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Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve

Name: Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve
SKU: 7521831
Price: 399 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.93 (15 reviews)

Papallacta, EC

100% of travellers recommend this

Excellent (15 reviews)

Self-guided

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Adult (12-80)

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Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

Highlights

Breathtaking views of the Andean landscape
Opportunities for landscape photography and birdwatching
Experience different types of habitats from paramo grasslands to lush green vegetation
Encounter unique wildlife such as Andean Bears and Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe
Explore the cloud forest and witness the highest diversity of hummingbirds in the Americas

Duration 8-10 hours
Private transportation included
Certified bilingual naturalist guide
All activities included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Coffee and tea at Guango included

Awaken your senses in deep contact with nature on the Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve tour. This full-day adventure will take you on a journey through stunning landscapes and diverse habitats. Start your day with a drive through the tundra-like paramo at the Papallacta pass, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Andean landscape and have the opportunity to spot unique wildlife like Andean Bears and Rufous-bellied Seedsnipes. Then, continue to Guango Cloud Forest Reserve, where you'll be mesmerized by the high diversity of hummingbirds that inhabit the area. Colorful mixed flocks and local bird species will also captivate your attention as you hike through the beautiful Andean temperate forests. Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature on this unforgettable tour.

At a Glance

Free cancellation
8 hours
Instant Confirmation
Available in Spanish; Castilian, English
Mobile voucher
Small Group tour
Guided
Family friendly

Featured Reviews

Excellent (15 reviews)

Viator

leahaO322NZ

Jan 24

Santiago was an outstanding guide for our day trip into the Andes. He was friendly and easy to be around. His ecology knowledge was expert and yet he explained concepts to us in a way my 11-year-old daughter could understand. His SUV was super clean and comfortable. He took us to spots we never could have found on our own, making this tour well worth the price. Santiago went above and beyond to help us have an incredible experience. Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful part of Ecuador with us!

Viator

Travel04269578095

Oct 23

Our day with Santiago as our guide was absolutely fantastic! Santiago's extensive knowledge of the local wildlife made our experience unforgettable. Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions that made spotting certain birds challenging, Santiago's dedication to providing us with the best possible adventure was evident throughout. He went above and beyond to ensure that we had a remarkable day, demonstrating his commitment to delivering a memorable experience. In the end, he didn't just end our tour. He extended it by providing us with valuable tips on where we might encounter the elusive animals we couldn't find (due to the weather) during our further travels in Ecuador. This level of service and commitment made our tour truly exceptional. Furthermore Gabriela from Neotropical Ecuador was amazing, as well. She provided fast and knowledgeable communication. Should I find myself returning to Ecuador and/or the Pantanal, there's no doubt that I'll choose Neotropical Ecuador again. Santiago and the team's dedication to providing a top-notch experience left a lasting impression. My only regret is not discovering them earlier in my vacation planning. If I had, I would have undoubtedly included more of their tours in my itinerary.

Viator

julie_t

Sep 22

Sebastian persevered to make sure we found a wide variety of birds and was very knowledgeable about the birds and their habitats. He knew where to find them. Although it was a hot day so many birds were hunkered down, he did not give up. His enthusiasm was contagious.

Viator

TimF2157

Feb 22

I visited several places around Papallacta Pass to look for a large list of target birds with Santiago Salazar. Santiago was extremely knowledgeable of the area and knew exactly where to go to search for all of the special birds of the area. He was able to organize the trip extremely last minute (including getting us access to Cayambe-Coca National Park on a day it is normally closed to tourists). He knows the birds and natural history of the area extremely well. Anyone looking to visit this great area should definitely contact Santiago and Neotropical Nature & Birding Trips.

Viator

O9870HLkyleh

Feb 22

This was our last full day in Ecuador for this trip. Santiago is an excellent guide. I was hoping to find many birds on this trip and was not disappointed. But we also learned many things about plants, animals, and the area in general. Santiago picked us up nice and early to take us up to Papallacta, where he spent a great deal of effort looking for bears. And while we were ultimately unable to see them, we saw many great birds. I especially appreciate the effort Santiago put forth to find us the rarer key birds for this area. Our glimpse of the seed snipe was definitely a highlight of the trip. Our afternoon was spent in the Guango Lodge area. The meal served was excellent. The feeders were excellent. The birds were excellent. Everything was excellent. Santiago's enthusiastic about birds and nature, and that shows through. My wife and I were both caught up in it. I will be looking to Neotropical for future tours in the area. I cannot recommend them enough.

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Included

Other

Certified bilingual naturalist, birding, photography guide
Other

Coffee and tea at Guango
Lunch

Lunch
Other

Private transportation
Other

All activities
Other

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Excluded

Other

TIPS
Other

PERSONAL EXPENSES

Pickup

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

Pick up and drop off at your hotel or accommodation in Quito and airport area.

What to expect

Parque Nacional Cayambe-Coca

After an early departure from Quito at 7:30 am from your hotel, you'll drive some 65 km (41 miles) east of Quito the road brings you into the high elevation paramo at the Papallacta pass, a very tundra-like habitat. On clear days the views of the surroundings and various volcanoes are breathtaking; a stop right up at the pass is one of the best spots to photograph the snow-capped Antisana Volcano as it towers over the mountains below. If the weather allows, from this point on we should start scanning the sky from time to time for the Andean Condor, Variable Hawk, Carunculated Caracara, and Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, which may soar overhead. At the highest elevations, you’ll seek out the secretive and cryptic Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe and other unique wildlife of this region. Andean Bears can be found in this paramo, special natural feeding sites where the presence of bears is frequent all year round. sometimes close enough to have wonderful views and photographs.

240 minutes

Admission Included

Guango Lodge

Later you’ll drive to Guango Reserve, where you will embark on a hike along the trails around the lodge to get a taste of the beautiful Andean temperate forests; hummingbirds will take your full attention. The cloud forest concentrates the highest diversity of these winged jewels in the Americas. Colorful mixed flocks with birds such as Lacrimose and Hooded Mountain Tanagers, Blue-backed Conebill, Black-capped Hemispingus can be seen around the lodge. Here you have possibilities of seeing very local birds like the stunning Gray Breasted Mountain-Toucan, Andean Guan, and Northern Mountain Cacique. Along the Papallacta River, you’ll try to find a unique resident of fast-flowing mountain rivers, a powerful swimmer, and diver: the Torrent Duck. This could definitely be one of our day highlights!

240 minutes

Admission Included

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

A small amount of walking is involved along trails with irregular terrain although if participants require longer hiking trails are available.
Copy of passport of one of the group members is require for billing purposes (local tax exemption)
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Provided by Neotropical Nature and Birding Trips

What our experts say

Bring a camera for stunning views.
Consider visiting Papallacta Hot Springs.
Wear sturdy shoes for irregular terrain.
Pack a light jacket; it can get chilly.
Look for Andean Condors in the sky.

Why Book with Evendo?

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More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the wonders of the Andean landscape with the Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve Tour. This immersive and breathtaking day trip will take you on a journey through diverse habitats, from the tundra-like paramo to the lush green vegetation of the cloud forest. Located just 65 km east of Quito, Papallacta offers stunning views of the Andean landscape, making it an ideal spot for landscape photography and birdwatching.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can anticipate immersing yourself in nature and experiencing the incredible diversity of the Andean region. You'll have the opportunity to explore the picturesque Papallacta pass, known for its panoramic views and abundant birdlife. At the Guango Cloud Forest Reserve, your attention will be captivated by the vibrant hummingbirds that inhabit the area. This tour offers a unique chance to witness different habitats, from paramo grasslands to subtropical cloud forests, all while surrounded by the stunning Andean scenery.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photography lovers who want to experience the beauty of the Andean landscape. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this tour caters to all levels of adventurers. The Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve Tour is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that anyone with a passion for nature and a desire to explore can enjoy and appreciate the unique ecosystems found in this region.

Why book this?

Embark on this tour to discover the hidden gems of the Andean landscape. The Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve Tour offers a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. From breathtaking views to vibrant hummingbirds, every moment of this tour will leave you in awe. With the option to add a soak in the therapeutic waters of the Papallacta Hot Springs, you can end your day in pure bliss. Book this tour to create lasting memories and experience the wonders of nature in Ecuador.

Good to know

During the tour, you'll be accompanied by a certified bilingual naturalist, birding, and photography guide who will enhance your experience with their expertise. Private transportation, all activities, and hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for your convenience. Please note that personal expenses, gratuities, and lunch are not included in the tour price. Additionally, local taxes are applicable only for Ecuadorians. Prepare to be amazed by the diverse birdlife and stunning landscapes as you explore the Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve Tour have raved about their unforgettable experiences. They have praised the stunning views, the abundance of bird species, and the knowledgeable guides who added depth to their journey. Visitors have particularly enjoyed observing the colorful mixed flocks of birds, such as Lacrimose and Hooded Mountain Tanagers, Blue-backed Conebill, and Black-capped Hemispingus. The opportunity to witness unique birds like the Gray Breasted Mountain-Toucan, Andean Guan, and Northern Mountain Cacique has left a lasting impression on many. Overall, travelers have expressed their satisfaction and delight with this immersive and unforgettable tour experience.