10 Days Birding Photo tour from Andes to Amazon of Ecuador

A Comprehensive Look at the 10 Days Birding Photo Tour from Andes to Amazon of Ecuador

This 11-day adventure, priced at $4,000 per person, offers a deep dive into Ecuador’s stunning natural diversity. The tour kicks off in Quito, exploring cloud forests and high-altitude reserves before descending into the lush Amazon basin. It’s perfect if you’re a bird enthusiast with a camera, eager to capture endemic species and iconic wildlife in their natural habitats.

What we love most? First, the expert-guided birding stops—each location is carefully chosen for its unique species and photogenic settings. Second, the variety of landscapes—from high mountain reserves to the dense Amazon rainforest—means you’ll be photographing everything from soaring condors to elusive antpittas.

A potential challenge? The itinerary’s pace can be quite full, especially with early mornings and long days. It’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level comfortable with some walking and variable weather conditions.

If you’re passionate about birds and nature photography, this tour offers an authentic, well-organized way to experience Ecuador’s most biodiverse regions. It’s ideal for those who value knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to photograph rare species in pristine environments.

Key Points

• Biodiversity: From cloud forests to Amazon wetlands, this tour showcases Ecuador’s vast variety of species.
• Expert Guides: Naturalist guides with birding expertise lead the way, enriching your understanding of each habitat.
• Photographic Opportunities: With stops at bird feeders and wildlife-rich reserves, you’ll get plenty of chances to capture stunning images.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes visits to well-known reserves like Mashpi and Milpe, plus high-altitude sites like Antisana.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transport, included park fees, and accommodations mean a smooth experience.
• Suitable for Moderate Fitness: Be prepared for some walking and early starts, but no extreme physical effort is required.

Exploring Ecuador’s Birding and Biodiversity in Depth

This tour truly immerses you in Ecuador’s incredible natural habitats, starting with the cloud forests of the Andes. The first days focus on cloud forest birding, a highlight being the chance to photograph Sword-billed Hummingbirds and elusive Antpittas. The tour guides—experienced naturalists—are skilled at spotting and explaining the behaviors of these species. We loved the way guides like Sergio pointed out the subtle differences between similar tanagers or drew our attention to a rare tapaculo darting into cover.

The stops at Zuroloma and Alambi Reserve are particularly rewarding for photographers. At Zuroloma, the chance to see rarer species like the Great Sapphirewing or the Chestnut-naped Antpitta is worth the early mornings. The Alambi Reserve, a dedicated hummingbird garden, offers fantastic close-up shots of birds in flight—showcasing your photography skills in action.

Moving to Nanegalito, the opportunity to observe the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock at close range is a highlight. This iconic bird, with its vivid orange plumage and elaborate crest, makes for memorable photos. The free visit here is a good example of how the tour balances free time with guided observations, letting you focus on your shots.

On Day 2, the journey takes you to Mashpi Amagusa Reserve, a true birding hotspot. Known for its extraordinary biodiversity, it offers chances to photograph species like the Green Thorntail and Rose-faced Parrot. The guide, David, is particularly attentive to helping guests find and identify the myriad of species, which is invaluable for birders wanting to expand their portfolio.

The Sachaguatusa Reserve deepens the experience, with sightings of Emerald Tanager and Orange-fronted Barbet. These locations are carefully selected to maximize bird encounters and provide ample opportunity for the camera enthusiast.

By the time you reach Milpe Bird Sanctuary in the lowlands, you’re in prime territory for the elusive Umbrella Bird, a sought-after species with its distinctive crown and striking behavior. The chance to observe mixed-species flocks and endemic species like the Long-wattled Umbrella Bird makes this stop special. We particularly appreciated the afternoon visit to Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve, where macro photography of insects and amphibians is possible. For those interested in close-up nature shots, this is a delightful bonus.

Refugio Paz De Las Aves is another standout—famous among birders for its close-up views of antpittas and other elusive species. The guides are adept at positioning guests for optimal shots, making this a day packed with rewarding photo opportunities.

On Day 5, the tour heads into the highlands with a visit to the Antisana Ecological Reserve, home to the majestic Andean Condor. The chance to photograph these enormous birds soaring in the sky is a real highlight. Early mornings here are often calm, providing excellent conditions for wildlife photography.

The high-altitude sites, like Papallacta and Guango Lodge, allow you to photograph species such as Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe and Torrent Ducks—each offering a different scenic backdrop. The Guango Lodge, in particular, is known for its unique hummingbird species and the opportunity to catch birds in flight against the misty forest.

The transition into the Amazon basin begins with Rio Quijos Eco Lodge, where the focus shifts to the colorful Bird of Paradise-like Andean Cock-of-the-Rock alongside toucans and other rainforest species. The lodges are well-placed to maximize bird activity around feeders, providing steady photo opportunities.

San Isidro Lodge offers nighttime owl viewing and trail walks, which are fantastic for those wanting to document nocturnal species. The guides’ knowledge here is evident—they help guests spot even the most camouflaged creatures.

Moving into the upper Amazon, places like Wayra Reserve and WildSumaco Lodge specialize in feeders that attract endemic Amazonian species, providing further chances for close-up shots of jewel-bright hummingbirds and toucans. The guides’ familiarity with the terrain and species ensures you get the most out of each visit.

The grand finale is at Limoncocha National Biological Reserve, a top destination for bird photographers. The boat excursions on Limoncocha Lake reveal a host of exotic species including herons, kingfishers, and raptors like the Tiny Hawk. The opportunity to photograph Scarlet Macaws and Cobalt-winged Parakeets in their natural environment is unforgettable.

Throughout the trip, transportation in private, air-conditioned vehicles ensures comfort during long travel days, which are often necessary to cover such a diverse landscape. The tour’s pace is lively, with early mornings and some long days, but the rich variety of species and habitats make it worthwhile.

Accommodation varies from eco-lodges to reserve cabins, all designed to put you close to nature. The guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, often helping photographers get the perfect shot or sharing insights into bird behavior.

In terms of value, while $4,000 might seem high, it includes most park fees, all internal transportation, guiding, and accommodations. The experience of being guided by experts, combined with the opportunity to photograph a wide array of species, justifies the cost for serious birders and nature photographers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits bird lovers with a camera—whether you’re a seasoned photographer or an enthusiastic amateur. It’s also well-suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level, as some walking and early mornings are involved. Nature enthusiasts eager to explore Ecuador’s diverse ecosystems will find this itinerary packed with memorable moments. However, if you’re seeking a leisurely pace or don’t have much interest in bird photography, you might find the schedule a bit intense.

Final Thoughts

In all, this Ecuador birding and photography tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience for those eager to capture the country’s stunning biodiversity on camera. The combination of expert guides, diverse habitats, and prime photographic opportunities makes it a worthwhile choice for dedicated birders and nature photographers alike.

The carefully curated stops, from cloud forests to the Amazon, ensure you see species that are often hard to find elsewhere. The tour’s emphasis on authentic, close-up encounters adds value to each day’s adventure. The only real consideration is the fast pace—if you prefer a more relaxed vacation, you might want to plan some downtime.

For anyone wanting a deep, photo-rich exploration of Ecuador’s wildlife, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for travelers who love learning about birds, enjoy photography, and want to experience the country’s natural beauty with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

FAQs

What is the tour price?
The tour costs $4,000 per person, covering most park fees, accommodations, transportation, and guiding services.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 11 days, with the core birding and biodiversity activities spread across this period.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast (10), lunches (10), and 8 dinners, providing a good balance of nourishment and local cuisine.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, there is an optional macro photography session at Mindo Nambillo Reserve, especially focusing on amphibians and insects.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is by air-conditioned private vehicle, designed to make long travel days more comfortable.

Do I need special fitness?
A moderate fitness level is recommended, as some walking and early mornings are part of the experience.

Are the lodges and accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the lodges are strategically located for birding, and reviews highlight their suitability for wildlife photography and comfort.

Can I see specific species like the Andean Condor or Scarlet Macaw?
Absolutely. The Antisana Reserve is ideal for condors, and the Amazon lakes are famous for Macaws and toucans.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed tour offers a compelling blend of biodiversity, expert guidance, and photographic opportunity—making it a prime choice for wildlife enthusiasts eager to capture Ecuador’s natural treasures.