Setting the Scene 

Hidden within a private cloud-forest reserve in Ecuador’s western Andes, Mashpi Lodge is a striking glass-walled sanctuary suspended in mist and surrounded by ancient trees. Just a three-hour drive from Quito, this modernist eco-lodge feels like a cathedral to nature—every room offering panoramic forest views, every corridor leading to discovery. Guests are guided by expert naturalists into a living laboratory, where rare wildlife, endemic species, and conservation research unfold right outside your window.

Who’s Checking In? 

Nature enthusiasts, adventurous families, couples, and solo travelers drawn to immersive conservation experiences. Mashpi appeals to those who want to witness rare biodiversity up close—without sacrificing comfort or modern design.

Hotel Highlights 

• Panoramic rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling glass walls immersing guests in forest views.
• Glass-enclosed restaurant serving Ecuadorian-inspired cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
• On-site conservation lab and resident biologists researching endemic species.
• Unique exploration experiences including the Sky Bike, Dragonfly Gondola, and guided night walks.
• Fully sustainable operations, from silent hydroelectric power to hyperlocal sourcing.

Destination Snapshot 

• Chocó-Andean Biodiversity Hotspot: One of the most biologically rich areas on Earth, home to countless endemic bird, plant, and insect species.
• Cloud Forest Wonders: Misty canopies, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation create a rare and otherworldly landscape.
• Equatorial Climate: Consistent temperatures year-round with microclimates that shift dramatically with elevation.
• Cultural Gateway: Proximity to Quito offers opportunities to explore Ecuador’s capital, a UNESCO World Heritage city with deep colonial history.
• Adventure Corridor: A natural base for combining cloud forest exploration with trips to the Andes, Pacific coast, or even the Galápagos.

Top 5 Experiences 

1. Dragonfly Gondola & Sky Bike: Glide silently above the canopy or pedal between treetops for sweeping forest views.
2. Birdwatching: Spot rare species like the long-wattled umbrellabird and vibrant toucans.
3. Life Center & Butterfly Farm: Observe hundreds of butterfly species and learn about pollinator conservation.
4. Observation Tower: Climb 26 meters for 360° cloud forest panoramas.
5. Waterfall Hikes: Trek to hidden cascades for a swim in crystal-clear pools.

Top 5 Places to Visit 

1. Quito: Ecuador’s vibrant capital, rich in colonial architecture and history.
2. Páramo Landscapes: High-altitude ecosystems en route to the lodge.
3. Mindo: Birding hotspot and eco-tourism village.
4. Pululahua Crater: One of the world’s only inhabited volcanic calderas.
5. Rivers & Waterfalls of the Reserve: Offsite guided treks exploring diverse forest zones.

How to Get There 

Address: Mashpi Lodge, Mashpi Private Reserve, Ecuador

• Closest Airports: Quito International Airport (60 miles, 3-hour drive)
• Transfer: Private 4×4 transfer included from Quito