by the hotel since its opening, giving them a unique perspective on the history of Mashpi and an unparalleled wealth of knowledge. They work closely together, forming a united and supportive team that will make your journey a perfect, unforgettable, and once-in-a-lifetime adventure.