Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge is located in a private reserve in the Tandayapa Valley, two hours from Quito by car. The Tandayapa Valley is an excellent location for birding, whilst the lodge also provides a great place to stay for those with an interest in natural history. The goal of the Reserve is to educate its visitors on the significance of biodiversity in tropical cloud forests and the ever-increasing importance of the forest’s protection.
The accommodation at Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge comprises of a four-storey thatched construction inside a geodesic glass dome with 5 double rooms. The dome offers a 360º view; you can even see the peaks of Pichincha and Cotacachi in the distance. There is a 3 room bamboo house, and 3 separate houses which offer excellent accommodation for families or honeymooners. There are a total of 15 rooms with private balconies, private bathrooms (hot showers) and comfortable beds. There are a further 12 beds available in shared accommodations. Food at the lodge is hearty and wholesome and vegetarian dishes are always available. Trout and chicken is regularly on the menu, but no red meat is served.
The lodge is in montane forest, or cloud forest. The forest is frequently bathed in cloud and is a damp and humid place. A completely different environment is supported, dominated by gnarled moss-clad trees with branches hanging with old-man’s beard. The reserve’s elevation ranges between 1600m to 2500 metres above sea level and has an average temperature of 14ºC to 22 ºC. Within the reserve there are over 330 recorded species of birds, as well as a large number of botanical treasures, such as bromeliads and orchids. Mammals present here include the endangered Spectacled Bear (rarely seen, but protected by the Reserve), and Andean Coati amongst others. Birding is the principal activity at the lodge, and specialist birding guides can be arranged. The lodge also has resident naturalist guides who can accompany guests as they explore some of the 8 miles of trails around the lodge. There is a self-guided trail for those wanting to explore on their own, and hiking the road to the lodge is also a good way to spot the wildlife. Horseriding is also offered, from short rides around the lodge to full day rides.
