Skip to content 
The Dragonfly
The Dragonfly
Mashpi’s Dragonfly Canopy Gondola is the definitive way to witness the Reserve’s most exceptional and magical features. Our state-of-the-art open-air gondola provides our Guests with an unparalleled journey that offers exceptional views of the forest while whisking you through, above, and over the verdant canopy.
The dynamic scenery throughout the ride is sure to impress riders, as it showcases majestic views of the forest canopy and a remarkable perspective of the forest floor and its meandering rivers. All in all, the Dragonfly manages to reveal the grand biodiversity of the Choco Biosphere in one go, allowing our guests to soak in as much flora and fauna as possible without needing to exert themselves physically.
Glide over the forest’s heart and delve into Mashpi’s wonders
Certain connecting/supporting towers act as disembarking stations, too. One of them serves as a stop to head down into the forest and experience the Magnolia Waterfall, where guests can even take a dip in its refreshingly cool and revitalizing waters. Another station and its respective trail allow you to take a trek towards the “Jungle Swing,” which will provide you with deeper insights into the forest and take you towards the Laguna River where another waterfall awaits, as do countless species of flora and fauna.
However, the highlight of this trip again is the 360° panoramic view you will have as you glide along the Dragonfly Canopy Gondola’s cable system. You’ll also be in the company of our Naturalist Guide who will provide you with fascinating facts about everything that surrounds you. The encompassing and extraordinary ecosystem of the Andean Choco will reveal itself in a way you have never experienced before, providing you with unforgettable memories. Get ready for an adventure full of emotions and discoveries as you explore the Mashpi forest from the heights of our one-of-a-kind Dragonfly Canopy Gondola!
What’s it like?
The Dragonfly consists of an open-air cable car system that passes through the forest, allowing riders to appreciate 360-degree views. The system consists of four gondolas, two main stations, and six connecting/supporting towers. Each gondola follows the next one at a distance of around 1,640 feet (500 meters) and at a very comfortable speed of 160 feet (50 meters) per minute. All in all, the ride covers a 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) circuit over a select portion of the Mashpi Reserve. The entire roundtrip takes around 40 minutes to complete. Gondolas can carry up to 4 Guests, plus one Naturalist Guide. Our Guides, too, can stop the gondola at any point to allow our Guests to patiently observe any flora and fauna that catches their eye.
Contact us
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!