The Best Birdwatching Spots in Ecuador

September 20, 2023 | by: Kuoda Authors

Birders looking to spot some of the world’s most unique winged species should visit these birdwatching spots in Ecuador for an unforgettable wildlife excursion. With over 1,600 species populating the treetops and skies of Ecuador, there are so many opportunities to spot some rare and beautiful animals.

Four distinct geographic regions make up Ecuador – the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, the Pacific Coast, and the isolated tropical territory of the Galapagos Islands. Each region is home to a diverse range of wildlife that varies incredibly thanks to the multiple ecosystems throughout the country. Birders who want to cross some rare and majestic species off their bucket list should make Ecuador their next vacation spot.

Explore Yasuni National Park For Some Colorful Fauna

Yasuni National Park where lush canopies shelter diverse wildlife. Explore Ecuador’s prime bird watching destination with 600 avian species in the Amazon Rainforest.

In Yasuni National Park, lush jungles create huge canopies that provide cover for thousands of different wildlife species. Located deep in the Amazon Rainforest, Yasuni is thought to be one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet. When it comes to birds, things are no different. This park is home to 600 aviary species, making it one of the best birdwatching spots in Ecuador that should be included on any wildlife adventure itinerary.

There are several different private excursions available in Yasuni so you can see as much of the region as possible. One can’t-miss adventure is a canoeing trip along the Amazon River with an expert guide. Since many birds here are not used to humans and therefore avoid getting too close, the river is one of the best vantage points in the jungle. You can sail nearby a parrot clay lick where dozens of colorful birds gather every single day.

In addition to the parrots, Yasuni is known for having toucans, honeycreepers, tanagers, flycatchers, and more. You’ll get a chance to search for all these species throughout your stay, and along the way should keep an eye peeled for other types of wildlife! The Amazon is filled with much more than just birds, so you may spot a few jaguars lounging in the trees, sloths climbing between branches, or even the rare Black Caiman lurking in the water.

End every day relaxing in one of the eco-lodges located in Yasuni, such as the Napo Wildlife Center. Sustainably crafted jungle bungalows provide you with luxury comforts that also benefit the surrounding region. They also have a panoramic viewing tower on site that allows you to climb above the trees and soak up views as far as the eye can see. Make your birding adventure extra luxurious with a refreshing cocktail to enjoy as you listen to the jungle fall asleep.

Discover Hidden Gems For Birders In Cosanga

Explore the hidden gem of Cosanga, an offbeat Ecuadorian birdwatching haven. Visit during peak migration (Dec-Apr) for diverse species and personalized guided experiences.

Located high in the Andean mountains where the clouds cling close to the earth is a small town called Cosango. This region’s ecosystem shares many similarities with the Mindo Cloud Forest, but is a much more local hidden gem, as it’s relatively unknown to most travelers.

Because this town is still a small destination, it’s a great birdwatching spot in Ecuador for those who want a tight-knit community excursion through a more off-the-beaten-path destination. One of the best times to visit Cosanga is during the rainy season, as this marks the peak bird migration season. Specifically, visiting between December and April will guarantee plenty of activity from traveling species and from endemic species who start mating and nesting in the Cloud Forest.

Here, you may see species like the Crested Quetzal, the Emerald Toucanet, the Broad-winged Hawk, and so much more. Local guides have been promoting Cosanga as an excellent destination for birding in the last few years in an effort to grow traffic to the city. Visiting here means you’ll be getting a super personalized experience with expert guides, all while supporting an emerging hidden gem in Ecuadorian nature excursions!

Visit Ecuador’s Pacific Coast To Learn About Endangered Bird Species

Discover Ecuador’s coastal riches in Machalilla National Park, housing diverse yet endangered habitats like dry tropical forests with 300 bird species.

While the coastal region of Ecuador is an extremely biodiverse part of the country, it is also home to some of the most endangered habitats in South America. One of the best and most popular destinations for nature lovers here is Machalilla National Park. This protected land covers several different habitats, including an endangered dry tropical forest which is home to nearly 300 bird species.

As you explore with a private guide, you’ll be able to spot some unique varieties like the Whooping Motmot, the Streak-Headed Woodcreeper, and the Pale-Legged Hornero. Hiking through this region of Machalilla will be filled with colorful aviary sightings, as well as some fun bonus animals like lizards, iguanas, and even monkeys!

Another amazing part of this park is Isla de la Plata. This small landmass just off the shores of mainland Ecuador is a nesting ground for three different types of Boobies: the Blue-footed, Red-footed, and Nazca. It’s also a popular sighting spot for the Magnificent Frigate Bird. A day trip here would be a great excursion that’s filled with extra special sightings you’ll only get in this part of the world.

Machalilla is also an excellent place to soak up the pure beauty of Ecuador’s Pacific region without too many crowds. Stay in one of the luxury hotels in the charming fisherman town of Puerto Lopez, like Hosteria la Terraza. Perched on a hillside and surrounded by magical ocean views, this is an excellent destination to escape to every night after long hikes and outdoor adventures.

Go On A Wildlife Cruise Through The Galapagos Islands

Seek Galapagos Finches, Penguins, Waved Albatross, and more. Witness unique evolution in these captivating, isolated archipelago dwellers.

It would be impossible to discuss the best birdwatching spots in Ecuador without mentioning this country’s most infamous destination, the Galapagos Islands. While many travelers choose to island hop and explore this region on foot, the absolute best way to see this destination is with a luxury cruise that takes you to the best spots for wildlife observation while indulging in a five-star sailing experience.

Thanks to its extremely remote location and the tropical climate, this archipelago is home to some of the world’s most interesting and strange animal species. Because a majority of animals here are endemic to the islands, each species has some unique feature or quirk that will really only be found here. For example, of the 29 different types of Cormorant birds that exist, only the Galapagos’s Flightless Cormorant is unable to fly. Birding here is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be best enjoyed when you can return to your own private bedroom at the end of the night aboard an elegant cruise ship.

Other winged creatures to keep on your bucket list for the Galapagos include the Galapagos Finches, Galapagos Penguins, the Waved Albatross, and plenty of other fun and unique species that have evolved into majestic-looking creatures on this isolated archipelago.

Plan the ultimate birding adventure with Kuoda to make sure you get the best wildlife experiences possible during your South American adventure! Our team of experts will help you find the best birdwatching spots in Ecuador, including some of the lesser-known destinations where you can avoid larger crowds and get more intimate experiences with the wondrous nature in this region. Talk to one of our travel designers here at Kuoda and we’ll help curate the perfect birding itinerary!