The marvelous shrub deserts and deciduous dry forests of the southwest, comprising the northern extent of the Tumbesian Center of Endemism, support a very high proportion of unique forms and comprise one of the most threatened habitats in South America. In stark contrast to this, tucked away in the nearby Andean foothills and equally threatened, is the southern extension of the humid Choco-type forest, where many foothill species typical of northwestern Ecuador reach their southern limits (often as distinct races) and some additional unique forms, such as El Oro Parakeet and Ecuadorian Tapaculo, have evolved. And to the east, in the higher mountains, pockets of biogeographically unique conditions have given rise to yet additional, very local endemics.

The recently described Jocotoco Antpitta has so far been found only within a narrow elevational zone along the humid, windswept slopes and ridges of extreme southern Ecuador and adjacent northern Peru.

This tour is designed to offer an in-depth sampling of specialties of the southwest while based where possible in the lovely Jocotoco Foundation Reserves, right in the heart of good birding.

Select the KEY INFO tab or click here for our itinerary plus space requests, status, fees, limits, and guides for any departure.

Client comment
"I've traveled with Field Guides on birding tours twice before, and I check your website frequently. My overall experience was excellent. I particularly liked the three Jocotoco Foundation lodges and the reserves surrounding them. We didn't move much, stayed several nights at each lodge, which was nice. Meeting, birding with and traveling with guide Willy Perez was the highlight of the trip. Of course, his birding skills are exceptional, but his upbeat, unassuming personality is of special note. Willy has a welcoming and friendly nature...he is funny, kind, and was very aware of the needs of each person in the group." J.T., SOUTHWESTERN ECUADOR SPECIALTIES tour participant

Combo Tours
If you would like a longer birding holiday, some departures of this tour may be combined with:
SOUTHEAST ECUADOR: Orange-throated Tanager & Foothill Specialties