Enjoy The Beauty Of The Birds Of The Northwest

Enjoy The Beauty Of The Birds Of The Northwest offers a captivating adventure for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. For $180 per person, you’ll spend roughly 16 hours exploring some of Quito’s top bird-watching sites, including the Tumpiki Balcón bird reserve, San Tadeo, Milpe Bird Reserve, and La Victoriana Farm. Led by a bilingual certified guide, this private tour includes transportation, binoculars, a telescope, and bottled water, making it a comprehensive and comfortable way to see Ecuador’s vibrant avian diversity.

What we love most is how you get to observe rare and colorful species like the Plate-billed Mountain Toucan and Violet-Tailed Sylph in their natural habitat. The early start—departing at 4 am—means you’re beating the crowds and catching the birds at their most active during dawn. Also, visiting La Victoriana Farm to catch a glimpse of over 15 Andean Cock-of-the-Rock adds a special touch, as these charismatic birds are a highlight for many.

A possible drawback is the early departure and full day’s commitment, which might be tiring for some travelers. However, if you’re a dedicated birdwatcher or someone eager to see Ecuador’s unique species in one day, the effort will be well worth it. This tour suits those with a keen interest in birds, photography, or eco-tourism, and who appreciate guides with deep knowledge and passion—something reviewers consistently praise.

Key Points

• Early Start: Leaves at 4 am, ideal for bird activity and solitude.
• Diverse Locations: Multiple reserves with different species and ecosystems.
• Expert Guidance: Bilingual guides with a love for birding and sharing knowledge.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Binoculars and telescopes provided to enhance viewing.
• Conservation Impact: Your visit helps local communities and preserves natural habitats.
• Private Tour Flexibility: Only your group participates, allowing personalized attention.

A Full-Day Bird-Watching Journey Through Ecuador’s Northwest

If you’re eager to see Ecuador’s extraordinary birdlife without the hassle of planning multiple trips, this tour covers some of the best spots in the northwest near Quito. It’s designed to give you close encounters with species that are often difficult to see elsewhere, all within a manageable 16-hour window.

Starting the Day: A Dawn Departure

The tour begins bright and early—at 4 am—when your guide picks you up from your hotel. The early start may seem daunting, but it’s the key to experiencing the most active birdlife at the reserves. We appreciated how punctual and organized the arrangement was, with a comfortable private vehicle ready to whisk us away.

First Stop: Tumpiki Balcón Bird Reserve

Arriving around 6 am, you’ll step into one of Ecuador’s premier bird habitats. This reserve is famous for its chance to see species like the Plate-billed Mountain Toucan, whose impressive bill and vibrant colors make it a favorite among photographers. The toucan barbet, with its striking plumage, and the Blue-Winged Mountain Tanager, add to the visual feast.

Birdwatching here is enhanced by the use of binoculars and telescopes, which are provided. The early morning light and the quiet surroundings make for some excellent photo opportunities. As one reviewer pointed out, “I would recommend Roberto and the Great Horned Owl Tours without hesitation,” citing the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm.

Exploring San Tadeo and Milpe Reserves

Next, your journey takes you to San Tadeo, where different species await—like the Lemon Rumped Tanager and Golden Tanager. Each reserve presents a slightly different landscape and bird community, keeping the experience fresh. Here, you may also spot various Hummingbirds, including the Hoary Puffleg and Booted Racket-Tailed, which are known for their agility and dazzling appearances.

The Milpe Bird Reserve is a highlight for many, with feeders that attract birds close enough for detailed observation. You might see Silver-Throated Tanagers and Club-Winged Manakins. One review notes that “at Milpe, we watched in feeders, and the variety of Hummingbirds such as the Andean Emerald and Purple-bibbed Whitetip” was impressive, illustrating the incredible diversity packed into this single location.

Afternoon Highlights: La Victoriana Farm

By late afternoon, around 4 pm, the tour heads to La Victoriana Farm. This part of the day is often a favorite because it offers the chance to see the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock—a bird that’s both striking and emblematic of Ecuador’s cloud forests. Expect to see over 15 individuals, as the tour is strategically timed to maximize sightings.

We loved how the guide expertly pointed out the birds and shared interesting facts and calls, enriching the experience beyond just spotting birds. The focus on conservation and community support also adds a meaningful dimension, knowing your visit supports local efforts.

Return to Quito

After a fulfilling day, your driver will escort you back to Quito, arriving around 6 pm. The trip is long but well-paced, giving ample time for birdwatching, photography, and relaxation.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced at $180 per person, which, considering the inclusion of private transportation, expert guides, and binoculars, offers a solid value for dedicated birders. The private nature means you won’t be competing with large groups, allowing for a more personalized experience and ample opportunity for questions and photo stops.

Transportation is comfortable, and the tour’s schedule is structured to maximize your time in the field. Bottled water is provided, but note that meals (breakfast and lunch) are not included—so packing snacks or an early breakfast is advisable.

What the Reviews Say

Participants consistently praise the knowledge and passion of the guides. Victoria, one reviewer, mentions, “If you are looking for a guide who is experienced, a good communicator, and has in-depth knowledge about the birds of the forest,” Roberto is highly recommended. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise elevate the experience, making it enjoyable even for those with less birding experience.

Considerations

The main consideration is the early start and the full day of activity, which might be tiring for some. Weather can also be a factor; the tour requires good weather for optimal birdwatching, and cancellations due to rain are possible. However, the tour’s flexibility in rescheduling or full refunds makes it less risky.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to bird enthusiasts, photographers eager for close-up shots of rare species, and eco-conscious travelers wanting to support local conservation efforts. It’s also excellent for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and private, tailored experiences. If you’re prepared for an early start and a full day in nature, this trip will reward you with some of Ecuador’s most stunning bird encounters.

Final Thoughts

This bird-watching tour offers a rare chance to see Ecuador’s avian treasures in their natural surroundings, guided by experts who love sharing their passion. The combination of diverse reserves, early mornings, and the opportunity to photograph species like the Plate-billed Mountain Toucan and Andean Cock-of-the-Rock make it a memorable outing.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious traveler seeking to add some feathered friends to your travel stories, the experience promises both excitement and educational value. Plus, knowing your visit helps sustain local communities adds to the appeal.

If you’re visiting Quito and have a keen interest in birds or nature, this tour is a solid choice—offering a full, enriching day out that balances adventure, education, and conservation.

FAQ

What is the starting time of the tour?
It departs at 4:00 am from your hotel, to make the most of early bird activity.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 16 hours, including travel time back to Quito.

What is included in the price?
You get private transportation, a bilingual certified guide, binoculars, a telescope, and bottled water.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the early start and full day of activity.

What species can I expect to see?
Expect to see toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers, woodpeckers, thrushes, and the iconic Andean Cock-of-the-Rock.

How accessible are the reserves?
All stops are accessible for most visitors, but some walking may be necessary.

Can I photograph the birds?
Yes, with the provided binoculars and telescopes, you’ll have excellent opportunities for photography.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who operates the tour?
Great Horned Owl Tours, with highly praised guides like Roberto, who are known for their knowledge and passion.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if this bird-watching adventure suits your Ecuador trip, providing all the practical insights and honest appraisal you need. Happy birding!