Description

Placed deep in the heart of Ecuador’s Choco rainforest, Mashpi Lodge has a modern architectural design that utilises steel, stone and glass to help it blend in with its surroundings. Likewise, its contemporary rooms have a smooth, natural style and huge floor-to-ceiling windows that mean the first thing you see in the morning after drawing the blinds is a rush of vibrant greenery.

In fact, all through this astonishing resort, the barrier between nature is constantly broken down. Expert guides are always on-hand to take you along one of the two-dozen trails that journey past the region’s spectacular fauna and splashing waterfalls, while those seeking a different perspective can take a sky bike across the forest canopy. Then there’s The Dragonfly, an open-air cable car that travels the forest, as well as the eight-storey observation tower, the hummingbird garden, and the life centre and butterfly farm.

The resort itself is also a research station that studies this fascinating bio-region (it’s known that 400 species of birds, trees and frogs found nowhere else in the world live here) to better understand how to protect and conserve the wildlife in this region. Guests are always welcome at the laboratory to learn more about historical and ongoing research, while there’s even a special area designed for children. The lodge also prioritises sustainability of its own: it runs on hydro-electricity, sources its water from local rivers and treats it at its on-site plant, and energy efficient LED bulbs make up 75 per cent of its lighting.

Once you’re done exploring for the day, the lodge is the place to be. Its stylish restaurant provides an exceptional Ecuadorian-influenced menu, while the cocktails on offer are equally sumptuous. Elsewhere, the resort’s spa has a range of indulgent treatments to try, while a wellness centre is fitted with a yoga deck and open-air hot tub. Or perhaps the impressive viewing platform is more your speed, where you can while away an hour watching over the forest and looking out for rare birds.

When To Travel

Mashpi is well worth a visit throughout the year. The cloud forest, by it's very nature, generally has some rain or drizzle but the weather is warm and this is also plenty of sun. The best months to travel are from June to September.

Location

The closest International airport to Mashpi Reserve is Quito. Most flight connections will require an overnight stay is Quito. It is then a 3.5 to 4.5 hour transfer to Mashpi Lodge.