Nature and Birding Experience in Yanachocha Reserve

Quito, EC
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Entrance fees
  • inclusion
    Other
    Lunch with soft drink
  • inclusion
    Other
    Private transportation
  • inclusion
    Other
    Certified, bilingual naturalist & birding guide
  • inclusion
    Other
    All activities
  • inclusion
    Other
    Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • exclusion
    Gratuities
    Gratuities

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Eb Hotel by Eurobuilding Quito
Estancia Dorada Hostel
Hacienda Jimenita Wildlife Reserve
Hospedaje El Girasol Tababela
Hostal Magenta Vip
Ilalo Garden Hotel & Restaurant
La Palma Polo Hotel
Nispero Country House
Quinta San Felipe
Quito Airport Suites
San Jose de Puembo Hotel & Convention Center
Pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Quito and airport area. Please provide your accommodation address in case it is not listed in the hotels above.

What to expect

1
Quito

Pick up from your accommodation at 5:30 am. Your private guide will give you a briefing of the wonderful day you have ahead and answer any questions you have before you start your way towards Yanacocha.

Duration 5 minutes
2
Yanacocha Reserve

Yanacocha Reserve is located on the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano about 1 hour northwest of Quito. After arriving at the reserve you’ll hike on the main trail that extends for more than 2 km through the stunning lush montane humid forest, with flocks of birds being regularly encountered, with species like Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager, Black-chested Mountain-Tanager, Blue-backed Conebill, Golden-crowned Tanager, Superciliared Hemispingus and more. Several stations with multiple hummingbird feeders are situated at various spots, and visitors can obtain point-blank views of the many species that regularly arrive to feed here and in the surrounding flora, including Great Sapphirewing, Sapphire-vented, and Golden-breasted Pufflegs, Tyrian Metaltail, Buff-winged Starfrontlet and the outstanding Sword-billed hummingbird! Enjoy lunch at the reserve. After lunch and a last glance at the wonderful cloud forest, you'll start your way back to Quito.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    A small amount of walking is involved along trails with irregular terrain although if participants require longer hiking trails are available.
  • Additional information
    Copy of passport of one of the group members is required for billing purposes (local tax exemption)
  • Additional information
    Let us know if you are prone to altitude sickness
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Neotropical Nature and Birding Trips

What our experts say

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    Bring a light jacket; it can get chilly.
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    The reserve's restaurant offers tasty local dishes.
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    Look for the Black-breasted Puffleg!
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    Consider visiting nearby Quito after.
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    Stay hydrated; altitude can be challenging.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The Nature and Birding Experience in Yanachocha Reserve is a captivating tour that takes you into the heart of a high-altitude cloud forest. Located 10,500 feet above sea level, this 964-hectare reserve boasts lush evergreen forests and is home to a wide array of avian species. Among them is the highly endangered Black-breasted Puffleg, whose population was once on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss. Thanks to the efforts of the Jocotoco Foundation, this reserve has become a sanctuary for these beautiful birds and a prime destination for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photographers.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Yanachocha Reserve. As you hike along the main trail, which stretches for over 2 kilometers through the montane humid forest, you'll encounter flocks of birds, including Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager, Black-chested Mountain-Tanager, and Blue-backed Conebill. The reserve is equipped with several stations featuring multiple hummingbird feeders, allowing you to observe these vibrant creatures up close. Look out for species like Great Sapphirewing, Sapphire-vented Puffleg, and Sword-billed Hummingbird.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photographers who want to explore the wonders of a high-altitude cloud forest. Whether you're a seasoned birder or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, the Yanachocha Reserve offers a unique and enriching experience for all. It's an ideal opportunity to witness the diversity of avian life and contribute to the conservation efforts of the Jocotoco Foundation.

Why book this?

By booking this tour, you'll not only have the chance to witness breathtaking views and encounter rare bird species, but you'll also be supporting a vital conservation cause. The Jocotoco Foundation works tirelessly to resist the pressures of habitat degradation and agricultural conversion. Your visit to the Yanachocha Reserve directly contributes to their efforts in preserving this precious ecosystem and protecting endangered bird species. Additionally, the tranquil environment and outstanding biodiversity of the reserve make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Good to know

During the tour, you'll be provided with a delicious lunch at the reserve's restaurant, ensuring you have the energy to fully enjoy your day. The tour includes entrance fees, lunch with a soft drink, private transportation, a certified bilingual naturalist and birding guide, and all activities. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also included for your convenience. Please note that alcoholic drinks and gratuities are not included.

Reviews

Visitors who have experienced the Nature and Birding Experience in Yanachocha Reserve have been blown away by the stunning natural beauty and the abundance of bird species they encountered. They praised the knowledgeable guides, who provided valuable insights into the birds and their habitat. Many visitors expressed their appreciation for the conservation efforts of the Jocotoco Foundation and were inspired to support their cause. Overall, the reviews highlight the incredible experience and the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful conservation project. Experience the wonders of the Yanachocha Reserve, where nature, birding, and conservation converge. Book your tour today and embark on a truly unforgettable adventure.

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