Maquipucuna Cloud Forest Lodge (MAQ)
Your guides will tailor your activities according to what you would like to do. Options include hiking, mountain biking and swimming in rivers and a wonderfull waterfall. Alternatively, there are archaeological site visits to Yumbo (pre-Inca) ruins and trails, as well as bird watching. If you prefer, you can visit sustainable development projects, talk to researchers – or just relax in the hammocks.
Sample itinerary
Day 1: Transfer in from Quito, afternoon to explore
Transfer from your hotel in Quito to Maquipucuna reserve. Arrive late morning and either relax before lunch or build up an appetite by taking one of the nature walks that extend across the reserve. Over a hearty lunch you can work out the rest of the day’s activities with your guide, who will tailor your activities according to what you would like to do.
Options include hiking, mountain biking, swimming in the rivers and waterfalls, archaeological site visits to Yumbo (pre-Inca) ruins and trails, bird watching, nature trails, visiting sustainable development projects and talking to researchers – or just relaxing. Dinner.
Day 2: Birdwatching, forest hikes, pre-Inca ruins
Optional early morning bird hike, a great chance to some of the hundreds of species of birds that nest right outside the lodge. Breakfast with the humming birds and then activities of your choice. Lunch and the chance for a siesta, before exploring more of the reserve. Dinner and some well earned relaxation.
Day 3: Transfer back to Quito
Optional early morning bird hike, then breakfast and a last chance to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Maquipucuna reserve before your transfer back to Quito.
Accommodation
The Thomas H. Davis Ecotourism Centre is located in the reserve close to the Umacacha river. It is staffed by friendly people from the local communities, under the management of the Maquipucuna Foundation. The lodge is made with traditional materials and there is a choice of rooms with private or shared bathrooms, all with hot water. Meals are prepared in an open plan kitchen using the best of local and international recipes and ingredients. The dining area is surrounded by humming bird feeders offering a unique opportunity to see these beautiful birds up close. The bar area includes hammocks and stunning views over the reserve.
There is also a Research Station that provides basic laboratories and accommodation for 20 scientists, naturalists and volunteers and a Camping area for those who are looking for a deeper contact with nature.
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