Ecuador: Hummingbirds of the
Andes and Amazon Foothills
Ecuador | 14 Days | FROM $10,990
departs September 12, 2027
Travel with Mark Brazil
Ecuador, one of the most biologically rich countries in the world, hosts approximately 135 hummingbird species—nearly 40 percent of all species in the Americas—within a remarkably compact area. Dramatic altitudinal shifts from páramo to cloud forest and tropical foothills create distinct hummingbird communities along both slopes of the Andes, making this one of the most efficient destinations anywhere for focused hummingbird study. Centered in the Andean cordillera and its eastern and western foothills, this program also showcases Ecuador’s extraordinary broader avifauna, from tanagers and toucans to cock-of-the-rocks and mixed-species flocks, while supporting conservation-driven lodges and local communities.
Three moments you’ll never forget
Rise early in Mindo Forest to hear the day awaken. Hummingbirds flit among the feeders, while toucans and tanagers move through the treetops as morning light filters through the mist.
Spot elusive Giant Antpittas at close-range feeders, then watch Andean Cock-of-the-rocks displaying at their lek, their bright orange plumage glowing beneath the cloud forest canopy.
At Wildsumaco Lodge, the forest comes alive with flocks darting through flowering trees, waves of color and movement sweeping across the canopy, while forest trails and feeders reveal the rich diversity of this Amazonian-influenced habitat.
Conservation biologist & wildlife author
Go with Mark
Mark is a frequent leader of small, land-based, wildlife-focused expeditions in Africa, South America, South Asia, and East Asia. He’s a regular lecturer onboard expedition cruise vessels and has traveled widely from the Arctic to Antarctica and so many places in between. Mark was born and educated in the UK, and has degrees in biology, english literature and psychology. He’s had careers in ...DAY 1
ARRIVAL IN QUITO
Arrive in Quito, South America’s second-highest capital, and transfer to the GO Quito Hotel with sweeping city views. Gather for a welcome briefing and hosted dinner to start your Ecuadorian adventure.
DAY 2
QUITO
Explore Quito’s UNESCO-listed historic center, visiting grand plazas, ornate churches, and museums. In the afternoon, choose to visit the Capilla del Hombre or stand astride the equator at the Middle of the World monument.
DAY 3
QUITO / MINDO CLOUD FOREST
Depart Quito and ascend into the Andes for your first birding experiences before descending into misty cloud forest. Arrive at Guaycapi Birding Lodge, surrounded by forest trails and hummingbird feeders.
DAY 4
MINDO CLOUD FOREST
Bird from lodge feeders and explore nearby private reserves, encountering hummingbirds, tanagers, toucanets, and Chocó-region endemics.
DAY 5
MINDO CLOUD FOREST
Visit famous antpitta feeding stations and Andean Cock-of-the-rock leks. Additional stops at lower elevations add diversity, offering rewarding close-range birding opportunities.
DAY 6
MINDO CLOUD FOREST / CHOCÓ BIOREGION
Spend a full day exploring community-run reserves, discovering regional endemics and a wide variety of hummingbirds and forest species in one of the richest ecosystems on Earth.
DAY 7
MINDO CLOUD FOREST / QUITO
Continue birding at lower elevations where tropical hummingbirds reach peak diversity. Return to the Quito valley and spend the evening at the serene San José de Puembo Hotel.
DAY 8
QUITO / SAN ISIDRO
Cross the Eastern Andes, birding high-altitude páramo landscapes with snow-capped volcano views. Spot specialized hummingbirds, Andean Condors, and other highland species before descending to San Isidro Lodge.
DAY 9
SAN ISIDRO
Bird along the route to the Amazonian foothills, observing dramatic species turnover. In the afternoon, explore San Isidro Lodge’s feeders and forest trails.
DAY 10
SAN ISIDRO / WILDSUMACO LODGE
Journey deeper into the eastern foothills and check in to Wildsumaco Lodge for three nights. Encounter a distinct hummingbird community and diverse forest-edge species immediately upon arrival.
DAY 11
WILDSUMACO LODGE
Explore forest trails, feeders, and lowland habitats rich in hummingbirds, tanagers, and Amazonian foothill species. Enjoy unhurried birding and photography opportunities.
DAY 12
WILDSUMACO LODGE
Spend another full day at Wildsumaco Lodge revisiting productive areas, responding to bird activity, and enjoying focused observation of the Amazonian avifauna.
DAY 13
WILDSUMACO LODGE / PAPALLACTA
Cross back over the Andes, birding en route to Papallacta. The high-elevation reserve and surrounding páramo are home to specialized hummingbirds and other Andean species. Relax in the thermal springs or explore nearby trails.
DAY 14
PAPALLACTA / QUITO / HOMEWARD
After breakfast, transfer to Quito International Airport for your independently booked flight.
trip details
September 12, 2027 – September 25, 2027
DEPARTURE
Start in Quito
End in Quito
“Hummingbirds are a highlight of this journey, but they are only part of the story. As we travel from high páramo through cloud forest to the Amazonian foothills, entire bird communities shift with elevation, revealing Ecuador’s extraordinary diversity. Outstanding birding, beautiful lodges, and remarkable flora and fauna combine to create a rich and immersive experience.”
— Mark
Where You’ll Stay
Guaycapi Birding Lodge
Nestled in the northwest Andean cloud forest, this cozy lodge features forest trails and hummingbird feeders that attract a wide variety of species. Comfortable cabins with private bathrooms and balconies overlook the lush valley.
San Isidro Lodge
Situated on the eastern slopes of the Andes, this lodge is surrounded by a private cloud forest reserve with trails and feeders. Cabins are comfortable, and the area supports an impressive variety of hummingbirds, antpittas, and other foothill species.
Wildsumaco Lodge
A remote lodge in the Amazonian foothills, offering forest trails and feeders that attract hummingbirds, tanagers, and other foothill species. Its secluded setting provides immersive access to one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse regions.
More Detail
PRICING
Per Person: $10,990
Add $1,990 for a single room
DEPOSIT
$1,500
GROUP SIZE
10 travelers
What’s Included
Ready to Go?
Save your spot on our expedition by booking now.
September 12, 2027 – September 25, 2027
All photographs featured on this page are courtesy of Neblina Forest.