Ecuador's Cloud Forest

Ecuador's cloud forests blanket the western and eastern slopes of the Andes between 900 and 3,500 meters elevation. These perpetually misty forests represent one of Earth's most biodiverse ecosystems per unit area. The Chocó-Andean corridor in northwest Ecuador is particularly rich, with extraordinary levels of endemism and species discovery continuing today. Cloud forests support spectacled bears, mountain tapirs, over 500 bird species including cock-of-the-rock and dozens of hummingbirds, plus thousands of orchid species. The unique conditions create ideal habitat for epiphytes, with some trees hosting over 100 plant species. Many species remain undiscovered in these remote forests. Conservation success stories include community reserves, private protected areas, and sustainable lodges that protect large forest tracts. Ecotourism provides economic incentives for conservation while supporting research and environmental education. Several lodges have protected watersheds for decades, demonstrating long-term sustainability. The cloud forest corridor serves as a model for conservation through ecotourism.

Water Features

Mountain streams, waterfalls

Ecosystem

This destination features a mixed ecosystem ecosystem.