Western Andes Birding Tour

From $209 per person

Explore two wonderful birding reserves in one day on this full day bird watching tour in the Western Andes of Ecuador. We will visit Refugio Paz de los Aves & the Tandayapa Reserve to see what we can find.

  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Tour Duration: 12 hours
  • Highlights may include: Andean Cock of the Rock, Yellow Breasted Antpitta, Ochre Breasted Antpitta, Dark-Backed Wood-Quail, Toucan Barbet, Golden Headed Quetzal, Violet-tailed Sylph, Booted Racket-tail
Wetland lakes in Cajas National Park with surrounding paramo grasses and rugged mountains

Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable birding adventure starting with a 4am pickup in Quito to ensure we arrive at Refugio Paz de Los Aves in time to witness the spectacular Andean Cock of the Rock lek in action. Marvel at the vibrant display of the bright red male birds as they vie for the attention of females, creating a captivating scene right before our eyes.

Later we visit the reserve’s feeding stations to seek out elusive bird species like the Yellow-breasted and Ochre-breasted Antpittas, along with the Dark-backed Wood-Quail. Next to the reserve’s café we find fruit feeders filled with colorful hummingbirds and tanagers before being served a hearty Ecuadorian breakfast.

Next we journey onward to Tandayapa Reserve, where a plethora of hummingbirds, including the striking Violet-tailed Sylph and the enchanting Booted Racket-tail, can be observed. Delight in sightings of toucans and tanagers, highlights may include the Toucan Barbet, Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Golden-naped Tanager, and Black-capped Tanager.

After a full day of birdwatching, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at Tandayapa Lodge before heading back to Quito.

Prices

Prices 2025

2 people
$284 p/p
3 - 4 people
$233 p/p
5 - 6 people
$209 p/p

Price includes:
Private transportation, top English speaking birding guide, entrance fees to Refugio Paz de las Aves & Tandayapa Reserve, breakfast, lunch

Not included:
Tips and personal expenses, entry for photographers to reserve (a small additional cost applies)

Notes:
Prices are stated in US Dollars.
Prices are valid until 31st December 2025.
This tour begins and ends in the city of Quito. For pick up / drop off in Quito airport extra charges will apply.

We want everyone to enjoy this experience!  If you have any accessibility needs, reach out to us in advance and we’ll adapt the itinerary where possible.

Toucan Barbet
Golden Tanager
Trogon
Blue Grey Tanager
Birdwatchers
Crimson Rumped Toucanet
Golden Headed Quetzal
Refugio Paz de las Aves
Refugio Paz de las Aves