Mashpi Lodge, nestled within the Ecuadorian Chocó rainforest, is a beacon of luxury and sustainability that offers an immersive experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse environments. This eco-lodge is not just a place to stay; it’s a journey into the heart of nature, where modernity and the wild embrace.
Mashpi Lodge is owned by Metropolitan Touring, a company with a strong commitment to conservation and sustainability. The lodge was conceived as a wilderness retreat that would not only provide refined elegance but also protect the rich biodiversity of the region. Before becoming a protected area, the land was threatened by logging and agriculture. It now stands as a testament to conservation and sustainable tourism.
Why Stay at Mashpi Lodge?
Mashpi Lodge is about more than just accommodation; it’s about experiencing the rainforest in its most pristine form. The lodge is designed with modern, minimalist architecture, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that allow guests to feel connected to the surrounding forest. Siting 950m above sea level in the heart of a 2,500 acre private reserve. This outpost is in the middle of a lush green rainforest, giving guests the opportunity to explore both the cloud forest and rainforest, two different types of ecosystems
Rooms and types:
The rooms at are a testament to thoughtful design, blending seamlessly with the environment. Each room is an allergy-free sanctuary with blackout curtains, air conditioning, and amenities like iPod docking stations and walk-in showers.
Wayra rooms (Wayra is the Kichwa word for “wind”)
Ideal for large groups or families. These rooms can be interconnected for a more shared experience. They are spread out over the three levels of the lodge, offering forest floor, canopy and above views
Yaku Suites (Yaku is a Kichwa word meaning “water”):
Perfect for couples looking for a more intimate, luxury experience. The state-of-the-art tubs in these rooms offer the perfect opportunity to soak and relax after a day of exciting forest activities.
The Wawa Room (Wawa is the Kichwa word for “baby”):
Ideal for a more intimate, solo experience. Smaller than our other rooms, the Wawa Room is ideal for the traveller looking to experience the forest on their own.
Dining:
The Lodge’s towering Dining Room is two-stories high and serves as a spectacular space for a lively gourmet experience. Mashpi’s chefs draw inspiration from the diversity of Ecuador’s cuisine and ingredients, making the most of the Lodge’s location between the coast and the Andes and providing guests with the best of both worlds.
Mashpi’s gastronomic identity is inspired by the native ingredients and exuberant flavours of the forest, such as wild garlic, chillangua, and several other organic products. The cuisine combines modern techniques and ongoing culinary research, all while paying homage to Ecuador’s rich culinary heritage.
The bar area is a perfect spot to meet new friends over a drink with its own specifically designed cocktail menu offering an exploration by your palate of the wild and exotic cocktails on offer.
Activities and Wildlife
The spa is a haven of tranquillity. There are two massage rooms offering various treatments where you can experience the harmony with nature in this unique setting. There is also a hot tub and an outside yoga deck.
The lodge offers a plethora of activities, from hiking on hidden trails to soaring above the canopy on the Sky Bike. Guests can explore the Life Centre, observe hummingbirds, and even take part in night walks to discover nocturnal wildlife.
Boasting more than 400 bird species, including 36 that are endemic—found nowhere else on Earth—the Reserve is a sanctuary for monkeys, peccaries, and even pumas amidst its lush, rolling hills adorned with stunning waterfalls. This vibrant ecosystem is also home to a vast array of invertebrates and amphibians. While these elusive creatures are often hidden from sight, a system of camera traps enables us to witness their activities with remarkable closeness and clarity.
Mashpi collaborates with the local community, working hand in hand with residents to offer job opportunities, innovative programs, professional training, and language classes.
The Mashpi Reserve’s staggering level of biodiversity is due to its tropical climate, the equatorial sun, high rainfall, and different elevations. This unique blend of elements creates a world where species thrive in a million different ecological niches.
Why Go?
A trip to Mashpi Lodge offers a one-of-a-kind escape from the daily grind, immersing you in an ecosystem teeming with life. This eco-lodge, nestled in the Ecuadorian Chocó rainforest, is a testament to the Earth’s vitality, providing a sanctuary for the various species and demonstrating the sheer beauty of our planet’s green lungs.
Mashpi Lodge is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that enriches the soul, enlightens the mind, and contributes positively to the preservation of one of the planet’s most vital ecosystems. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a luxury traveller, or someone looking to make a difference, Mashpi Lodge is a place that should be on your list.