ECUADOR: ANDES TO AMAZON
Nature and Birds in the Andes and Rainforests
Led by Mark Smith and Ecuadorian Naturalists
July 28-August 2, 2008
(This tour combines with the Galapagos Tour.)
East from Quito the lakes and paramo grasslands of 13,000 ft Papallacta Pass offer classic alpine walks with vistas of 20,000-foot Andean peaks, as well as unusual birds and bizarre flora. On the Andes east slope (upper Amazon Basin), we explore waterfalls, lakes, and lush forests at many altitudes. Cock-of-the-Rock at their lek, toucans, quetzals, motmots, and flocks of even 15 different brilliant tanagers provide exciting birdwatching. Feeders at lodges host dozens of shimmering hummers. On numerous walks we'll admire orchids, bromeliads, palms, butterflies, leafcutter and army ants, and reptiles and amphibians. By night we'll search for potoos and owls. One hotel offers hot-spring fed pools and views of the Andes, while the other is surrounded by lush forest and beautiful trails. A delightful introduction to the Andes and upper Amazon, with grand vistas and many short hikes.
July 28-August 2, 2008
GROUND COST: $1175 (NOT including Amazon flight)
LEADER: Mark Smith and Ecuadorian naturalists
LIMIT: 12
Hummingbird Photos by Mark Smith taken on the 2004 trip
