The Andes
Wildsumaco Lodge
Wildsumaco lodge is located in Ecuador’s upper tropical zone on a ridge in the eastern foothills of the Andes at an elevation of 1,480 meters. There are far-reaching views across the Rio Pucuno Valley and Andes peaks beyond, and on clear days there are views of the El Altar, Tungurahua, Antisana and, to the north, the Sumaco volcanoes.
Wildsumaco Lodge and the private reserve it sits within were created by a group of passionate conservationists and birders from the USA and Sweden. Their aim is to preserve and protect the rainforest that is under increasing threat from clearance for farms and pastures. They have also established a non-profit arm, the Rio Pucuno Foundation and through it have opened a biological research station.
Wildsumaco Lodge has two cabanas housing a total of 8 twin and 2 double en suite rooms located either side of a separate building with a large, open dining and sitting area complete with bar and fireplace. Outside there is a partially covered 22 metre-long deck overlooking the Rio Pucuno Valley and across to the Andes to the west.
The meals feature international home-style cooking, and soft drinks, beer and wine are available to purchase from the bar. There is an extensive, well-maintained trail system accessible directly from the lodge with other trails located a short drive away.
Facilities
Bar, lounge and dining area and outside decking with chairs.
Local Wildlife
Due to the overlap in bird species from both the cooler mountain cloud forests above and tropical Amazonian rainforest below the lodge, there is an exceptionally high avian diversity. Almost 500 species of bird have been recorded around the lodge, including cloud forest, foothill and Amazonian specialities. Many localised specialities and up to 27 species of hummingbird can be seen. There is an enticing list of mammals found in the reserve but most are rarely seen. The Napo tamarin (recently split from the black-mantled tamarin), black agouti and kinkajou are seen more frequently and there is a good chance of finding some dazzling butterflies, amphibians and reptiles while exploring the reserve.
Optional Activities
Guided birdwatching in various elevations.
John Melton
Area Specialist
This lodge and its reserve are a must for any serious birder visiting Ecuador and won’t make a large dent in your finances. Make sure you visit various altitudes to see the widest variety of birds.
If you have any questions regarding our Ecuador tours, please feel free to contact me on +44 (0)1803 866965
Wildsumaco lodge is very well thought out - good accommodation, bedroom very well lit and plenty of shelves. Good food, super staff and the moths (which came to the veranda lights) were fantastic! Trails were excellent and well maintained.
