Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Refugio Paz de las Aves is nestled in Ecuador’s lush cloud forests, about a two-hour drive from Quito, past the town of Nanegalito and close to the birdwatching hotspots of Mindo and Tandayapa. This ideal location on the western slope of the Andes provides easy access to some of Ecuador’s richest birding areas, known for an incredible variety of species. The reserve’s proximity to these prime locations makes it a perfect base for birdwatchers eager to explore the biodiversity of Ecuador’s West Slope forests.

Your journey to Refugio Paz de las Aves begins in Quito, Ecuador’s vibrant capital. We offer several transportation options to make your arrival smooth and enjoyable.

Private Transportation: For the most direct route, you can book our private round-trip transportation from your hotel or Quito’s airport. The scenic drive takes about 2 hours and allows you to begin your experience stress-free. For our guests on the 7-day tour, transfers to and from Quito’s International Airport are included in your tour package.

Public Transportation: For those traveling independently, buses to the Refugio depart from the Carcelén or La Ofelia terminals in Quito. From either terminal, purchase a ticket to Nanegalito, a small town about 30 minutes from our lodge. Once in Nanegalito, you can take a local taxi to Refugio Paz de las Aves.

If you choose to rent a car please consider that our roads are unpaved. While a 4×4 vehicle isn’t required to reach the Refugio, we recommend a high-clearance vehicle, such as an SUV.

At Refugio Paz de las Aves, located in Ecuador’s cloud forest, you can expect mild, misty weather year-round. Daytime temperatures average around 21°C (70°F), while nights cool down to about 14°C (57°F). The cloud forest is known for its frequent rains, particularly from late October to April, so we recommend bringing waterproof clothing. Even during drier months, brief showers are common, creating a lush, green environment that’s ideal for birdwatching and immersing yourself in this unique ecosystem.

Check-in: Begins at 1:00 pm, with guided walks starting at 2:00 pm on your arrival day.

Check-out: Room check-out is at 11:00 am, but you’re welcome to stay and enjoy the reserve for as long as you’d like afterward. Relax in the lodge’s common areas, explore additional trails, or take in the stunning cloud forest views before your departure.

Our lodge is a cozy, intimate retreat with just four guest rooms, perfect for immersing yourself in the peaceful cloud forest surroundings. Three of the rooms feature comfortable queen beds, and one room has two twin beds, accommodating a range of group sizes. Each room has a private bathroom with a hot shower, providing a comfortable place to unwind after a day of exploration.

The rooms share access to a sheltered outdoor living area, where we serve early morning coffee and tea before heading off on our birding adventures. While the lodge offers WiFi, please note that signal strength can vary depending on the weather, as we are nestled in a remote area.

Our team, with over 20 years of experience serving a diverse international birdwatching audience, offer thoughtfully prepared dishes. Whether you’re enjoying Ecuadorian classics or familiar international favorites, we ensure every guest has delicious meals that meet their needs, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options with advanced notice. 

For day-trip visitors, breakfast is included, and for overnight guests, meals are included from dinner on the day of arrival through lunch on the day of departure.