Hiking
Tour
Step into a world of misty peaks, ancient forests, and breathtaking vistas on a hiking journey through one of Ecuador’s most pristine natural treasures — the Santa Lucía Reserve. Nestled high in the Andean cloudforest, this immersive 4-day, 3-night tour invites you to explore untouched ecosystems on foot, surrounded by rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Managed by Cloudforest Lodges , this hiking itinerary is designed for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers who want to experience the beauty and tranquility of the cloudforest up close. Trek along well-maintained trails that wind through lush montane rainforests, cross rushing streams, and ascend to panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping views of the Andes.
Each day brings new discoveries — from towering tree ferns and vibrant orchids to rare bird species and hidden waterfalls. You’ll hike through primary forest paths, visit community-run conservation projects, and enjoy warm Ecuadorian hospitality with meals shared among local families.
Your base for this adventure is Santa Lucía Lodge , a cozy eco-lodge perched at 1,900 meters above sea level. Combining comfort with sustainability, it offers a peaceful retreat after a full day of exploration.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking to connect with nature, this hiking tour promises unforgettable memories, physical challenge, and deep immersion in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
Lace up your boots and let the trails of Santa Lucía lead you through the wonders of the cloudforest.
Itinerary
Day 1
Recommended arrival time: 8:00 am – 11:00 am- Warm welcome in the Yunguilla community
- Introduction to local projects and community organization
- Check-in at the lodge
- 1:00 pm – Lunch at the community restaurant
- 2:30 pm – Guided walk through Tahuallullo farm trail, visiting organic gardens, artisan workshops, cheese and jam producers
- 7:00 pm – Dinner hosted by a local family
- Overnight in the community
Day 2
7:00 am – Breakfast with a local family- 8:00 am – Drive to the Ali mountain trailhead; begin descent into the Santa Lucía Reserve from 2,600m to 1,900m
- This scenic 19 km hike (approx. 7 hours) offers great birdwatching opportunities including the Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan, Andean Guan, Turquoise Jay, and various tanager species
- 1:00 pm – Picnic lunch in the forest
- Arrival at Santa Lucía Lodge: welcome briefing and check-in
- Rest and relax
- 7:00 pm – Dinner served at the lodge
- Overnight in private cabin
Day 3
4:00 am – Guided visit to observe the Cock-of-the-Rock lek (mating display site)- 7:00 am – Light breakfast on the trail during return hike to the lodge
- The 11 km return route passes through old-growth forest and along mountain ridges — excellent for birdwatching (approx. 5 hours)
- 1:00 pm – Lunch at the lodge with panoramic views
- 2:00 pm – Optional activity: Join our kitchen team to prepare traditional Quimbolitos (Ecuadorian sweet tamales)
- 7:00 pm – Dinner
- 8:00 pm – Optional night hike: discover nocturnal wildlife such as frogs, insects, and owls
- Overnight in private cabin
Day 4
7:00 am – Scenic breakfast overlooking the forest- 8:30 am – Guided downhill hike toward the Umachaca River, passing through stunning primary forest and a former banana plantation
- Along the river, explore upstream to a beautiful waterfall
- 1:00 pm – Picnic lunch by the river
- Continue along an ancient pre-Incan trail, learning about the region’s history while enjoying views of tree ferns and other flora
- The trail ends at a highland pasture offering sweeping vistas of the valley (6 km, approx. 6 hours)
- 2:30 pm – Departure
Entrance to Santa Lucía reserve
Lodging in private cabins (incl. Private bathroom)
All meals from lunch on the first day to lunch/box lunch on the day of departure.
Local guide for all activities
Mules for the luggage
- Excursions, and cultural visits
National taxes (VAT)
Mules for riding
Tips
Additional drinks (such as alcoholic beverages)
Transportation
Life/travel insurance
Santa Lucia Lodge - Cloudforest Tours
Birdwatching Tour
4 Days – 3 Nights
4 Days – 3 Nights
Nestled in the heart of one of Earth’s most biodiverse regions — the Chocó-Andean Hotspot — Santa Lucía Lodge offers an unforgettable birdwatching experience deep within the Andean cloudforest. This 4-day, 3-night tour is designed for nature lovers and avid birders seeking to explore pristine ecosystems while staying in comfort
Discover Tour
5 Days – 4 Nights
5 Days – 4 Nights
This carefully crafted 5-day, 4-night journey invites you to explore one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. From guided hikes through misty cloud forests to encounters with rare bird species and vibrant orchids, every moment at Santa Lucía is filled with wonder.
Hiking Tour
4 Days – 3 Nights
4 Days – 3 Nights
Step into a world of misty peaks, ancient forests, and breathtaking vistas on a hiking journey through one of Ecuador’s most pristine natural treasures — the Santa Lucía Reserve. Nestled high in the Andean cloudforest, this immersive 4-day, 3-night tour invites you to explore untouched ecosystems on foot, surrounded by
Prices are Per Person – 2026
Tours
What’s included
Entrance to Santa Lucía reserve
Lodging in private cabins (incl. Private bathroom)
All meals from lunch on the first day to lunch/box lunch on the day of departure.
Local guide for all activities
Mules for the luggage
National taxes (VAT)
Activities
- Birdwatching:
- Visit to the Cock-of-the-Rock Lek
- Hiking in the Primary Forest
- Night Hike
- Cloud Forest Exploration
- Waterfalls and Natural Pools
- Agrotourism
- Scientific Tourism
- Volunteering
- Relaxation and Observation
Santa Lucía offers two types of lodging:
- Private Cabins: These cabins can accommodate up to 23 guests and have private bathrooms and a mix of double and single beds.
- Lodge: This lodge can accommodate up to 22 guests and offers shared bathrooms and dorm-style rooms with bunk beds. Communal areas include a dining room, library, and hammock zones.
