North America and the Caribbean

Blank Title84827

with World Bird Sanctuary
Date:
Sep 25 - Oct 2, 2022
Duration:
0 Days
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Mindo cloud forest
Andean Cock-of-the-Rock
Sword-billed Hummingbird
Golden Tanager at Mashpi-Amagusa Reserve
Birding at Refugio Paz de las Aves
Chocó Trogon
Tourmaline Sunangel
Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan
Antisana Volcano
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About this trip

An extraordinary abundance of bird life inhabits the forests of northwestern Ecuador. Amid cloud forest, rainforest, páramo, and the eastern and western slopes of the Andes Mountains, join the World Bird Sanctuary to seek out as many of the country’s 1,640-plus species as possible with assistance from an expert guide on this 10-day adventure. In particular, much of the avifauna you’ll encounter is endemic to the Chocó region, while other species are more easily found here than any place else.

Highlights

  • Seek out the largest raptor in the world and one of the most important symbols of the Andes, the majestic yet threatened Andean Condor.
  • Explore the Chocó ecoregion across a variety of protected areas, including Yanacocha Biological Reserve, Alambi Cloud Forest Reserve, Milpe Bird Sanctuary, Antisana Ecological Reserve, and others.
  • Visit the famed Refugio Paz de las Aves, known as a haven for antpittas and Andean Cocks-of-the-rock.
  • Take in Yanacocha Biological Reserve, a protected area established to safeguard the critically endangered and endemic Black-breasted Puffleg, the official emblematic bird of Quito.
  • Bird the Mashpi-Amagusa Reserve for target species like the Rose-faced Parrot, Orange-breasted Fruiteater, Chocó Vireo, Moss-backed Tanager, and Indigo Flowerpiercer.

Meet Your Leader

Kendahl Chergosky

Kendahl Chergosky is the manager of World Bird Sanctuary's Nature Center. The Nature Center leads hundreds of educational programs every year, aimed towards increasing public awareness of raptors and their importance in our ecosystems. 

Before working with birds, Kendahl studied algae while attending college in Minnesota. However, communicating with the public about the importance of science has always been at the forefront of her career goals, graduating with degrees in Field Biology & Communication Studies. Birds are a slightly more straightforward connection people can have with nature (they're easy to find, and everywhere, no microscope needed), which drew her to working alongside these animals. Kendahl has worked at WBS since 2021, and in that time has enjoyed working with a variety of ambassador species, such as Barn Owls, Bald Eagles, Egyptian Vultures, and many others. Her favorite WBS resident is a Bald Eagle named Norbert-- one of the few flying ambassador Bald Eagles currently working in the United States.

The bird Kendahl would most like to see on this trip is an Andean Cock-of-the-Rock!

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Top birding guides

Our in-country birding guides are experts in bird identification and behavior, providing rewarding experiences for everyone from novice birders to ornithologists

Unique Itineraries

Our unique birding itineraries are designed to help strengthen and support tourism in bird hot-spots and support conservation and local economic development.

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Quito
Upon arrival at the Quito airport, you'll be met outside the secured area and transferred to the hotel in nearby Puembo, where the elevation is about 7,700 feet. To minimize your chances of experiencing altitude sickness, try to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, consume high-carbohydrate foods, avoid alcohol and fatty foods, and avoid strenuous exercise at high elevations. Most flights arrive in the evening so no meals are included on this day. Check in starts at 3 pm.
San Jose de Puembo
Mindo
Depart early for Mindo, making several stops en route along the Paseo del Quinde ecoroute, known also as Nono-Mindo Road. Your first stop is at Yanacocha Biological Reserve. Clinging to the slopes of Pichincha Volcano at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet, and comprising 2,371 acres of mostly elfin Polylepis forest, this protected area was established to safeguard the critically endangered and endemic Black-breasted Puffleg. Other high-altitude species include Andean Guan, Rainbow-bearded Thornbill, Golden-breasted and Sapphire-vented Pufflegs, Great Sapphirewing, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Rufous and Tawny Antpittas, Ocellated and Blackish Tapaculos, Black-chested and Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanagers, Golden-crowned Tanager, and many more. After a picnic lunch in the reserve, continue driving with quick stops to look for stunners such as Toucan Barbet, Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan, and Beautiful Jay. While driving down to the lower altitudes of the subtropical forest region, be on the lookout for Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager and White-winged Brush-Finch. Next, stop at Alambi Cloud Forest Reserve, where 250 species-including 32 hummingbirds-have been recorded. The reserve covers a large range of altitudes (4,750 to 7,210 feet) and spans two major basins: the Alambi Valley and the pristine Goaycape Valley. Regulars include Brown Violetear, Booted Racket-tail, Fawn-breasted and Green-crowned Brilliants, and Golden and Silver-throated Tanagers. Continue to Mindo in time for a program orientation and checklist review before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Las Terrazas de Dana
Mindo
This morning, visit Milpe Bird Sanctuary, a 250-acre subtropical rainforest reserve with an altitudinal range of 3,350 to 3,770 feet and protecting an important tract of remnant forest in the Chocó foothills. The Chocó is an ecoregion and biodiversity hotspot that ranges from the Pacific coast of Colombia south to Ecuador, and it supports the largest number of restricted-range birds of any Endemic Bird Area in the Americas, with 62 species. Chocó endemics reliably found at Milpe include Pallid Dove, White-whiskered Hermit, Purple-bibbed Whitetip, Blue-tailed (Chocó) Trogon, Chocó Toucan, Esmeraldas Antbird, Club-winged Manakin, and Rufous-throated Tanager. Endemics that require a little more luck include Plumbeous Forest-Falcon, Long-wattled Umbrellabird, Glistening-green Tanager, and Moss-backed Tanager. The reserve is also famous for its numerous manakin leks, both Club-winged and Golden-winged Manakins. In the afternoon, visit the productive feeders at the family-run San Tadeo Birdwatching. The mix of birds here often includes standouts such as Violet-tailed Sylph, Red-headed Barbet, Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Flame-faced Tanager, Black-capped Tanager, Golden-naped Tanager, and more Chocó endemics: Brown Inca, Velvet-purple Coronet, Empress Brilliant, Dusky Chlorospingus, and Black-chinned Mountain-Tanager. Return to the hotel for evening bird checklist review before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Las Terrazas de Dana
Mindo
Spend the day at Mashpi-Amagusa Reserve, a 320-acre protected area in the Chocó foothills that functions as a critical link between lower subtropical forest and higher montane forest at neighboring Mashpi Lodge. The altitude here ranges from 2,450 to 5,600 feet. The birding is fantastic along this corridor, with many Chocó endemics that are difficult to find elsewhere, such as Rose-faced Parrot, Orange-breasted Fruiteater, Chocó Vireo, Moss-backed Tanager, Black Solitaire (seasonal), and Indigo Flowerpiercer; a few, like Long-wattled Umbrellabird, require a little luck. Feeders on-site have many of the same hummingbirds and tanagers seen at Milpe and offer another great opportunity for photos. Enjoy a boxed lunch during the excursion. On return, visit Balcón Tumpiki, an observatory that attracts antpittas, treerunners, flycatchers, woodcreepers, Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan, and Toucan Barbet. In the afternoon return to the lodge. Evening bird checklist review.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Las Terrazas de Dana
Mindo
Depart early for the one-hour drive to Rio Silanche, another reserve owned and managed by the Mindo Cloudforest Foundation. At an altitudinal range of 985 to 1,150 feet, the reserve sits firmly in the western lowlands, a region of Ecuador that has experienced considerable change from logging, agriculture, and other pressures. Famous for its large mixed flocks, a stroll on the preserve's trails is rewarded with specialties that include Dusky Pigeon, Purple-chested Hummingbird, Orange-fronted Barbet, Stub-tailed Antbird, Black-tipped Cotinga, Slate-throated Gnatcatcher, Gray-and-gold Tanager, Scarlet-breasted Dacnis, Scarlet-browed Tanager, Blue-whiskered Tanager, and many more. Continue to Mirador Rio Blanco for lunch and to check out the feeders. Regular visitors include Green Thorntail, Crowned Woodnymph, Ecuadorian Thrush, and several euphonias and tanagers. Return to the lodge in the late afternoon. Evening bird checklist review.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Las Terrazas de Dana
Sangolqui
Check out and start early with a visit to Refugio Paz de las Aves near Nanegalito (13 miles northeast of Mindo, at 4,590 feet). Angel Paz is the proprietor of this private reserve, and his story is an excellent example of community conservation. Angel was formerly a local logger who transformed his property into a haven for antpittas and Andean Cocks-of-the-rock over a decade ago. His early fame came quickly when he learned how to coax the rare and elusive Giant Antpitta into the open with earthworms. He now has six different species of antpittas staked out on his property: Giant, Yellow-breasted, Ochre-breasted, Chestnut-crowned, Moustached, and Scaled. Other incredible birds on the property include Lyre-tailed Nightjar, Rufous-bellied Nighthawk, Olivaceous Piha, Dark-backed Wood-Quail, Crested and Golden-headed Quetzals, and a fantastic mix of hummingbirds. En route to the hotel in Sangolquí, make a stop at the Mitad del Mundo Monument. Before dinner, review your bird checklists.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hacienda La Carriona
Cosanga
Spend a full morning birding at the privately owned Antisana Ecological Reserve (11,500 feet), whose varied ecological zones range from páramo to lowland rainforest. More than 70 bird species can be found here, including the Andean Condor, Giant Hummingbird, Carunculated Caracara, Black-faced Ibis, Speckled Teal, Andean Duck, Silvery Grebe, Slate-colored Coot, Andean Gull, Andean Lapwing, and Aplomado Falcon. At 18,900 feet, the snow-capped Antisana Volcano is the fourth highest peak in Ecuador, adding to the breathtaking Andean scenery that can be enjoyed along the lower elevation trails. The lodge's private reserve forms an important bridge between the Antisana and Gran Sumaco Reserves, and the area boasts a bird list of about 330 species, many of which are more easily found here than anywhere else in the country. Bird checklist review before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
San Isidro Lodge
Cosanga
The cloud forest reserve at San Isidro Lodge encompasses nearly 3,000 acres on the eastern slope of the Andes at an elevational range of 6,069 to 7,874 feet, making this an ideal base to observe Andean birds from the lower reaches of the temperate zone down into the heart of the subtropical zone. Nearly 500 species have been recorded in the area, and several-such as the mysterious "San Isidro" Owl and Peruvian Antpitta-are extremely local and rare. Birds regularly encountered include Wattled and Sickle-winged Guans, Golden-headed and Crested Quetzals, Masked Trogon, Andean Motmot, Southern Emerald-Toucanet, Powerful and Crimson-mantled Woodpeckers, Speckle-faced Parrot, Chestnut-crowned and White-bellied Antpittas, the beautiful Rufous-crowned Tody-Flycatcher, Black-billed Peppershrike, Green (Inca) Jay, Saffron-crowned Tanager, and Chestnut-breasted Chlorophonia. Bird checklist review before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
San Isidro Lodge
Quito
After breakfast, return to Quito with a stop en route at Guango Lodge, another private reserve on the eastern slope above San Isidro at an elevation of 8,858 feet. Cooler and often shrouded in mist, habitats here include humid temperate forest, chusquea bamboo thickets, and swift mountain streams. The area is characterized by its more stunted trees, thicker canopy, cooler climate, and different bird and plant composition. The feeders at the lodge are often hopping with birds; enjoy close views of Sword-billed Hummingbird, Tourmaline Sunangel, Buff-winged Starfrontlet, Turquoise Jay, and more. Birds regularly found in the surrounding reserve include Torrent Duck, Andean Guan, Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan, White-capped Dipper, Slaty Brushfinch, Lacrimose and Buff-breasted Mountain-Tanagers, and Gray-hooded Bush-Tanager. Have lunch at Guango, and in the afternoon, continue to your hotel. Have some time at leisure before dinner. Most international flights departs very late this evening or before dawn the next morning, so please be ready to check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport immediately after the final bird checklist review, farewell briefing, and farewell dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
San Jose de Puembo
Departure
Arrival to United States.
What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time expert birding naturalist guide for duration of program
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • All Tips except Guide and Driver
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
  • Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Trip cancellation coverage
  • Items of personal nature

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Ecuador. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure.

For visits fewer than 90 days, visas will be issued upon arrival in Ecuador. Tourists may be required to provide evidence of return or onwards travel.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Ecuador for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Ecuador (unless you have spent more than 10 days in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, or Peru immediately prior to arrival, or are arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Uganda, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccine is required; the vaccine must have been administered at least 10 days before arrival, and is valid for life).

Though vaccination is not required for most travelers, yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Ecuador, primarily east of the Andes at elevations below 7,550 feet. In addition to protecting against mosquitos, the CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine if you are traveling to these areas.

The CDC also recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Ecuador.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that malaria is a risk in certain parts of Ecuador, primarily at elevations below 5,000 feet. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. In some areas of Ecuador (particularly in parts of the Ecuadorian Amazon), the CDC recommends the use of anti-malarial drugs combined with mosquito avoidance; in other regions, the CDC recommends mosquito avoidance only.

If you are visiting areas where malaria is present and choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your doctor for a prescription.

To protect against mosquitos, the CDC recommends that you cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent, ideally 20 minutes later.

Be careful when applying products containing DEET, as it can damage or dissolve certain synthetic fabrics as well as plastic, rubber, vinyl, or elastic materials, such as those used in camera equipment, binoculars, phone cases, sunglasses, or watches. Additionally, some research suggests that when DEET and picaridin enter local waterways, they can be harmful to amphibians and other wildlife. When selecting a repellent, it is ultimately up to each traveler to weigh the risks and benefits of different options, keeping in mind both environmental factors and the importance of protecting against illness.

Dengue Fever & other insect-borne illnesses

The CDC warns that dengue fever is a potential risk in Ecuador. In addition, locally transmitted cases of Zika virus and chikungunya have previously been reported. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against mosquito bites.

As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Upon arrival at locations of high elevation, shortness of breath and a pounding heart are normal responses to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors, these symptoms can deteriorate into altitude sickness. Headache, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite are standard symptoms. Staying hydrated and well rested is important to adjust to the altitude. Avoiding heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arriving to altitude can help. Over-the-counter medications are also available to help prevent or alleviate symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid sleep medications, as they can slow breathing and respiration, which aid in getting the blood oxygenated while sleeping. Participants who take blood pressure medications should discuss this with their doctor as the medication can drop pressure too low at times.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. If your program includes visits to higher elevations, warm clothing is strongly recommended. Temperatures can get quite chilly, especially at night and early in the morning, and hotel rooms don’t always have heat. It can also be windy at times. Consider packing a warm underlayer, as well as a warm, protective outer layer.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection; jeans tend to be uncomfortable in hot and humid conditions, but are fine in the cooler highlands.
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting high-elevation areas)
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach or hot springs, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs. If your itinerary indicates muddy hikes with rubber boots provided on-site, pack a few pairs of knee socks to prevent blisters.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more rugged itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat; wool hat or beanie for higher elevations
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and in consideration of your fellow travelers.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Not all hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, so you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics
I had a fantastic time and loved experiencing Ecuador and learning about the country and the natural history. The birding experience was beyond my wildest dreams. Such a diversity of wonderful and colorful birds!
- Paulette E.
Ecuador , 2022
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