Tapichalaca

The Tapichalaca Natural Reserve has the largest number of endemic species in extinction risk. It is located on the Tapichalaca Hill, in the oriental side of the Cordillera de Sabanilla. It is located 75 kms south from Loja, between the towns of Yangana and Valladolid, by the Podocarpus National Park and the Coumbo protected forest.

Conformed by temperate moist forest with bleak plateau on top and subtropical forest below, this area was established for the conservation and observation of birds, specially the Jocotoco Antpitta (Ridgelvi de Grallaria). Today this reserve protects the 15 couples of this bird on earth.

The surprised visitors are welcome by hundreds of hummingbirds that fly over them. There are 17 different species of this colorful little bird on the reserve. The most relevant is the endemic and threatened “Picoespina” Hummingbird.

This and other birds are the main attraction of the place, were ornithologist and scientists of the whole world observe and analyze over 300 different species.

Entre las especies amenazadas y que son de importancia para el estudio científico tenemos:

But this is not the only attractive of the reserve, also home for the endemic Hyloscirtus Tapichalaca Frog, together with other 24 native species of amphibious and reptiles (50% of all southern Ecuador). Other relevant “neighbors” are the pigmy Boa, the Spectacle Bear, Wool Mountain Tapir, Dwarf Deer, etc.

The orchids are one of the principal attractions of the Reserve, their extraordinary shapes and colors amaze the visitors, especially between December and March, when most of the 43 registered species bloom. This is a very high number, considering the dimensions of the park.

The Reserve has different paths that make the tour easier and give you the chance to visit the areas of your interest. It’s recommended Quebrada Honda and Jocotoco paths, because of the incredible biodiversity that surrounds them.

Other services are offered in the Reserve such as food service and accommodation. There are four rooms with private bathrooms, hot water and heat with capacity for 13 people. An independent cabin is available for guides, researchers and guards. Concern about pollution in the Reserve, only biodegradable soap and shampoo are used. There’s also a septic tank to purify the water that comes back to nature.

COSTO
Foreigners	$15 dólares
Nationals	1 Dólar
Children	$0.50
Lodge and food	$100 Dollars per day

The most recommended season to visit the Tapichalaca Reserve and for bird observation is from February to July, from 06:00 am to 09:00 am.

Rumi Wilco Protected Forest

The Rumi-Wilco Protected Reserve is the only natural reserve for the preservation of the “wilco Tree”, a red-wood tree very representative in this area which was considered a sacred tree because of its healing and medicinal properties.

Creating a charming atmosphere, the Wilco grows surrounded by a great variety of native plants. To make your visit more comfortable, the reserve has auto-guided interpretative paths.

In addition of the great landscaping and the amazing beauties surrounding, 120 different bird species will be your company during the trek.

The Palmas

Cloud forest reserve located 7 kms. from Yambala river, you can get there either walking or horse riding. It’s considered “front yard” of the Podocarpus Nacional Park. This area is protected from hunting and conservation for hydrographic catchments that supply Vilcabamba. Having a great location, the Palmas is a good access to explore the cloud forest, the plateau region and the Podocarpus National Park.

From the mammals living in this region, you can find the spectacles bear, the mountain tapir, the tigrillo (“little tiger”) and the cougar. There are over 160 species of birds and the flora of the place is also very impressive, with a great variety of endemic plants of a great ecological importance.