CHOCÓ ANDINO BIOSPHERE RESERVE
Bellavista Cloud Forest
This natural sanctuary is located in the heart of the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy guided walks through vibrant trails, spot over 200 species of birds — including toucans and quetzals — relax in the tranquility of the landscape, and connect with nature while supporting conservation and sustainable development.
Choose Your Bellavista Experience
We depart from Quito (06:15 – 06:30) and travel along the Calacalí – La Independencia road, enjoying breathtaking landscapes on the way to Bellavista for a delicious breakfast. There, you’ll have the chance to observe a wide variety of hummingbirds and enjoy a 2.5-hour guided walk through the cloud forest, where a naturalist guide will show you the unique biodiversity and adaptations of the ecosystem. At 1:00 PM, we’ll enjoy lunch, followed by birdwatching. Finally, we’ll return to Quito, completing a unique experience in the heart of nature!
What's Included
- Private transportation to and from Quito
- Breakfast and lunch
- Guided walk within the reserve
- Observation of flora and fauna in the cloud forest
Not Included
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Activities not specified in the program
Note: hiking routes are flexible.
Day 1
Depart from Quito at 06:30 AM, traveling toward Bellavista with stunning landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and shown the facilities before breakfast. Afterward, enjoy a guided walk through the forest trails. After lunch, take another walk in the forest. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to spot the Olinguito, a carnivorous mammal from the Procyonidae family.
Day 2
At 04:45 AM, head out to see the famous Gallo de la Peña, then return to the lodge for breakfast and another guided trail. In the afternoon, explore the trails on your own or enjoy the hummingbirds. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3
Early morning birdwatching (recommended), followed by breakfast and further forest exploration. Lunch and return to Quito.
What's Included
- 8 meals
- 2 nights of accommodation
- Access to the 400-hectare Bellavista Reserve
- Shared walks in Bellavista
- Excursion to the Gallo de la Peña lek, entrance and transport included
- Transportation Quito – Bellavista – Quito
Not Included
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Activities not specified in the program
Recommended Equipment
- Comfortable shirts & wool sweaters
- Quick-dry pants (no blue jeans)
- Hat, sunscreen & rain poncho
- Camera & binoculars (rentable)
- Rubber boots (up to size 47)
- Water bottle & flashlight with batteries
