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Ecuador | Birding the Amazon Rainforest

with Merlin Birding & Nature Tours

March 8, 2023 - March 14, 2023

Napo River in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Opal-rumped Tanager

Photo by Joao Quental
Pygmy marmoset
Parakeets at a clay lick near Yasuní
Chestnut-eared Aracari

Photo by Francesco Veronesi, CC BY-SA 2.0
Boat ride in the Amazon rainforest
Coppery-chested Jacamar

Photo by Francesco Veronesi, CC BY-SA 2.0
Giant otter
Chestnut-crowned Antpitta

Photo by Debbie Jordan

Buildout

Overview

About this trip

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the Ecuadorian Amazon with Merlin Birding & Nature Tours. Begin in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains at WildSumaco Wildlife Sanctuary, then descend into the primary forests of La Selva Amazon Ecolodge, on the border of the famed Yasuní National Park in the heart of the Amazon Basin. Seek out a variety of neotropical resident and migrant avian species, plus mammals, amphibians, insects, and more. In addition to a superb wildlife experience, you’ll have a chance to connect with Indigenous communities and learn about their relationship with the surrounding forest.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Pair this trip with Birding the Chocó-Andes Region, Feb. 27 – Mar. 9, to see even more of Ecuador’s avian diversity!

Highlights

Search for a mix of high- and low-elevation species in Sumaco, including targets like the Gray-tailed Piha, Blue-rumped Manakin, Chestnut-crowned Gnateater, and the endangered Military Macaw.
Ascend a 115-foot observation tower in the branches of a kapok tree for an eye-level view of tanagers, toucans, Hoatzins, and other bird life high in the forest canopy.
Visit a clay lick in Yasuní National Park, where hundreds of parrots and parakeets gather to eat the mineral-rich soil.
Explore the Amazon after dark on foot and by canoe for the chance to see and hear a variety of nocturnal birds and other wildlife.

Meet your leader

Steve Hoffman

In January 2017, after serving as Executive Director of Montana Audubon for 10 years, Steve Hoffman retired to start his own birding tour company, Merlin Birding & Nature Tours, LLC (merlinbirding.com). Over the past 20+ years, Steve has led or co-led many National Audubon Society, HawkWatch International, and Montana Audubon birding tours in Montana and abroad including Belize, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Ecuador. Steve grew up in suburban Philadelphia, attended college in Reading, PA (near Hawk Mountain Sanctuary), and received his Master’s in Wildlife Ecology from Utah State University in 1979. Steve founded HawkWatch International in 1986, and has spent four decades exploring the mountains of the Rocky Mountain West, forever searching for new migratory raptor flyways. Steve currently resides in Bozeman, MT.

Land Cost

^$2,880

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $595

What makes us different

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Scopes

All of our birding guides carry scopes to improve your chances of spotting even the most hard to find species

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with making your flight arrangements if desired

Sustainable travel

We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Itinerary

Wildsumaco

Mar 08

The Andes' Eastern Foothills is one of the finest and most threatened areas for bird watching in Ecuador. About 500 bird species have been seen within the Wildsumaco Wildlife Sanctuary and neighboring areas. This area stretches from Loreto Road (where the main highway crosses Rio Pucuno, elevation 3,800 ft) up to the border of Gran Sumaco National Park (5,200 ft). The road passing through the reserve offers great road birding, and this is one of many areas from which to see flocks. Possibilities here include Blue-browed Tanager, Yellow-breasted Antwren, and Coppery-chested Jacamar. Many colorful species of tanager may be accompanied by Ecuadorian Tyrannulet, the recently described Foothill Elaenia, and sometimes Scarlet-breasted Fruiteater joins in. We'll also see North American migrants and over 30 species of hummingbird. At night Band-bellied Owl, Rufescent Screech-Owl and Foothill Screech-Owl often call from near-by.

Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at Wildsumaco Lodge

Wildsumaco

Mar 09

Early breakfast, followed by birding on the trails. From Wildsumaco's trails, you may see Gray-tailed Piha, Blue-rumped Manakin, and Chestnut-crowned Gnateater. The very rare Yellow-throated Spadebill has territories along several of the trails, and at any time the endangered Military Macaw or rare Spot-winged Parrotlet might fly by, or Black Hawk-Eagle soar overhead. Lunch at the lodge. This afternoon enjoy viewing an Antpitta feeding session then continue birding around the grounds before dinner. This evening seek out nocturnal creatures with your guide.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at Wildsumaco Lodge

Coca

Mar 10

After breakfast, depart early this morning for Coca. Head to Francisco de Orellana port. Board a canoe for the two hour ride down the Napo River to La Selva Amazon Ecolodge, which sits on the border of the famous Yasuní National Park. After getting settled, explore the Matapalo Trail, whose name comes from the Spanish for strangler fig (Ficus sp), one of the many remarkable trees that you can find on this short walk. Mahogany trees over 400 years old can also be seen, and your guides will share their knowledge of the flora and fauna.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at La Selva Amazon Ecolodge

Coca

Mar 11

Begin the day with a walk to the observation tower. From the 115 foot high platform, you can enjoy an up in the branches view of the forest canopy. Your naturalist and native guides will help you spot the colorful birds of the Amazon, and maybe even certain primates. On the way back from the tower, you have the option of taking the Tucaneta Trail, where your native guide can show you some of the medicinal plants still in use today, and your naturalist guide will provide you with interesting info on the ecology and natural history of the Amazon. There is also the option of visiting the beautiful lagoon of Mandi Cocha. An hour's hike takes you to the lagoon, where you can see an example of an igapó forest, a type of ecosystem where the forest is temporarily flooded by black water. Different species of birds and even giant otters can be seen here. After lunch hike the Charapa Trail, which begins at the lodge and ends by the edge of the lagoon. It is a great loop where different monkeys, birds, and other wildlife can be seen and a great place to witness an Amazonian sunset. With the help of a spotlight, your guides will take you around the lagoon via canoe looking for nocturnal wildlife. Return to the lodge for dinner this evening.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at La Selva Amazon Ecolodge

Coca

Mar 12

Today you will make your way back to the Napo River and take a motorized canoe ride to the clay licks. Hundreds of parrots and parakeets gather here to eat the mineral rich soil, an important part of their diet. Binoculars are essential to really capture the moment. After the clay licks, you'll have a unique opportunity to learn about the local Indigenous culture during a visit to an Amazonian Kichua community center. Here, you'll be welcomed by community members and learn more about their daily way of life. After lunch explore the beautiful Garzacocha Lagoon and Ceiba Trail. Look for monkeys and birds; sometimes, families of squirrel monkeys will join the capuchin monkeys in looking for food. The tremendous calls of the howler monkeys can be heard in the afternoon, and the smallest monkey in the world, the pygmy marmoset, can be seen here too. Plenty of birds like the unusual looking Hoatzin, colorful toucans, and majestic macaws can also be seen flying overhead. After dark, set out on a walk for the chance to enjoy the creatures and sounds of the Amazon jungle at night. Sometimes we can see amazing things during this activity. Make sure you bring a flashlight for this fantastic experience.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at La Selva Amazon Ecolodge

Quito

Mar 13

Depart from the lodge early in the morning after breakfast. Take the canoe (2 hours approx.) to Puerto Francisco de Orellana where you will board a plane back to Quito (30 min flight). Once in Quito, transfer to your hotel.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at San Jose de Puembo

Departure

Mar 14

Transfer to the airport for your flight back home. Hotel check-out by noon.

Breakfast- included

Pricing

Land Cost

^$2,880

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $595

What's included

Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
All Tips except Guide and Driver
Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
Carbon Offset
Full time expert birding naturalist guide for duration of program
Non alcoholic beverage with meals
Private transportation for tours and transfers

What's not included

International flights
Items of personal nature
Tips for guide and driver

Pricing details:

Cost is based on a minimum of 4 participants in double occupancy.

A $350 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. The deposit is refundable less $100 cancellation fee until 95 days prior to departure. Cancellations after this date will result in loss of full deposit.

Cancellations after this date will result in loss of full deposit.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $595

Final payment due date: December 03, 2022

Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Ecuador. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure.

For visits fewer than 90 days, visas will be issued upon arrival in Ecuador. Tourists may be required to provide evidence of return or onwards travel.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Ecuador for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Ecuador (unless you are arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccine is required).

The CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Ecuador.

Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Ecuador, especially east of the Andes at elevations below 7,546 feet. The CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine if you are traveling to these areas.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that malaria is a risk in certain parts of Ecuador, primarily at elevations below 5,000 feet. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. There is no vaccine to prevent against malaria. In some areas of Ecuador (particularly in parts of the Ecuadorian Amazon), the CDC recommends the use of anti-malarial drugs combined with mosquito avoidance; in other regions, they recommend mosquito avoidance only. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later). If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, please consult your physician.

Dengue Fever & other insect-borne illnesses

The CDC warns that dengue fever is a potential risk in Ecuador. In addition, locally transmitted cases of Zika virus, chikungunya, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported. The CDC recommends that travelers to Ecuador protect themselves against mosquito bites. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Upon arrival at locations of high elevation, shortness of breath and a pounding heart are normal responses to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors, these symptoms can deteriorate into altitude sickness. Headache, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite are standard symptoms. Staying hydrated and well rested is important to adjust to the altitude. Avoiding heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arriving to altitude can help. Over-the-counter medications are also available to help prevent or alleviate symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid sleep medications, as they can slow breathing and respiration, which aid in getting the blood oxygenated while sleeping. Participants who take blood pressure medications should discuss this with their doctor as the medication can drop pressure too low at times.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Resources

Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. The rainy season in the Ecuadorian Amazon is October to May, but it can rain at any time. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

If your program includes visits to higher elevations, warm clothing is strongly recommended. Temperatures can get quite chilly, especially at night and early in the morning. Consider packing a warm underlayer, as well as a warm, protective outer layer.

A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
Shorts
Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection; jeans tend to be uncomfortable in hot and humid conditions, but are fine in the cooler highlands.
Undergarments
Sleepwear
Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting high-elevation areas)
1-2 bathing suit(s)
Socks – Bring extra pairs. If your itinerary indicates muddy hikes with rubber boots provided on-site, pack a few pairs of knee socks to prevent blisters.
Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more rugged itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. You may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
Bandana, scarf, or Buff-style headwear

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and in consideration of your fellow travelers.
Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Not all hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, so you may wish to bring one from home.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Razor
Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
Personal hygiene products
Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
Aloe vera gel
A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
Money – ATM/credit card, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda)
Sunglasses with strap
Small day pack for hikes and excursions
Flashlight and/or head lamp
Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
Binoculars with lens cleaner
Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
Reusable water bottle
Non-perishable snacks
Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
Notepad or travel journal and pen
Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
Money belt
Chargers for electronics

Print Page

E product Contact Us

Request More Information:

Question? Comments? Ready to Confirm?

Complete the form below and we will be in touch with you.

Toll-free

800-866-7111

Local

352-377-7111

3540 NW 13th Street
Gainesville, FL 32609

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I had a fantastic time and loved experiencing Ecuador and learning about the country and the natural history. The birding experience was beyond my wildest dreams. Such a diversity of wonderful and colorful birds!

- Paulette E. Ecuador, 2022

Questions?

For more information contact Steve Hoffman at: steve@merlinbirding.com or 406-461-5714.

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Ecuador

You are here

Ecuador | Birding the Amazon Rainforest

with Merlin Birding & Nature Tours

Buildout

About this trip

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Pair this trip with Birding the Chocó-Andes Region, Feb. 27 – Mar. 9, to see even more of Ecuador’s avian diversity!

Highlights

Meet your leader

Steve Hoffman

$2,880

Per person

What makes us different

Wildlife up-close

Scopes

Expert guides

Flight arrangements

Sustainable travel

Service anytime

AND MORE!

Wildsumaco

Mar 08

Wildsumaco

Mar 09

Coca

Mar 10

Coca

Mar 11

Coca

Mar 12

Quito

Mar 13

Departure

Mar 14

$2,880

Per person

What's included

What's not included

Entry & Exit Requirements

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

MALARIA

Dengue Fever & other insect-borne illnesses

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

SUN EXPOSURE

Packing Recommendations

CLOTHING

Personal Toiletries

Miscellaneous

Request More Information:

Question? Comments? Ready to Confirm?

Toll-free

Local

Questions?

From the blog

From the blog

From the blog

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