The Magic Birding Circuit
ecuador birdwatching tours ~ bird & wildlife photography
OFFERING THE BEST BIRDING LODGES & TOURS IN ECUADOR
The Magic Birding & Photography Circuit is the first of its kind in South America, We own 7 private Birding Reserves and 4 Eco-Lodges in Ecuador, most within a two hour radius of Quito. Experience our Ecuador Birdwatching Tours & Bird & Wildlife Photography Tours and Eco-Tours for nature lovers, visiting up to 13 diverse eco-systems throughout the Andes Highlands, Cloud Forests, Upper Tropical Rainforest, East & West Andes Slope, Paramo, Amazon Tropical Rainforest & Pacific Lowlands. We have recently have added two NEW private nature reserves to The Magic Circuit collection, introducing San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird Sanctuary in the Amazon Tropical Rainforest, and the NEW San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Paradise in the Eastern Andes Cloud Forest.
Our private nature reserves offer up to 1,600 possible bird species and 100 Hummingbird species, 15 running waterfalls, 2 ponds, rivers, wild orchids in natural habitat, medicinal plants, butterflies, mammals & diverse flora & fauna. Our all-inclusive Ecuador Tours include airport transfers or pick up from downtown Quito, delicious meals, lodging, specialized English speaking native bird guides and private transportation throughout the reserves. We bird our way from reserve to reserve eliminating unnecessary driving. Our 4 Ecuador Eco-Lodges are rustic and environmentally friendly and offer quality service with comfortable well-appointed rooms furnished in typical décor with optional upgrades for private balcony and stunning views or rustic bungalow rooms. Enjoy nature and wildlife from our 60 foot high spacious observation tower overlooking the Amazonian canopy and our 45 foot high tower in the Upper Tropical Rainforest. Swim at the cascading waterfalls with a picnic lunch, or selecting one of our Ecuadorian cultural tours.
Trip Advisor Certificates of Excellence Award
San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary & Lodge | San Jorge de Milpe Orchid & Bird Reserve & Lodges |
San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito |
Our Ecuador Birdwatching Tours
- Magic Birding & Photography Circuit Map
Magic Birding Circuit 17 NIGHTS/18 DAYS
VISIT 6 SAN JORGE LODGES + 6 SAN JORGE PRIVATE BIRDING RESERVES
East & West Andes Slopes: ANDES HIGHLANDS, CLOUD FOREST, UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST, SUBTROPICAL RAINFOREST. EASTERN SUBTROPICAL CLOUD FOREST, TROPICAL AMAZONIAN RAINFOREST, PARAMO, COCO CORRIDOR
Day One - Evening airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, no meals included
Day Two - Birding San Jorge Reserve/Quito Birding Center - Upper Farm Road & Yanacocha old road, Alambi Road & Nono Tandayapa Road (ANDES HIGHLANDS/UPPER CLOUD FOREST) feeders, gardens, road walking. Feeders at the lodge are visited by the Black-tailed Trainbearer, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, Tyrian Metaltail, Shining Sunbeam, and, the tiny White-bellied Woodstar. The Trail around the lodge offers possible Tufted Tit-tyrant, Rufous-naped Brush-Finch, Azara's Spinetail, Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager, Blue-and-yellow Tanager, Southern Yellow Grosbeak, Red-crested Cotinga, and the Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
Days Three & Four - Birding San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary (CLOUD FOREST) Hummingbird & Tanager feeders, bird walks on pristine trails, Canopy Islands Observation decks, ponds, streams.  Multi-colored bird species like the Blue-winged Mountain Tanager, Red-headed Barbet, Three-striped Warbler, White-winged Becard, Metallic-green Tanager, Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Pale-mandibled Aracari, Golden-naped Tanager, Golden Tanager, Flame-faced Tanager, Orange-bellied Euphonia, along with the Masked Trogon, Squirell Cuckoo, Slate-throated Whitestar, Streak-capped Treehunter, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Buff-fronted Foliage-Gleaner, Black-chested Tanager, and, with a bit of luck, the Ochre-breasted Antpitta. Additionally, our feeders are visited by abounding hummingbird species including the iconic Booted Racket-tail and the Violet-tailed Sylph. Seasonal visits by the iconic Toucan Barbet, and, the Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan along with the Crested Quetzal, and, the Golden-headed Quetzal. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals per day
Day Five - Birding Upper San Jorge Tandayapa, Bellavista & San Tadeo road (CLOUD FOREST/UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST) A second chance at the Plate-billed Mountain Toucan and Toucan Barbet along the road of San Tadeo. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Six - Birding San Jorge Milpe Reserve (UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST) home of the Banded-ground Cuckoo! (One of the 50 rarest birds in the world). feeders, trails. Endemic Choco Toucan, Esmeraldas Antbird, Bicolored Antbird, Choco Warbler, Streaked Xenops, Glistening-green Tanager, Blue-tailed Trogon, Black-throated Trogon, Gartered Trogon, Collared Trogon, White-tailed Trogon, Striped Woodhaunter, Black-headed Antthrush, Scaly-throated Foliage-Gleaner, Buffy Tuftedcheek, Sulphur-rumped Flycatcher, Crismon-bellied Woodpecker, Guayaquil Woodpecker, Red-Rumped Woodpecker, Emerald Tanager, Choco Toucan, White-bearded Manakin, Club-winged Manakin, Northern Schiffornis, Golden-winged Manakin, Purple-throated Fruitcrow and with some luck the Lanceolated Monklet, Berlepsch's Tinamou. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Seven - Birding Rio Chaguaryacu feeder and trails; exploring Mashi area. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Cliff Lodge, includes 3 mealsÂ
Day Eight - Birding Rio Tatal trails, Milpe road, Forest Lodge observatory & towers.  Return to Quito. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 mealsÂ
Day Nine - Old Colonial Quito City Tour. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 mealsÂ
Day Ten - Birding Antisana National Park by vehicle - Andes Condor Reserve (PARAMO/HIGH BARREN PLAINS) feeders, scenic views. Ecuadorian Hillstar, Andean Teal, Andean Lapwing, Black-faced Ibis, Giant Hummingbird, Andes Condor. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Eleven - Birding Papallacta Pass, Cayambe Coca (PARAMO/EAST ANDES) Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe, Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant, Bar-bellied Woodpecker, White-chinned Thistletail, White-browed Spinetail, Many-stripped Canastero, Rainbow-bearded Thornbill, Blue-mantled Thornbill, Viridian Metaltail, Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant, Giant Conebill, Paramo Seedeater, Paramo Tapaculo, and many more. Overnight brand new San Jorge/Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals                                                                                                   Â
Days Twelve & Thirteen - Birding at San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Paradise (EASTERN SUB-TROPICAL CLOUD FOREST). Visit our private Cock of the Rock Lek. Possible Blue-headed Hummingbird, Bat Falcon, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Cliff Flycatcher, Bronze Inca, Flame-faced Tanager, Andean Cock of the Rock (m) Rupicola Peruviana, Golden-collared Honeycreeper, Fork-tailed Honeycreeper, Northern-mountain Cacique, Sunbittern, Ochre-breasted Antpitta, White-tailed Hillstar, Slate-crowned Antpitta, Emerald Toucanet, Berryl-spangled Tanager, Black and Chestnut Eagle, Streaked Tuffedcheck, White-capped Tanager, Yellow-throated Tanager,Wire-crested Thorntail, Violet-fronted Brilliant, White-tailed Hillstar, Mountain Velvetbreast, Bronzy Inca, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Tourmaline Sunangel, Emerald-bellied Puffleg, Long-tailed Sylph and Wedge-billed Hummingbird, after lunch birding San Jorge Guacamayos Low area offers different species possible Deep blue-flower Piecer, Golden eared Tanager, Paradise Tanager, Amazon Umbrella Bird, Mani-banded Acari. Overnight brand new San Jorge Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 mealsÂ
Day Fourteen - Birding Hollin, High Sumaco Road. Feeders, road walking. Overnight Loreto Lodge or new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge when completed, includes 3 meals                                         Â
Day Fifteen - Birding San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird Sanctuary (TROPICAL AMAZONIAN RAINFOREST) Macaws Boulevard (12 species Parrots & 4 Macaw species); 60-foot-high spacious covered Observatory Tower over canopy, (optional afternoon river swim). Overnight Loreto Lodge or new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge when completed, includes 3 meals. Blue headed Parrot, Chestnut fronted Macaw, Tawny bellied Owl, Dusky headed Parakeet; Harpy Eagle, and numerous more.                                                                                                                                                                Â
Day Sixteen - Birding San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird Sanctuary. Visit Manikin Lek, up to 8 species - trail walking in the jungle for long distant active walkers, rivers, streams. Possible Wire tailed Manakin, Golden-winged, Striped Manakin, Blue-crowned, Dwarf-tyrant, Club-winged & White-bearded. Wing-banded Piprites Overnight Loreto Lodge or new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge when completed, includes 3 meals                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Â
Day Seventeen - early AM stop at San Jorge de Cosanga-Yanayuca Bird & Wildlife Reserve, return drive to Quito. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Eighteen - am airport transfer or to downtown Quito
Magic Birding & Photography Circuit MAP
We own and operate 7 private birding reserves and 6 birding Eco-Lodges in Ecuador with up to 1600 possible bird species + 100 Hummingbirds, wild orchids, butterflies, mammals and beautiful flora and fauna. Our lodges are comfortable with quality services and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine. The reserves offer miles of pristine bird trails, Hummingbird/Tanager/Toucan feeders, 25 waterfalls, rivers, ponds, spacious covered observation decks and covered towers overlooking the canopy + bird hides. Our tours are guided by native bird guides and birding is fabulous! The diversification of our expeditions offer new birds in each new eco-system visited. Our brand new San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Lodge located in the Subtropical Cloud Forest on the East Andes Slope is now open! It even has its own Cock of the Rock Lek! Our 2nd new bird lodge, San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo in the Tropical Amazonian Rainforest on the East Andes Slope is projected to open Spring, 2023.
The Magic Birding Circuit Tours are all-inclusive, including round trip airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, daily guided bird walks with specialized native bird guides to the region, inter-lodge private transportation and reserve entrance fees. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine with top quality service. Our West Andes Lodges & Reserves visited on this tour are located in the Coco Corridor which has the most concentrated amount of birds in Ecuador as this area was never hit by the ice age. This tour is for active birders without physical limitation who can walk and bird steadily for approximately 3 hours in the morning and also the afternoon.
Magic Birding Circuit Tour - 11 Nights/12 Days
VISIT UP TO 5 SAN JORGE LODGES + 4 SAN JORGE PRIVATE BIRDING RESERVES
East & West Andes Slopes: ANDES HIGHLANDS, CLOUD FOREST, UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST, SUBTROPICAL RAINFOREST. EASTERN SUBTROPICAL CLOUD FOREST, PARAMO, COCO CORRIDOR
Day One – Evening Airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito; overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, no meals included
Day Two – Birding San Jorge Reserve/Quito Birding Center - Upper Farm Road & Yanacocha old road, Alambi Road & Nono Tandayapa Road (ANDES HIGHLANDS/UPPER CLOUD FOREST) feeders, gardens, road walking. Feeders at the lodge are visited by the Black-tailed Trainbearer, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, Tyrian Metaltail, Shining Sunbeam, and, the tiny White-bellied Woodstar. The Trail around the lodge offers possible Tufted Tit-tyrant, Rufous-naped Brush-Finch, Azara's Spinetail, Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager, Blue-and-yellow Tanager, Southern Yellow Grosbeak, Red-crested Cotinga, and the Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals (boxed lunch)
Day Three - Birding San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary (CLOUD FOREST) Hummingbird & Tanager feeders, bird walks on pristine trails, Canopy Islands Observation decks, ponds, streams.  Multi-colored bird species like the Blue-winged Mountain Tanager, Red-headed Barbet, Three-striped Warbler, White-winged Becard, Metallic-green Tanager, Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Pale-mandibled Aracari, Golden-naped Tanager, Golden Tanager, Flame-faced Tanager, Orange-bellied Euphonia, along with the Masked Trogon, Squirell Cuckoo, Slate-throated Whitestar, Streak-capped Treehunter, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Buff-fronted Foliage-Gleaner, Black-chested Tanager, and, with a bit of luck, the Ochre-breasted Antpitta. Additionally, our feeders are visited by abounding hummingbird species including the iconic Booted Racket-tail and the Violet-tailed Sylph. Seasonal visits by the iconic Toucan Barbet, and, the Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan along with the Crested Quetzal, and, the Golden-headed Quetzal. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals                                                                                                                            Â
Day Four - Birding Upper San Jorge Tandayapa, Bellavista & San Tadeo road (CLOUD FOREST/UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST) A second chance at the Plate-billed Mountain Toucan and Toucan Barbet along the road of San Tadeo. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals (boxed lunch)
Day Five - Birding San Jorge Milpe Reserve (UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST) home of the Banded-ground Cuckoo! (One of the 50 rarest birds in the world). feeders, trails. Endemic Choco Toucan, Esmeraldas Antbird, Bicolored Antbird, Choco Warbler, Streaked Xenops, Glistening-green Tanager, Blue-tailed Trogon, Black-throated Trogon, Gartered Trogon, Collared Trogon, White-tailed Trogon, Striped Woodhaunter, Black-headed Antthrush, Scaly-throated Foliage-Gleaner, Buffy Tuftedcheek, Sulphur-rumped Flycatcher, Crismon-bellied Woodpecker, Guayaquil Woodpecker, Red-Rumped Woodpecker, Emerald Tanager, Choco Toucan, White-bearded Manakin, Club-winged Manakin, Northern Schiffornis, Golden-winged Manakin, Purple-throated Fruitcrow and with some luck the Lanceolated Monklet, Berlepsch's Tinamou. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Six – Birding Rio Chaguaryacu feeder and trails; exploring Mashi area. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Cliff Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Seven – Birding Rio Tatal trails, Milpe road, Forest Lodge observatory Return to Quito. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Eight – Birding Papallacta Pass, Cayambe Coca (PARAMO/EAST ANDES) Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe, Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant, Bar-bellied Woodpecker, White-chinned Thistletail, White-browed Spinetail, Many-stripped Canastero, Rainbow-bearded Thornbill, Blue-mantled Thornbill, Viridian Metaltail, Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant, Giant Conebill, Paramo Seedeater, Paramo Tapaculo, and many more. Overnight brand new San Jorge/Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 mealsÂ
Days Nine & Ten - Birding at San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Paradise (EASTERN SUB-TROPICAL CLOUD FOREST). Visit our private Cock of the Rock Lek. Possible Blue-headed Hummingbird, Bat Falcon, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Cliff Flycatcher, Bronze Inca, Flame-faced Tanager, Andean Cock of the Rock (m) Rupicola Peruviana, Golden-collared Honeycreeper, Fork-tailed Honeycreeper, Northern-mountain Cacique, Sunbittern, Ochre-breasted Antpitta, White-tailed Hillstar, Slate-crowned Antpitta, Emerald Toucanet, Berryl-spangled Tanager, Black and Chestnut Eagle, Streaked Tuffedcheck, White-capped Tanager, Yellow-throated Tanager,Wire-crested Thorntail, Violet-fronted Brilliant, White-tailed Hillstar, Mountain Velvetbreast, Bronzy Inca, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Tourmaline Sunangel, Emerald-bellied Puffleg, Long-tailed Sylph and Wedge-billed Hummingbird, after lunch birding San Jorge Guacamayos Low area offers different species possible Deep blue-flower Piecer, Golden eared Tanager, Paradise Tanager, Amazon Umbrella Bird, Mani-banded Acari.
Day Nine Overnight brand new San Jorge/Guacamayos Lodge. Day Ten afternoon drive back to Quito, overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge , includes 3 meals per day Â
Day Eleven - Birding Antisana National Park by vehicle - Andes Condor Reserve (PARAMO), feeders, Ecuadorian Hillstar, Andean Teal, Andean Lapwing, Black-faced Ibis, Giant Hummingbird, overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Twelve – am airport transfer
Magic Birding & Photography Circuit MAP
We own and operate 7 private birding reserves and 6 birding Eco-Lodges in Ecuador with up to 1600 possible bird species + 100 Hummingbirds, wild orchids, butterflies, mammals and beautiful flora and fauna. Our lodges are comfortable with quality services and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine. The reserves offer miles of pristine bird trails, Hummingbird/Tanager/Toucan feeders, 25 waterfalls, rivers, ponds, spacious covered observation decks and covered towers overlooking the canopy + bird hides. Our tours are guided by native bird guides and birding is fabulous! The diversification of our expeditions offer new birds in each new eco-system visited. Our brand new San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Lodge located in the Subtropical Cloud Forest on the East Andes Slope is now open! It even has its own Cock of the Rock Lek! Our 2nd new bird lodge, San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo in the Tropical Amazonian Rainforest on the East Andes Slope is projected to open Spring, 2023.
The Magic Birding Circuit Tours are all-inclusive, including round trip airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, daily guided bird walks with specialized native bird guides to the region, inter-lodge private transportation and reserve entrance fees. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine with top quality service. Our West Andes Lodges & Reserves visited on this tour are located in the Coco Corridor which has the most concentrated amount of birds in Ecuador as this area was never hit by the ice age. This tour is for active birders without physical limitation who can walk and bird steadily for approximately 3 hours in the morning and also the afternoon.
Magic Birding Circuit 7 NIGHTS/8 DAYS
VISIT 4 SAN JORGE LODGES + 3 SAN JORGE PRIVATE BIRDING RESERVES
ANDES HIGHLANDS, CLOUD FOREST, UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST, SUBTROPICAL RAINFOREST, COCO CORRIDOR
Day One - Evening Airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito; overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, no meals included
Day Two - Birding San Jorge Reserve/Quito Birding Center - Upper Farm Road & Yanacocha old road, Alambi Road & Nono Tandayapa Road (ANDES HIGHLANDS/UPPER CLOUD FOREST) feeders, gardens, road walking. Feeders at the lodge are visited by the Black-tailed Trainbearer, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, Tyrian Metaltail, Shining Sunbeam, and, the tiny White-bellied Woodstar. The Trail around the lodge offers possible Tufted Tit-tyrant, Rufous-naped Brush-Finch, Azara's Spinetail, Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager, Blue-and-yellow Tanager, Southern Yellow Grosbeak, Red-crested Cotinga, and the Streak-throated Bush-Tyrant. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals (boxed lunch)
Day Three - Birding San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary (CLOUD FOREST) Hummingbird & Tanager feeders, bird walks on pristine trails, Canopy Islands Observation decks, ponds, streams.  Multi-colored bird species like the Blue-winged Mountain Tanager, Red-headed Barbet, Three-striped Warbler, White-winged Becard, Metallic-green Tanager, Crimson-rumped Toucanet, Pale-mandibled Aracari, Golden-naped Tanager, Golden Tanager, Flame-faced Tanager, Orange-bellied Euphonia, along with the Masked Trogon, Squirell Cuckoo, Slate-throated Whitestar, Streak-capped Treehunter, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Buff-fronted Foliage-Gleaner, Black-chested Tanager, and, with a bit of luck, the Ochre-breasted Antpitta. Additionally, our feeders are visited by abounding hummingbird species including the iconic Booted Racket-tail and the Violet-tailed Sylph. Seasonal visits by the iconic Toucan Barbet, and, the Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan along with the Crested Quetzal, and, the Golden-headed Quetzal. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Four - Birding Upper San Jorge Tandayapa, Bellavista & San Tadeo road (CLOUD FOREST/UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST) A second chance at the Plate-billed Mountain Toucan and Toucan Barbet along the road of San Tadeo. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals (boxed lunch)
Day Five - Birding San Jorge Milpe Reserve (UPPER TROPICAL RAINFOREST) home of the Banded-ground Cuckoo! (One of the 50 rarest birds in the world). feeders, trails. Endemic Choco Toucan, Esmeraldas Antbird, Bicolored Antbird, Choco Warbler, Streaked Xenops, Glistening-green Tanager, Blue-tailed Trogon, Black-throated Trogon, Gartered Trogon, Collared Trogon, White-tailed Trogon, Striped Woodhaunter, Black-headed Antthrush, Scaly-throated Foliage-Gleaner, Buffy Tuftedcheek, Sulphur-rumped Flycatcher, Crismon-bellied Woodpecker, Guayaquil Woodpecker, Red-Rumped Woodpecker, Emerald Tanager, Choco Toucan, White-bearded Manakin, Club-winged Manakin, Northern Schiffornis, Golden-winged Manakin, Purple-throated Fruitcrow and with some luck the Lanceolated Monklet, Berlepsch's Tinamou. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Six - Birding Rio Chaguaryacu feeder and trails; exploring Mashi area. Overnight San Jorge/Milpe Cliff Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Seven - Birding Rio Tatal trails, Milpe road, Forest Lodge observatory Return to Quito. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
Day Eight - am airport transfer
Magic Birding & Photography Circuit MAP
We own and operate 7 private birding reserves and 6 birding Eco-Lodges in Ecuador with up to 1600 possible bird species + 100 Hummingbirds, wild orchids, butterflies, mammals and beautiful flora and fauna. Our lodges are comfortable with quality services and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine. The reserves offer miles of pristine bird trails, Hummingbird/Tanager/Toucan feeders, 25 waterfalls, rivers, ponds, spacious covered observation decks and covered towers overlooking the canopy + bird hides. Our tours are guided by native bird guides and birding is fabulous! The diversification of our expeditions offer new birds in each new eco-system visited. Our brand new San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Lodge located in the Subtropical Cloud Forest on the East Andes Slope is now open! It even has its own Cock of the Rock Lek! Our 2nd new bird lodge, San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo in the Tropical Amazonian Rainforest on the East Andes Slope is projected to open Spring, 2023.
The Magic Birding Circuit Tours are all-inclusive, including round trip airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, daily guided bird walks with specialized native bird guides to the region, inter-lodge private transportation and reserve entrance fees. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine with top quality service. Our West Andes Lodges & Reserves visited on this tour are located in the Coco Corridor which has the most concentrated amount of birds in Ecuador as this area was never hit by the ice age. This tour is for active birders without physical limitation who can walk and bird steadily for approximately 3 hours in the morning and also the afternoon.
MAGIC BIRDING CIRCUIT TOUR - 8N/9D EAST ANDES
VISIT 3 SAN JORGE LODGES + 4 SAN JORGE PRIVATE BIRDING RESERVES
ANDES HIGHLANDS, EAST ANDES SLOPE, PARAMO, CLOUD FOREST, TROPICAL AMAZONIAN RAINFOREST
Day One - Evening airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, no meals included
Day Two - Birding Papallacta Pass, Cayambe Coca (PARAMO/EAST ANDES)Â Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe, Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant, Bar-bellied Woodpecker, White-chinned Thistletail, White-browed Spinetail, Many-stripped Canastero, Rainbow-bearded Thornbill, Blue-mantled Thornbill, Viridian Metaltail, Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant, Giant Conebill, Paramo Seedeater, Paramo Tapaculo, and many more. Overnight brand new San Jorge/Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals
Days Three & Four - Birding at San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Paradise (EASTERN SUB-TROPICAL CLOUD FOREST). Visit our private Cock of the Rock Lek. Possible Blue-headed Hummingbird, Bat Falcon, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Cliff Flycatcher, Bronze Inca, Flame-faced Tanager, Andean Cock of the Rock (m) Rupicola Peruviana, Golden-collared Honeycreeper, Fork-tailed Honeycreeper, Northern-mountain Cacique, Sunbittern, Ochre-breasted Antpitta, White-tailed Hillstar, Slate-crowned Antpitta, Emerald Toucanet, Berryl-spangled Tanager, Black and Chestnut Eagle, Streaked Tuffedcheck, White-capped Tanager, Yellow-throated Tanager,Wire-crested Thorntail, Violet-fronted Brilliant, White-tailed Hillstar, Mountain Velvetbreast, Bronzy Inca, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Chestnut-breasted Coronet, Tourmaline Sunangel, Emerald-bellied Puffleg, Long-tailed Sylph and Wedge-billed Hummingbird, after lunch birding San Jorge Guacamayos Low area offers different species possible Deep blue-flower Piecer, Golden eared Tanager, Paradise Tanager, Amazon Umbrella Bird, Mani-banded Acari. Overnight brand new San Jorge Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Â
Day Five - Birding Hollin, High Sumaco Road. Feeders, road walking. Overnight Loreto Lodge or new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge when completed, includes 3 meals                                         Â
Day Six - Birding San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird Sanctuary (TROPICAL AMAZONIAN RAINFOREST) Macaws Boulevard (12 species Parrots & 4 Macaw species); 60-foot-high spacious covered Observatory Tower over canopy, (optional afternoon river swim). Overnight Loreto Lodge or new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge when completed, includes 3 meals. Blue headed Parrot, Chestnut fronted Macaw, Tawny bellied Owl, Dusky headed Parakeet; Harpy Eagle, and numerous more.
Day Seven- Birding San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird Sanctuary. Visit Manikin Lek, up to 8 species - trail walking in the jungle for long distant active walkers, rivers, streams. Possible Wire tailed Manakin, Golden-winged, Striped Manakin, Blue-crowned, Dwarf-tyrant, Club-winged & White-bearded. Wing-banded Piprites Overnight Loreto Lodge or new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge when completed, includes 3 meals
Day Eight - early AM stop at San Jorge de Cosanga-Yanayuca Bird & Wildlife Reserve, return drive to Quito. Overnight San Jorge/Quito Lodge, includes 3 mealsÂ
Â
Day Nine - am airport transfer or to downtown Quito
Magic Birding & Photography Circuit MAP
We own and operate 7 private birding reserves and 6 birding Eco-Lodges in Ecuador with up to 1600 possible bird species + 100 Hummingbirds, wild orchids, butterflies, mammals and beautiful flora and fauna. Our lodges are comfortable with quality services and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine. The reserves offer miles of pristine bird trails, Hummingbird/Tanager/Toucan feeders, 25 waterfalls, rivers, ponds, spacious covered observation decks and covered towers overlooking the canopy + bird hides. Our tours are guided by native bird guides and birding is fabulous! The diversification of our expeditions offer new birds in each new eco-system visited. Our brand new San Jorge de Guacamayos Bird Lodge located in the Subtropical Cloud Forest on the East Andes Slope is now open! It even has its own Cock of the Rock Lek! Our 2nd new bird lodge, San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo in the Tropical Amazonian Rainforest on the East Andes Slope is projected to open Spring, 2023.
The Magic Birding Circuit Tours are all-inclusive, including round trip airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, daily guided bird walks with specialized native bird guides to the region, inter-lodge private transportation and reserve entrance fees. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine with top quality service. Our West Andes Lodges & Reserves visited on this tour are located in the Coco Corridor which has the most concentrated amount of birds in Ecuador as this area was never hit by the ice age. This tour is for active birders without physical limitation who can walk and bird steadily for approximately 3 hours in the morning and also the afternoon.
The Magic Birding Circuit Photo Tours are all-inclusive, including airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, meals, native bird guide and inter-lodge private transportation. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges & Private Reserves include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine and quality service. This tour is for photographers without physical limitation who can also trail walk steadily.
MAGIC BIRDING CIRCUIT PHOTO TOUR – 9N/10D
West
West Andes Slope - Andes Highlands, Cloud Forest, Upper Tropical Rainforest, Paramo
VISIT 3 SAN JORGE ECO-LODGES & 3 PRIVATE BIRD RESERVES + OUTSIDE DESTINATIONS
Visit 5 different eco-systems with new birds every few days!
DAY ONE – Airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito, day to relax and acclimate. Feeders – possible Sword-billed Hummingbird. Overnight SJ Quito Lodge, no meals included
DAY TWO – Bird Photo San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito (Andes Highlands) – feeders, gardens, trails, visit Zuri feeders. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY THREE & FOUR - Bird Photo San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary (Cloud Forest). Hummingbird & Tanager feeders, expansive observation decks, trail walking, Moth feeder with hide for rare species, rivers, ponds. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY FIVE – Bird Photo Pena Tanai, afternoon Quinde. Overnight San Jorge de Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SIX – Bird Photo San Jorge de Milpe Orchid & Bird Reserve (Upper Tropical Rainforest). Hummingbird, Tanager & Toucan feeders, expansive observation decks, 45’ high covered tower over canopy, trail walking, waterfalls. Overnight San Jorge Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SEVEN – Bird Photo Nan feeders and San Jorge Milpe Orchid & Bird Reserve. Overnight San Jorge de Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY EIGHT – Bird Photo Umbrellabird LEK, afternoon return to San Jorge Quito. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY NINE – Bird Photo Antisana National Park Reserve by vehicle (Paramo). Feeders, possible Andes Condor. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY TEN – am airport transfer
The Magic Birding Circuit Photo Tours are all-inclusive, including airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, meals, native bird guide and inter-lodge private transportation. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges & Private Reserves include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine and quality service. This tour is for photographers without physical limitation who can trail walk steadily.
MAGIC BIRDING CIRCUIT PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
ITINERARY: 18 Nights/19 Days
EAST & WEST ANDES SLOPES & AMAZON JUNGLE - Andes Highlands, Cloud Forests, Upper Tropical Rainforest, Paramos, Tropical Amazonian Rainforest & Amazon Jungle
VISIT 5 SAN JORGE ECO-LODGES & 5 PRIVATE BIRD RESERVES + NUMEROUS DESTINATIONS
ANDES HIGHLANDS, CLOUD FORESTS, TROPICAL Â & AMAZONIAN RAINFORESTS Â - COCO CORRIDO PARAMO, EAST & WEST ANDES SLOPES & AMAZON JUNGLE
Visit 9 different eco-systems with new birds every few days!
DAY ONE - Airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito, day to relax and acclimate. Feeders - possible Sword-billed Hummingbird. Overnight SJ Quito Lodge, no meals included
DAY TWO - Bird Photo San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito (Andes Highlands) - feeders, gardens, trails, visit Zuri feeders. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY THREE & FOUR - Bird Photo San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary (Cloud Forest). Hummingbird & Tanager feeders, expansive observation decks, trail walking, Moth feeder with hide for rare species, rivers, ponds. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY FIVE - Bird Photo Pena, afternoon Quinde or similar. Overnight San Jorge de Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SIX - Bird Photo San Jorge de Milpe Orchid & Bird Reserve (Upper Tropical Rainforest). Hummingbird, Tanager & Toucan feeders, expansive observation decks, 45’ high covered tower over canopy, trail walking, waterfalls. Overnight San Jorge Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SEVEN - Bird Photo Nan feeders and San Jorge Milpe Orchid & Bird Reserve. Overnight San Jorge de Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY EIGHT - Bird Photo Umbrellabird LEK, afternoon return to San Jorge Quito. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY NINE - Bird Photo Antisana National Park Reserve by vehicle (Paramo). Feeders, possible Andes Condor. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY TEN - Bird Photo Papallacta Pass-Cayambe Coca National Park. Afternoon Coca-Cuyuja River. Overnight brand new San Jorge de Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY ELEVEN & TWELVE - Bird Photo San Jorge de Guacamayos Reserve (Eastern Sub-tropical Cloud Forest). Private Cock of the Rock Lek. Observation decks & platforms, trail walking. Overnight new San Jorge Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals per day
DAY THIRTEEN - Bird Photo Wayra, continue to San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird & Wildlife Reserve (Tropical Amazonian Rainforest). Overnight brand new San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Aquatic Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY FOURTEEN - Bird Photo San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Reserve - Observation decks, 65’ high tower over canopy; pristine trails; gardens, 4 Monkey species. Afternoon aquatic observations decks, surrounding of lodge, ponds and lagoon. Overnight new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY FIFTEEN - Photo Coca Oxbow Lake by motorized canoe, afternoon to Amazon Jungle Lodge (Amazon Jungle). Overnight Amazon Jungle Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SIXTEEN - Photo Parrot & Macaw Hide & Amazon Jungle. Overnight Amazon Jungle Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SEVENTEEN - Photography boating Napo River - Parrot Clay Lick. After lunch, boat back to San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Reserve. Overnight new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge, includes 3
meals
DAY EIGHTEEN - am San Jorge Sumaco Bajo photography, return drive to San Jorge Quito, overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY NINETEEN - am airport transfer
Optional: Multi-flash set up while at our 3 West Slope lodges
The Magic Birding Circuit Photo Tours are all-inclusive, including airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, meals, native bird guide and inter-lodge private transportation. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges & Private Reserves include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine and quality service. This tour is for photographers without physical limitation who can trail walk steadily.
MAGIC BIRDING CIRCUIT PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
14 Nights/15 Days
EAST & WEST ANDES SLOPES - Andes Highlands, Cloud Forests, Upper Tropical Rainforest, Paramos, Tropical Amazonian Rainforest
VISIT 5 SAN JORGE ECO-LODGES & 5 PRIVATE BIRD RESERVES + NUMEROUS DESTINATIONS
Visit 9 different eco-systems with new birds every few days!
Pre-scheduled tour dates for 2025
DAY ONE - Airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito, day to relax and acclimated. Feeders - possible Sword-billed Hummingbird. Overnight SJ Quito Lodge, no meals included
DAY TWO - Bird Photo San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito (Andes Highlands) - feeders, gardens, trails, visit Zuri feeders. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY THREE & FOUR - Bird Photo San Jorge de Tandayapa Hummingbird Sanctuary (Cloud Forest). Hummingbird & Tanager feeders, expansive observation decks, trail walking, Moth feeder with hide for rare species, rivers, ponds. Overnight San Jorge Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY FIVE - Bird Photo Pena Tanai, afternoon Quinde. Overnight San Jorge de Tandayapa Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SIX - Bird Photo San Jorge de Milpe Orchid & Bird Reserve (Upper Tropical Rainforest). Hummingbird, Tanager & Toucan feeders, expansive observation decks, 45’ high covered tower over canopy, trail walking, waterfalls. Overnight San Jorge Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SEVEN - Bird Photo Nan feeders and San Jorge Milpe Orchid & Bird Reserve. Overnight San Jorge de Milpe Forest Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY EIGHT - Bird Photo Umbrellabird LEK, afternoon return to San Jorge Quito. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY NINE - Bird Photo Antisana National Park Reserve by vehicle (Paramo). Feeders, possible Andes Condor. Overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY TEN - Bird Photo Papallacta Pass-Cayambe Coca National Park. Afternoon Coca-Cuyuja River. Overnight brand new San Jorge de Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY ELEVEN & TWELVE - Bird Photo San Jorge de Guacamayos Reserve (Eastern Sub-tropical Cloud Forest). Private Cock of the Rock Lek. Observation decks & platforms, trail walking. Overnight new San Jorge Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals per day
DAY THIRTEEN - Bird Photo Wayra, continue to San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird & Wildlife Reserve (Tropical Amazonian Rainforest). Overnight brand new San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Aquatic Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY FOURTEEN - Bird Photo San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Reserve - Observation decks, 65’ high tower over canopy; pristine trails; gardens, 4 Monkey species. Afternoon aquatic observations decks, surrounding of lodge, ponds and lagoon. Overnight new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge, includes 3 meals
Optional: Multi-flash set up while at our 3 West Slope lodges
The Magic Birding Circuit Photo Tours are all-inclusive, including airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, meals, native bird guide and inter-lodge private transportation. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges & Private Reserves include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine and quality service. This tour is for photographers without physical limitation who can also trail walk steadily.
MAGIC BIRDING CIRCUIT PHOTO TOUR - 10N/11D
EAST ANDES SLOPE & AMAZON JUNGLE - Andes Highlands, Sub-tropical Cloud Forest, Paramo, Tropical Amazonian Rainforest & Amazon Jungle
VISIT 3 SAN JORGE ECO-LODGES & 3 PRIVATE BIRD RESERVES + NUMEROUS OUTSIDE DESTINATIONS
Visit 5 different eco-systems with new birds every few days!
DAY ONE - Airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito, day to relax and acclimate. Feeders - possible Sword-billed Hummingbird. Overnight SJ Quito Lodge, no meals included
DAY TWO - Bird Photo Papallacta Pass-Cayambe Coca National Park. Afternoon Coca-Cuyuja River. Overnight brand new San Jorge de Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY THREE & FOUR - Bird Photo San Jorge de Guacamayos Reserve (Eastern Sub-tropical Cloud Forest). Private Cock of the Rock Lek. Observation decks & platforms, trail walking. Overnight new San Jorge Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals per day
DAY FIVE - Bird Photo Wayra, continue to San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird & Wildlife Reserve (Tropical Amazonian Rainforest). Overnight brand new San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Aquatic Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SIX - Bird Photo San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Reserve - Observation decks, 65’ high tower over canopy; pristine trails; gardens, 4 Monkey species. Afternoon aquatic observations decks, surrounding of lodge, ponds and lagoon. Overnight new San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SEVEN - Photo Coca Oxbow Lake by motorized canoe, afternoon to Amazon Jungle Lodge. Overnight Mandi, includes 3 meals
DAY EIGHT - Photo Parrot & Macaw Hide & Amazon Jungle. Overnight Mandi, includes 3 meals
DAY NINE - After breakfast, boating Napo River - Parrot Clay Lick. After lunch, boat back to San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Reserve. Overnight San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY TEN - am San Jorge Sumaco Bajo photography, return to San Jorge Quito, overnight San Jorge Quito Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY ELEVEN - am airport transfer
The Magic Birding Circuit Photo Tours are all-inclusive, including airport transfers, comfortable lodging accommodations, meals, native bird guide and inter-lodge private transportation. Added features while at San Jorge Lodges & Private Reserves include delicious Ecuadorian and International cuisine and quality service. This tour is for photographers without physical limitation who can also trail walk steadily.
MAGIC BIRDING CIRCUIT PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
6 Nights/7 Days
EAST ANDES SLOPE - Andes Highlands, Sub-tropical Cloud Forest, Paramo & Tropical Amazonian Rainforest
VISIT 3 SAN JORGE ECO-LODGES & 2 PRIVATE BIRD RESERVES + OUTSIDE DESTINATIONS
Visit 5 different eco-systems with new birds every couple of days!
DAY ONE - Airport transfer to San Jorge Eco-Lodge & Botanical Reserve/Quito, day to relax and acclimate. Feeders - possible Sword-billed Hummingbird. Overnight SJ Quito Lodge, no meals included
DAY TWO - Bird Photo Papallacta Pass-Cayambe Coca National Park. Afternoon Coca-Cuyuja River. Overnight new San Jorge de Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY THREE & FOUR - Bird Photo San Jorge de Guacamayos Reserve. Private Cock of the Rock Lek. Observation decks, trail walking. Overnight San Jorge Guacamayos Lodge, includes 3 meals per day
DAY FIVE - Bird Photo Wayra, continue to San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Bird & Wildlife Reserve. Overnight new San Jorge de Sumaco Bajo Aquatic Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SIX - Bird Photo San Jorge Sumaco Bajo 65’ tower over canopy. Afternoon aquatic observations decks, surrounding of lodge, pond and lagoon. Overnight San Jorge Sumaco Bajo Lodge, includes 3 meals
DAY SEVEN - am airport transfer to Coca Airport (fly Coca to Quito Airport - purchase air ticket on own - Latham Airlines 50min. flight departs Coca 10:15 am)
San Jorge Eco-Lodges is a licensed Quito Tour Operator. We offer the following pre-scheduled or private tours: | |
|
CONTACT US FOR PRICING
Choose a pre-scheduled tour date & itinerary, or specify your own travel dates to us. Please tell us how many people will be traveling with you.
|
Click to enlarge |
Cheryl Korowotny
International Director
The Magic Birding & Photography Circuit
SAN JORGE ECO-LODGES & BOTANICAL RESERVES
Quito – Tandayapa – Milpe - Cosanga - Estero Hondo-Sumaco Bajo-Guacamayos
Ecuador – South America
Email: birdwatching@eco-lodgesanjorge.com
(877) 565-2596 Toll Free USA & Canada.
San Jorge has been awarded the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for the past 11 consecutive years!