This journey is not about a single location. It is about understanding the Andean bear across landscapes.
From the lush cloud forests of Mindo to the vast high-altitude páramo of Antisana, and the misty eastern Andes near Papallacta, this expedition connects distinct ecosystems where the Andean bear lives, feeds, and moves.
Rather than focusing on one predictable site, this experience offers something deeper: a broader, more natural understanding of the species and its habitat.
In Mindo, you will explore lower elevation cloud forest—an important part of the Andean bear’s range—while also encountering extraordinary biodiversity, from hummingbirds to nocturnal mammals.
This is a journey of transitions: from forest to highlands, from humidity to open sky, from detail to scale.

Departure from Quito in the morning, heading northwest into the Chocó cloud forest.
On the way, the first stop is at a hummingbird sanctuary, where multiple species can be observed at close range.
The journey continues with a visit to a butterfly garden, providing insight into tropical insect diversity.
Arrival at Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge in the late afternoon or early evening.
Meals: Lunch

This day is dedicated to exploring the forest directly from the lodge, allowing for a deeper connection with the environment.
Early morning activity reveals a high diversity of birdlife. Guided walks focus on understanding the ecosystem and its role within the Andean bear’s range.
In the evening, there are chances to observe nocturnal mammals such as Tayra (Eira barbara) and Western lowland olingo (Bassaricyon medius).
Meals: Breakfast and lunch

The morning offers a final opportunity to explore the cloud forest.
Depending on conditions, the focus may be on searching for Andean bear activity or visiting another hummingbird sanctuary.
After lunch, return to Quito and transfer to Hacienda La Jimenita for overnight.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Early departure toward Antisana Ecological Reserve, one of the most important high-altitude habitats for the Andean bear.
The day focuses on exploring key habitats where bears are known to occur. Wildlife may include Andean condor, caracaras, deer, and other high-altitude species.
Return to Hacienda La Jimenita in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Departure toward Papallacta, crossing into a transition zone between the Andes and the Amazon basin.
The day includes scenic stops, short walks, and the option to visit the Papallacta hot springs.
Return to Quito in the afternoon, where the program concludes.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
✈️ Flights
🥤 Drinks not specified
🍽️ Meals not mentioned
🛡️ Travel insurance
💵 Tips
🛍️ Personal expenses
🛡️ Travel insurance (highly recommended)
✈️ International flights
🍷 Alcoholic beverages
💵 Tips and personal expenses
📶 Wi-Fi (limited in remote areas)
⏱️ Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
🎯 Focus: Andean Bear Tracking & Wildlife Observation
💪 Physical Level: Moderate
⛰️ Max Altitude: ~4,000 m / 13,120 ft — Antisana highlands
🌫️ Chocó Cloud Forest
🌾 High-Andean Páramo
🏔️ High-Altitude Andean Habitats
🌿 Andes–Amazon Transition Zone
♨️ Eastern Andes Mountain Valleys
🐻 Track the Andean bear across different ecosystems
🌫️ Explore the cloud forests of Mindo
🐦 Visit hummingbird sanctuaries and a butterfly garden
🌙 Search for nocturnal mammals such as Tayra and Western lowland olingo
🦅 Discover Antisana, an important habitat for Andean bears and condors
🏔️ Enjoy scenic highland landscapes, lagoons and páramo vegetation
♨️ Visit Papallacta with the option to enjoy natural hot springs
🧭 Travel with a naturalist guide focused on wildlife and habitat interpretation