Amarun Pakcha Cultural Research Center

eBird Hotspot Link: Amarun Pakcha Cultural Research Center

Species - 406

Checklists - 461

Projected Time at Site: Moderate (≈ 2 hrs.) 

About the Area: 

Nestled on the verdant slopes of the Sumaco Volcano in Ecuador’s Napo Province, the Amarun Pakcha Cultural Research Center is a vibrant fusion of nature, culture, and conservation. The garden is a living mosaic of native flora—orchids, bromeliads, and flowering trees—designed to attract a kaleidoscope of hummingbirds and other tropical species. Feeders and natural blooms draw in glittering visitors like the Violet-headed Hummingbird and the Glittering-throated Emerald, while shaded observation decks offer peaceful vantage points for birdwatchers and photographers. The garden is not just a haven for wildlife, but a reflection of ancestral Kichwa traditions, where reverence for the land is woven into every path and planting.

Surrounding the garden, the center’s forest reserve stretches into the biodiverse eastern slopes of the Andes, home to over 300 bird species and charismatic mammals like tapirs, monkeys, and even jaguars. Trails lead to hidden waterfalls, ancient petroglyphs, and active leks where the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock performs its dramatic mating displays. Guided walks offer immersive experiences in both ecology and indigenous knowledge, connecting visitors with the rhythms of the forest and the stories of the Wawa Sumaco community. Whether you're drawn by the call of rare birds or the wisdom of the land’s stewards, Amarun Pakcha offers a deeply rooted journey into Ecuador’s natural and cultural heart.

Top Target Species:

Speckled Chachalaca, Plumbeous Pigeon, Rufous-breasted Wood-Quail, Sparkling Violetear, Brown Violetear, Black-throated Mango, Wire-crested Thorntail, Peruvian Racket-tail, Black-throated Brilliant, Gould's Jewelfront, Napo Sabrewing, Fork-tailed Woodnymph, Many-spotted Hummingbird, Golden-tailed Sapphire, Coppery-chested Jacamar, Gilded Barbet, Red-headed Barbet, Yellow-tufted Woodpecker, Chestnut-fronted Macaw, Military Macaw, Lined Antshrike, Plain Antvireo, Ornate Flycatcher, Golden-faced Tyrannulet, Black-billed Thrush, Russet-backed Oropendola, Crested Oropendola, Magpie Tanager, Silver-beaked Tanager, Blue-necked Tanager, Paradise Tanager, Golden Tanager and Bananaquit (plus many more also-rans...).

Recap and Reflections (How it played out)

(Stay tuned...)