Introducing the "Cerro Blanco Wildlife and Forest Trail" - a tour of the largest and best-preserved dry forest in Ecuador. Explore the protected forest, located in the extreme Southwest of the Chongón Colonche mountain range, just outside the city. This adventure departs early in the morning and takes you on a 1.2 km trail, showcasing the breathtaking biodiversity of the area, the trail is called “Canoa”
The Cerro Blanco Protected Forest boasts an impressive number of endemic vascular plants, which protect approximately 100 of the 500 species registered in the tropical dry forest region. If we are lucky, you'll discover the magnificent range of wildlife that includes 54 species of mammals, such as monkeys, peccaries, agouti, 6 species of wild cats, including the majestic Jaguar, and 34 species of bats. Bird lovers will have the opportunity to spot a few of the 221 species of birds registered in the area that includes the endangered Great Green Macaw (Papagayo), which is the symbol of Cerro Blanco. Not to mention the 8 species of amphibians and 12 species of reptiles. It is important to note wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
During your walk along the trail, you will experience a variety of landscapes, including the forest and mangrove. The route is divided into two sections. The first section is a mountainous terrain, where you will find small slopes, rocky paths, and a native vegetation of the dry forest. This part of the trail offers the perfect vantage points to take in the stunning scenery. The second section is a second-growth forest, where you can appreciate the beauty of the forest and its natural regrowth.
After returning from the hike, a delicious picnic will be waiting for us to refresh and recover energy before heading back to the pier.
SUGGESTED TOUR TIMINGS
| TIMING |
ITINERARY & POINTS OF INTEREST |
TERRAIN |
W/C FRIENDLY |
| 00:00 – 00:45 |
Depart the quayside and drive to Cerro Blanco |
Paved |
This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs; and those with mobility issues, however, they must be able to board the coach on their own |
| 00:45 – 02:45 |
Walk around the Canoa Trail |
Uneven, slippery, muddy |
| 02:45 – 03:45 |
Deluxe Picnic |
Flat |
| 03:45 – 04:30 |
Drive back to the pier for embarkation |
Paved |
|
DURATION / MIN/MAX NO. OF PAX
4 ½ Hours
MIN 10 guests per departure
MAX 90 guests per departure
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Strenuous (walking over 1 km over uneven terrain with many steps)
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
- 1 Bottle of water per person
- Local English-speaking tour guide
- Deluxe Picnin
- 1 ship’s escort free of charge per vehicle
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Any other services not mentioned above.
IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS
- This tour is NOT suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
- Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything. In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
- All timings are approximate and subject to change.
- It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
