Yanacocha
day trip

Highland forest birding at its best, with mountain-tanagers and dazzling hummingbirds at feeders, and probably even an antpitta or a mixed flock or two. Potentially cold when cloudy, but easy walking, and beautiful scenery.

 Only about an hour out of Quito - up on the western slopes of Pichincha Volcano - lies Yanacocha. This high elevation, temperate forest reserve protects the upper reaches of a large forest tract that eventually spills unbroken downslope into the Mindo area. With colorful mountain-tanagers - think Scarlet-bellied and Black-chested Mountain-Tanagers! – flocks with Barred Fruiteater  and Blue-backed Conebill, and some of the most active hummingbird feeders to be found anywhere, visited by the likes of Sapphire-vented and Golden-breasted Pufflegs, and Sword-billed Hummingbird, Yanacocha is a hard act to follow for a quick birding/day getaway from the capitol city. Make sure to bring your camera not only for those close hummingbirds, but also for some fabulous scenery on a clear day.

There are options to either take along a packed lunch or have a sitdown lunch at the small restaurant at the visitor center. It is important to wear warm clothes – preferable peelable layers – as temperatures can vary, but it can be very cold, especially if windy or rainy!