The eco-friendly Mashpi Lodge is a modern retreat of recycled steel, tropical wood and glass, hidden within the Chocó Rain Forest of Ecuador’s Andean foothills. Exuding intimacy, the lodge accommodates a maximum of 48 guests in luxurious rooms and suites, all with floor to ceiling windows that seem to interact directly with the verdant forest outside. The rooms, arranged over three floors, all face north with subdued lighting and hidden LED lights running along the handsome wooden bedheads providing a magical touch. You will wake up to a captivating view of tree trunks, branches, vines, leaves, birds and clouds all around. With its striking contemporary design and incredible ‘heart of the forest’ feel, Mashpi Lodge is perfectly situated for exploring the incredible biodiversity of this renowned cloud forest.
The lodge’s two-storey restaurant is dramatically designed, and features dishes created with herbs, spices, a wide variety of chillies, and leaves and fruits from the surrounding rainforest. On the first floor, the Reading and Learning Area, with an extensive collection of books on the country, is used by guides and the resident biologist for talks and presentations. A small boutique sells a range of books, guides, clothing and crafts, as well as essentials for guests, and there is a computer with internet access. Head out along one of the many trails, including the Howler Monkey Trail and the Cucharillo Trail. Enjoy a dreamy swim under picturesque waterfalls, and view spectacular plant life. Visit the Life Centre to discover the fascinating science behind the region’s outstanding natural environments. Climb to the top of the eight-story high Observation Tower, or embark on a guided night walk in the company of expert naturalist guides to discover the forests nocturnal creatures and their intriguing behaviours.
What we love about Mashpi Lodge
- Relish the delicious diversity of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine with a distinctly modern twist, the dishes on offer include fresh native ingredients found both on the coast and in the mountains
- The two of you can get your adrenalin pumping with the exhilarating thrill of the Sky Bike, racing through the canopy on a tandem bike suspended in zip-line style, and take in the wonders of the forest, criss-crossed by waterfalls
- You can both indulge in the spa’s Jacuzzi allowing glimpses of the rainforest through slatted wooden panels
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