An adventure through three unique eco-regions
Ecuador
8-19 November, 2026
Venture through one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth, from the mist-covered cloud forests of Mindo to the drenched, emerald depths of the Chocó, and deep into the mysterious Amazon basin.
This expedition will take you across striking ecological zones, each teeming with unique reptiles and amphibians. In the Amazon, we will be herping the lush lowlands in search of all the Amazonian classics. In Mindo, explore a high-altitude wonderland full of endemics where glass frogs sing above mountain streams. and at Last, the Chocó, one of the world’s most threatened and species-rich habitats full of rare and beautiful Chocoan endemics.
Targets for this expedition include the seldom seen Speckled Forest-Pitviper (Bothrops taeniatus), the South-American Bushmaster (Lachesis muta), Peruvian Rainbow Boas (Epicrates cenchria), a good shot at the extremely rare Pinocchio Anole (Anolis proboscis), and much more. and if we are lucky, we might even catch a glimpse of the Chocóan Bushmaster (Lachesis acrochorda).
Along the way, connect with local guides, experience Ecuadorian culture, and immerse yourself in landscapes that redefine what it means to be wild. Whether you’re here to photograph rare species, deepen your knowledge of tropical ecology, or simply witness nature at its most alive. Ecuador will leave you changed.
One of the most biodiverse countries on the planet
Your Tour Leader
Steijn Pulles
Wildlife Biologist | Photographer | Conservationist
Itinerary
This is a provisional Itinerary and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, local factors, or logistical reasons. Any changes will be made to improve the experience and will be communicated in advance.
Day 1-4: We gather the group in Quito and make our way to Rio Bigal Reserve, located at middle elevation in the Amazon biosphere. Here we will be targeting species like the Speckled Forest-Pitviper, South American Bushmaster, Rusty-fronted Sipo, Emerald Tree Boa and many more.
This is the only location where accommodations are more basic. The showers are cold, and eco-toilets are in use. The rooms are simple but do have electricity. It’s a small trade-off to sleep in one of the Amazon’s best habitats for rare reptiles and amphibians. The setting is stunning, and waking up in the middle of the Amazon to the sound of birdsong is something you won’t forget.
Day 4-6: Our next stop in the Amazon biosphere. This place is your more typical Amazonian lowland habitat. The forest here offers many interesting Amazonian targets like the Two-striped forest Pitviper, Red Rainbow Boas, Orton’s Coral Snake, some beautiful species of Leaf Frogs and more.
Here we will be staying in a small town, there are shops to stock up on snacks, drinks and energies and restaurants where we will try some classic Amazonian dishes.
Day 6-9: We wake up early to cross the Andes on our way to the magical cloud-forests of Mindo. While the region is mainly known as a birding paradise, there are many endemic reptiles and amphibians to be found. We will be focussing on species like Osborne’s Lancehead, Campbell’s Toad-headed Viper, the Ecuadorian Eyelash Viper and the famous Pinocchio Anole.
Mindo is a lovely town with a nice atmosphere, good food and stunning views.
Day 9-12: We depart for the third and last ecoregion of Expedition Ecuador; the Choco. This region is famous for endemics. From the Chocoan Bushmaster, to Chocoan Anoles, Tree Snakes, Tree Frogs etc. A true biodiversity hotspot.
We stay at a lodge in the forest where, guided by rangers we will explore this unique forest and all the wildlife it has to offer. On day 12 we will depart back to Quito to say our goodbyes.
What is included.
Domestic transfers
Expert guiding throughout the whole tour
Accomodation
Park entrance fees
Three meals per day (excluding breakfast on day 1, and lunch and dinner on day 10)
Expert photography guidance
What is not included.
Expedition gear (rubber boots, mosquito repellent etc.)
Flights to and from the destination
Travel insurance
Any extra hotels or transport
Potential visa costs
Snacks and alcoholic beverages
Tips
Limited spaces available
To ensure a high-quality, personalized experience, our herping trips are limited to small groups of 5–8 participants. This allows for better wildlife viewing opportunities, more direct interaction with guides, and a lower impact on the environment. Whether you're a photographer, researcher, or passionate nature enthusiast, the small group size ensures you get the most out of every moment in the field.