The Andes
Maquipucuna Lodge
Maquipucuna is the best preserved area of cloud forest close to Ecuador’s capital, Quito, which is only a two-hour journey away.
The Maquipucuna reserve protects a large tract of virgin cloud forest that has never been logged and therefore retains a high level of biodiversity. The reserve ranges from 900 metres to almost 2,700 metres above sea level, which increases the diversity of wildlife.
Maquipucuna Lodge offers a range of accommodation options that are located in different buildings. Tulipe House has a set of 4 private rooms with en suite bathrooms and is strategically located for superb views across the forest. Tulipe is joined to Umachaca House which can accommodate 18 people in double or family bedrooms with shared bathrooms.
The most recently built accommodation is Cachillacta House which offers two modern and spacious rooms with private balconies and en suite bathrooms.
The main dining area has been constructed from locally sourced materials. The lodge is simple but offers a rustic, relaxed and pleasant atmosphere and is a great place to explore the Andean cloud forests close to Quito. The lodge offers a high standard of service and their local guides can speak good English.
Facilities
6 en suite rooms with hot showers, family bungalow with 2 rooms and private bathroom, dormitory rooms with shared facilities, dining room, lounge and bar.
Local Wildlife
Over 375 species of birds have recorded in the reserve including a large percentage of cloud forest and Andean specialities, many of which are reliably found close to the lodge.
During the months of August and September the aguacatillo (an avocado-like fruit) is usually abundant in the forest. This is a favourite food of the endangered spectacled bear and sightings of this charismatic mammal are remarkably reliable at this time. Sloths, agoutis and other mammals are sometimes encountered and there is a high diversity of beautiful butterflies and other fauna and flora within the reserve.
Optional Activities
Excellent cloud forest birdwatching, mammal spotting, mountain biking, trail hiking and wild swimming.
John Melton
Area Specialist
A stay of 2 or 3 nights in the peak season which can vary from August to December gives a high chance of sighting spectacled bears. The exact fruiting season changes from year to year and it is best to check with us about the best time to visit for this spectacle (pardon the pun).
If you have any questions regarding our Ecuador tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
We loved it! Just our sort of place: great location; full of character; friendly, informal atmosphere.
