El Pahuma Orchid Reserve
Discover a lush sanctuary of orchids, waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife in Ecuador's Choco Andino region.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak wild orchid bloom
El Pahuma Orchid Reserve
Best Time
Peak wild orchid bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a lush sanctuary of orchids, waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife in Ecuador's Choco Andino region.
"Incredible place. Walk the trails and reconnect with what's important."
Pack for Patience
Wild orchids require a keen eye! Visit during peak season (April-May) or be prepared for a treasure hunt.
Footwear for Trails
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trails and be prepared for uneven terrain and potential mud.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild Orchid Spotting
Search for elusive wild orchids amidst lush greenery. Patience is key, especially outside peak blooming months.
Cascading Waterfalls
Throughout the reserve
Discover up to five stunning waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing break and scenic views.
Hummingbird Haven
Marvel at the vibrant hummingbirds flitting among the flowers. Multiple species can often be spotted.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Orchid Season Savvy
Getting There & Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for Patience
Wild orchids require a keen eye! Visit during peak season (April-May) or be prepared for a treasure hunt.
Footwear for Trails
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trails and be prepared for uneven terrain and potential mud.
Support Conservation
Your visit directly supports the conservation efforts of this private reserve.
Pet-Free Zone
Remember, pets are not allowed in the reserve to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for Patience
Wild orchids require a keen eye! Visit during peak season (April-May) or be prepared for a treasure hunt.
Footwear for Trails
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trails and be prepared for uneven terrain and potential mud.
Support Conservation
Your visit directly supports the conservation efforts of this private reserve.
Pet-Free Zone
Remember, pets are not allowed in the reserve to protect the delicate ecosystem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about El Pahuma Orchid Reserve's stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and serene waterfalls. Many appreciate the conservation efforts and the opportunity to connect with nature. While some note that wild orchids are best seen in peak season, the overall experience is highly recommended for its tranquility and biodiversity.
"We visited the Pahuma reserve at the beginning of October, which is considered a relatively low season for wild orchids. Even though, we were pleasantly surprised to find (though not easily) 4 different species of orchids in the wild! 😍
We spotted many other beautiful and impressive plants and flowers, at least 4 frogs, and tons of butterflies!
We were also absolutely transfixed by the hummingbirds! We believe we saw between 3 to 5 different species.
We totally recommend visiting the Pahuma reserve and supporting these great people that chose to conserve the jungle in their private land and make a beautiful natural reserve open to the public out of it.
How we got there -
We took the public transport (colectivo) bus from Mindo to Quito, (the full trip costs 3.6$) and checked the schedule for the day at the station in advance. After around 65-70 mins the driver stopped at Pahuma, (it cost us 2.25$ per person) we got off, spent some time there, and then caught a later bus according to the schedule we checked. It stopped for us, we got on, paid an extra 1.75$ per person, and continued with it all the way up until Quito's northern central station.
Regarding the wild orchids -
There are some orchids grown in pots near the entrance, and near the cabin at the beginning of the trail. They are beautiful, but we came primarily for orchids in the wild.
As I said, we were positively surprised by the 4 species we found! Even though, we only found them after walking very slowly, and searching carefully and attentively. I believe that on a higher season (April, May, etc.) it would've been much easier. If you're not arriving in the high season - make sure you're ready to search with patience!"
Yair Alkon
"The waterfalls are excellent. I hiked up for about 2 hours and found once nice lookout point but the bottom of the reserve is best. I saw hummingbirds, centipedes, a yellow lined caterpillar, and a green ground snake."
Kevin Henriksen
"Incredible place. Bring your loved ones, take in the mountain air, walk the trails and reconnect with what's important. Marixa and Rene Lima are very kind and helpful with parking and entering the reserve. There's a restaurant, cabins for camping, waterfalls, look out points, switchbacks, biodiversity that's unmatched. Highly recommended. Was able to observe and photograph Capsicum lycianthoides."
Rich Blood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a public transport 'colectivo' bus from Mindo towards Quito and ask the driver to stop at Pahuma. Alternatively, if coming from Quito, you can take a bus heading to Mindo and alight at the reserve stop. The journey takes about 65-70 minutes.
Yes, buses heading towards Quito regularly stop at the reserve. You can catch one by signaling the driver. It's advisable to check the schedule in advance if possible.
Yes, driving is an option. The reserve is located about an hour from Quito. The owners, Marixa and Rene Lima, are helpful with parking.
The travel time is approximately 1 hour from Quito, depending on traffic and your mode of transport.
Yes, there is a designated stop for El Pahuma Orchid Reserve along the bus route between Mindo and Quito.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $3 USD for Ecuadorian nationals and $5 USD for foreign visitors.
The reserve is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, including weekends and holidays.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official channels for any updates, especially during peak seasons.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the stated fees are quite reasonable. It's always worth inquiring directly if you are part of a group or have specific needs.
No, pets are strictly not allowed inside the reserve to ensure the safety of the wildlife and the preservation of the ecosystem.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can spot a variety of wildlife including hummingbirds, frogs, butterflies, and various insects. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna.
The reserve features 6 trails, offering different levels of difficulty and scenic views, including access to 5 waterfalls.
Absolutely! The reserve offers stunning opportunities for nature photography, from orchids and wildlife to waterfalls and landscapes.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, and bring a light rain jacket as weather can change.
Yes, there are facilities available, including a restaurant and cabins for camping, making it a comfortable place to spend a day or more.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the delicate details of orchids and wildlife. The golden hour before closing can also provide beautiful lighting.
A macro lens is highly recommended for capturing the intricate details of orchids and insects. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife like hummingbirds. A wide-angle lens can capture the stunning landscapes and waterfalls.
The areas around the waterfalls and clearings where hummingbirds are active are prime photography spots. Don't forget to explore the trails for hidden orchid blooms.
Approach slowly and respectfully. Use a tripod for stability, especially in low light, and avoid touching the plants. Be mindful of your surroundings to avoid stepping on other flora.
Yes, El Pahuma is known for its hummingbird population. Patience and a fast shutter speed are key to capturing these fast-moving birds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus on orchids might be less captivating for very young children, the overall natural beauty, the chance to see hummingbirds, and the adventure of exploring trails and waterfalls should provide plenty of excitement. The reserve's operating hours are family-friendly, allowing for visits during daylight.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
Pack your best hiking shoes and be prepared for varied terrain. Whether you're searching for rare orchids, enjoying the sound of cascading water, or simply breathing in the fresh mountain air, the reserve provides a fulfilling outing for any nature enthusiast.
📸 Photographers
Bring your macro lens for close-ups of flora and fauna, and a telephoto lens for capturing distant wildlife. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light. Be patient, as nature's best shots often require waiting for the perfect moment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of El Pahuma's Orchids
For those specifically seeking wild orchids, it's crucial to manage expectations if visiting outside the prime season. The reserve also cultivates some orchids near the entrance and cabins, providing a glimpse of their beauty. The owners, Marixa and Rene Lima, are passionate about conservation and are often happy to share insights about the local flora. Supporting their efforts by visiting contributes directly to the preservation of this unique ecosystem.
Navigating the Trails and Waterfalls
Hiking up for about two hours can lead to a nice lookout point, but the most rewarding experiences are often found closer to the reserve's base. The waterfalls provide picturesque spots for rest and reflection, and the mountain air is invigorating. Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be uneven and potentially muddy, especially after rain.
Wildlife Encounters Beyond Orchids
Beyond the avian wonders, the reserve is home to various amphibians, including frogs, and a multitude of butterflies adding color to the forest. Keep an eye out for other creatures like centipedes and even snakes, though sightings are usually brief and non-intrusive. The biodiversity here is truly unmatched, offering a rich experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit