Owned and operated by Mercedes Rivadeneira, co‑discoverer of the Jocotoco Antpitta, this garden‑lodge blends hospitality with decades of conservation leadership. Mercedes employs local staff, mentors guides, and uses tourism revenue to support community‑based birding and habitat protection.
Alambi Reserve is
Alambi sits
1. The
Hummingbirds
Morning (6:00–9:00)
Nestled in the tranquil town of Puembo just outside Quito, the Puembo Birding Garden Hotel is a sanctuary for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. The garden itself is a vibrant tapestry of tropical flowers, native shrubs, and fruiting trees, carefully cultivated to attract a dazzling array of bird species. Hummingbird feeders and banana stations are thoughtfully placed throughout the grounds, drawing in colorful visitors like the Western Emerald, Scrub Tanager, and Saffron Finch.
Beyond the garden, the surrounding lands offer a peaceful blend of rural charm and ecological richness. These landscapes are home to over 40 bird species visible right from the property, and the hotel offers guided excursions to nearby reserves where guests may encounter toucans, antpittas, and even the elusive Jocotoco Antpitta. Whether you're sipping coffee on the veranda or setting out on a birding adventure, Puembo Birding Garden provides a harmonious blend of comfort, conservation, and natural wonder.
Puembo Birding Garden Hotel and Tours Website
Contact: Mercedes Rivadeneira +593 99 759 1313 reservas@puembobirdingarden.com
eBird Hotspot Link: Puembo Birding Garden
Hotspot Species: 150
Hotspot Checklists: 1679
Team Eagle-Eye Fall 2025 Species Observed (26 Oct 2025): 7 Team Eagle-Eye 2025 Checklist(s) Link
Team Eagle-Eye Fall 2025 Species Observed (27 Oct 2025): 10 Team Eagle-Eye 2025 Checklist(s) Link
Puembo Birding Garden is a perfect first‑day or last‑day stop near Quito, offering close‑range hummingbird photography, fruit feeders, and relaxed shooting conditions.
Semi‑arid foothill gardens
Flowering shrubs and feeders
Open light, easy shooting
Sparkling Violetear, Black‑tailed Trainbearer
70–200mm or 100–400mm
Great for wing‑blur experiments
Natural perches
Clean backgrounds
Excellent morning light
Scrub tanagers, grosbeaks, thrushes
Black‑tailed Trainbearer — use backlight for tail
Sparkling Violetear — fast; use 1/3200 sec
Golden Grosbeak — bright yellow; expose carefully
Bright, open light
Best early and late
Midday workable due to open shade
70–200mm or 100–400mm
Macro lens for butterflies
Tripod optional
Position for clean backgrounds
Watch for hummingbird territorial chases
Use flowers for natural shots
Respect garden boundaries
Avoid blocking feeder access
Best for: Hummingbirds, garden birds
Difficulty: Easy
Rewards: Close, relaxed, colorful