Deep Chocó Expedition
Seven days of total immersion: from the Andes to the Canandé lowlands in Esmeraldas
Our most complete expedition: seven days of total immersion from the Andes down to the Canandé lowlands in Esmeraldas — the ultimate Ecuadorian Chocó experience. The route covers all four altitude zones in a single trip, maximizing species diversity: the antpitta hide and high-altitude hummingbird feeders at Zuroloma, the Alambi hummingbird garden, the famous Mashpi Amagusa feeders, the Cock-of-the-rock lek at Paz de las Aves, and Milpe Bird Sanctuary, before descending to Fundación Jocotoco's Canandé Reserve — humid Chocó lowland forest at around 300 m, where 37 of the 62 Chocó-endemic bird species have been recorded. Our 7-day expeditions often exceed 300 species. As on all our tours, digiscoping photos and videos of the birds you see are included.
Tour Highlights
- ✓All four altitude zones of the Ecuadorian Chocó in a single trip
- ✓Our 7-day expeditions often exceed 300 species
- ✓Two days at Jocotoco's Canandé Reserve — 37 of the 62 Chocó-endemic species recorded there
- ✓The Mashpi Amagusa feeders: the best site for Moss-backed Tanager and Rose-faced Parrot
- ✓Cock-of-the-rock lek and Giant Antpitta at Paz de las Aves
- ✓Digiscoping photos and videos included
Itinerary
Quito (UIO) pickup → Zuroloma: antpitta hide and high-altitude hummingbird feeders (Sword-billed Hummingbird, Chestnut-naped Antpitta) → Alambi hummingbird garden → San Tadeo Birding
Umbrellabird territory (Long-wattled Umbrellabird) → Las Cotingas (Crimson-rumped Toucanet) → Ornithological Point
Mashpi Amagusa feeders: Rose-faced Parrot, Moss-backed and Glistening-green Tanagers → Sacha Guatusa → Guayabillas (Emerald Tanager)
Paz de las Aves: Cock-of-the-rock lek at dawn, Giant Antpitta "María" → Birdwatcher House
Milpe Bird Sanctuary (Club-winged Manakin, Chocó Trogon) → Frutti Tour → transfer to Canandé Reserve, Esmeraldas
Full day at Canandé: humid Chocó lowland forest — Scarlet-breasted Dacnis and other Chocó endemics
Morning birding at Canandé → return to Quito (UIO)
Target Species
Learn more about these species:
Frequently Asked Questions
How many species can we see in 7 days?+
Over 500 bird species have been recorded within a 30 km radius of Mindo. The 7-day expeditions often exceed 300 species.
What is included in the tour price?+
All tours include: expert bird guide, binoculars, spotting scope, bird checklist, digiscoping photos and videos, meals (as per itinerary), transport from Quito or Mindo, and all entrance fees. Accommodation is NOT included in any tour, but we help arrange lodging at partner hotels.
How many people are in each tour group?+
We specialize in small groups: 1 to 4 people per tour. This ensures a personalized experience, minimal disturbance to the birds, and maximum sighting opportunities. Prices are per person and vary by group size — larger groups get better per-person rates.
When is the best time to go?+
The region is excellent for birdwatching year-round. September through November offers peak breeding activity and moderate rain. June to August sees less rainfall. The Cock-of-the-rock leks are active every day of the year.
How do I book this expedition?+
The easiest way is via WhatsApp at +593 99 079 7183 or email us at birdingmindoec@gmail.com. Tell us your dates, group size, interests, and experience level. We'll design a custom itinerary and confirm availability within 24 hours.