Umbrellabird Lodge – Buenaventura Reserve

Nature, Relaxation, and Rare Birds All in One Place

If you’re seeking an unforgettable adventure surrounded by lush nature, endemic bird species, and breathtaking landscapes, Umbrellabird Lodge is your perfect getaway.

Nestled in the lower part of the Buenaventura Reserve, at just 500 meters above sea level, our easily accessible lodge invites you to unplug from the noise and reconnect with what truly matters. Here, comfort and biodiversity exist in perfect harmony.

We offer three cozy cabins, each with a private bathroom, thoughtfully designed for travelers, families, bird lovers, and nature photographers. From our restaurant, you can sip a fresh cup of coffee while watching hummingbirds, tanagers, guans, and many other species that frequent our feeders and water stations.

General information

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    Province: El Oro
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    Creation date: 1999
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    Area: Approx. 10696 acres
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    Temperature: 14 – 26 °C
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    Ecosystem: Western foothill forest
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    Climate: Warm (lower part) to cold (upper part) and humid
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    Altitude range: 400 – 1450 meters above sea level
  • Reserve: Buenaventura Reserve

Facilities and services

iconos-jocotours-Wi-Fi in common areas

Wi-Fi in common areas

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Hot water

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Electricity (110 volts)

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Panoramic dining area

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Eco-friendly laundry service with biodegradable products

iconos-jocotours-Self-guided trails

Easily accessible trail network and scenic route

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Hummingbird feeders and feeding stations for other species

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All-day hot beverage station

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On-site park ranger assistance

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Parking lot

Capacity

Our lodge features 3 cabins and 7 rooms, comfortably accommodating up to 15 guests in a warm and welcoming setting.

Activities

Discover the magic of nature with every step. Buenaventura invites you to enjoy an unforgettable experience. Explore our trails and immerse yourself in a world of biodiversity and adventure.

With over 300 recorded bird species, many of them endemic, Buenaventura is a true paradise for birdwatchers from around the globe. Get ready to witness extraordinary species like the Long-wattled Umbrellabird, the El Oro Parakeet, and the elusive Tapaculo, among many other wonders that call this place home. Come and enjoy a birdwatching experience you’ll never forget!

Umbrellabird Trail

⏱️ Duration: 1.5 hours | 📏 Distance: 2 km | 📍 Elevation: 500–600 m
 Difficulty: Moderate
 A walk through tropical moist forest, fully immersed in nature and equipped with handrails for safety. Perfect for spotting iconic birds and soaking up the forest’s energy.

Scenic Route

⏱️ Duration: 4 hours | 📏 Distance: 7 km | 📍 Elevation: 400–950 m
 Difficulty: Moderate
 A historic path crossing the reserve with breathtaking views and a unique transition between climate zones. Ideal for trekking and mountain biking.

Parakeet Trail

⏱️ Duration: 1.5 hours | 📏 Distance: 1 km | 📍 Elevation: 850 m
 Difficulty: Moderate
 A short trail with big visual rewards: panoramic views of Cerro Buenaventura. Stone-paved and safe, it’s a great option for a quick yet scenic adventure.

Tapaculo Trail

⏱️ Duration: 1.5 hours | 📏 Distance: 2 km | 📍 Elevation: 950 m
 Difficulty: Moderate to High
 A lesser-traveled, more intimate route—perfect for those seeking peace and a deeper connection with nature.

Rates

Rates are in US dollars

ROOM TYPE

2026 RACK RATE

Single

$160

Double Twin or Matrimonial

$264

Note:

  • We have special rates for nationals, residents, Andean community guests, and students.

What’s Included in Your Rate?
 Your stay is designed to help you fully connect with nature—without worrying about a thing. Every booking includes:

1 Night of Accommodation: Relax in comfortable lodging surrounded by pristine nature.

3 Meals per Day

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch or Box Lunch (perfect if you’re heading out on an excursion)
  • Dinner, crafted with fresh, local ingredients

Welcome Drink:  A refreshing gesture to kick off your adventure with great vibes.

Full Access to the Reserve:  Enjoy unlimited entry to trails, birdwatching spots, and protected natural areas.

All-Day Coffee & Tea Station:  Available anytime so you can recharge whenever you need.

How to get there?

From Machala: The reserve is located about an hour and a half away by car. Take the road toward Piñas. After passing the town of Zaracay, you’ll see a sign for Fundación Jocotoco and the Selva Alegre recreational area on the left. Turn left onto the secondary (dirt/gravel) road and continue for approximately 5 kilometers until you reach the entrance to the reserve.

From Piñas: Take the road toward Zaracay and Machala. About 25 minutes from the town of Piñas, you’ll see a sign for Fundación Jocotoco and Selva Alegre. Turn right onto the secondary road and continue for approximately 5 kilometers until you reach the entrance to the reserve.

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