Imagine standing here at Bellavista viewpoint. What if I told you this spot is more than just a pretty view? It’s a gateway to a world of cloud forests, hummingbirds, and hidden waterfalls.
Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve is located about 52 km from Quito. It is not just a destination. It is an experience. Picture yourself surrounded by 2,000 acres of protected wilderness.
In 1991, Richard and Gloria Parsons, a British-Colombian couple, purchased 136 acres of cloud forest. This initial purchase started the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve. Over the next 19 years, they expanded the reserve. They bought more land for conservation.
Bellavista’s eco-lodge started with a geodesic dome. Local architects and Richard Parsons designed it. Construction was difficult. It needed carefully measured glass panels and precise wood fittings.
Now, this dome houses a restaurant and viewing platforms. You can even stay here. Guest houses like the “German House” and “Glorias’ Honeymoon House” offer unique accommodation.
Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve achieved official certification as an eco-lodge. Rainforest Alliance and Smart Voyager recognized its commitment to sustainability. It’s also a founding member of the Network of Private Protected Forests of Ecuador.
The cloud forests here thrive between 900 and 2,500 meters. The Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve sits at 2,000 meters. These forests boast high biodiversity. Many plants and animals are still being studied.
Bellavista sits on the southern edge of the Chocó-Andean biodiversity hotspot. Birdlife International declared it part of the Mindo Area of International Importance for Birds in 1997. It was the first area designated in South America.
Keep an eye out for hummingbirds. You might see the lesser violetear, sparkling violetear, or white-booted racket-tail. Other birds include the tanager-finch and plate-billed mountain-toucan. The Andean cock-of-the-rock is often spotted nearby.
Mammals like the spectacled bear, puma, and Andean coati also call this reserve home. Explore over 10 km of walking trails. Discover hidden waterfalls. Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna.
The New York Botanical Gardens says that the cloud forests of Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru contain more diverse epiphytes. Epiphytes are “air plants” that grow on other plants. Also, many orchid species thrive here. Ecuador has over 4,200 orchid species which is more than 10% of all orchid species worldwide.
Bellavista also supports research. Its research station welcomes students and scientists. They come to study the cloud forest ecosystem. The Payamino Project uses Bellavista as a research base. This project protects the wildlife and culture of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
So, as you take in this view, remember Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve. It is a place of conservation, research, and natural beauty. A place where every visit contributes to preserving this precious ecosystem.