Full-Day Private Birding Tour in La Paz Refuge & Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary

For avid birders, the Full-Day Private Birding Tour in La Paz Refuge and Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary offers a remarkable opportunity to take in Ecuador’s diverse avian habitats. Priced from $185 per person, this exclusive experience promises not only a chance to spot iconic species like the cock-of-the-rock and pygmy owl but also the flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit one’s interests. With private transportation, expert guidance, and delicious meals included, the tour provides a level of comfort and convenience that allows birding enthusiasts to fully focus on their passion.

Key Points

• This full-day private birding tour takes you to La Paz Refuge and Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary, with a focus on spotting species like antpitta, toucan barbet, and blue-winged tanager.
• The tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, meals, and an expert naturalist guide, ensuring a hassle-free and exclusive birding experience.
• Highlights include opportunities to see the iconic cock-of-the-rock and pygmy owl, as well as a breakfast with bird viewing at the owners’ home.
• The tour is priced from $185 per person and is rated 4.8/5 based on 4 reviews, making it a top choice for birding enthusiasts.
• Guests are advised to pack appropriate clothing, gear, and be prepared for an early start time and long duration of the tour.

Tour Overview

The full-day private birding tour in La Paz Refuge and Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary offers visitors a chance to explore two premier birdwatching destinations near Quito, Ecuador.

Priced from $185 per person, the tour features guided birdwatching for species like antpitta, toucan barbet, and numerous hummingbirds. Guests enjoy breakfast at the owners’ home and the opportunity to see birds like cocks of the rock and pygmy owl.

The tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, meals, and a certified naturalist guide. With a 4.8/5 rating based on 4 reviews, this private experience ensures exclusivity for birding enthusiasts.

Itinerary and Highlights

Although the tour visits two destinations, the itinerary focuses on the key birding highlights at each site.

At the Paz de las Aves bird refuge, the guide leads guests on a search for species like the antpitta, toucan barbet, and blue-winged tanager.

In the Alambi Cloud Forest Reserve, the group has the opportunity to spot the iconic cock-of-the-rock and pygmy owl, as well as numerous hummingbirds.

The tour also includes:

• Breakfast at the owners’ home with views of various birds
• Chance to see the elusive night jar
• Guided birdwatching throughout the day
• Flexibility to customize the itinerary to guests’ interests

Tour Inclusions

This private birding tour includes all the essentials for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Private transportation from your Quito hotel ensures a hassle-free start to the day. Entrance fees to the La Paz Bird Refuge and Alambi Hummingbird Garden are covered, allowing you to focus on the wildlife.

A delicious breakfast and lunch are included, keeping you fueled for the adventure. An expert naturalist guide, fluent in English and Spanish, accompanies you, sharing their deep knowledge of the local birds and ecosystems.

The private format ensures exclusivity and flexibility throughout the tour.

Pickup Information

The tour starts bright and early with pickup at 4:30 am.

Guests can be conveniently picked up from any hotel in Quito at no additional cost. However, for locations outside the city, a small charge may apply.

The pickup service ensures a smooth start to the day, allowing participants to sit back and relax as they’re transported to the birding destinations.

• Free pickup and drop-off at all Quito hotels
• Additional charge for locations outside the city
• Pickup time is 4:30 am to make the most of the day
• Hassle-free transportation to the birding sites

Additional Information

Participants receive confirmation of their booking upon reservation, ensuring a streamlined experience.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. However, most travelers can participate, thanks to the private tour format that guarantees exclusivity.

Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the tour starts without penalty.

The La Paz Refuge and Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary offer a unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of bird species, including the iconic cock-of-the-rock and pygmy owl.

Flexibility and convenience make this tour an appealing choice for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Bird Species to Spot

Visitors can expect to spot a diverse array of bird species during the tour, including the striking cock-of-the-rock, known for its vibrant plumage and unique courtship displays.

Plus, the tour offers opportunities to observe:

• The elusive antpitta, a ground-dwelling bird with a distinctive call.
• The colorful toucan barbet, with its large, serrated beak.
• The striking blue-winged tanager, a highlight for many birdwatchers.
• A variety of hummingbird species, flitting among the lush foliage of the Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary.

Preparing for the Tour

As one prepares for the tour, it’s essential to pack appropriately for the weather and terrain. The region can be cool and humid, so layers and rain gear are recommended. Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must for the trails. Binoculars, a camera, and extra batteries are essential for capturing the stunning bird species. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat can also enhance the experience.

Item	Importance	Quantity
Waterproof Jacket	High	1
Comfortable Hiking Boots	High	1 pair
Binoculars	High	1
Camera	High	1
Sunscreen	Medium	1

The tour’s early start time and long duration require planning to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day of birding.

Exploring the La Paz Refuge and Alambi Sanctuary

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Quito to the La Paz Refuge, a premier birding hotspot nestled in the Andean foothills.

Once there, guests embark on a guided walk through the lush forest, keeping an eye out for the vibrant plumage of antpittas, toucan barbets, and blue-winged tanagers.

The highlight is the opportunity to spot the striking cock-of-the-rock, Ecuador’s national bird.

Visitors can also explore the Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary, home to numerous species of these iridescent creatures.

The tour includes a delightful breakfast at the owners’ home, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding wildlife.

• Spot the elusive antpitta
• Observe the colorful toucan barbet
• Witness the magnificent cock-of-the-rock
• Marvel at the diverse hummingbird species

Sum Up

The full-day private birding tour in La Paz Refuge and Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary offers a chance to take in Ecuador’s vibrant avian world. With expert guidance, delicious meals, and the flexibility to customize the itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for bird enthusiasts. Whether you’re hoping to spot the iconic cock-of-the-rock or the elusive pygmy owl, this exclusive adventure is sure to leave you awestruck by the region’s natural beauty and diverse birdlife.