Ecuador | Biodiversity in the Amazon and Andes
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About this trip
Ecuador is hailed as one of the most biodiverse countries on earth, thanks in part to its varied ecosystems paired with its equatorial location. Join Missouri River Bird Observatory on this 10-day program to explore two notable hotspots for a deeper appreciation of the country's natural wonders. Your journey begins deep in the heart of the Amazon at Sacha Lodge’s 5,000-acre private ecological reserve, where you'll immerse yourself in the rainforest flora and fauna. Then ascend to the cloud forests of the Chocó-Andes, an ecoregion known for its high levels of species diversity and endemism. Throughout your journey, you’ll have opportunities to engage with local residents from Indigenous villages, community-run conservation projects, and family-owned farms to learn more about their relationships with the natural environment and local ways of life.
Highlights
Canoe through the flooded Amazon forest while watching for monkeys, sloths, birds, caimans, river otters, and other wildlife.
Take a canopy walk high in the treetops for eye-level views of birds like the Many-banded Aracari, Scarlet and Red-bellied Macaws, Magpie Tanager, Gilded Barbet, and Yellow-rumped Cacique.
Visit a parrot clay lick in Yasuní National Park to observe the variety of parrot and parakeet species that gather here.
Seek out species like the Club-winged Manakin, Golden-winged Manakin, Long-wattled Umbrellabird, and Choco Toucan at Milpe Bird Sanctuary in the Chocó foothills.
Learn about the history and cultural importance of crops like coffee and chocolate during interactive visits to two organic farms.
Stroll among the impressive plant collections and enjoy some relaxed birding at Quito Botanical Garden.
Meet your hosts
Tessa Poolman
Tessa Poolman is the Conservation Programs Director with the Missouri River Bird Observatory, where she leads education priorities and urban conservation programs and coordinates the organization’s Bird-Friendly Communities initiatives. Tessa graduated from Pittsburg State University with a B.S. in Biology and an emphasis in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. Her work focuses on urban bird conservation, environmental education, and fostering partnerships that support both people and wildlife. She coordinates initiatives such as BirdSafeKC, the Urban Bird Treaty program, and Bird City Missouri, helping make cities safer for birds while engaging the public in meaningful conservation action. An avid birder and wildlife watcher, Tessa enjoys sharing her love of nature with others. Her passions reflect MRBO’s Core Values of combining robust science with inclusive outreach to advance bird conservation.
Marlee Malmborg
Marlee Malmborg is originally from north-central Illinois and now lives in Moberly, Missouri. Her love of birds and the outdoors began at an early age through birding, foraging, hunting, fishing, and camping with her dad. She earned her B.S. in Science from Missouri University of Science and Technology in 2016.
Before joining the Missouri River Bird Observatory (MRBO) in 2022, Marlee spent seven years with the U.S. Geological Survey working on the conservation of endangered pallid sturgeon. She now serves as Operations Director and Co-Director of MRBO, helping lead the organization’s operations, communications, fundraising, and conservation programs.
Marlee is thrilled to travel to Ecuador and experience its incredible diversity of birds and habitats firsthand. She is especially excited to explore the Amazon and discover the many species that call this remarkable region home. She looks forward to sharing the experience with fellow birders, exploring new places, and supporting MRBO’s conservation and education work along the way.
Activity Level 3: Moderate
Participants should be able to ascend or descend 60 stairs consecutively, plus walk for at least 3 hours over some steep slopes, uneven, and potentially slippery surfaces without difficulty. Physical activities typically last for 3 or more hours at a time.
$5,925
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $875
Single rooms are limited
What makes us different
Wildlife up-close
Expert guides
Rich content
Sustainable travel
Flight arrangements
Service anytime
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryQuito
Quito
Amazonia
Amazonia
Amazonia
Mindo
Mindo
Mindo
Puembo
Departure
Pricing
Print Pricing$5,925
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $875
Single rooms are limited
What's Included
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
- Full time guide per region for the duration of your program
- Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
- Internal flights relevant to itinerary
- Non alcoholic beverage with meals
- Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
- International airfare
- Items of personal nature
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
A deposit of $350 per person is required to reserve your place on the program. Reservations received after the final payment deadline must be accompanied by full payment. Should you need to cancel your reservation, the following per person fees will apply: 120 days or more before departure: $100 cancellation fee. 119-96 days before departure: $350 cancellation fee (full deposit). 95 days or fewer before departure: 100% of the total program cost is non-refundable. In most cases, any applicable refunds will be issued to the original form of payment.
Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.
Single room supplement $875
Final payment due date: April 28, 2027
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & 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).
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 (including the Amazon). In addition to protecting against mosquitos, the CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine for travelers visiting 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 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.
Other insect-borne illnesses
Other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur in Ecuador, including dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above.
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.
Liability Waivers
Please note you may be asked locally to sign liability waivers in order to participate in certain activities. If you would like to receive a copy of any required waiver in advance, please contact Holbrook Travel.
Resources
Print ResourcesPacking 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 the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.
CLOTHING
Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. You may wish to bring one or two slightly nicer, i.e. “smart casual” outfits for dinners out, museum visits, city tours, or similar activities.
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. At higher elevations, warm clothing is strongly recommended. Temperatures can get quite chilly, especially at night and early in the morning. 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 (lightweight for sun and mosquito protection; heavier weight for higher elevations)
- Shorts
- A combination of lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection in the Amazon, and warmer pants for the highlands
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
- Bathing suit(s)
- Socks – Bring extra pairs.
- Shoes – You’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes or boots suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. 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 for around the hotel. If you’ll be swimming in the lake at Sacha Lodge, 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 outside the U.S.
- Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Razor
- Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
- Personal hygiene products
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed, as it may not be available at all roadside stops
Your local guide will carry a basic first aid kit, but you may also wish to pack a small medical kit for personal use. 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, powdered electrolyte packets to prevent dehydration, aloe vera gel to treat sunburn, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, COVID-19 self-test kit, 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) – Packing medications in their original bottles/packaging with pharmacy labeling is recommended.
- Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, 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
- Entertainment (e.g. music, a deck of cards, reading material and a portable bright light to read by, etc.) for down time, long drives, or on the airplane
- Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip – Pack in your checked luggage.
- A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
- Money belt
- Chargers for electronics
- Dry bags for electronics
Questions?
Contact Jill Hays at 877-846-6296 or jill@holbrooktravel.com.
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eBird Trip Reports: Ecuador
Books to Read before You Travel to the Amazon
