Bird tourism is a type of ecotourism that has thrived in recent times with growing recognition of the world’s biodiversity and the threats it faces. Many people often feel powerless to help when they learn of species suffering needlessly, but bird tourism, especially in places like the Tropical Andes, is one way we can all positively contribute.
Bird tourism began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, triggered by increased interest in natural history and facilitated by the expansion of railways and field guides. Its popularity grew as binoculars and cameras became more accessible, allowing people to observe birds ethically and recreationally without needing to hunt or collect them.
In regions like South America, bird tourism gained momentum in the late 20th century as a tool for conservation, offering economic incentives to protect habitats and species that are often rare or threatened. By drawing international birders to remote areas, it provides an alternative to destructive land uses and, crucially, helps fund local conservation efforts.
In the Tropical Andes, bird tourism has become essential in this vibrant region, though its success has not come without challenges. Early progress in bird tourism was hindered by factors like the long-standing conflict involving the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which made certain areas—particularly in Colombia—dangerous for tourists and difficult to access.
Despite these obstacles, the Tropical Andes’ bird tourism industry has since flourished. The shift from exploitation to conservation of bird species has proven to be both an economically and environmentally sound alternative to hunting and the illegal pet trade. While these practices will sadly always bring quick profits (for the immoral minority), they have devastating effects on local ecosystems and bird populations. In contrast, bird tourism may not generate the same immediate financial gain, but it promotes sustainable practices that benefit local communities, protect endangered species, and ensure long-term ecological health. This model has proven to be far more beneficial for the planet, the birds, and ultimately us. Today we look at just three of those lodges that can be found in stunning Ecuador.
A Haven for Antpittas: Paz de las Aves
A prime example of how bird tourism benefits both species and communities is Paz de las Aves, a bird reserve located in the cloud forests of Mindo, Ecuador. Famous for its remarkable antpittas, this lodge has helped these shy, ground-dwelling birds become accustomed to human presence. Founded by Ángel Paz and his brother Rodrigo, the lodge allows visitors a rare and intimate view of the antpittas, who now emerge from the undergrowth to be hand-fed worms by the lodge’s staff. The Paz family has created a welcoming and educational environment for all birdwatchers, while also providing a steady income through the tourism they attract.
Birdwatcher’s House: Mindo, Ecuador
Not far from Paz de las Aves, also near Mindo, Ecuador, lies the Birdwatcher’s House, a popular destination for all bird enthusiasts. This charming eco-lodge uses a layered, garden-like setting to attract hummingbirds, but its position—between two valleys and surrounded by lush cloud forests—offers opportunities to observe hundreds of other bird species, including tanagers and quetzals. Like many other lodges in the region, the Birdwatcher’s House works to involve local communities in the management and development of the tourism sector. Vinicio Perez, who runs the lodge, has been guiding birders in the region for 34 years and estimates that around 50% of Mindo’s human population is directly dedicated to the birdwatching business.
Reserva Mashpi Amagusa: A Conservation Success Story
To the northwest of Quito, the Reserva Mashpi Amagusa is another shining example of how bird tourism can thrive while contributing to conservation. This luxury lodge, set in a private reserve, provides guests with world-class accommodations while engaging in environmentally responsible activities. The region is home to a variety of endemic species, and the lodge continues to play a key role in protecting the surrounding forests and promoting sustainable livelihoods for local people, despite a worrying potential setback not long ago.
Back in 2023, an association that had been leasing 62 hectares of land to the reserve for over ten years revealed they planned to sell but offered first refusal to the reserve before placing the land on the open market. A GoFundMe was swiftly launched, raising $40,000 in the first few months through many small donations from former guests. A matching donation from Conserva Aves and the American Bird Conservancy in 2024 sealed the deal, as both organizations recognized the wide-reaching value of—and global love for—the continued existence of this lodge.
In Owen Deutsch and Mike Parr’s upcoming book, Birds of the Tropical Andes, conservationists from the region explain the importance of this ever-growing network of bird tourism sites in the Tropical Andes, highlighting the success of these ecotourism initiatives and its dependence on local involvement. These reserves and lodges not only preserve the natural environment—therefore protecting vulnerable bird species—but also act as catalysts for communities to invest in greener alternatives, simultaneously improving livelihoods by creating new income streams. Compared to hunting and the illegal pet trade, it is clear that protecting nature is a viable and sustainable alternative, making the industry a beacon of hope for all.
