Why is Yanacocha Reserve so amazing?
The amazing Yanacocha Reserve is located 1-hour drive northwest of Quito. It covers an area of 964,000 hectares of forests that protect a great biodiversity of Andean flora and fauna, with an altitude ranging from 3,200 to 4,400 meters above sea level.
It is an ecosystem that contains one of the greatest biodiversity of birds and plants at high altitudes. The reserve was created to protect the endangered Black-breasted Puffleg hummingbird.
Last week we visited this place with two great birders. Nelson (very good birder guide) and Steven Klingler (birder photography). I was hired as a private driver. We left Quito very early in the morning. It is important to arrive early to be able to observe good bird species. There are several paths to hike. We took the longest trail of about 2 km. to the hummingbird feeders. During the walk, we were able to see some tanagers, antpittas, Tyrannulet, flower pierces, and more.
What did we see at the Reserve?
The most outstanding birds we saw were two owls, White-throated-Screech Owl and Andean-pygmi Owl. These two species of birds are very difficult to observe and are a challenge for a birdwatcher to find. After a few hours of recording species, we arrived at the exclusive site of the hummingbirds. We were able to observe seven species of hummingbirds. The most beautiful and most striking is the Sword-billed Hummingbird. Above all, it has the longest bill in relation to its body size of any bird in the world.
In short, we observed a total of 30 species of birds.
This place is highly recommended for nature-loving travelers and expert birders.
Admission to the Reserve is $5.
I want to make sure your trip is comfortable and safe. Therefore, I suggest you hire private transportation or a private driver that will make your trip an unforgettable experience
You can do this trip to Yanacocha Reserve in one day or you can also choose one of my itineraries for a more complete adventure. Do not miss it!
For more detailed information about hiring a private driver to accompany you throughout your trip, do not hesitate to contact me