Venture into the lush cloud forests of Ecuador’s western slopes for an extraordinary day of birding and photography with professional wildlife photographer and naturalist, Hans! This private tour focuses on one of the most iconic species of South America – the striking Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. In this region, males display their brilliant scarlet plumage (unique to the western slope) at dawn in leks, where they compete with dances and loud calls to attract females. Witnessing and photographing this natural spectacle is a highlight for any birder or photographer.

Beyond the Cock-of-the-Rock, the tour offers opportunities to photograph an incredible variety of rare and colorful species that make the cloud forest world-renowned. Target species include dazzling tanagers such as Glistening-green, Moss-backed, Black-chinned, and Blue-winged, along with Orange-breasted Fruiteater, Rose-faced Parrot, and the elusive Black Solitaire. With luck, many other rarities of the 1,500–1,900 meter (4,900–6,200 ft) elevation zone will also be encountered.

Hans provides expert assistance in locating and photographing these species, while also sharing his deep knowledge of the region’s biodiversity. Tours are private and include comfortable transportation, fresh snacks, and a breakfast box. Pick-up is available from either Mindo or Quito, making it convenient whether you’re already in the cloud forest or traveling from the capital.

💰 COST (Private Tour) From Mindo:

• 1 – 2 passengers: $290 USD

• 3 – 4 passengers: $330 USD

• Save 20% when departing from Chocó Toucan Reserve & Bird Lodge – to be applied by guide at time of tour.

Optional – Transportation From Quito (Pick-up & Drop-off): $160 USD

✅ WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Private guiding by a professional wildlife photographer and naturalist

• Personalized photography support from an expert wildlife photographer to help you capture your best shots

• Private transportation (Chevrolet 5-passenger pick-up)

• Pick-up and drop-off in Mindo or Quito

• Fresh local fruit snacks

• Breakfast box

❌ NOT INCLUDED:

• Entrance fees to 2–3 private reserves ($10–20 USD per person, per reserve)

• Meals (optional add-ons available)

🍽️ ADD-ONS

• Lunch: $15 USD per person

• Dinner at Chocó Toucan Reserve (includes opportunity to photograph owls and nocturnal mammals): $20 USD per person

🚐 TRANSPORTATION DETAILS:

• Mindo pick-up: 5:30 AM

• Quito pick-up: 5:00 AM

• Comfortable 5-passenger Chevrolet pick-up truck

This tour promises not only an exceptional birding and photography adventure but also a chance to immerse yourself in the rich beauty and diversity of Ecuador’s cloud forest!