Ecuador Photography Workshop!!!
Jan 30th-Feb 5th 2025
Join Me in Ecuador!
Contact me via email for booking
OVERVIEW
Tour length: 7days
Starting city: Quito
Ending city: Quito
Pace: Moderate
Physical difficulty: moderate
Focus: Wildlife Photography & Bird Photography/Birding
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE AIRFARE TO QUITO, ECUADOR
$3300 per person in double room
Single room supplement: $295
TOUR INCLUDES:
- Private driver and transportation.
- Private English-speaking birding-photography guide.
- All meals, excursions and activities listed in itinerary.
- Drinking water available throughout the tour.
- Lodging as described in this itinerary.
- Entrance fees to all the reserves and activities listed in the itinerary.
- Wildlife and Bird photography instruction as needed
NOT INCLUDED:
- Tips
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic and additional drinks
- Travel insurance
- International airfare
- Any other item not specified
FULL ITINERARY:
WILDLIFE PHOTO INTROTOUR OF TROPICAL ANDES
JANUARY 30th – FEBRUARY 5th 2025
DAY 1 January 30th : ARRIVAL DAY - TRANSFER IN FROM THE AIRPORT
Arrival transfer from Mariscal Sucre International Airport. As most international flights arrive late in the evening, we will facilitate a smooth transfer to Ilayaku Lodge for an overnight stay.
INCLUDES: Transfer in from the airport, accommodation at Ilayaku Lodge
DAY 2 January 31st : ZUROLOMA -ALAMBI- SACHATAMIA
After an early pick-up from Quito, you’ll drive towards Zuroloma Reserve, located on the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano about 1 hour and 20 minutes northwest of Quito, along the famous Hummingbird Route in the old Nono-Mindo Road. This high Andean montane forest is an environment unlike any other in the world; with amazing views of the evergreen lush Andean cloud forest, and snowcapped volcanoes as far as the eye can see. You’ll witness a unique ecosystem with a very particular and complex biodiversity, climate and topographic conditions as you become immersed in this ideal location for an extraordinary photography experience.
Rainbows of sparkling hummingbirds will catch all your attention, a true world-renowned destination that might provide one the best bird photography opportunities under natural light conditions for some unique species. This reserve has become the most reliable location to photograph the elusive Chestnut-napped Antpitta, Equatorial Antpitta, the incomparable Sword-billed hummingbird, Sapphire vented Puffleg, Tyrian Metaltail, Black-tailed Trainbearer, Buff-winged Starfrontlet Blue-capped Tanager and an array of other remarkable birds.
This montane cloud forest forms an integral part of a crucial conservation zone for our planet, nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known as the Andean Chocó- a sanctuary of immense biodiversity and ecological significance. Your visit contributes directly to supporting the local community engaged in this conservation initiative. This invaluable effort provides a sustainable livelihood, serving as a vital defense against agricultural pressure and other threats to the delicate habitat, ensuring the preservation of this invaluable ecosystem.
Following a fruitful morning, your journey continues along the Nono-Mindo Road, venturing into the picturesque landscapes of Tandayapa Valley. Along this scenic route, known as the "Route of the 'Quinde'," derived from the Kichwa Indigenous word for "hummingbird," you'll be led to Alambi Reserve an authentic haven for hummingbirds.
Over 15 species of hummingbirds visit the garden and feeders daily. Attracting dozens of striking species, the fruit feeders become a hub of activity, drawing in remarkable birds such as the Red-headed Barbet and an assortment of vibrant tanagers including the Blue-necked Tanager, Golden Tanager, Black-capped Tanager, Golden-napped Tanager.
Following your hummingbird encounter, you'll make your way to your final destination of the day: Sachatamia Lodge, nestled within the pristine surroundings of the Mindo area.
The lodge will serve as your base for the next birding adventures, providing a comfortable and convenient retreat as you explore the wonders of the Andean Chocó Region.
INCLUDES: Private specialized guide, private transportation, entrance fees to the reserves, meals (B/L/D), accommodation in Sachatamia Lodge
DAY 3 FEBRUARY 1st : PLATE-BILLED MOUNTAIN-TOUCAN, TANAGERS AND HUMMINGBIRDS
Today’s adventure takes you to a reserve situated 1,800 meters above sea level, located just off the Mindo Road—an absolute haven for birders. This picturesque site offers abundant opportunities to admire from vibrant hummers and tanagers to the region's exclusive endemics, such as the endemics Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan and Toucan Barbet, renowned for their exquisite multicolored appearance. Prepare to fill your mind and hard drive with an array of astounding shots!
The garden boasts a tapestry of flowering plants and meticulously placed feeders, creating an enticing hub that attracts a dizzying diversity of hummingbirds. On average, visitors delight in witnessing up to 12 distinct types of hummingbirds here. A true highlight for many are all the breathtaking Chocó endemics possible at this location, the Velvet-Purple Coronet., Empress Brilliant, Gorgeted Sunangel, Brown Inca, Purple-bibbed Whitetip, and the simply captivating Violet-tailed Sylph, adding to the enchantment of this extraordinary experience. In the afternoon, we'll continue our exploration of the multiples reserves near the Mindo area, providing ample opportunities to encounter diverse species. Afterward, we'll return to Sachatamia, allowing you a well-deserved rest.
INCLUDES: Private specialized guide, private transportation, entrance fees, meals (B/L/D), accommodation in Sachatamia Lodge.
DAY 4 FEBRUARY 2ND: REFUGIO PAZ DE LAS AVES
This now-famous Antpitta reserve near Mindo is considered a must visit place and a highlight of the Northwestern Route. Here, the former local farmer Angel Paz and his brother Rodrigo have switched their activities to birding and conservation. They are pioneers in the neotropics in feeding several elusive Antpitta species like: Moustached, Giant, Yellow-breasted, Chestnut- crowned and Ochre-breasted Antpittas with amazing and nearly miraculously success. These birds respond relatively easily to their voice, giving us a great chance to see these otherwise evasive birds.
They have gained substantial fame for developing this technique of conditioning extremely rare Antpittas and other birds to come out onto the trail and perch on set up mossy branches providing great viewing and photo opportunities. Visitors can witness these incredible birds and the conservation efforts firsthand while supporting local sustainable ecotourism initiatives. Hummingbird feeders within the reserve attract many species like Velvet-purple Coronet, Empress Brilliant and Brown-Violetear. Other Chocó specialties sometimes found in the area include Nariño Tapaculo, Orange-breasted Fruiteater, and Black -chinned Mountain-Tanager. It is also a good site for birds like Golden-headed Quetzal, Golden-winged Manakin and Crimson-rumped Toucanet.
Here you’ll also visit an active Andean Cock-of-the-Rock lek. The species exhibits marked sexual dimorphism, the male has a large disk-like crest and a very unique vivid plumage. Gatherings of males compete for breeding females by displaying its colorful plumage, bobbing and hopping, and making strident calls.
INCLUDES: Private guide specialized, private transportation, entrance fees, meals (B/L/D), accommodation in Sachatamia Lodge and Reserve.
DAY 5 FEBRUARY 3RD: MASHPI AMAGUSA
Mashpi Amagusa is a must visit site for birders and photographers in the northwestern route that has gained notoriety for its impressive collection of Chocó endemic bird species. The wet mossy forest along the roads in the area boasts Moss-Backed Tanager, Pacific Tuftedcheek, Rose-faced Parrot, Orange-Breasted Fruiteater, Black Solitaire, Indigo Flowerpiercer, and the very rare Choco Vireo.
Embark on a journey to a reserve overseen by a dedicated local family from the nearby Pacto-Loma community. Meet Sergio and Doris, the passionate owners who have thoughtfully installed fruit feeders adorned with natural perches. These provide exceptional photography opportunities, allowing you to capture images of numerous species that are either challenging to spot or rarely seen elsewhere. Marvel at the vibrant hues of the Glistening-green Tanager, Moss-backed Tanager, Rufous-throated Tanager, Golden-collared Honeycreeper, Rose-faced Parrots, and many other captivating bird species.
Your mind will be blown by the amazing hummingbird activity in their garden. Hummingbirds regularly visit the flowers and feeders around the main house such as, Brown Inca, Violet-tailed Sylph, Velvet-purple Coronet, Green Thorntail, Purple-bibbed Whitetip, Empress Brilliant, Green-crowned Brilliant among others.
The reserve has some of the last well-preserved remnants of pristine cloud forest, in one of the world’s most renowned hot spots of biodiversity on the planet, the Andean Chocó Forest. Your visit will support the efforts to preserve this invaluable forest over time. Later in the afternoon you’ll return to Quito for a well deserved rest.
INCLUDES: Private specialized guide, private transportation, entrance fees, meals (B/L/D), accommodation in Ilayaku Lodge.
DAY 6 FEBRUARY 4TH: ANTISANA & CHAKANA RESERVE
Antisana Volcano stands at 5,756 meters above sea level (18884 ft), ranking as the fourth highest peak in Ecuador and boasting the country's largest glacier. This majestic site offers a glimpse of the unique natural beauty of the paramo amidst the breathtaking Andean landscape. Your focus during this expedition will be capturing the essence of this high-altitude haven and its local wonders, such as the stunning Ecuadorian Hillstar sipping from the flowers of “chuquiragua” bushes.
Other species easy to find in the area are Stout-billed and Chestnut -winged Cinclodes, Andean Tit-Spinetail, Many-striped Canastero, Tawny Antpitta, Tufted Tit-Tyrant, Red-crested Cotinga, Paramo Pipit, Plumbeous Sierra-Finch and Black-winged Ground-Dove. You’ll also have the chance to see and photograph Carunculated Caracaras, Andean Gulls, Andean Lapwings, and a number of other species that are absent or difficult to see elsewhere, including the scarce and vulnerable Andean Ibis.
Chakana and Antisana feature diverse rocky cliffs that serve as nesting and roosting sites for the majestic Andean Condors. With a population of just around 158 birds in the entire country, this iconic species sadly falls under the critically endangered category, making sightings elsewhere in Ecuador rare.
This area is also home for Spectacled Bears, one of the most emblematic and elusive mammals of South America. These attractive, endangered bears can be found in the cloud forests and paramos within a few hours’ drive of Quito. The paramo is rich in important food sources for the bears, which are almost entirely herbivorous; one of the bear’s favorite foods, Puya sp. plant, whose succulent heart harbors essential sugar-rich reserves, is rather abundant in this open habitat of Andean grasslands dotted with small bushes and elfin trees.
As you arrive at Lake La Mica, you'll carefully scan the lakeshore to spot an array of beautiful bird species including Andean Coots, Andean Teals, Andean Ducks, and Yellow-billed Pintails and Silvery Grebe.
Following this captivating birdwatching experience, indulge in a delectable traditional lunch at Tambocondor Lodge. Here, a delightful array of flowers and feeders beckon numerous species of hummingbirds. Marvel at the incredible diversity, from the unique Black-tailed Trainbearer, Tyrian Metaltail, the majestic Giant Hummingbird, and the iridescent beauty of the Shining Sunbeam.
In the afternoon, return to Quito for a well-deserved rest.
INCLUDES: Private specialized guide private transportation, entrance fees, meals (B/L/D), Accommodation in Ilayaku or similar.
DAY 7 FEBRUARY 5TH : PAPALLACTA PASS + CAYAMBE COCA NATIONAL PARK
Explore the breathtaking tundra-like terrain, offering mesmerizing views of the landscape and a spectacular sight of several volcanoes on clear days, where the majestic snow-capped Antisana Volcano looms over the majestic mountain ranges below. Weather permitting, venture to the highest elevations of Papallacta Pass for an opportunity to observe the cryptic Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe, a secretive and fascinating bird species that adds to the allure of this remarkable location. The surroundings of Quito provide different opportunities to find wild bears and other emblematic fauna with good chances of close encounters. Bears can be found in the cloud forests and paramos (highlands) around the District of Quito. It is in the paramo, north east of Quito at Cayambe Coca and Antisana National Parks where you can increase your probabilities of a great encounter with bears and other Andean wildlife, sometimes close enough to have wonderful views and photographs. The area to visit covers the surroundings of these two national parks with special natural feeding sites where the presence of bears is frequent all year round.
Later on, your journey continues to the enchanting Papallacta river where you'll explore the scenic trails, immersing yourself in the splendor of the Andean temperate forests. Here vibrant mixed flocks of birds are possible featuring stunning species such as the Hooded Mountain Tanager, Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, Blue-backed Conebill, and Black-capped Hemispingus. Visit the only hide and feeding station that offers the chances of observing the unique Gray-breasted Mountain Toucan, allowing a great photo opportunity to capture the beauty of this unique Andean species.
Stroll alongside the Papallacta River in pursuit of a unique resident of swift mountain streams: the adept swimmer and diver, the Torrent Duck.
This exhilarating quest promises to be among the highlights of your day, offering a glimpse into the remarkable diversity of this habitat. Later after lunch you’ll prepare to travel back to Quito. We’ll transfer you to the airport to catch your flight back home. Plan on flights after 7:00 PM. If you are not able to find a good match, you can overnight near the airport at a hotel we regularly use and start fresh the following day. Please let us know this in advance so we can assist you with the arrangements and quote additional services.
INCLUDES: Private specialized guide, private transportation, entrance fees, meals (B/L/-), transfer out.
