What's a group trip?
Join a small group of like-minded travellers on a guided trip.
What's a tailor made trip?
We put together a bespoke tour to fit your requirements.
Prices From $1200 / £975.6 per person
Dates: October 2019
Duration: 3
Capacity: 5 per person
The setting is stunning on the lake shore surrounded by glacial peaks. Here you are away from it all surrounded by the majestic Patagonian scenery and immersed in the history of this remote location.
The estancia has 5 cottages which comprise of a lounge and 4 en-suite bedrooms with stunning panoramic views. The “Octagon” is an exclusive facility for overnight guests which comprises a bar, restaurant and lounge.
Overnight stays include full board, a choice of activities chosen from an extensive menu of horseback rides, 4×4 vehicle excursions and guided hikes.
Prices From $1509 / £1226.817 per person
Dates: January 2024
Mashpi Lodge is in one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. The Choco bioregion stretches from Panama through Ecuador to the border with Peru.
Ecuador’s section, the Andean Choco, is part of the world-famous Tumbes-Choco-Darien biodiversity hotspot. It covers 125,000 hectares with diverse microclimates across its undulating topography, offering a unique richness in flora and fauna.
About Mashpi Reserve and Lodge
Mashpi Lodge came to life in 2001 when a group of environmentalists bought 3,000 acres of land in the Choco bioregion. Once farmed and logged, the group set out to protect an area home to more than 400 species of birds, 150 butterfly species, 120 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 100 varieties of trees.
Mashpi Lodge aims to mix the best-in-class hotel service in an artistic, natural environment. It succeeds thanks to luxurious rooms and tasteful communal spaces that blend in and play with the surroundings.
The contemporary and sustainable lodge sits at the beating heart of the Mashpi Reserve, 950m/3,100ft above sea level, among the lower montane tropical rainforest and cloud forests. Panoramic views unfold from almost all areas, fusing you with nature during your stay.
Connect with nature at Mashpi
Connect with nature on the yoga deck, unwind in the spa, or enjoy a meditation session among the cloud forest sounds. Awaken your senses in the lodge’s pristine swimming area next to a refreshing natural waterfall, one of several cascades surrounding Mashpi Lodge, where you can re-energise your spirit.
Your wellness is cared for with high-end gastronomy, exotic cocktails, and the plush Samay Centre and Spa. Learn more about the environment in the expedition room. There’s an indoor and outdoor bar lounge, coffee bar, well-stocked library, gift shop, and viewing platform. There are even some computers for those that may need access.
Mashpi Lodge is also a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World programme; no need to say more.
Birdwatching
Mashpi Lodge is a birdwatching paradise, with explosively coloured birds sighted among the lush, tropical greenery. Look for the azure blue, deep vermillion, and forest green flashes of birds among the kaleidoscope of butterflies, frogs, and insects.
Some 35 of the 400 species at Mashpi Lodge are endemic, and more than 30 species of hummingbirds have been identified in the area. A highlight for many is the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock lek.
Highlights at Mashpi Lodge
Mashpi’s eight-storey high observation tower (26m/85ft) gives a view over the cloud forest canopy like no other. Watch nature in all its beauty from above the jungle floor.
A life centre offers a journey of learning and discovery for children and adults alike. There, resident scientists talk you through the area’s wildlife while inviting you to witness one of nature’s most striking wonders; the metamorphosis of butterflies.
The dragonfly gondola offers an 80-minute ride through and above the cloud forest canopy along a 1.2 mile/2km route. Alternatively, take the sky bike, pedalling 200m/650ft through the cloud forest canopy, over the jungle, rivers, and wildlife.
A hummingbird garden viewpoint allows guests to observe up to 19 of the 32 species identified at Mashpi. Marvel at the magical hovering birds while keeping your eyes peeled for the toucans and squirrels that share the garden.
Expert guides to help
Local and naturalist guides help spot wildlife on the numerous trails that follow the undulating features of the Mashpi zone. They range from short, 20-minute walks to those up to and over three hours, often combined with other activities. Evocative names include the Howler Monkey, Healing Water, Capuchin Monkey, and Walking Palm trails. You can also head out on night walks and experience the jungle from an entirely new perspective.
Kids love the laboratory where the experiments are designed to make them fall in love with the natural world. Research and conservation projects—new species are often being discovered—amplify this connection.
Take it easy among the birds and breeze on the outdoor yoga deck, soft mats provided. Or try Samay, which means ‘soul’ in Kichwa, a Wellness Centre that offers inner harmony for the mind, body, and soul. Massages, beauty treatments, and a hot tub await.
Prices From $3300 / £2682.9 per person
Dates: March 2024
Duration: 7
The enchanting valley of Soraypampa is the starting point of the trek, by many accounts more scenic and exclusive than the famous ‘Inca Trail’.
Hike through changing altitudes and varied terrain while you marvel at the beauty of the Salkantay Peak, Salkantay Glacier and Humantay Glacier Lake.
After a day’s walking, indulge in the comfort of enchanting mountain lodges with their innovative local cuisine and the warmth of the local people.
All the lodges offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, bar/lounge and cozy reading rooms – some even have a jacuzzi!
Duration: 4
Tierra Patagonia blends with the flow of the geology of its location – wood clad interiors meld with the furnishings and textiles, which were hand made by Chilean craftspeople, using natural materials from the region.
Included are a choice of activities such as treks, horse rides, scenic trips and bicycle rides to world famous locations and also to areas less travelled, all of which are led by qualified and experienced guides.
Choose from four day stays or longer – the truth is you probably won’t ever want to leave Tierra Patagonia.
Packages include transfers from Punta Arenas, accommodation and full board with open bar.
Ask a question and our expert in this area will have your answer.
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+44 (0)131 378 5593
+44 (0)131 554 6025
info@andeantrails.co.uk
The trip was truly brilliant. We were unbelievably lucky with the weather - when we needed good weather (e.g. when hiking up to three towers, andean crossing) we had it! The EcoCamp exceeded all our expectations (I am assuming you have been there so I don't need to tell you about it!). Our guide was just great - very experienced, knowledgeable and fun. We had a full group of 12 and enjoyed everyone's company. We would both say that the trekking portion was truly awesome and very special - the highlight of our trip - not that the rest of it wasn't great. Everything was as it was supposed to be - we were met/picked up according to the schedule. The hotels were also great - we loved all the locations and the hotels themselves. At the last hotel in Buenos Aires (Legado Mitico) they were unbelievably fun and helpful. They let us stay in our room until 4pm among other things.
B Mucklow, USA, 2018 » Paine W Classic Trek
5 ***** It was very memorable - reaching the lakeside at Torre del Paine after the trek through the valley; exhausted but exhilarating. The small group bred a camaraderie that added to the wealth of experiences. The hotels were a level below what we might have chosen for ourselves but we could never haver reached such locations or enjoyed ourselves so much if not for the group experience.
A Waters, UK, 2017 » Patagonia Highlights Trekking Trip