Birding Ecuador and Galapagos Islands
In Ecuador the place for birding is the Galapagos Islands. Here, 600 miles from the continent of South America, birds have evolved in complete isolation. The number of endemic (native) species of birds and animals is high considering the relatively small size of the islands, and some islands hold different species than others. This is where Charles Darwin formulated his theory of evolution by studying 13 species of finches. Flamingos, penguins and pelicans are among the aboriginal birds. It is truly a place like no other. On the mainland, Maquipucuna Reserve in northwest Ecuador is also a birdwatcher's paradise. There are more than 325 species of birds, including the Golden-headed Quetzal, Crimson-rumped Toucanets, Broad-billed Marmot and an active "Cock of the Rock" lek. Ecuador Itineraries with Birding Highlands and Islands Quito, Otavalo, Galapagos 10 nights ~ from $3520 Ecuador, Galapagos, and Amazon 3 night M/Y Coral cruise, 3 nights Kapawi Ecological Reserve 10 nights ~ from $2590 Conserving Cloudforests and Traditions Learn about conservation efforts in Maquipucuna, tour Otavalo and Cotopaxi Volcano 8 nights ~ from $1529 Forests of Ecuador 4 nights rainforest, 3 nights cloudforest and 2 nights Highlands 12 nights ~ from $2329