Choco Bioregion Ecuador
Colombia Peru
THE ANDEAN CHOCO BIOREGION The Choco bioregion, a biodiversity hotspot of significant global importance, runs from Panama through Colombia and Ecuador, ending right at Peru’s border. A vestige of the Amazon rainforest that broke off from its mother forest with the rise of the Andes mountains millions of years ago, it offers similar richness in flora and fauna, and faces unique challenges in its biodiversity conservation. In Ecuador, the Andean Choco, forms part of the worldrenowned Tumbes-Choco-Darien hotspot, and covers 125,000 hectares (308,881 acres) with altitude gradients that result in stunning microclimates. The region is considered to be of top priority for the global conservation of biodiversity and one of the first “Model Forests” in Ecuador.
South America
Mashpi Lodge
Choco Bioregion
Quito’s Metropolitan District
Ecuador
MASHPI RESERVE: The undiscovered, natural side of the city of Quito. In 2001, a group of environmentalists joined forces to purchase a 1,200 hectare (~3,000-acre) reserve with the goal of protecting the remnants of Ecuador’s portion of the fascinating Choco region, heavily affected by logging and farming. Ongoing research shows that this area, Mashpi Reserve, is home to no less than 150 species of butterflies, 400 species of birds, 120 species of amphibians and reptiles, 25 species of fish, more than 60 species of aquatic insects and 100 varieties of trees as well as two previously unknown species discovered in the name of science: the Mashpi Torenteer frog and the Mashpi Magnolia. It is hard to believe that this incredible richness is located within the greater Metropolitan District of Quito, just a short drive from the bustling historic city centre of the capital. The drive to Mashpi Reserve itself is one of the most revealing experiences in the Ecuadorian Choco bioregion.
THE MASHPI EXPERIENCE: Luxuriously revealing the true essence of nature At Mashpi Lodge, proud member of the exclusive National Geographic Unique Lodges of the WorldTM collection, each explorer finds a personal unique way to approach the beauty of the Reserve. From the numerous trails to the elevated viewpoints of the Observation Tower, Dragonfly and Sky Bike, the forest here astounds and delights with the seemingly infinite possibilities that it offers. Whether it be a workout on the Yoga Deck, a relaxing afternoon at the Spa, a meditation session in the middle of the forest or a refreshing dip in a pristine swimming hole next to one of the forest’s powerful waterfalls, Mashpi Lodge reconnects everyone with life and invites them to fall in love with nature.
BIRDWATCHING PARADISE Amidst tumbling waterfalls and lush tropical greenery, animal life explodes in an extraordinary display of bright colour: birds sport shiny hues of steel blue, turquoise, ruby reds or emerald greens rivalling the colours worn by myriad butterflies and bright and even translucent jungle frogs. Over one fourth of the bird species of Ecuador, famed as a country for its broad diversity of birdlife, can be found in Mashpi Reserve. To date, our research staff has identified 400 species of birds that live within the area, including 35 endemics and a stunning 32 species of hummingbirds. Birdwatching enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the presence of an Andean Cock of the Rock lek.
WATERFALLS Take a refreshing natural shower at one of our numerous waterfalls located around Mashpi Lodge and feel the energy of the water as it reinvigorates and replenishes your spirit. You will never again settle for a regular swimming pool.
OBSERVATION TOWER Feel the awe-inspiring energy and intricate beauty of the jungle from atop the Observation Tower. After ascending 8 stories (26 m / 85.3 ft), ornithologists and nature lovers alike will have the chance to observe some of the beautiful species that call this Reserve their home, offering a stunning view of their lives in the cloud forest canopy.
LIFE CENTRE This centre for learning and discovery gives both adults and children the chance to partake in something extraordinary. Guests will get to admire the scenery while observing beautiful birds in the company of hundreds of butterflies, reminding us simultaneously of the richness and fragility of this region. Talk to a local scientist and feel like one. Learn about metamorphosis and amaze yourself with the ephemeral nature of this magnificent process!
THE DRAGONFLY Discover the cloud forest aboard one of Mashpi Lodge’s very own gondolas. Take a seat, relax and breathe deep as you enjoy a magnificent, 40-minute trip in each direction. It’s a ride unlike anything else that will simultaneously lift your spirits while showcasing this mega-diverse piece of our planet.
HUMMINGBIRD GARDEN Amaze yourself while watching the imperceptible flutter of 19 of the 32 species of hummingbirds identified in Mashpi Reserve. This viewpoint has hummingbird feeders that are shared between toucans, tangaras and squirrels. So just relax and let the magic hover right in front of your eyes.
TRAILS Head inside the jungle and discover the surrounding wildlife. Uncover hidden fauna with a walk down our beautiful trails in the company of our local and naturalist guides who have an uncanny knack for seeing what others cannot see. Follow the path of the water as it flows down the slopes of the mountains, opening up ever-changing vistas both near and far and showcasing the variety of flora that thrives in the various altitude levels.
SKY BIKE Located close to the hotel, the Sky Bike turns us into bold explorers as we pedal along a 200 m (650 ft) long cable that extends itself over the river and jungle. Immersing yourself in the canopy of the cloud forest never felt so exciting.
NIGHT WALKS The forest of Mashpi transforms into something else entirely at night, radiating with a whole different level of life. Our award-winning night walk will bring you closer to all those creatures that come out after sunset and that show us, once more, just how magical Mashpi really is. Feel totally rewarded by embracing darkness in the forest.
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES The little ones turn into adventurers and explorers the moment they set foot in Mashpi. What’s more is that they have the chance to learn and then put theory into practice at the Kid’s Laboratory. Witness their creativity and curiosity grow as they fall in love with nature. Mashpi is an unusual and enriching family vacation, with fun for everyone!
RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION From the very beginning, the owners of Mashpi Reserve focused on research as a means to learn more about this privileged environment and to conserve it for future generations. Investigation continues to be a pillar of the Mashpi mission, involving a resident research team and collaboration with other national and international institutions. Every day, researchers work together to identify species – such as the recently discovered Mashpi torenteer frog and the Mashpi magnolia pictured on this page – protect the Reserve, and share their passion for the surrounding ecosystem with our guests. Science is a non-stop process.
LABORATORY Run by our resident biologist, this research centre at Mashpi is a place where the mysteries of this incredible Reserve are constantly being unravelled and where life keeps surprising and teaching us. Bring the kids – they have their own space - and your sense of wonder. Nothing beats the understanding of life right at its birthplace.
THE LODGE: Urban comfort. Lush jungle. Mashpi Lodge, a proud member of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the WorldTM, constitutes a work of art set inside a privileged and inspiring natural setting. It offers best-in-class hotel service – including luxurious rooms, highend gastronomy, exotic cocktails, and the Samay Wellness Centre and Spa – to ensure that your stay is as special as your surroundings. Built utilizing the latest techniques in sustainable construction and contemporary design, the Lodge is situated 950 m above sea level (3,100 ft above sea level) in the middle of Mashpi Reserve’s stunning lower montane tropical rainforests and cloud forests. Virtually every spot in the hotel offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding forested areas, meaning that guests can choose to explore the forest up close or simply revel in it from the comfort of their own room. Mashpi Lodge will reinvent the way you experience nature.
THE ROOMS Mashpi is designed to completely immerse you in the life of the forest, while keeping its creatures safely at bay – a luxury retreat amid the dense forest and stunning mountain views. The rooms are arranged over three floors, all designed with floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall panoramic glass windows, some on two sides, with the forest just a few feet away. It’s a bit like being in a crystal capsule, observing the forest from the comfort of your bed. Open the window, and the sounds of bird and frog calls wash over you. The rooms’ lighting is subdued with hidden LED lights that run along the handsome wooden bedheads providing a magical touch.
LODGE FACILITIES Mashpi Lodge’s world-class facilities offer guests the benefits of a top resort experience in a place you would never have imagined it to be possible. Fine dining. Sumptuous cocktails. Wellness options. A boutique with last-minute necessities and special gift items. And, of course, our cosy Expedition Room where you will learn more about the surrounding area in total comfort.
A HIGH-END RESTAURANT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FOREST The Lodge’s restaurant offers a spectacular space in the middle of the cloud forest where the gastronomic experience synchronizes perfectly with the surrounding natural beauty. The chefs at Mashpi Lodge find inspiration in the rich diversity of Ecuadorian ingredients, many of which are found throughout the coast and the Andes. They take the best of these two worlds and then complement these unique flavour experiences with some favourite international dishes. A buffet is offered for both breakfast and lunch. Dinner is à la carte. Our drinks and cocktails, designed by our Mixologist, are inspired by Mashpi’s rich and exuberant natural surroundings.
SAMAY WELLNESS CENTRE The very name says it all. SAMAY, “soul� in native Kichwa, is a place where your wellbeing is nurtured to harmonize with your inner self. Samay Wellness Centre: The ideal place for nourishing the mind, body and soul. Situated in the dazzling beauty of the Mashpi Reserve. Architecture that frames the forest and inspires your world view.
Ecuador's Best Resort Spa
OUTDOOR HOT TUB Gaze out at the lush green forest as you relax in the warm and soothing waters of our outdoor hot tub. This space offers guests the perfect opportunity to unwind and open themselves up to the infinite possibilities of the universe.
YOGA DECK Let your body flow with the energy of the trees as you practice your favourite asanas in the company of the birds and the breeze at Mashpi Lodge’s outdoor Yoga. Soft mats are are readily available. Breath in deep‌the forest is yours.
SPA Two rooms await right by the terrace, both of them ready to transport our guests to a state of complete and utter relaxation. A wide array of select beauty treatments and massages can be enjoyed either solo or as a couple. This is the ideal way to complement your adventures and develop a profound connection with nature.
AWARDS Mashpi Lodge is extremely proud to have been recognised for excellence both by its industry peers and by demanding consumers. The Lodge has received awards for its environmental focus, its excellent hotel operations, and special activities found only here.
Condé Nast Traveler
– Reader’s Choice Awards 2017 –
Top 20 Resorts in South America
2017
South America's Leading Green Hotel
Ecuador's Best Resort Spa
Most Family-Friendly Hotel
2016
Ecuador's Leading Green Hotel
Mashpi’s night walk
2015
Ecuador's Leading Green Hotel
INTERNATIONAL AFFILIATIONS Our international affiliations represent yet another way for Mashpi Lodge to maintain and improve its quality standards on a permanent basis, as well as constituting a sign of quality for our guests. We currently belong to the following important collections:
COMMUNITY Since the beginning, Masphi Lodge has worked hand-in-hand with the communities of the Reserve. The project has implemented an innovative program that will allow the members of the communities and the employees at the Lodge to become shareholders of the company. Additionally, Mashpi offers numerous work opportunities to the members of the nearby communities, who undergo professional and specialized training and also receive English classes. The communities are also important providers of the agricultural products and food that are used at the Lodge.
MASHPI FACT SHEETS
SUITES AND ROOMS
FACILITIES
24 rooms – Up to 50 guests with extra beds
Lobby with waiting area
3 Yaku suites (46 m / 495 ft ) with King-size bed
Expedition Room and “Honesty Bar”
13 Wayra rooms (34 m / 366 ft ) with 2 full-size beds
Restaurant
7 Wayra rooms (34 m / 366 ft ) with King-size bed
Coffee Bar
1 Wawa room (15 m / 161 ft )
Bar Lounge
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2
2
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3 pairs of Wayra rooms are interconnected: 1 room with a King-size bed connects to 1 room with 2 full-size beds Extra beds are available for kids Suites come with bathtubs and showers – Rooms have showers only Luxury amenities Hair dryer iPod charging station Telephone (international direct dial) Air conditioning and heating Safe/lock box inside the room
Outdoor Lounge Spa Samay Wellness Centre with a covered outdoor area that includes a hot tub and yoga deck Library Gift Shop Viewing Platform Laboratory Life Centre
MASHPI FACT SHEETS
SERVICES Food and beverage services. Spa with on-site masseuse. Extensive collection of books and information on the natural world. Low-bandwidth Wi-Fi throughout the Lodge. Computers available. Emergency electricity generator. Fire prevention and warning systems; water-sprinkler system.
INCLUDES Transfer in (shared basis) from four hotels in Quito: Swissôtel, JW Marriott, Hilton and Casa Gangotena. Transfer out (shared basis) to four hotels in Quito: Casa Gangotena, Hilton, JW Marriott and Swissotel. Hotel accommodation. All meals at the Lodge (B/L/D) per night’s stay. Complimentary box lunch for transfer back to Quito.
Closed circuit surveillance and security.
Guided activities and excursions within the Reserve: walks, birdwatching and nature encounters, Sky Bike, Life Centre, waterfalls and Hummingbird Garden.
Lounge with flat-screen TV.
Wi-Fi.
Cable TV with over 90 national and international channels. Electricity: 110V (60Hz) Type A & B plugs/ sockets. Laundry service (extra fee). Clothing dryers service (free).
Unlimited soft drink . Use of rain ponchos and rubber boots.
NOT INCLUDED CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT Following an introductory briefing and a delicious lunch, check-in at Mashpi Lodge is at around 2 p.m. Check-out is at 11 a.m.
Dragonfly cable car ride: USD 40 plus taxes per person per stay for all activities that incorporate this service; USD 20 per child under the age of 12. Spa treatments. Alcoholic drinks. Municipal Hotel Tax: USD 2.75 per room per night. Tips, personal expenses and other services.
GETTING TO MASHPI Mashpi Quito
Ecuador
Map Key N Mashpi Village
Pedro Vicente Maldonado
Pacto Loma La Delicia Pacto Gualea Mashpi Tulipe Reserve Nanegalito Los Bancos
Village City Mashpi Lodge
Pululahua Calacali
Mindo To the Pacific Coast Quito If you have any doubts regarding how to get to Mashpi Lodge, we suggest downloading the following OFFLINE navigation app “MAPS. ME” on your phone from the AppStore or Google Play.
Middle of the World San Antonio Pomasqui
CUSTODIANS OF THE FOREST As we look out over the seemingly infinite canopy, we cannot help but perceive both the deep strength and precariously fragile nature of the Ecuadorian Choco. Mashpi Lodge represents an audacious experiment: a combination of ecotourism, research and community involvement that aims to find a path to healthy coexistence between humans and their environment. We invite you to join us on a fascinating journey through this magical forest reserve.
Photography: Annie Spratt, Image Bank Mashpi Lodge Feb 2018
info@mashpi.com Reservations: (02) 400 8088 (Mon to Fri: 8h30 to 17h00) Lodge Phone: (02) 400 4100
www.mashpilodge.com