Mashpi Lodge is an incredible engineering feat. Deep in the cloud forest and 60 miles northwest of Quito, the winding mountain and valley roads descend from the dizzy heights of Quito to the steamy forests at lower altitude towards the Pacific Ocean.
The project (both lodge and reserve) is the brainchild of Roque Sevilla, former mayor of Quito, entrepreneur and chairman of one of the main tour operators in Ecuador. His vision came to fruition in 2012 after a 2 year building project and a cost of $10 million. The concept is one of conservation, research, education and sustainability for local communities through high end, low impact tourism.
It is a miracle how such an ambitious project has had such little impact on the forests surrounding with such a high tech lodge created out of glass, metal, stone and wood.
A rough track remains the main access road into the reserve that is usually shrouded in cloud in the afternoons.
Explorations are mainly conducted in the mornings with visits to hidden waterfalls and secluded rivers, and all the while spotting the native flora and fauna. Above the clouds, an impressive aerial tram glides above the canopy allowing an eagle's eye view of monkeys, parrots and butterflies.
The rooms are extremely comfortable, with both King or Twin beds available, well thought out lighting, large bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows create an impressive sense of immersion in the forest.
There is also delicious healthy cuisine served exquisitely in the atmospheric and sociable restaurant.
Ecuador - gateway to the Galapagos but the mainland has jaw dropping scenery with snow capped volcanoes, hidden cloud forests, accessible Amazon lodges and a rich Andean and Spanish colonial history.
Ecuador's capital, Quito, has a UNESCO World Heritage protected quarter with the re-generation of the district showcasing beautifully restored baroque masterpieces into exquisite five star and exclusive boutique hotels.
The atmosphere is a vibrant mix of locals and visitors jostling for space along the steep cobble streets with views to the staggering volcanoes surrounding the city. Venture north to the highlands and pretty haciendas to enjoy genuine rural hospitality, farm to fork cuisine, gentle riding and biking through hidden valleys and returning to roaring fires in the cool night air at altitude.
The Amazon tributories are surprisingly accessible via a 30 minute flight from Quito airport. Board a motorised dug out canoe followed by the gentle rippling of a paddle to reach peaceful jungle lodges overlooking serene oxbow lakes. Excellent birding with private guides, exploring the waterways and nocturnal adventures.
A wonderfully immersive exploration of the Ecuadorian mainland can easily be made in a week with our Destination Specialists assisting on every aspect to make the most of your visit.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Annual | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Temperature Avg | |||||||||||||
Precipitation Avg | |||||||||||||
Precipitation (Avg Days) | 13 | 13 | 18 | 19 | 16 | 11 | 7 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 16 | 15 | 160 |
Straddling both sides of the equatorial line brings fair weather to Ecuador all year round. Read More
Pricing available on request.
Please contact your Destination Specialist for more information on +44 (0) 1993 824198.
Included:
Fully inclusive package rates (meals and guiding) which include hotel pick up / drop off in Quito with return group or private (supplement applies) transfers.
Select your preferred dates below and then click Submit Enquiry, we will check the availabilty and get back to you shortly.
Or speak to your Destination Specialist on: