Borja Road

Eastern Andes Montane Forests Ecoregion - Elevation 3,700'

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NAPO

eBird Hotspot Link: Amarun Pakcha Cultural Research Center

Species: 406

Checklists: 461

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

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.

IMAGE KEY TERMS:

2025; Ecuador; Napo Province; Upper Foothill Forest Zone; Amarun Pakcha Cultural Research Center; Eastern Andes