10 Days Birding Photo tour from Andes to Amazon of Ecuador

Ecuador’s incredible biodiversity and vibrant bird populations come to life in this comprehensive 10-day birding and photography tour. From cloud forests to highland volcanoes and the lush Amazon basin, this experience offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or an aspiring nature photographer, this tour promises a well-organized, immersive adventure into one of the world’s most megadiverse countries.

What we love about this experience:

• The chance to photograph elusive species like the Sword-billed Hummingbird and Andean Cock-of-the-rock up close.
• The well-curated itinerary that combines different ecosystems for varied birdlife and scenery.
• The expertise of naturalist guides who are passionate about Ecuador’s biodiversity and photography.

One consideration:

• The tour spans 11 days with quite full days; travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity and early mornings.

Ideal for nature lovers, serious birders, and photography enthusiasts eager to explore Ecuador’s amazing ecosystems and capture unforgettable images.

Good To Know

• Diverse Ecosystems: The tour covers cloud forests, high-altitude reserves, and Amazonian wetlands.
• Expert Guides: Naturalist guides with deep knowledge enhance both birding and photography experiences.
• Photographic Opportunities: Focus on capturing elusive species with expert tips, especially in reserve settings.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: The journey balances wildlife, landscapes, and cultural visits like the Equator Museum.
• Value for Money: For $4,000, you get 10 nights of accommodation, park fees, transportation, and guided photography assistance.
• Physical Demands: Moderate fitness needed, as some days involve early starts and walking in rugged terrain.

Exploring Ecuador’s Biodiversity: A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

This tour is designed to maximize your chances of spotting and photographing Ecuador’s iconic bird species across a variety of habitats. It’s structured around key ecological zones, each offering high-value birding and scenic experiences.

Day 1 & 2: Cloud Forests and the Choco Lowlands

The adventure begins in the Andean cloud forests, with stops at Zuroloma and Alambi Reserve. These areas are famous for species such as the Sword-billed Hummingbird, with its impressive bill, and Antpittas, which are often shy but can be observed in the dense undergrowth with patience. Our guides’ expertise is invaluable here—they know the best spots and times to find these elusive birds.

At Nanegalito, we might get a close-up view of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock, a spectacular sight with its bright orange plumage and theatrical displays. Reviewers have highlighted how these sightings are often “up close and impressive,” thanks to the guides’ local knowledge.

The Mashpi Amagusa Reserve offers an extraordinary diversity, especially prized by birders. Expect to see Green Thorntails and Rose-faced Parrots, with the guides emphasizing the importance of patience and quiet observation to capture these birds on camera. Many travelers note that this area is “a birding paradise” with a chance to photograph endemic and rare species.

The Milpe Bird Sanctuary, especially known for the Umbrella Bird Lek, presents a chance to see regional endemics and large mixed flocks. The sanctuary’s strategic location in the Choco lowlands means you’ll encounter species like toucans, hummingbirds, and hawks—perfect for both birding and macro photography.

Lastly, the optional visit to Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve allows macro photography enthusiasts to focus on amphibians and insects, adding variety to your portfolio.

Day 3 & 4: High-Altitude and Cloud Forests Near Quito

Next, the tour moves to Refugio Paz De Las Aves, renowned among birdwatchers for its up-close encounters with elusive species like various antpittas. Reviewers praise the “close views of rare birds” here, making it a highlight for bird photographers.

On Day 4, there’s a fun detour to the Intinan Equator Museum, providing a cultural break and a chance to photograph the famous middle of the world monument. This site offers a different kind of photo opportunity—cultural and geographic—adding depth to your collection.

Day 5 & 6: Highland Volcanoes and the Guango Cloud Forest

Antisana Ecological Reserve offers spectacular scenery with its active volcanoes and the chance to photograph the majestic Andean condor. Guests have commended the opportunity to capture these soaring giants against a dramatic volcanic backdrop.

The highland lakes near Papallacta, like Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe and Rainbow-bearded Thornbill, showcase the unique birdlife of high-altitude zones. Guango Lodge then provides a prime spot to photograph torrent ducks and hummingbirds, with many reviewers noting the “excellent feeders” and “beautiful mountain scenery” that make for memorable shoots.

Days 7 & 8: Transition to the Amazon Basin

Starting in the Rio Quijos Eco Lodge, you’ll search for the Andean Cock-of-the-rock again while also observing toucans and other species. The focus shifts to the Amazonian cloud forests, especially at San Isidro Lodge and the Wayra Reserve, where bird feeders attract species like Amazonian toucans and upper-elevation birds.

Guests frequently mention the knowledgeable guides who help identify and photograph birds on the trails and feeders, often highlighting the thrill of seeing rare Amazonian species in their natural habitat.

Days 9 & 10: Limoncocha and the Amazon Floodplain

Limoncocha offers an unparalleled opportunity to photograph birds on and around the lake. Expect to see exotic species like the Zigzag Heron, Striated Heron, and Swallow-tailed Kite. Boat trips at sunset are a favorite activity, providing stunning twilight shots of birds in flight.

The late afternoon visits to the Ibis and Egret roosts are a bonus, giving you a chance to capture large flocks settling in for the night—a truly dynamic scene for bird photography.

Day 11: Return and Reflection

The tour concludes at Francisco de Orellana Airport, with options for extensions into Ecuador’s Yasuni National Park for those wanting more rainforest immersion. Many guests have commented on how this tour “balances the best of birding, scenic landscapes, and cultural highlights” to form a well-rounded experience.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Overall Experience

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during long drives between diverse ecosystems. The private nature of the tour means your group will have dedicated guides, making the experience more personalized and flexible.

Accommodation is included for all nights, with stays in carefully selected lodges and reserves that blend comfort with immersion into nature. Many reviewers appreciated the spotless lodges and friendly staff, emphasizing that this added to the overall value.

The timing—starting early around 5:30 am—maximizes wildlife activity and photographic lighting, which is critical for capturing birds at their most active and photogenic moments. The moderate physical activity involved should suit most travelers comfortable with walking on uneven terrain.

Guides and Expertise

Guides like Mirlo Tours’ naturalist photographers are highlighted for their deep knowledge of Ecuador’s birds and photographic advice, making it easier for participants to get good shots even of shy or fast-moving species. Their ability to spot rare birds and their patience in waiting for the perfect shot are often praised.

Value and Pricing Analysis

At $4,000 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package: accommodations, park fees, transportation, and expert guiding. Considering the number of reserves visited, the diversity of habitats, and the quality of guiding, many would find this to be good value—especially for serious birders and photographers seeking high-quality sightings and images.

Additional inclusions like meals and transfers mean fewer extra costs, though travelers should budget for flights to and from Ecuador, tips, and personal expenses. The tour’s all-inclusive approach minimizes surprises and ensures focus remains on wildlife photography and enjoying the landscape.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for birding enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers willing to venture into a variety of eco-zones over an 11-day period. It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and early mornings, eager to improve their bird photography skills with expert guidance.

Because of its detailed itinerary and focus on endemic and elusive species, it’s particularly appealing to those ready to go beyond typical tourist spots and seek out rare bird encounters. If you’re after a well-organized, immersive Ecuadorian wildlife adventure, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

This 10-day birding and photography tour from the Andes to the Amazon offers an immersive, well-crafted exploration of Ecuador’s extraordinary natural habitats. With expert guides, carefully selected reserves, and a focus on photography, it provides plenty of chances to capture stunning images of both iconic and secretive species. The combination of scenic landscapes, biodiversity hotspots, and cultural highlights makes it a comprehensive Ecuadorian adventure.

While the pace can be demanding and physical activity moderate, the rewards—both visual and experiential—are substantial. Perfect for dedicated birders, photographers, and wildlife lovers eager to document Ecuador’s incredible diversity in one seamless trip.

If your goal is to see rare and endemic species while honing your photography skills in a country packed with natural wonders, this tour is a compelling choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes all accommodations, park and reserve entrance fees, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and guiding for the entire trip. Meals are also included for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days.

Is this tour suitable for beginners in birdwatching or photography?
While it’s designed for serious birders and photographers, the guides’ expertise and the focus on species sightings and photo opportunities make it accessible for those with some experience or enthusiasm for wildlife.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate fitness level, as some days involve early mornings and walking in uneven or rugged terrain. Comfort with outdoor conditions is recommended.

Can I extend my stay or customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour provider, Mirlo Tours, offers opportunities for extensions, such as visiting Ecuador’s Yasuni National Park, and can tailor experiences to your interests.

What kind of species can I expect to photograph?
Expect to see species such as the Sword-billed Hummingbird, Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Amazonian toucans, hummingbirds, condors, and many more endemic or regionally important birds.

How is the guide-to-group ratio?
This is a private tour, so your group will have dedicated guides, ensuring personalized attention and better chances at finding and photographing birds.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, the Tour’s schedule is likely aligned with optimal birding conditions in Ecuador, which generally favor the dry season from June to September.

Are there any doubts about safety or health?
The tour involves travel in natural reserves and some walking; travelers should be comfortable with outdoor conditions. The guides are experienced in wilderness safety and wildlife observation.

In summary, this Ecuador birding photo tour offers an impressive mix of biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and expert guidance at a competitive price point. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to document Ecuador’s wildlife in a comfortable, well-supported environment.