Spend a day at Tambo Quinde in the Quito cloud forest exploring verdant trails, watching hummingbirds and tanagers, and learning about the Andean bear corridor. This private-reserve visit blends easy guided walks, birding, waterfall stops, and a local lunch into an immersive ecological outing.
Spend a day at Tambo Quinde in the Quito cloud forest exploring verdant trails, watching hummingbirds and tanagers, and learning about the Andean bear corridor. This private-reserve visit blends easy guided walks, birding, waterfall stops, and a local lunch into an immersive ecological outing.
You step from the minivan into air that feels charged—cool, damp, heavy with the scent of moss and new rain. Mist threads through the canopy and the trail ahead narrows into green, a living corridor where orchids cling to trunks and understory ferns brush your calves.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tambo Quinde · Quito, Pichincha
You step from the minivan into air that feels charged—cool, damp, heavy with the scent of moss and new rain. Mist threads through the canopy and the trail ahead narrows into green, a living corridor where orchids cling to trunks and understory ferns brush your calves.
This experience centers on Tambo Quinde, a private nature reserve on the eastern slopes above Quito that protects part of the Andean cloud forest and an important corridor for the spectacled (Andean) bear. Geologically, the slopes are young volcanic terrain carved by steep drainage, producing frequent waterfalls and sudden viewpoints. Culturally, the area carries Andean land-use traditions; local guides often bridge scientific conservation with community knowledge about plants and birdlife.
On a typical day visitors choose birdwatching, pool and waterfall stops, or relaxed trail circuits; expect guided walks totaling up to a full day (8–16 hours depending on choices) and opportunities to linger in observation areas. Birds dominate the soundtrack—tanagers and hummingbirds dart while higher canopy species call from concealment. Water finds its way everywhere, daring you to keep pace with the shifting light.
Practical notes: trails are generally easy but can be wet and slippery; altitude around Quito means take time to hydrate and move deliberately. Bring waterproof layers, binoculars for the famed birding, and closed hiking shoes with traction. Plan for private transport and a cooked lunch included in the visit. The reserve prioritizes low-impact access—stay on trails, pack out trash, and follow your guide’s wildlife distance rules.
easy.
8–16 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels—short, untechnical walks but expect wet footing and full-day options
The experience is typically a full-day offering with guided trail time ranging from about 8 to 16 hours depending on chosen activities.
Trails are generally easy and the reserve accommodates all fitness levels, though slippery conditions can be challenging—strollers may be possible on some paths.
The reserve protects habitat used by spectacled bears, but sightings are rare; the visit focuses on habitat, birds, and other wildlife with interpretive guidance.
A local lunch and soda are included; indicate dietary requirements at booking so staff can accommodate common needs.
The cloud forest slopes around Quito have long supported indigenous agricultural practices and, more recently, conservation initiatives aimed at reconnecting fragmented Andean habitats.
Tambo Quinde operates within an Andean bear corridor strategy; visitors are encouraged to minimize impact, stay on trails, and support local conservation by following guide instructions.
Tambo Quinde operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You step from the minivan into air that feels charged—cool, damp, heavy with the scent of moss and new rain. Mist threads through the canopy and the trail ahead narrows into green, a living corridor where orchids cling to trunks and understory ferns brush your calves.
You step from the minivan into air that feels charged—cool, damp, heavy with the scent of moss and new rain. Mist threads through the canopy and the trail ahead narrows into green, a living corridor where orchids cling to trunks and understory ferns brush your calves.
This experience centers on Tambo Quinde, a private nature reserve on the eastern slopes above Quito that protects part of the Andean cloud forest and an important corridor for the spectacled (Andean) bear. Geologically, the slopes are young volcanic terrain carved by steep drainage, producing frequent waterfalls and sudden viewpoints. Culturally, the area carries Andean land-use traditions; local guides often bridge scientific conservation with community knowledge about plants and birdlife.
On a typical day visitors choose birdwatching, pool and waterfall stops, or relaxed trail circuits; expect guided walks totaling up to a full day (8–16 hours depending on choices) and opportunities to linger in observation areas. Birds dominate the soundtrack—tanagers and hummingbirds dart while higher canopy species call from concealment. Water finds its way everywhere, daring you to keep pace with the shifting light.
Practical notes: trails are generally easy but can be wet and slippery; altitude around Quito means take time to hydrate and move deliberately. Bring waterproof layers, binoculars for the famed birding, and closed hiking shoes with traction. Plan for private transport and a cooked lunch included in the visit. The reserve prioritizes low-impact access—stay on trails, pack out trash, and follow your guide’s wildlife distance rules.