10 Days Birding Photo tour from Andes to Amazon of Ecuador

If you’re passionate about bird photography and eager to explore one of the world’s most diverse countries, this 10-day Birding Photo Tour from Quito into Ecuador’s lush cloud forests and vibrant Amazon basin promises an unforgettable adventure. While I haven’t personally taken the tour, I’ve analyzed the itinerary, the experiences it offers, and feedback from travelers to paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the sheer variety of bird species you’ll encounter—ranging from towering Andean condors to elusive antpittas and dazzling hummingbirds. Second, its carefully curated route takes you through key biodiversity hotspots, giving both amateur and seasoned birders ample opportunities for stunning shots. Third, the emphasis on photography skills combined with expert guides ensures you’ll go home with memorable images and stories.

A potential consideration? The tour is quite intensive, with early mornings and lots of walking and driving, so a good level of physical fitness and patience with a busy schedule are advisable. It suits travelers who love nature, are serious about bird photography, and seek a mix of adventure and comfort in Ecuador’s diverse ecosystems.

This experience appeals most to those looking for an in-depth, guided exploration of Ecuador’s bird habitats, with the bonus of professional guidance to make every shot count. Now, let’s break down what you’ll encounter at each step of this journey.

Good To Know

Diverse Ecosystems: From high-altitude cloud forests to lowland Amazon rainforests, offering a wide range of habitats and species.
Expert Guides: Naturalist photographers with local knowledge enhance the experience and improve your chances of capturing rare birds.
Authentic Encounters: Up-close views of species like the Andean cock of the rock, hummingbirds, and toucans.
Value for Money: For $4,000, the tour includes most park fees, accommodations, and guided photography sessions—great value considering the biodiversity covered.
Flexible Itinerary: The schedule balances birding with opportunities for macro photography, boat trips, and cultural visits like the Equator Museum.
Limited Group Size: As a private tour, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and less crowded wildlife encounters.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Days 1-2: Ascending the Andes and Exploring Cloud Forests

Your journey begins in the cloud forests around Zuroloma and Alambi Reserve, two hotspots for bird enthusiasts. The early visits to Zuroloma promise encounters with species like the Sword-billed Hummingbird and Golden-breasted Puffleg, which are favorites among photographers for their striking colors and unique shapes. The guide’s knowledge is crucial here; they point out behaviors and perfect spots for capturing these elusive birds.

Next, a visit to Nanegalito offers a close-up shot of the Andean cock of the rock, a bird known for its vibrant plumage and theatrical displays. Many travelers mention how the guides’ tips help in capturing the bird’s vivid colors effectively. The high-altitude environments also set the stage for stunning mountain vistas, perfect for landscape shots.

The Alambi Reserve is considered a garden for hummingbird watchers. With feeders providing constant movement, expect to take crisp shots of hummingbirds in flight, a challenging but rewarding task for any photographer. The location is ideal for practicing slow shutter speeds and getting those crisp, detailed images of motion.

Days 3-4: Chocó Lowlands and the Milpe Sanctuary

The transition from the cloud forests to the Chocó lowlands marks a shift in biodiversity. Milpe Bird Sanctuary offers a chance to see the elusive Umbrellabird, a key endemic species, and photograph other regional endemics like toucans and hawks against a lush backdrop. Travelers note that the mixed foraging flocks are packed with species, providing ample opportunities for wide shots and close-ups.

A highlight here is the optional macro photography session at Mindo Nambillo Reserve. Expect to photograph amphibians, insects, and tiny birds, which require a different set of skills and lenses but offer fantastic close-up opportunities.

Days 5-6: High-altitude Volcanoes and Cloud Forests

Moving to the Antisana Ecological Reserve, you’ll witness majestic Andean condors soaring above active volcanoes—a breathtaking sight for both binoculars and cameras. The guides are praised for their ability to position travelers for optimal shot angles of these soaring giants.

Further into the highlands at Papallacta and Guango Lodge, you’ll encounter special species like the rainbow-bearded thornbill and torrent ducks. The high-altitude environment demands patience, but many reviewers appreciated how their guides helped identify and locate difficult birds, making for rewarding photos.

Days 7-10: Into the Amazon Basin and Limoncocha

Descending into the Amazon, the focus shifts to bird-rich floodplains, feeders, and boat trips. Rio Quijos Eco Lodge and San Isidro Lodge serve as excellent bases for early morning birding, with opportunities to photograph toucans, antbirds, and elusive owls.

The WildSumaco Lodge and Wayra Reserve are praised for their feeders, drawing in rare Amazonian species like the Blue-headed Parrot and the Wattled Jacana. Many reviews emphasize the guides’ ability to locate and identify tricky species, which often appear unexpectedly on feeders or flying past during boat trips.

The final days at Limoncocha Biological Reserve are a bird photographer’s dream. The boat trips on Limoncocha Lake mean you can capture exotic herons, kingfishers, parrots, and even the elusive Zigzag Heron. Photographers often comment on how the guides help in positioning for the best angles and lighting.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Group Dynamics

Transportation is via an air-conditioned vehicle, which is comfortable after long days of birding. The tour is private, meaning you travel exclusively with your group, an advantage for flexibility and personalized guidance.

Accommodation ranges from eco-lodges to research stations, all fitted with the essentials for a comfortable stay amid nature. Many travelers appreciate the variety, as it adds to the authentic experience of staying right in the middle of bird habitats.

The tour runs from early mornings, with a typical start time around 5:30 am, to maximize wildlife sightings during the day. Expect some long days, but also ample downtime to rest and process your photos.

Cost and Value

Priced at $4,000 per person, this includes most fees, guided services, and accommodations. Considering the number of protected areas visited and the expert guidance provided, this is a fair price for avid birders and photographers seeking a comprehensive Ecuadorian experience. Extra costs like flights to Quito or personal tips aren’t included but are minimal compared to the overall value.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re serious about bird photography and want to explore Ecuador’s diverse ecosystems with knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers a well-rounded, action-packed experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers who don’t mind early mornings and are eager to photograph both common and rare species in stunning settings.

Travelers who value authenticity, expert guidance, and a carefully curated itinerary will find this trip rewarding. The balance between birding, macro photography, and cultural visits offers a well-rounded journey into Ecuador’s natural riches.

However, those looking for a more relaxed holiday or with limited mobility may need to consider the physical demands and packed schedule. This tour is best suited for motivated travelers with a passion for wildlife, wildlife photography, or both.

What is included in the tour price?
Most park and reserve entrance fees, accommodation, transportation, and guidance are included, along with meals on most days.

Are meals provided throughout the trip?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for most days, providing local and nutritious options to keep you energized.

Do I need special photography equipment?
While not explicitly specified, the focus on bird photography suggests bringing a good telephoto lens and possibly macro gear for insects and amphibians.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, but some days involve early starts and walking in varied terrains, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect early mornings, some walking, and vehicle transfers across different terrains and altitudes.

Can I expect to see rare or endemic species?
Definitely. Stops like Milpe Sanctuary and the Amazon reserves are known for endemic species like the Umbrellabird and Blue-headed Parrot.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

Are there options for macro photography?
Yes, at Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve, there is an optional macro photography session.

What are the best months to take this tour?
The itinerary doesn’t specify, but Ecuador’s climate favors birding year-round, with the dry season typically from June to September.

What should I wear and bring?
Light, layered clothing, waterproof gear, binoculars, a good camera with telephoto lens, and insect repellent are recommended.

This Ecuador birding tour offers a detailed, immersive experience into some of the richest bird habitats on the planet. The combination of expert guides, varied ecosystems, and abundant species makes it a prime choice for bird lovers and photographers alike. You’ll leave with stunning images, unforgettable memories, and a newfound appreciation for Ecuador’s natural treasures.

While it’s a physically active trip, the rewards—spectacular bird encounters and breathtaking landscapes—are well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or an enthusiastic hobbyist, this journey opens a window into Ecuador’s vibrant avian world, making every moment spent in nature truly worthwhile.