Maquipucuna Cloud Forest Lodge (MAQ)

3 days/2 nights
Longer and shorter stays possible
Starts and ends Quito

Maquipucuna Cloud Forest Lodge

The Maquipucuna Reserve is at the heart of the Ecuadorian cloud forest only 50 miles from Quito. The Reserve has around 15.000 acres of primary and secondary forest and is located within the Choco Andean Bioregion.

Maquipicuna is home to a great variety of species, many of them endangered and/or endemic. There are around 2,000 plant species, more than 349 bird species and more than 50 species of mammals. Residents include toucanets, spectacled bears, armadillos and it houses an active Cock-of-the-Rock Lek.

The Reserve incorporates habitats ranging from 4,000 to 9,000 feet above sea level, where at least three different zones can be found: pre-montane humid forest, low-montane humid forest and montane humid forest. Average annual temperature varies between 50º and 90º Fahrenheit and rainfall ranges between 1,500 to 3,000 mm per year, mainly December until April.

Cloud forests are so named because they are located at certain relative altitude that allows them to catch -and help create - clouds that humidify the forest. Constant moisture provides excellent conditions to epiphytes and many other plant species. Cloud forest is also an important source of fresh water and helps to prevent erosion.

Maquipicuna Foundation

The Maquipicuna Foundation was established in 1988 as a nonprofit local organization, with the vision of working on biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of natural resources in Ecuador. The Foundation encourages and promotes the participation of local communities in its programs.

There is also a Research Station that provides basic laboratories and accommodation for 20 scientists, naturalists and volunteers and a Camping area for those who are looking for a deeper contact with nature.

You can combine your Cloudforest adventure with a magical trip to the unique Galapagos Islands. Choose a cruise, or if you want to get active have a look at our popular Multi-Activity Holiday.

If you want to extend your stay on the mainland, why not venture into the Andes on horseback, go white water rafting or combine both those options and more on our Ecuador Active trip.

Please contact the office for information and advice.