Maquipucuna EcoLodge & Reserve is a stunning conservation retreat located in Ecuador’s Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, just two hours from Quito. Spanning 14,000 acres, it is one of the country’s most important ecological corridors, home to incredible biodiversity, including the Andean (Spectacled) Bear.
Facilities & Rooms
The lodge offers comfortable, rustic accommodations designed to blend with the surrounding cloud forest. Guests stay in private cabins or shared dormitories, each featuring handcrafted wooden furniture, private bathrooms, and balconies with breathtaking views. The lodge’s main house serves as a communal space, offering a library, lounge, and dining area.
Dining
Maquipucuna’s farm-to-table dining emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Meals are prepared using organic produce, including coffee grown on-site. Guests can enjoy traditional Ecuadorian dishes while overlooking the lush forest. The lodge also offers vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring a sustainable and health-conscious dining experience.
Excursions & Wildlife
The reserve boasts over 32 km of trails, allowing guests to explore waterfalls, natural swimming holes, and pristine rainforest. Guided excursions include night hikes, visits to the organic garden, and cultural experiences with local communities. Maquipucuna is famous for its Andean Bear safaris, where visitors can observe these elusive creatures in their natural habitat.
Birding
With over 400 bird species, Maquipucuna is a paradise for birdwatchers. Guests can spot toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers, and the rare Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan. The lodge offers expert-led birding tours, ensuring an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Sustainability
Maquipucuna is dedicated to conservation and sustainable tourism. The reserve is managed by Fundación Maquipucuna, which has worked for over 35 years to protect Ecuador’s cloud forests. The lodge operates on eco-friendly principles, supporting local communities, reforestation efforts, and wildlife conservation.
Getting There
Located just two hours from Quito, Maquipucuna is one of the most accessible cloud forest reserves in Ecuador. Guests can reach the lodge via private transport or guided tours, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travellers.
Maquipucuna EcoLodge & Reserve offers a unique blend of adventure, conservation, and comfort, making it a must-visit for those seeking an immersive experience in Ecuador’s breathtaking cloud forests
Gallery
