ECUADOR: Escape into Nature at Masphi Lodge

The new Masphi Lodge perched within the lush Andean rainforest in Ecuador offers the ideal nature retreat set within a 3,200-acre reserve.

For those looking to escape into nature, without sacrificing style or creature comforts, travel to the Mashpi Lodge in the Ecuadorian Andes where you will be surrounded by a rainforest filled with monkeys, hundreds of bird species, as well as peccaries and puma. Mashpi Lodge offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and valleys where you can discover life in the tree tops on an aerial tram, soak in natural waterfalls, or trek with a dedicated guide.

Located just two-and-a-half hours west of Quito on a plateau 3,116 ft. above sea-level, the Mashpi Lodge features 22 suites built with an eco-friendly focus. The impressive glass-and-steel structure offers dramatic views of tumbling green hills and valleys with near-constant visual contact with the surrounding forest. The minimalist décor compliments the surrounding rainforest with neutral tones featuring just a pop of bright color.

For an unforgettable experience, take a guided night walk to uncover a nocturnal safari within the rainforest. During the day, explore the biodiverse world of the Reserve by climbing the eight-story Observation Tower, or pedal through the forest on an aerial bicycle. In September, the lodge’s aerial tram will glide guests over the rainforest canopy along with a resident naturalist.

After a day exploring the rainforest, nosh on organic Ecuadorian cuisine at the two-level dining room where the focus of the gourmet cuisine utilizes exotic ingredients from the rainforest such as papaya, palm heart, and plantains, or relax at the Wellness Space that uses local ingredients for its treatments and also features a relaxing Jacuzzi and massage room.

RATES: Mashpi Lodge offers 2-night programs from US$1,296 per person. This includes all meals, taxes, guided visits, aerial tram rides, specialized lectures, rain ponchos and rubber boots. The rate also includes transfers in/out from main hotels in Quito with a guide plus snacks, entrance fees to sights along the route and lunch at El Crater Restaurant at the Pululahua Crater.