MCF engages in various conservation projects, including habitat restoration, reforestation, wildlife monitoring, and the creation and management of protected reserves. These efforts aim to preserve biodiversity and support the long-term health of the ecosystem.

MCF supports local communities through education programs, sustainable tourism initiatives, and by creating economic opportunities related to conservation and ecotourism. The foundation works closely with local leaders and residents to ensure that conservation efforts benefit everyone.

There are several ways to get involved, including volunteering, donating, and participating in educational programs.

Volunteers can work on-site at the reserves or contribute virtually to various projects. Apply here.

Donations help fund conservation and community initiatives. Donate today.

NEEDS INPUT The foundation protects a variety of species, with a special emphasis on birds such as the Plate-billed Mountain-Toucan, Toucan Barbets, and other endemic and endangered species. The reserves also support a wide range of flora and fauna unique to the Choco-Andes region.

The Andean Chocó is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, home to many endemic and threatened species. Its unique ecosystems provide critical habitat for wildlife and play a significant role in global biodiversity. Conservation efforts in this region help protect these valuable ecosystems from threats like deforestation and habitat fragmentation.

The foundation funds its projects through a combination of donations, grants, and sustainable tourism activities. Entrance fees to the reserves, guided tours, and educational programs also contribute to funding ongoing conservation efforts.

The foundation offers a range of educational programs for students, researchers, and the general public. These programs include guided tours, workshops, and collaborative research projects aimed at raising awareness about conservation and sustainability.

Yes, the reserves are open to visitors. You can explore the trails, enjoy birdwatching, and learn about the foundation’s conservation efforts.

Visiting the reserves helps support the foundation’s work and promotes sustainable tourism in the region.

Make a reservation today.

Visiting our reserves offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the unparalleled biodiversity of the Chocó-Andes region. You can explore pristine cloud forests, observe rare and diverse bird species, and support vital conservation efforts.

Your visit also contributes to the local economy through sustainable tourism and helps protect one of the world’s most biodiverse areas.

Yes, entrance fees help support the foundation’s conservation efforts. A day visit to a single reserve costs $15 per person. You can purchase a combo ticket for $25 per person, allowing access to multiple sites over three days.

Your visit also contributes to the local economy through sustainable tourism and helps protect one of the world’s most biodiverse areas.

While we provide driving directions below, many of our guests hire a driver/guide to visit multiple reserves on the same day. We can help you find a driver/guide when you fill out our reservation form.

Milpe Bird Sanctuary

The Milpe Bird Sanctuary is about an hour and half drive from Quito along the Vía Calacalí – E28. At Kilometer 91, take a right turn next to the small chapel that is across the street from the public school. Continue 700 meters on gravel road to our parking area with a wooden “MCF” sign.

There are also frequent buses from Quito that will drop passengers at the exit sign. It is an easy walk to the reserve.

Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary

Rio Silanche is just a three hour drive out of Quito. At kilometer 126 along the Quito-Calacali-Rio Blanco look for a right-hand (North) turn-off, and “Santuario de Aves” sign. Drive 7 kilometers down an all-weather dirt road, following smaller directional signs until you get to the metal bridge over the Silanche river. Continue uphill 600 meters. The Reserve entrance and parking lot on your left.

Tandayapa Reserves Cluster

The Tandayapa Cluster is accessible from two different directions. You can come via Nono and the Paseo del Quinde (Hummingbird Route) or from the Via Calacali with turn-offs at KM 52, KM 62, or KM 77. If you are unfamiliar with these roads, we highly recommend hiring a driver and/or a guide.

We have FAQ sections about each reserve if you would like to learn more.

Some reserves have facilities for overnight stays, including cabins and camping options. 

Most visitors stay at our Milpe Bird Sanctuary where we have comfortable lodging, a cafe, and complete access to the reserve’s hiking trails and birdwatching gardens. 

Some visitors enjoy staying at Pacha Quinde where we have two off-grid homes available for small group rentals. Currently, this property does not have electricity or Wifi. 

Visitors can birdwatch, observe nature, hike scenic trails, practice photography, and sign up for a guided tour. Each reserve offers unique experiences with opportunities to see diverse bird species and other wildlife.

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended for the best experience. Our guides offer insights into the local flora and fauna and enhance the overall visit.

To reserve a guided tour, fill out this form.

We only accept cash at our properties. If you would like to pay in advance for your visit, please make a reservation using this form. If you are paying on site, plan on bringing enough money for entrance fees, meals (Milpe only), lodging (Milpe and Tandayapa), or for gifts (Milpe).

The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar.  Bills in small denominations of $20 or less are greatly appreciated.

ATM’s are available in major cities and some small towns like Nanegalito and Mindo. However, many smaller towns and rural areas, do not have ATMs that work with all international bank cards. When in doubt, carry cash.

When visiting the Milpe Bird Sanctuary, you will have the opportunity to visit our gift shop. We offer many different items from t-shirts to nature guides, water bottles to artisan goods. We only accept cash. 

Hike along scenic trails through lush cloud forest. The sanctuary is perfect for photography, offering opportunities to capture diverse flora and fauna.

Additionally, visitors can participate in guided tours to learn more about the region’s biodiversity and conservation efforts. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a serene environment.

Yes, the entrance fee is $15 per person. This ticket is good for one day.

 A combo ticket, providing access to multiple sites for a three-day period, is available for $25.

These fees help support the maintenance and conservation efforts of the reserves.

While it is possible to visit the Milpe Bird Sanctuary without a reservation, we prefer that you inform us in advance. Occasionally, we host large groups like local school children and university groups, and we would like to schedule your visit on a different day to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Please fill out our reservation form if planning in advance. For last-minute requests (within a few days), use the phone number on our contact page.

Yes, we can arrange a day trip that includes transportation (to and from Quito, Mindo, Milpe, and other nearby communities), meals, and an expert birdwatching or naturalist guide, please fill out our reservation form. 

The Milpe Bird Sanctuary is about an hour and half drive from Quito along the Vía Calacalí – E28. At Kilometer 91, take a right turn next to the small chapel that is across the street from the public school. Continue 700 meters on gravel road to our parking area with a wooden “MCF” sign.

There are also frequent buses from Quito that will drop passengers at the exit sign. It is an easy walk to the reserve.

Yes! We have two options for our guests wanting to stay the night at our Milpe property. These accommodations include internet, electricity, and hot water.

Casa Principal

Comfortable accommodations with three rooms, each featuring two double beds and a private bathroom. The house includes a balcony with scenic views. Meals are not included in the base price.

Price: $40 per person
Meals: Breakfast $10, Lunch $15, Dinner $15

Milpe Garden

Two cabins, each with two rooms containing two twin beds. Meals are served at Milpe, and transportation is provided. Alternatively, it’s a 10-minute walk (500–600 meters) via road or forest trail, both offering birdwatching opportunities.

Price: $20 per person
Meals: Breakfast $10, Lunch $15, Dinner $15

Make a reservation using this form.

Yes, we do have a restaurant at the Milpe Bird Sanctuary. We do ask that you request meals before your arrival. You can do so when making your reservation using this form.

At the Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including birdwatching from canopy observation towers, hiking on well-maintained trails through primary and secondary forests, and participating in guided tours to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts. The sanctuary is a prime spot for observing a diverse range of bird species and other wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the scenic trails offer excellent opportunities for photography and nature walks.

Yes, the entrance fee is $15. This ticket is good for one day.

A combo ticket, providing access to multiple sites for a three-day period, is available for $25.

These fees help support the maintenance and conservation efforts of the reserves.

Yes, we do require a reservation for this reserve. Please fill out our reservation form if requesting in advance. If this is a last minute request with less than a few days notice, use the phone number on our contact page.

Yes, we can arrange a day trip that includes transportation (to and from Quito, Mindo, Milpe, and other nearby communities), meals, and an expert birdwatching or naturalist guide, please fill out our reservation form. 

Rio Silanche is just a three hour drive out of Quito. At kilometer 126 along the Quito-Calacali-Rio Blanco look for a right-hand (North) turn-off, and “Santuario de Aves” sign. Drive 7 kilometers down an all-weather dirt road, following smaller directional signs until you get to the metal bridge over the Silanche river. Continue uphill 600 meters. The Reserve entrance and parking lot on your left.

No, we do not have any lodging or accommodations at Rio Silanche. We recommend staying at the Milpe Bird Sanctuary. 

Our reserve at Rio Silanche has limited facilities and does not have a restaurant. Our recommendation is to bring a box breakfast and/or box lunch. If you are staying with us at the Milpe Reserve, our staff can arrange this for you.

Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking on well-maintained trails, and experiencing the diverse flora and fauna of the cloud forest. The reserves offer a unique chance to observe rare bird species and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Yes, the entrance fee is $15. This ticket is good for one day and allows entrance to both the Oreothraupis Reserve and the Pacha Quindi Nature Reserve.

 A combo ticket, providing access to multiple sites for a three-day period, is available for $25.

These fees help support the maintenance and conservation efforts of the reserves.

While it is possible to visit these reserves without a reservation, we do not always have staff available to collect entrance fees. We still require payment. Therefore, we request that you fill out our reservation form. If this is a last minute request with less than a few days notice, use the phone number on our contact page.

If you would like us to arrange a day trip that includes transportation (to and from Quito, Mindo, Milpe, and other nearby communities), meals, and an expert birdwatching or naturalist guide, please fill out our reservation form. 

The Tandayapa Reserves Cluster can be accessed from two different directions. The best for birding is via the “Old Nono-Mindo Road” or “Paseo del Quinde.” You can reach it from the small town of Nono. The second route is along the Via Calacali which has access points to the “Paseo del Quinde” at kilometers 52, 62, or 77. If you are unfamiliar with these routes, we suggest hiring a driver and/or guide to join you on your visit.

We have two different properties in the Tandayapa Reserve Cluster, both located at the Pacha Quindi Reserve. These properties do not have electricity though we do provide battery-operated lights for your use in the evenings.

Birdwatcher’s Haven

Experience the charm of off-grid living in this cozy retreat featuring two bedrooms—one with a Queen bed and the other with two twin beds. The house includes a spacious bathroom, a living room, dining area, kitchen, and a large deck perfect for birdwatching with a fabulous view. Enjoy hummingbird feeders, tanager feeders, a vegetable greenhouse, and a campfire area. Additional amenities include access to the Pacha Quindi Reserve, a waterfall trail, an observation platform, and two outdoor bathrooms.

Price: $90 per night for up to 4 guests

Hilltop Hideaway

Located up the road from the Birdwatcher’s Haven, this elevated retreat offers three bedrooms—two with twin beds and one with a Queen bed. The property features a cozy sitting area, kitchen, and a small deck. Bathrooms are located outdoors. Additional amenities include access to the Pacha Quindi Reserve, its hummingbird feeders, and a waterfall trail. Perfect stay for those seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with the natural world.

Price: $75 per night for up to 6 guests

Request either of these options on our reservation form.

Our reserves in Tandayapa have limited facilities and do not include restaurants. Our recommendation is to bring a box breakfast and/or box lunch. Alternatively, you can arrange to have a meal at one of the other birdwatching hotspots in the area.