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CONTINUING THE PATH OF DARWIN
Galapagos Islands: Tandayapa Extension
Extend your Galápagos adventure into Ecuador’s lush Andean cloud forests, where hummingbirds glitter in the mist and tanagers paint the canopy in vivid color. Just a few hours from Quito, the Tandayapa and Mindo valleys reveal an astonishing variety of birdlife—over 30 hummingbird species, spectacular toucans, and the dazzling Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan. This short but rewarding journey combines the comfort of boutique lodges with some of the most thrilling birding in South America. Each day offers intimate encounters with Ecuador’s famed biodiversity, all amid a backdrop of verdant ridges, rushing streams, and serene mountain air.
20 Days left to Register
Tour Overview
For those wishing to deepen their Ecuador experience, this optional extension offers a dazzling immersion into the rich biodiversity of the country’s northwestern Andes. Only a few hours from Quito, the Tandayapa and Mindo valleys are world-renowned for their stunning birdlife and lush, cloud-draped scenery.
Our adventure begins with a scenic drive over a mountain pass, descending into a landscape of towering trees, misty ravines, and emerald slopes alive with birdsong. Here, we’ll explore reserves where hummingbirds swarm like living jewels around feeders—among them Violet-tailed Sylph, White-booted Racket-tail, Buff-tailed Coronet, and the graceful Collared Inca. The air is filled with the soft trill of tanagers and the steady hum of wings.
At Séptimo Paraíso Lodge, we’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations and extraordinary birding right outside our door. Morning walks bring encounters with Masked Trogon, Golden-headed Quetzal, and Toucan Barbet, while fruit feeders attract a kaleidoscope of color—Golden, Flame-faced, and Blue-necked tanagers among them.
We’ll also visit Milpe Bird Sanctuary, a lower-elevation hotspot where motmots, woodcreepers, and euphonias mingle in the forest canopy. The nearby gardens of San Tadeo offer exceptional photography opportunities with tanagers and toucanets at arm’s length.
Our final morning traces the famed Paseo del Quinde Ecoroute, pausing at Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge and Alambi Reserve for one last hummingbird spectacle. With each stop, Ecuador’s mountain magic reveals itself through vibrant birds, cool mist, and the rich scent of the forest.
This short but unforgettable journey is a perfect complement to the Galápagos—an exploration of mainland Ecuador’s lush, avian heart.
Ecosystems Experienced
Lush tropical montane cloud forest filled with orchids, bromeliads, and mosses. A globally important biodiversity hotspot supporting hundreds of Andean and Chocó-endemic birds.
Expected Climate
Temperature
Cool and pleasant throughout (50–75°F / 10–24°C); mild days and crisp mornings in the highlands.
Rainfall
Moist and misty conditions typical of cloud forest; light showers possible daily but rarely long-lasting.
Seasons
November offers bright mornings, lush vegetation, and peak hummingbird activity before the wettest months begin.
Key Species
Collared Inca
Golden-headed Quetzal
Violet-tailed Sylph
Blue-winged Mountain Tanager
Plate-billed Mountain Toucan
Toucan Barbet
Leader
Paul Greenfield
Primary Leader
Renowned artist, author, and conservationist whose five decades in Ecuador have shaped global understanding of the country’s birds through art, research, and ecotourism.
Read MoreRemigio Grefa
Remigio “Remi” Grefa grew up in the Kichwa community of Añangu along Ecuador’s Napo River, where his love of birds and the rainforest began. Rising through every role at the Napo Wildlife Center, he gained hands-on experience that shaped him into a skilled birding and naturalist guide. Remi now leads tours with expertise, enthusiasm, and deep connection to the Amazon.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Ecuador’s capital and transfer to Hotel San José de Puembo.
Early arrivals may explore the hotel gardens for Sparkling Violetear, Great Thrush, and the elegant Black-tailed Trainbearer.
Day 2
Travel northwest from Quito into the Tandayapa Valley’s cloud-shrouded slopes.
Visit Pacha Quindi Reserve, where up to 20 hummingbird feeders draw a kaleidoscope of species—Violet-tailed Sylph, Fawn-breasted Brilliant, Brown Inca, and perhaps White-booted Racket-tail.
Enjoy afternoon birding along forested roads for Masked Trogon, Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan, and Golden-headed Quetzal.
Arrive at Séptimo Paraíso Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 3
Take an early walk around Séptimo Paraíso for tanagers, flycatchers, and woodcreepers at dawn.
Explore Milpe Bird Sanctuary’s lower forests for toucans, euphonias, motmots, and mixed foraging flocks.
Afternoon visit to San Tadeo Gardens, where fruit feeders draw Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Toucan Barbet, and a dazzling variety of tanagers at close range.
Return to Séptimo Paraíso for the night.
Day 4
Depart early, birding the famed Ecoroute for mixed flocks, quetzals, and hummingbirds.
Make stops at Bellavista Lodge and Alambi Reserve for Violet-tailed Sylph, Green-crowned Brilliant, and Torrent Tyrannulet.
Make an optional visit to the Equator Monument before returning to Quito for our farewell dinner.
Take morning transfers to the airport for international departures.
What’s Included
Accomodations & Dining
Settle into comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Enjoy freshly prepared meals that highlight local flavors and international favorites, with consideration for any dietary needs.
Guided Services & Gratuities
Experience each destination with the help of Leaders who share history, culture, and wildlife insights. Gratuities for crew and local guides are included, ensuring seamless service without extra concerns; tipping for your Leaders is discretionary and not included.
Active Essentials
Every tour includes the core elements that make our field experiences possible so you can stay engaged with a range of activities. All outings include the necessary equipment and full safety support, making it easy to join at your own pace.
Transportation & Logistics
We coordinate every transfer, from airport pickup to port boarding. Whether traveling by bus, boat, or charter, our team ensures smooth connections and stress-free travel.
FAQs
These trip extensions are thoughtfully crafted to enhance the primary tour and are usually arranged as part of the full itinerary. If you would like to explore booking this extension on its own, we invite you to call our office so we can review availability and discuss the best approach for your plans.