The Maquipucuna Reserve, which is over 6 hectares in size, is only 80 kilometers from downtown Quito. This nature reserve has around 10% of Ecuador’s flora species and 4% of all known bird species on the entire planet! Maquipucuna is categorized as protected forest and has also been declared as an important bird area (IBA).
Visiting the internationally recognized Maquipucuna Ecolodge offers a rare opportunity to witness one of the most spectacular and biologically diverse natural sites in the world. Maquipucuna is home to at least 376 bird species, 45 species of mammals, 250 species of butterflies and over 2000 species of plants. What more can we say about this animal paradise awaiting your discovery?
A sweet escape in the midst of the cloud forest
Maquipucuna Lodge offers a range of accommodations that are located in different buildings.
Cachillacta House
This luxurious cabin overlooks the crystalline Umachaca river and is a minute walk from the main lodge. Two independent spacious suites feature their own private bathroom and balcony and furniture for relaxing.
Ayllu house (Family Cabin)
Families or small groups of friends can have a little more privacy at this classic cabin, which is located 5 minutes from the main Umachaca lodge. The cabin can comfortably sleep up to 6 guests and offers two private bathrooms and a living room.
Tulipe House
Our classic accommodation offers four suites with amazing views of the forest. Each room has double beds and private bathrooms. This joins the Umachaca House by a covered bridge.
Machaca House
For the true nature lovers, the open, comfortable Umachaca House is ideal. The Umacha House sleeps up to 16 guests with double or quad bedrooms each private bathroom.
Scientific Station
The scientific station is perfect for students and researchers alike. It’s equipped with a sink and a kitchenette. The bathrooms are shared and have showers. It’s just a short five minute walk from the main lodge and is adjacent to laboratory space. Of course, you don’t have to be a scientist to appreciate the tranquility and serenity of the view.
The main dining area was built from local materials. The lodge is simple but has a rustic, relaxed and pleasant atmosphere and is a great place to explore the Andean Cloud Forest. The lodge is of a high standard of service and its local guides speak good English.
Amenities and activities
Bird Watching
Observing the spectacled bears
7 hiking trails with different distances and levels of difficulty through the cloud forest
Beautiful waterfall near the lodge where you can cool off after a long walk
A waterhole along the river for swimming
Hammocks available for relaxation
Organic garden orchid garden
Educational safaris during the bear season
Local nature guides: perfect for bird watching or excursions for all types of wildlife **
Chocolate massage: wonderfully relaxing after a long walk through the cloud forest **
Coffee Tour
Visit to the craft workshop of the municipality of Santa Marianitas **
Tour of the Yumbo (Pre-Inca), the ceremonial center of Tulipe **
Mindo butterfly garden in the Mindo area **
Tourcanopy Ziplines **
What is included?
- 3 meals a day, starting with lunch on day 1
- Entry to the nature reserve
- Transfer Quito-Lodge-Quito
- Guided hikes with the local, English speaking nature guide
- Filtered spring water is available all day
- Lemonade, coffee and herbal teas are available during meals and before bird watching
- Free use of rubber boots
What is NOT included
- Additional meals and drinks
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Activities marked with **
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Tips & personal expenses
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Transfer (from / to the airport or similar transfers)
