Which bird species do you think is the biggest attraction to visitors of your lodge (please only name one species)?
The Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus) is one of the most iconic and threatened species of the Ecuadorian Chocó. Visitors often spot this magnificent bird within the reserve, especially during the early hours of the day.
Golden-chested Tanager (Andres Vasquez)
What is the name of your lodge, and since when has your lodge been operating?
Our lodge has been operating since the early 2000s and is the only tourist accommodation in the Ecuadorian Chocó region, providing a unique gateway to this biodiverse area.
How best to travel to your lodge?
From Quito (approximately five hours by car): Take the Quito-Calacalí-Puerto Quito route. In Puerto Quito, take the detour towards the La Sexta settlement. Then head towards the Las Golondrinas settlement. After that, continue to the La T settlement and then to Zapallo.
At the entrance to Zapallo, take the right-hand detour that leads you to the banks of the Canandé River. There, you must cross by ferry. You will need to pay the ferry fee in cash; the Neimar ferry operates from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. On the other side of the river, you are only 40 minutes away from the reserve.
Long-wattled Umbrellabird (Leovigildo Cabrera)
What kind of services – except for accommodation and food – does your lodge offer to visiting birders?
The lodge offers a hummingbird and other bird feeding station, interpretive trails through the humid tropical forest, and specialized birding guides to enhance the experience. Additionally, guests can use an observation tower designed for birdwatching and photography. Laundry service is also available for visitor convenience.
What makes your lodge special?
Situated within the Canandé Reserve, one of the most biodiverse and ecologically significant areas on the planet, our lodge provides guests with unparalleled access to a wide array of endemic and globally threatened species. The Ecuadorian Chocó is renowned for its lush, humid tropical forests and incredible biodiversity, and staying here offers a truly immersive experience in this extraordinary environment.
The lodge thoughtfully combines modern comfort and rustic charm, ensuring visitors enjoy amenities that enhance their stay without detracting from the natural surroundings. With direct access to interpretive trails, specialized birding guides, and an observation tower, guests have exceptional opportunities to witness and photograph wildlife in its pristine habitat.
This blend of conservation, comfort, and access makes our lodge a standout destination for birders, conservationists, and travelers seeking a meaningful connection with nature.
What are the 10 – 20 most interesting birds that your lodge offers good chances to see?
Birders at our lodge have excellent chances to observe a remarkable diversity of species, including the iconic Great Green Macaw, elusive Banded Ground-Cuckoo, and the rare Baudó Guan. Other highlights include the vibrant Scarlet-breasted Dacnis, Golden-chested Tanager, and Rose-faced Parrot. The lodge also offers opportunities to see the spectacular Long-wattled Umbrellabird, powerful Black-and-white Hawk-Eagle, and unique species such as the Chocó Poorwill, White-tipped Cotinga, and Great Jacamar. Additional notable birds include the Plumbeous Forest-falcon, Scarlet-thighed Dacnis, Black-tipped Cotinga, Yellow-green Bush-Tanager, Sapayoa, Chocó Vireo, and Chocó Trogon, making this a premier destination for bird diversity in the Ecuadorian Chocó.
Banded Ground-cuckoo (Duan Brinkhuizen)
What is the best time to visit your lodge, and why?
The dry season, from December to April, is the ideal time for birdwatching at the lodge. During this period, trails are more accessible, and weather conditions are generally more favorable, enhancing the overall experience.
Is your lodge involved in conservation efforts? If yes, please describe them.
Canandé Reserve is a key conservation project managed by Fundación Jocotoco, focused on protecting the unique ecosystems of the Ecuadorian Chocó. In addition to promoting sustainable tourism, the reserve has implemented initiatives such as establishing a dedicated research station and collaborating closely with local communities to encourage sustainable land-use practices. These efforts aim to ensure the long-term preservation of the region’s exceptional biodiversity.
What other suggestions can you give to birders interested in visiting your lodge?
We recommend bringing binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens to capture close-up views of birds. Wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing to avoid disturbing wildlife. Be sure to pack insect repellent and sunscreen for personal protection. Prepare for walking on wet and slippery trails by wearing appropriate footwear. Finally, always follow the guides’ instructions and lodge rules to ensure a safe and rewarding experience.
Rose-faced Parrot (Andres Vasquez)
Do you have activities for non-birders? If so, please describe.
Yes, non-birders can enjoy guided hikes through the humid tropical forest to experience the rich local flora and fauna. Visits to nearby communities offer cultural immersion and insight into local traditions. Guests can also relax at the lodge, soaking in the natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere.
If any reader of 10,000 Birds is interested in staying at your lodge, how can they best contact you?
For reservations or more information, please contact us at:
Email: info@jocotoursecuador.com
Phone: +593 99 244 0038
Website: https://jocotoursecuador.com
Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers of 10,000 Birds?
A stay at Chocó Lodge is not only an opportunity to observe exceptional bird species, but also a chance to directly support the conservation of one of the planet’s richest and most threatened ecosystems. Each visit helps fund Fundación Jocotoco’s efforts to protect the Ecuadorian Chocó and the many unique species that call it home.
Leave a Comment