top of page

20190419-SantaLucia-Bild0312-TremarctosOrnatus.jpe

Welcome to

SANTA LUCÍA

Ecuadorian Cloud Forest Reserve

Student Program

Eco-tours

Eco Tours

Can´t wait? Book Now

Sustainable Tourism

Our reserve cover an area of 730 ha: 80% of it is primary forest

The guests can taste the local cuisine, rooted in the Ecuadorian tradition

There are more than 400 species of birds, and more than 300 orchids

We are located in one of the most biodiverse regions: the Choco Andino

The wide variety of hiking trails in the alpine region are inspiring

We choose to use renewable electricity to protect our environment

Santa Lucía Cloud Forest Ecuador

Santa Lucía Cloud Forest Ecuador

Enjoy a refreshing swim in rivers and waterfalls

Student programs

Student travel

Grupo de Estudiantes

Agreements with Universities

Santa Lucia has agreements with National and International Universities, who visit us to study Biology, Ecology or simply to learn more about the local culture.

Taking classes on site

National and International professors teaching Biology classes to students

Clases en el laboratorio

Observaci[on de Vida Silvestre

Making practices

Students can make internships to discover more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting results

Students share the results obtained in their research.

Estudio de Resultados

Volunteer

Exchange

With its unique location in the cloud forest, Santa Lucía has always been a hotspot for scientists and students.

Be part of our exchange program as a student or as a volunteer!

STUDENT'S GROUP

STUDENT'S GROUP

If you like science and want to discover the biodiversity of the Andean Choco, your research can help you with your professional path, and support the conservation of the Reserve.

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

Be part of the activities of Conservation and community work in Santa Lucia, where you can support sustainability with local action programs and good environmental management.

Research

On our reserve, we have been working for many years in several scientific projects.

Check out all our works.

Scientific Research

Bird monitoring

Volunteering at Santa Lucía: Stories from Isabela and Emilia

Volunteering at Santa Lucía: Stories from Isabela and Emilia

Volunteering at Santa Lucía: Stories from Isabela and Emilia

At Santa Lucía, each volunteer leaves an indelible mark, and the experiences they share enrich our entire community. Today, we want to...

Week 2025/15 Wildlife Monitoring Recap.

Week 2025/15 Wildlife Monitoring Recap.

Week 2025/15 Wildlife Monitoring Recap.

This week we covered a wide range of topics in our monitoring program. Maicoll Quelal, Daniel Rodriguez and our volunteer Isabela Perez...

Week 2025/12 wild life monitoring recap.

Week 2025/12 wild life monitoring recap.

Week 2025/12 wild life monitoring recap.

The third week of March 2025 saw quite a few very intense days of monitoring in the Santa Lucía Cloud Forest Reserve. The focus was...

Forest School Santa Lucía

Bosque Escuela Santa Lucía Aquí la naturaleza es el aula y la exploración, el mejor maestro.

Bosque Escuela Santa Lucía Aquí la naturaleza es el aula y la exploración, el mejor maestro.

Video Día de las mujeres Investigadoras

Video Día de las mujeres Investigadoras

Qué es el Club Bosque Escuela Santa Lucía Grupo 1

Qué es el Club Bosque Escuela Santa Lucía Grupo 1

Video Bosque Escuela Encuestas 2025

Video Bosque Escuela Encuestas 2025

01 Día Mundial para la Conservación de los Osos Club Bosque Escuela

01 Día Mundial para la Conservación de los Osos Club Bosque Escuela

Santa Lucía Cloud Forest Ecuador

Santa Lucía Cloud Forest Ecuador

🌱 How can they protect what they don’t know?

Bosque Escuela teaches with muddy boots and open hearts 💚
We want to reach more children—and we need your help.

#ForestSchool #EnvironmentalEducation #SupportTheFuture #SantaLucíaEcuador

🌱 How can they protect what they don’t know?

Bosque Escuela teaches with muddy boots and open hearts 💚
We want to reach more children—and we need your help.

#ForestSchool #EnvironmentalEducation #SupportTheFuture #SantaLucíaEcuador

🦜 Heard it before you saw it?
That’s the White-capped Parrot, part of our wild cloud forest family 💚
📍Nature, sound, and color—only in Santa Lucía.
#SantaLucíaEcuador #WhiteCappedParrot #BirdingAdventure #CloudForestBirds
#dejadeserextranjeroentutierra

🦜 Heard it before you saw it?
That’s the White-capped Parrot, part of our wild cloud forest family 💚
📍Nature, sound, and color—only in Santa Lucía.
#SantaLucíaEcuador #WhiteCappedParrot #BirdingAdventure #CloudForestBirds
#dejadeserextranjeroentutierra

🐾 A puma in the forest!
This Puma concolor was caught on camera in Santa Lucía.
Its presence says it all: this forest is alive and in balance 🌿

#PumaConcolor #SantaLucíaEcuador #WildlifeConservation #CameraTrap #CloudForestBiodiversity

🐾 A puma in the forest!
This Puma concolor was caught on camera in Santa Lucía.
Its presence says it all: this forest is alive and in balance 🌿

#PumaConcolor #SantaLucíaEcuador #WildlifeConservation #CameraTrap #CloudForestBiodiversity

💚 12 years ago, this was our team.
Built with community, love for the forest, and a shared dream 🌿
We’re proud of our roots!

#SantaLucíaReserve #CommunityBasedTourism #OurHistory #CloudForestLife

💚 12 years ago, this was our team.
Built with community, love for the forest, and a shared dream 🌿
We’re proud of our roots!

#SantaLucíaReserve #CommunityBasedTourism #OurHistory #CloudForestLife

🌅 Sunrise or sunset…
Which one takes your breath away at Santa Lucía?

Each sky lights up one of Earth’s most biodiverse places 🌿
#SantaLucíaReserve #CloudForestMagic #SunriseInTheForest #SunsetGlow #ChocóAndino

🌅 Sunrise or sunset…
Which one takes your breath away at Santa Lucía?

Each sky lights up one of Earth’s most biodiverse places 🌿
#SantaLucíaReserve #CloudForestMagic #SunriseInTheForest #SunsetGlow #ChocóAndino

🌿 Small, beautiful, and full of life.
Orchids like this bloom in silence, hidden in the cloud forest of Santa Lucía.

📸 Have you spotted one like this while hiking?
#SantaLucíaOrchids #CloudForestEcuador #HiddenBiodiversity #TinyMiracles

🌿 Small, beautiful, and full of life.
Orchids like this bloom in silence, hidden in the cloud forest of Santa Lucía.

📸 Have you spotted one like this while hiking?
#SantaLucíaOrchids #CloudForestEcuador #HiddenBiodiversity #TinyMiracles

🌿🐦 A flash of green and red—there it is!
The Crimson-rumped Toucanet brings color and life to Santa Lucía’s cloud forest.

📸 Will you be lucky enough to see it on your visit?
#Birdwatching #SantaLucíaEcuador #CrimsonRumpedToucanet #CloudForestMagic

#birdwatchingphotography #turismocomunitariosostenible #educaciónambiental

🌿🐦 A flash of green and red—there it is!
The Crimson-rumped Toucanet brings color and life to Santa Lucía’s cloud forest.

📸 Will you be lucky enough to see it on your visit?
#Birdwatching #SantaLucíaEcuador #CrimsonRumpedToucanet #CloudForestMagic

#birdwatchingphotography #turismocomunitariosostenible #educaciónambiental

🌿 It all started with community and a mule trail.
From 1999 to 2000, our lodge was built with heart and teamwork—no roads, no electricity, just purpose.

Were you there?
#SantaLucíaCommunity #FromTheBeginning #CloudForestLodge #ConservationTourism

🌿 It all started with community and a mule trail.
From 1999 to 2000, our lodge was built with heart and teamwork—no roads, no electricity, just purpose.

Were you there?
#SantaLucíaCommunity #FromTheBeginning #CloudForestLodge #ConservationTourism

🐻🌿 The spectacled bear protects much more than itself!
As an umbrella species, conserving it means protecting its whole forest home.

📸 We’ve seen it in our camera traps. Its #santaluciareserve
#SpectacledBear #CloudForest #ChocóAndino #SantaLucíaReserve

🐻🌿 The spectacled bear protects much more than itself!
As an umbrella species, conserving it means protecting its whole forest home.

📸 We’ve seen it in our camera traps. Its #santaluciareserve
#SpectacledBear #CloudForest #ChocóAndino #SantaLucíaReserve

🌱 Every step in Santa Lucía helps protect the forest!
This #WorldEnvironmentDay we celebrate 730 hectares of preserved cloud forest, hands-on nature education for kids, and conscious tourism that creates real impact.

💚 Ready to make a difference?
📍In Ecuador’s Chocó Andino.

#NatureTourism #EnvironmentalEducation #SantaLucíaReserve #CloudForestEcuador

🌱 Every step in Santa Lucía helps protect the forest!
This #WorldEnvironmentDay we celebrate 730 hectares of preserved cloud forest, hands-on nature education for kids, and conscious tourism that creates real impact.

💚 Ready to make a difference?
📍In Ecuador’s Chocó Andino.

#NatureTourism #EnvironmentalEducation #SantaLucíaReserve #CloudForestEcuador

🐾✨ Mammals: Silent Inhabitants of the Cloud Forest ✨🌿

Santa Lucía’s cloud forest is home to an impressive variety of mammals, from small rodents to majestic pumas. 🌳💚

🌱 Did you know…?

The spectacled bear is one of the most iconic mammals of the Andean Chocó and an indicator of ecosystem health.
Other residents include pumas, armadillos, and opossums, each playing an important role in the food chain.
Mammals help disperse seeds and control populations of other species, balancing the ecosystem.
🌟 At Santa Lucía, we protect these animals’ habitats to ensure their survival. Come and discover their silent world.

💬 Tell us, which of these mammals would you like to see in their natural habitat?

#MammalsOfTheCloudForest
#SantaLucíaExperience
#AndeanChoco
#WildlifeProtection
#NatureConservation
#EcoTourismAdventures
#BiodiversityMatters

🐾✨ Mammals: Silent Inhabitants of the Cloud Forest ✨🌿

Santa Lucía’s cloud forest is home to an impressive variety of mammals, from small rodents to majestic pumas. 🌳💚

🌱 Did you know…?

The spectacled bear is one of the most iconic mammals of the Andean Chocó and an indicator of ecosystem health.
Other residents include pumas, armadillos, and opossums, each playing an important role in the food chain.
Mammals help disperse seeds and control populations of other species, balancing the ecosystem.
🌟 At Santa Lucía, we protect these animals’ habitats to ensure their survival. Come and discover their silent world.

💬 Tell us, which of these mammals would you like to see in their natural habitat?

#MammalsOfTheCloudForest
#SantaLucíaExperience
#AndeanChoco
#WildlifeProtection
#NatureConservation
#EcoTourismAdventures
#BiodiversityMatters

🌿✨ Community, learning, and nature — all in one day!

This Sunday we joined the Nanegal fair with our Park School stand, led by the amazing kids from the Club Bosque Escuela! 🧒🏽🌎

Who shared their knowledge about mammals, forest pigments, snakes, and more — showing how powerful youth-led conservation can be! 💚

Want to support this beautiful project?

https://www.santaluciaecuador.com/about-4

#turismocomunitariosostenible #educacionambiental #educacionambientalparaniños #educaciónambiental #EducacionAmbiental #NatureLovers

🌿✨ Community, learning, and nature — all in one day!

This Sunday we joined the Nanegal fair with our Park School stand, led by the amazing kids from the Club Bosque Escuela! 🧒🏽🌎

Who shared their knowledge about mammals, forest pigments, snakes, and more — showing how powerful youth-led conservation can be! 💚

Want to support this beautiful project?

https://www.santaluciaecuador.com/about-4

#turismocomunitariosostenible #educacionambiental #educacionambientalparaniños #educaciónambiental #EducacionAmbiental #NatureLovers

🌿✨ Birdwatching in Santa Lucía: Where the forest sings

Over 400 bird species live in the cloud forest of Santa Lucía — from the elusive Broad Winged Hawk to the dazzling Flame-faced Tanager.

Join our guided tours and discover rare species in one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse reserves. Our local guides will lead you through magical trails where nature speaks through color, sound, and silence.

📩 Ready for the experience? Contact us today or visit:
www.santaluciaecuador.com

#BirdwatchingEcuador #SantaLucíaExperience #CloudForestBirds #EcoTourism #NatureLovers #WildlifeWatching #AndeanChocó #BirdingParadise

🌿✨ Birdwatching in Santa Lucía: Where the forest sings

Over 400 bird species live in the cloud forest of Santa Lucía — from the elusive Broad Winged Hawk to the dazzling Flame-faced Tanager.

Join our guided tours and discover rare species in one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse reserves. Our local guides will lead you through magical trails where nature speaks through color, sound, and silence.

📩 Ready for the experience? Contact us today or visit:
www.santaluciaecuador.com

#BirdwatchingEcuador #SantaLucíaExperience #CloudForestBirds #EcoTourism #NatureLovers #WildlifeWatching #AndeanChocó #BirdingParadise

🐻✨ Spectacled Bear: A Conservation Icon in the Cloud Forest ✨🌿

The spectacled bear, the only bear native to South America, calls the cloud forests of the Andean Chocó—like Santa Lucía—its home. 🌳💚

🌱 Did you know…?

It is a keystone species, dispersing seeds while feeding and helping regenerate the forest.
Its population is threatened by habitat loss and poaching.
At Santa Lucía, we work to protect its habitat and ensure its survival.
🌟 Meeting the spectacled bear is understanding the importance of protecting the cloud forest. Visit Santa Lucía and join our conservation mission.

💬 Tell us, did you know the spectacled bear can climb trees to find food?

#SpectacledBear
#CloudForestConservation
#SantaLucíaExperience
#ProtectWildlife
#AndeanChoco
#NatureConservation
#BiodiversityMatters

🐻✨ Spectacled Bear: A Conservation Icon in the Cloud Forest ✨🌿

The spectacled bear, the only bear native to South America, calls the cloud forests of the Andean Chocó—like Santa Lucía—its home. 🌳💚

🌱 Did you know…?

It is a keystone species, dispersing seeds while feeding and helping regenerate the forest.
Its population is threatened by habitat loss and poaching.
At Santa Lucía, we work to protect its habitat and ensure its survival.
🌟 Meeting the spectacled bear is understanding the importance of protecting the cloud forest. Visit Santa Lucía and join our conservation mission.

💬 Tell us, did you know the spectacled bear can climb trees to find food?

#SpectacledBear
#CloudForestConservation
#SantaLucíaExperience
#ProtectWildlife
#AndeanChoco
#NatureConservation
#BiodiversityMatters

🐦 The Crimson-rumped Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus haematopygus) is one of the hidden gems of Santa Lucía’s cloud forest.
✔️ Did you know it’s a frugivore and helps spread seeds throughout the forest?
✔️ Its body is emerald green with a striking crimson tail.
✔️ It lives in pairs or small groups and defends its territory fiercely.

🌿 This small toucan plays a big ecological role: keeping the forest alive.
🌄 At Santa Lucía, you can see it in the wild, among bromeliads and native orchids.
📸 Want to enjoy birdwatching in one of the world’s most biodiverse forests?
Book your visit and come see it for yourself!

📩 Contact us to learn more about our birdwatching and nature tours.

#CrimsonRumpedToucanet #ToucanetSantaLucía #AvesDelBosqueNublado #SantaLucíaBirdwatching #AviturismoEcuador #GuardianesDelBosque #BiodiversidadAndina #SantaLucíaExperience

🐦 The Crimson-rumped Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus haematopygus) is one of the hidden gems of Santa Lucía’s cloud forest.
✔️ Did you know it’s a frugivore and helps spread seeds throughout the forest?
✔️ Its body is emerald green with a striking crimson tail.
✔️ It lives in pairs or small groups and defends its territory fiercely.

🌿 This small toucan plays a big ecological role: keeping the forest alive.
🌄 At Santa Lucía, you can see it in the wild, among bromeliads and native orchids.
📸 Want to enjoy birdwatching in one of the world’s most biodiverse forests?
Book your visit and come see it for yourself!

📩 Contact us to learn more about our birdwatching and nature tours.

#CrimsonRumpedToucanet #ToucanetSantaLucía #AvesDelBosqueNublado #SantaLucíaBirdwatching #AviturismoEcuador #GuardianesDelBosque #BiodiversidadAndina #SantaLucíaExperience

🌿✨ Meet Denisse Merino – The heart driving Santa Lucía forward 💚

Denisse is the manager of Santa Lucía, leading our sustainable tourism and conservation projects, and coordinating the community-based educational program Forest School Santa Lucía.

With passion, commitment, and vision for the future, Denisse works every day to make Santa Lucía a model of resilience, sustainability, and environmental education.

🌎 Thanks to her leadership, we continue protecting the cloud forest and creating opportunities for our community.

💬 At Santa Lucía, every action is born from love for nature and people!

#SantaLucíaExperience #LiderazgoFemenino #TurismoSostenible #EducaciónAmbiental #Conservación #BosqueEscuela #AmorPorLaNaturaleza #ComunidadSantaLucía

🌿✨ Meet Denisse Merino – The heart driving Santa Lucía forward 💚

Denisse is the manager of Santa Lucía, leading our sustainable tourism and conservation projects, and coordinating the community-based educational program Forest School Santa Lucía.

With passion, commitment, and vision for the future, Denisse works every day to make Santa Lucía a model of resilience, sustainability, and environmental education.

🌎 Thanks to her leadership, we continue protecting the cloud forest and creating opportunities for our community.

💬 At Santa Lucía, every action is born from love for nature and people!

#SantaLucíaExperience #LiderazgoFemenino #TurismoSostenible #EducaciónAmbiental #Conservación #BosqueEscuela #AmorPorLaNaturaleza #ComunidadSantaLucía

🌿🌎 May 22 is the International Day for Biological Diversity.
On a planet full of life, protecting every species is an urgent and shared responsibility.

📍 At Santa Lucía, we are located in the heart of the cloud forest, part of the Andean Bear Ecological Corridor, within the UNESCO-declared Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, and expanding into the ACUS Yunguilla – Santa Lucía conservation area.

🦜🌸🐾 This land shelters hundreds of bird species, mammals, orchids and pollinators. But biodiversity doesn’t protect itself — people do.

At Santa Lucía, we do our part by:
✅ Preserving 730 hectares of primary forest
✅ Educating children, youth and visitors
✅ Monitoring species and practicing sustainable tourism

💚 Now more than ever, we renew our commitment:
🌱 Conservation is a collective act of love.
📣 Want to be part of this mission? Visit, learn, support and experience the forest.

📩 Contact us to learn about our tours, volunteer opportunities and educational programs.

#DíaDeLaBiodiversidad #BiodiversidadSantaLucía #ChocóAndino #ReservaDeBiosfera #GuardianesDelBosque #TurismoSostenible #SantaLucíaConserva #ACUSYunguillaSantaLucía

🌿🌎 May 22 is the International Day for Biological Diversity.
On a planet full of life, protecting every species is an urgent and shared responsibility.

📍 At Santa Lucía, we are located in the heart of the cloud forest, part of the Andean Bear Ecological Corridor, within the UNESCO-declared Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, and expanding into the ACUS Yunguilla – Santa Lucía conservation area.

🦜🌸🐾 This land shelters hundreds of bird species, mammals, orchids and pollinators. But biodiversity doesn’t protect itself — people do.

At Santa Lucía, we do our part by:
✅ Preserving 730 hectares of primary forest
✅ Educating children, youth and visitors
✅ Monitoring species and practicing sustainable tourism

💚 Now more than ever, we renew our commitment:
🌱 Conservation is a collective act of love.
📣 Want to be part of this mission? Visit, learn, support and experience the forest.

📩 Contact us to learn about our tours, volunteer opportunities and educational programs.

#DíaDeLaBiodiversidad #BiodiversidadSantaLucía #ChocóAndino #ReservaDeBiosfera #GuardianesDelBosque #TurismoSostenible #SantaLucíaConserva #ACUSYunguillaSantaLucía

🌲 At Santa Lucía, classrooms have open skies and endless trails.
Our Forest School Club uses the power of natural surroundings as an educational tool.
Here, direct experience teaches more than any textbook.
🌎 Learning without walls, education without limits.

#EducaciónAlAireLibre #AprenderEnLaNaturaleza #SantaLucíaEduca #ClubBosqueEscuela #OutdoorLearning

🌲 At Santa Lucía, classrooms have open skies and endless trails.
Our Forest School Club uses the power of natural surroundings as an educational tool.
Here, direct experience teaches more than any textbook.
🌎 Learning without walls, education without limits.

#EducaciónAlAireLibre #AprenderEnLaNaturaleza #SantaLucíaEduca #ClubBosqueEscuela #OutdoorLearning

📚💻 Meet Alexandra – The mind behind Santa Lucía's numbers 🌿

Although we don't always see her at the lodge, Alexandra plays a fundamental role: she manages the financial organization that allows Santa Lucía to grow sustainably and responsibly.

Thanks to her dedication, every project, improvement, and activity in Santa Lucía becomes a reality. 🙌

🌱 Behind every protected forest, there’s also great organization!

#SantaLucíaExperience #TrabajoEnEquipo #ContabilidadSostenible #TurismoResponsable #CrecimientoConservacion #ApoyoComunitario #DetrásDeLaConservación #BosqueNubladoEcuador

📚💻 Meet Alexandra – The mind behind Santa Lucía's numbers 🌿

Although we don't always see her at the lodge, Alexandra plays a fundamental role: she manages the financial organization that allows Santa Lucía to grow sustainably and responsibly.

Thanks to her dedication, every project, improvement, and activity in Santa Lucía becomes a reality. 🙌

🌱 Behind every protected forest, there’s also great organization!

#SantaLucíaExperience #TrabajoEnEquipo #ContabilidadSostenible #TurismoResponsable #CrecimientoConservacion #ApoyoComunitario #DetrásDeLaConservación #BosqueNubladoEcuador

🎨🔍 At the Forest School Club, environmental education is joyful, creative, and meaningful.

We learn by playing, exploring, drawing, asking, and getting our hands dirty.

🌿 Because loving nature means imagining it, painting it, and understanding it.
We plant knowledge with joy.

#EducaciónCreativa #ArteYNaturaleza #ClubBosqueEscuela #AprenderJugando #EducaciónParaLaVida #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation

🎨🔍 At the Forest School Club, environmental education is joyful, creative, and meaningful.

We learn by playing, exploring, drawing, asking, and getting our hands dirty.

🌿 Because loving nature means imagining it, painting it, and understanding it.
We plant knowledge with joy.

#EducaciónCreativa #ArteYNaturaleza #ClubBosqueEscuela #AprenderJugando #EducaciónParaLaVida #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation

🦌🌿 Small, quiet, and elusive — that’s the Little Red Brocket Deer (Mazama rufina), one of the shyest and most charming creatures in the cloud forest.

✔️ It’s endemic to the tropical Andes.
✔️ Feeds on shoots, leaves, and forest fruits.
✔️ It is near-threatened, mainly due to habitat loss.

At Santa Lucía, we monitor this species with camera traps and protect the 730 hectares of forest it calls home.

🌿 Even the quietest species matter.
👣 Want to learn more about cloud forest wildlife?
Join our guided nature walks and conservation tours.

📩 Contact us to book your conscious ecotourism experience.

#RedBrocketDeer #MazamaRufina #FaunaSantaLucía #GuardianesDelBosque #MonitoreoDeFauna #SantaLucíaConserva #BosqueNublado #ChocóAndino

🦌🌿 Small, quiet, and elusive — that’s the Little Red Brocket Deer (Mazama rufina), one of the shyest and most charming creatures in the cloud forest.

✔️ It’s endemic to the tropical Andes.
✔️ Feeds on shoots, leaves, and forest fruits.
✔️ It is near-threatened, mainly due to habitat loss.

At Santa Lucía, we monitor this species with camera traps and protect the 730 hectares of forest it calls home.

🌿 Even the quietest species matter.
👣 Want to learn more about cloud forest wildlife?
Join our guided nature walks and conservation tours.

📩 Contact us to book your conscious ecotourism experience.

#RedBrocketDeer #MazamaRufina #FaunaSantaLucía #GuardianesDelBosque #MonitoreoDeFauna #SantaLucíaConserva #BosqueNublado #ChocóAndino

✨ The Violet-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus coelestis) is one of the most astonishing hummingbirds of the tropical Andes.
✔️ Did you know its tail is almost twice the length of its body?
✔️ Its violet shimmer changes with the light of the forest.
✔️ It feeds on nectar and plays a key role in native plant pollination. 🌸

🌿 At Santa Lucía, protecting it means preserving the delicate balance of the cloud forest.
👀 Want to see it up close in its natural habitat?
Join us for an unforgettable birdwatching experience at Santa Lucía!

#VioletTailedSylph #SantaLucíaBirdwatching #GuardianesDelBosque #ColibríesDeEcuador #BiodiversidadAndina #NatureTourism #SantaLucíaExperience #EcoTurismo

✨ The Violet-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus coelestis) is one of the most astonishing hummingbirds of the tropical Andes.
✔️ Did you know its tail is almost twice the length of its body?
✔️ Its violet shimmer changes with the light of the forest.
✔️ It feeds on nectar and plays a key role in native plant pollination. 🌸

🌿 At Santa Lucía, protecting it means preserving the delicate balance of the cloud forest.
👀 Want to see it up close in its natural habitat?
Join us for an unforgettable birdwatching experience at Santa Lucía!

#VioletTailedSylph #SantaLucíaBirdwatching #GuardianesDelBosque #ColibríesDeEcuador #BiodiversidadAndina #NatureTourism #SantaLucíaExperience #EcoTurismo

🍴🌿 Meet Nelly – Creativity and homemade flavors at Santa Lucía 🌿🍴

From her kitchen, Nelly transforms every ingredient into an unforgettable memory. With her talent and love for cooking, she creates dishes full of tradition, flavor, and warmth that comfort everyone who visits us.

Every meal at Santa Lucía is more than just food — it's a living taste of our culture and home.

🙌 Thank you, Nelly, for making every flavor part of the magical Santa Lucía experience!

#SantaLucíaExperience #SaboresDeSantaLucía #CocinaTradicional #TurismoSostenible #CulturaYConservación #HomeFlavors #ComidaEcuatoriana #AmorEnCadaPlato

🍴🌿 Meet Nelly – Creativity and homemade flavors at Santa Lucía 🌿🍴

From her kitchen, Nelly transforms every ingredient into an unforgettable memory. With her talent and love for cooking, she creates dishes full of tradition, flavor, and warmth that comfort everyone who visits us.

Every meal at Santa Lucía is more than just food — it's a living taste of our culture and home.

🙌 Thank you, Nelly, for making every flavor part of the magical Santa Lucía experience!

#SantaLucíaExperience #SaboresDeSantaLucía #CocinaTradicional #TurismoSostenible #CulturaYConservación #HomeFlavors #ComidaEcuatoriana #AmorEnCadaPlato

🌱 Experiential education leaves a lasting mark.

Each Forest School Club session invites children to connect emotionally with nature through curiosity and wonder.

That emotional bond becomes the foundation for care and protection.

💚 We teach with heart and with the senses.

#EducaciónSensorial #NiñezConsciente #ConectadosConLaTierra #ClubBosqueEscuela #SantaLucíaConserva

🌱 Experiential education leaves a lasting mark.

Each Forest School Club session invites children to connect emotionally with nature through curiosity and wonder.

That emotional bond becomes the foundation for care and protection.

💚 We teach with heart and with the senses.

#EducaciónSensorial #NiñezConsciente #ConectadosConLaTierra #ClubBosqueEscuela #SantaLucíaConserva

🦋✨ Butterflies: Guardians of Biodiversity ✨🌿

The butterflies of the cloud forest are more than beautiful: they’re essential for ecosystem balance. 🌳💚

🌱 Facts about butterflies in Santa Lucía:

They pollinate flowers, enabling the reproduction of plants and trees.
Some local species, like the Morphinae butterfly, have unique patterns that help them camouflage among trees.
The diversity of butterflies is a strong indicator of ecosystem health.

🌟 Visit Santa Lucía and see how these small jewels bring life and color to the forest. Your visit supports their conservation!

#ButterfliesOfTheCloudForest
#SantaLucíaExperience
#BiodiversityMatters
#NatureGuardians
#AndeanChoco #volunteer #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation

🦋✨ Butterflies: Guardians of Biodiversity ✨🌿

The butterflies of the cloud forest are more than beautiful: they’re essential for ecosystem balance. 🌳💚

🌱 Facts about butterflies in Santa Lucía:

They pollinate flowers, enabling the reproduction of plants and trees.
Some local species, like the Morphinae butterfly, have unique patterns that help them camouflage among trees.
The diversity of butterflies is a strong indicator of ecosystem health.

🌟 Visit Santa Lucía and see how these small jewels bring life and color to the forest. Your visit supports their conservation!

#ButterfliesOfTheCloudForest
#SantaLucíaExperience
#BiodiversityMatters
#NatureGuardians
#AndeanChoco #volunteer #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation

🌈🐦 The Plate-billed Mountain Toucan (Andigena laminirostris) isn’t just striking — it’s a symbol of the Andean forest and an indicator of ecological health.
It lives in the humid ecosystems of the Chocó Andes, like those protected in Santa Lucía.

Its multicolored bill doesn’t just impress — it helps spread seeds and keep the forest thriving. 🌿
🛑 This toucan is classified as "Near Threatened", making its protection urgent.
At Santa Lucía, we watch it, study it… and protect it.

#PlateBilledMountainToucan #SantaLucíaBirds #ChocóAndino #TucánAndino #BiodiversidadEcuador #GuardianesDelBosque #BirdsOfEcuador #SantaLucíaConserva

🌈🐦 The Plate-billed Mountain Toucan (Andigena laminirostris) isn’t just striking — it’s a symbol of the Andean forest and an indicator of ecological health.
It lives in the humid ecosystems of the Chocó Andes, like those protected in Santa Lucía.

Its multicolored bill doesn’t just impress — it helps spread seeds and keep the forest thriving. 🌿
🛑 This toucan is classified as "Near Threatened", making its protection urgent.
At Santa Lucía, we watch it, study it… and protect it.

#PlateBilledMountainToucan #SantaLucíaBirds #ChocóAndino #TucánAndino #BiodiversidadEcuador #GuardianesDelBosque #BirdsOfEcuador #SantaLucíaConserva

🔬🌿 Meet Holger! 🌿🔬

With a deep passion for nature, Holger leads the scientific projects, research programs, and environmental education initiatives at Santa Lucía.

From biodiversity monitoring to training future generations through our Forest School, Holger guides each effort with dedication, expertise, and a love for the forest.

📚 Thanks to his work, Santa Lucía has become a vibrant hub for learning, conservation, and high-level research.

🙌 Thank you, Holger, for driving scientific knowledge and protecting our precious cloud forest!

#SantaLucíaExperience #ConservaciónCientífica #InvestigaciónSantaLucía #EducaciónAmbiental #BosqueNublado #CienciaParaLaConservación #HéroesDelBosque #TurismoSostenible

🔬🌿 Meet Holger! 🌿🔬

With a deep passion for nature, Holger leads the scientific projects, research programs, and environmental education initiatives at Santa Lucía.

From biodiversity monitoring to training future generations through our Forest School, Holger guides each effort with dedication, expertise, and a love for the forest.

📚 Thanks to his work, Santa Lucía has become a vibrant hub for learning, conservation, and high-level research.

🙌 Thank you, Holger, for driving scientific knowledge and protecting our precious cloud forest!

#SantaLucíaExperience #ConservaciónCientífica #InvestigaciónSantaLucía #EducaciónAmbiental #BosqueNublado #CienciaParaLaConservación #HéroesDelBosque #TurismoSostenible

🏡✨ At Santa Lucía, you don’t just visit the forest… you sleep inside it.
We offer 5 beautiful cabañas, surrounded by lush nature, stunning views, and the peaceful sounds of the cloud forest. 🌿🎶

✔️ Private, cozy eco-cabañas
✔️ Direct views of the cloud forest
✔️ Total immersion in nature and tranquility

🌄 Wake up to hummingbirds at your window and fall asleep under a sky full of stars.
Santa Lucía is more than a destination — it’s a sanctuary.

📩 Message us to book your stay or ask about our lodging + activity packages.

#CabañasSantaLucía #AlojamientoEcológico #HospédateEnElBosque #SantaLucíaExperience #TurismoSostenible #CloudForestLodge #NatureLoversEcuador #ChocóAndino

🏡✨ At Santa Lucía, you don’t just visit the forest… you sleep inside it.
We offer 5 beautiful cabañas, surrounded by lush nature, stunning views, and the peaceful sounds of the cloud forest. 🌿🎶

✔️ Private, cozy eco-cabañas
✔️ Direct views of the cloud forest
✔️ Total immersion in nature and tranquility

🌄 Wake up to hummingbirds at your window and fall asleep under a sky full of stars.
Santa Lucía is more than a destination — it’s a sanctuary.

📩 Message us to book your stay or ask about our lodging + activity packages.

#CabañasSantaLucía #AlojamientoEcológico #HospédateEnElBosque #SantaLucíaExperience #TurismoSostenible #CloudForestLodge #NatureLoversEcuador #ChocóAndino

📚🌿 At the Forest School Club, the classroom is made of roots and leaves.

Environmental education doesn’t just teach science — it teaches respect, empathy, and care for all life.

Here, children don’t just memorize facts — they explore, wonder, and discover their role as forest guardians.

💡 Learning in nature is learning for the future.

#turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation
#EducaciónAmbiental #ClubBosqueEscuela #GuardianesDelBosque #AprenderDelBosque #SantaLucíaExperience

📚🌿 At the Forest School Club, the classroom is made of roots and leaves.

Environmental education doesn’t just teach science — it teaches respect, empathy, and care for all life.

Here, children don’t just memorize facts — they explore, wonder, and discover their role as forest guardians.

💡 Learning in nature is learning for the future.

#turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation
#EducaciónAmbiental #ClubBosqueEscuela #GuardianesDelBosque #AprenderDelBosque #SantaLucíaExperience

🐾🌿 The tayra (Eira barbara) walks quietly through the forest trails… rarely seen, but always present.
It’s an agile, intelligent carnivorous mammal — a relative of the weasel and key to ecological balance.

✔️ Did you know it feeds on fruits, rodents, and even insects?
✔️ It helps control pests and disperse seeds.
✔️ At Santa Lucía, we monitor it through camera traps and protect its habitat.

🌳 Every species matters.
🌎 Protecting the tayra means protecting the entire forest.

📣 Want to learn more about the mammals of this ecosystem?
Visit Santa Lucía and enjoy a responsible wildlife observation experience.

📩 Contact us to join our conservation and education walks.

#EiraBarbara #TayraSantaLucía #GuardianesDelBosque #MamíferosDelBosqueNublado #SantaLucíaConserva #MonitoreoDeFauna #WildlifeEcuador #ChocóAndino #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation #CloudForest #TurismoComunitario #WildlifeProtection #SustainableTravel #NatureConservation

🐾🌿 The tayra (Eira barbara) walks quietly through the forest trails… rarely seen, but always present.
It’s an agile, intelligent carnivorous mammal — a relative of the weasel and key to ecological balance.

✔️ Did you know it feeds on fruits, rodents, and even insects?
✔️ It helps control pests and disperse seeds.
✔️ At Santa Lucía, we monitor it through camera traps and protect its habitat.

🌳 Every species matters.
🌎 Protecting the tayra means protecting the entire forest.

📣 Want to learn more about the mammals of this ecosystem?
Visit Santa Lucía and enjoy a responsible wildlife observation experience.

📩 Contact us to join our conservation and education walks.

#EiraBarbara #TayraSantaLucía #GuardianesDelBosque #MamíferosDelBosqueNublado #SantaLucíaConserva #MonitoreoDeFauna #WildlifeEcuador #ChocóAndino #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation #CloudForest #TurismoComunitario #WildlifeProtection #SustainableTravel #NatureConservation

✨🌿 Deep within the cloud forest of Santa Lucía lives a winged gem: the Gorgeted Sunangel (Heliangelus strophianus).

Its iridescent throat doesn’t just shine — it reminds us that biodiversity is both delicate and precious.
🍃 This hummingbird is one of many natural treasures protected within our 730 hectares of primary forest.
To protect it is to protect an entire ecosystem.
🌎 Every species matters. Every wingbeat is life worth defending.

#GorgetedSunangel #ColibríDeSantaLucía #BiodiversidadAndina #JoyasDelBosque #SantaLucíaConserva #BirdsOfEcuador #ConservationMatters #chocóandino #BirdwatchingAdventure #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation #birdwatchingphotography #turismocomunitariosostenible #CloudForest #TurismoComunitario #Conservación #WildlifeProtection

✨🌿 Deep within the cloud forest of Santa Lucía lives a winged gem: the Gorgeted Sunangel (Heliangelus strophianus).

Its iridescent throat doesn’t just shine — it reminds us that biodiversity is both delicate and precious.
🍃 This hummingbird is one of many natural treasures protected within our 730 hectares of primary forest.
To protect it is to protect an entire ecosystem.
🌎 Every species matters. Every wingbeat is life worth defending.

#GorgetedSunangel #ColibríDeSantaLucía #BiodiversidadAndina #JoyasDelBosque #SantaLucíaConserva #BirdsOfEcuador #ConservationMatters #chocóandino #BirdwatchingAdventure #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation #birdwatchingphotography #turismocomunitariosostenible #CloudForest #TurismoComunitario #Conservación #WildlifeProtection

🌿✨ Meet Mauricio! ✨🌿

Always smiling and willing to help, Mauricio plays a vital role at Santa Lucía.
He is in charge of maintenance throughout the reserve and the care of our beloved mules, who are essential for transporting supplies through the cloud forest.

💚 His tireless and quiet work supports our daily operations and ensures everything runs smoothly, even in the most remote corners of the reserve.

🙌 Thank you, Mauricio, for your dedication, hard work, and for being part of the heart of Santa Lucía!

#SantaLucíaExperience #NuestroEquipo #CuidadoresDelBosque #MantenimientoSantaLucía #TrabajoEnElBosque #CloudForestHeroes #TurismoSostenible #ConservaciónActiva

🌿✨ Meet Mauricio! ✨🌿

Always smiling and willing to help, Mauricio plays a vital role at Santa Lucía.
He is in charge of maintenance throughout the reserve and the care of our beloved mules, who are essential for transporting supplies through the cloud forest.

💚 His tireless and quiet work supports our daily operations and ensures everything runs smoothly, even in the most remote corners of the reserve.

🙌 Thank you, Mauricio, for your dedication, hard work, and for being part of the heart of Santa Lucía!

#SantaLucíaExperience #NuestroEquipo #CuidadoresDelBosque #MantenimientoSantaLucía #TrabajoEnElBosque #CloudForestHeroes #TurismoSostenible #ConservaciónActiva

🌿✨ Workers' Day: Conservation and Dedication ✨🌳
Today we celebrate those who make Santa Lucía a shining example of conservation and sustainable tourism. 💪🌳

From guides to environmental educators, every team member works tirelessly to protect the cloud forest and share its magic with the world.

🌟 Thank you for being part of our mission!

💬 What inspires you about conservation work? Share your thoughts in the comments!

#WorkersDay
#SantaLucíaExperience
#ConservationHeroes
#EcoTourismAdventures
#CloudForestProtection #volunteer #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation

🌿✨ Workers' Day: Conservation and Dedication ✨🌳
Today we celebrate those who make Santa Lucía a shining example of conservation and sustainable tourism. 💪🌳

From guides to environmental educators, every team member works tirelessly to protect the cloud forest and share its magic with the world.

🌟 Thank you for being part of our mission!

💬 What inspires you about conservation work? Share your thoughts in the comments!

#WorkersDay
#SantaLucíaExperience
#ConservationHeroes
#EcoTourismAdventures
#CloudForestProtection #volunteer #turismocomunitariosostenible #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation

🌱👧🧒 Forest School Club: Where we plant seeds of awareness and harvest love for nature 🌳💚

At Santa Lucía, we believe that conservation starts with education. That’s why the Forest School Club was born — a space where children and youth learn, explore, and connect with the forest through real-life experiences.

🔍 Through games, science, art, and exploration, they learn to:
✨ Recognize the biodiversity around them.
✨ Understand their role as guardians of the forest.
✨ Dream of a sustainable future rooted in their community.

📣 Teaching new generations is one of the most powerful tools for conservation. Because those who love, protect. 💚

💬 Want to support this educational and community-based project? Reach out to us or visit our website to learn how to help.

#ClubBosqueEscuela #EducaciónAmbiental #NiñezConsciente #GuardianesDelBosque #SantaLucíaExperience #EducaciónParaLaConservación #ForestSchool #BiodiversidadInfantil #ConservationEducation

🌱👧🧒 Forest School Club: Where we plant seeds of awareness and harvest love for nature 🌳💚

At Santa Lucía, we believe that conservation starts with education. That’s why the Forest School Club was born — a space where children and youth learn, explore, and connect with the forest through real-life experiences.

🔍 Through games, science, art, and exploration, they learn to:
✨ Recognize the biodiversity around them.
✨ Understand their role as guardians of the forest.
✨ Dream of a sustainable future rooted in their community.

📣 Teaching new generations is one of the most powerful tools for conservation. Because those who love, protect. 💚

💬 Want to support this educational and community-based project? Reach out to us or visit our website to learn how to help.

#ClubBosqueEscuela #EducaciónAmbiental #NiñezConsciente #GuardianesDelBosque #SantaLucíaExperience #EducaciónParaLaConservación #ForestSchool #BiodiversidadInfantil #ConservationEducation

🌿✨ Drymonia bochidodroma – A hidden jewel of the cloud forest 💚

In the heart of Santa Lucía’s cloud forest, discreet wonders like Drymonia bochidodroma thrive, playing a vital role in biodiversity.

🌱 This species belongs to the Gesneriaceae family and is known for its beautiful tubular flowers and delicate connection to the ecosystem.

Each plant, each flower, tells a story of adaptation, resilience, and life within our forest.

💬 Had you heard about this hidden forest gem? Tell us in the comments! 🌿✨

#FloraDelBosqueNublado #DrymoniaBochidodroma #Biodiversidad #SantaLucíaExperience #NaturalezaOculta #Gesneriaceae #CloudForestTreasures #Conservación

🌿✨ Drymonia bochidodroma – A hidden jewel of the cloud forest 💚

In the heart of Santa Lucía’s cloud forest, discreet wonders like Drymonia bochidodroma thrive, playing a vital role in biodiversity.

🌱 This species belongs to the Gesneriaceae family and is known for its beautiful tubular flowers and delicate connection to the ecosystem.

Each plant, each flower, tells a story of adaptation, resilience, and life within our forest.

💬 Had you heard about this hidden forest gem? Tell us in the comments! 🌿✨

#FloraDelBosqueNublado #DrymoniaBochidodroma #Biodiversidad #SantaLucíaExperience #NaturalezaOculta #Gesneriaceae #CloudForestTreasures #Conservación

🌿✨ Meet Graciela! ✨🌿

She is the warm welcome to our future visitors and the friendly voice behind our bookings and inquiries.
Graciela is in charge of sales at Santa Lucía, assisting each person with dedication, answering questions, and guiding those eager to experience our cloud forest.

💚 Her commitment is key to helping more people discover the magic of conservation, sustainable tourism, and nature connection.

📩 Got questions about Santa Lucía or planning your visit? Graciela will be happy to help!

#SantaLucíaExperience #NuestroEquipo #ConoceSantaLucía #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #CloudForestAdventure #SalesTeam #BienvenidaSantaLucía #TravelResponsibly

🌿✨ Meet Graciela! ✨🌿

She is the warm welcome to our future visitors and the friendly voice behind our bookings and inquiries.
Graciela is in charge of sales at Santa Lucía, assisting each person with dedication, answering questions, and guiding those eager to experience our cloud forest.

💚 Her commitment is key to helping more people discover the magic of conservation, sustainable tourism, and nature connection.

📩 Got questions about Santa Lucía or planning your visit? Graciela will be happy to help!

#SantaLucíaExperience #NuestroEquipo #ConoceSantaLucía #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #CloudForestAdventure #SalesTeam #BienvenidaSantaLucía #TravelResponsibly

🔨🐦 Knock knock! The forest has its own rhythm… and it’s set by the Powerful Woodpecker.
At Santa Lucía, we were lucky to spot the Powerful Woodpecker (Campephilus pollens), an impressive species found in the Andean montane forests.

With its strong drumming, this bird not only stands out for its looks—it plays a crucial ecological role by controlling insects and creating nesting spaces for other animals.

📍 Spotting it is a reminder of why protecting these biodiverse forests matters.

🔎 Have you ever seen one? Tell us where and what stood out to you!

#SantaLucíaExperience #BirdwatchingEcuador #PowerfulWoodpecker #CampephilusPollens #AndeanBirds #Aviturismo #BosqueNublado #Conservación #AndesEcuador #CloudForestMagic

🔨🐦 Knock knock! The forest has its own rhythm… and it’s set by the Powerful Woodpecker.
At Santa Lucía, we were lucky to spot the Powerful Woodpecker (Campephilus pollens), an impressive species found in the Andean montane forests.

With its strong drumming, this bird not only stands out for its looks—it plays a crucial ecological role by controlling insects and creating nesting spaces for other animals.

📍 Spotting it is a reminder of why protecting these biodiverse forests matters.

🔎 Have you ever seen one? Tell us where and what stood out to you!

#SantaLucíaExperience #BirdwatchingEcuador #PowerfulWoodpecker #CampephilusPollens #AndeanBirds #Aviturismo #BosqueNublado #Conservación #AndesEcuador #CloudForestMagic

🌿✨ We brought the cloud forest into the university! 🌱🏛️

Last Monday, April 14th, Holger Beck and Denisse Merino had the honor of presenting Santa Lucía’s work to students of the Political Ecology course at Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ).

They shared:
✅ The history of our cooperative and our journey toward conservation.
✅ Our work in sustainable tourism, scientific research, and environmental education.
✅ Challenges and lessons learned from over 25 years protecting the Chocó Andean cloud forest.

💬 It was a great opportunity to exchange knowledge, hear fresh ideas, and strengthen the connection between academic spaces and grassroots conservation.

💚 We sincerely thank Professor Emilie Dupuits for the invitation. It was an honor for us to be in her classroom and to share Santa Lucía’s story.

#SantaLucíaExperience #EducaciónAmbiental #ConservaciónComunitaria #USFQ #EcologíaPolítica #BosqueNublado #TurismoSostenible #RedDeBosquesEscuela #ChocóAndino #AprendemosJuntos #VinculaciónComunitaria

🌿✨ We brought the cloud forest into the university! 🌱🏛️

Last Monday, April 14th, Holger Beck and Denisse Merino had the honor of presenting Santa Lucía’s work to students of the Political Ecology course at Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ).

They shared:
✅ The history of our cooperative and our journey toward conservation.
✅ Our work in sustainable tourism, scientific research, and environmental education.
✅ Challenges and lessons learned from over 25 years protecting the Chocó Andean cloud forest.

💬 It was a great opportunity to exchange knowledge, hear fresh ideas, and strengthen the connection between academic spaces and grassroots conservation.

💚 We sincerely thank Professor Emilie Dupuits for the invitation. It was an honor for us to be in her classroom and to share Santa Lucía’s story.

#SantaLucíaExperience #EducaciónAmbiental #ConservaciónComunitaria #USFQ #EcologíaPolítica #BosqueNublado #TurismoSostenible #RedDeBosquesEscuela #ChocóAndino #AprendemosJuntos #VinculaciónComunitaria

🌍✨ Earth Day: A commitment we live every day ✨🌍

At Santa Lucía, we believe every day is Earth Day.
Our home — the cloud forest of the Chocó Andean region — holds incredible biodiversity and is the heart of our efforts in conservation and sustainable community-based tourism. 💚🌱

🌳 How do we protect it?
✅ Safeguarding 720 hectares of cloud forest
✅ Promoting responsible tourism
✅ Educating the next generation
✅ Supporting local communities with sustainable alternatives

This April 22nd, we invite you to be part of the change.
🌱 Your visit, your support, or simply sharing our story makes a difference!

💬 What small action will you take today for the Earth?

#DíaDeLaTierra #EarthDay2025 #SantaLucíaExperience #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #BosqueNublado #ChocóAndino #CommunityConservation #EveryDayIsEarthDay #ActForNature #Sostenibilidad

🌍✨ Earth Day: A commitment we live every day ✨🌍

At Santa Lucía, we believe every day is Earth Day.
Our home — the cloud forest of the Chocó Andean region — holds incredible biodiversity and is the heart of our efforts in conservation and sustainable community-based tourism. 💚🌱

🌳 How do we protect it?
✅ Safeguarding 720 hectares of cloud forest
✅ Promoting responsible tourism
✅ Educating the next generation
✅ Supporting local communities with sustainable alternatives

This April 22nd, we invite you to be part of the change.
🌱 Your visit, your support, or simply sharing our story makes a difference!

💬 What small action will you take today for the Earth?

#DíaDeLaTierra #EarthDay2025 #SantaLucíaExperience #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #BosqueNublado #ChocóAndino #CommunityConservation #EveryDayIsEarthDay #ActForNature #Sostenibilidad

🌿✨ Volunteering at Santa Lucía: When Nature Transforms Hearts ✨🌿

Isabela and Emilia arrived at Santa Lucía eager to learn about the cloud forest… and left with memories, knowledge, and lifelong friendships. 💚

📖 In our latest blog post, read their stories:
✔️ Scientific monitoring
✔️ Support in the orchid garden and maintenance
✔️ Deep connection with the community
✔️ And an experience they’ll never forget

👩‍🔬 Emilia followed in her mother’s footsteps—25 years after she volunteered.
🌱 Isabela returned to the place where her love for nature began.

They are now part of the ever-growing network of people who’ve made a difference at Santa Lucía.
📍 Read their full stories on our blog and learn how you can become a volunteer too!

🔗 https://www.santaluciaecuador.com/post/volunteering-at-santa-lucía-stories-from-isabela-and-emilia

💬 Would you like to be part of this journey?

#VoluntariadoSantaLucía #VolunteerExperience #SantaLucíaEcuador #BosqueNublado #Conservación #VolunteerStories #NatureConnection #CloudForestVolunteers #RedDeBosquesEscuela #AndeanChocó #ExperienciasQueTransforman

🌿✨ Volunteering at Santa Lucía: When Nature Transforms Hearts ✨🌿

Isabela and Emilia arrived at Santa Lucía eager to learn about the cloud forest… and left with memories, knowledge, and lifelong friendships. 💚

📖 In our latest blog post, read their stories:
✔️ Scientific monitoring
✔️ Support in the orchid garden and maintenance
✔️ Deep connection with the community
✔️ And an experience they’ll never forget

👩‍🔬 Emilia followed in her mother’s footsteps—25 years after she volunteered.
🌱 Isabela returned to the place where her love for nature began.

They are now part of the ever-growing network of people who’ve made a difference at Santa Lucía.
📍 Read their full stories on our blog and learn how you can become a volunteer too!

🔗 https://www.santaluciaecuador.com/post/volunteering-at-santa-lucía-stories-from-isabela-and-emilia

💬 Would you like to be part of this journey?

#VoluntariadoSantaLucía #VolunteerExperience #SantaLucíaEcuador #BosqueNublado #Conservación #VolunteerStories #NatureConnection #CloudForestVolunteers #RedDeBosquesEscuela #AndeanChocó #ExperienciasQueTransforman

🌿✨ Adam’s Testimony: Volunteering with purpose at Santa Lucía ✨🌿

"My time in Santa Lucía was a wonderful experience as a volunteer. And I say wonderful because of all the wonders of the cloud forest: the omnipresent hummingbirds, the dense primary vegetation, or the overwhelming number of orchid species.

All of this was guided by attentive and knowledgeable people who are truly dedicated to the spirit that Santa Lucía carries.

Special thanks to Noé and Edi for their wise guidance, to Mauricio for the hard and meaningful days we worked together, to Nely for ALL the food and the goodbye cake, and especially to Leyder, my friend, who gave me comfort and friendship that I really needed and appreciated."

Thank you, Adam, for your dedication, friendship, and love for this forest. Santa Lucía will always be your home. 💚

#SantaLucíaExperience #VoluntariadoConPropósito #CloudForestMagic #VolunteerInEcuador #ConservationJourney #BosqueNublado #OrchidLovers #HummingbirdsEverywhere #ChocóAndino #VoluntariadoInternacional #NatureConnection #SantaLucíaVolunteers

🌿✨ Adam’s Testimony: Volunteering with purpose at Santa Lucía ✨🌿

"My time in Santa Lucía was a wonderful experience as a volunteer. And I say wonderful because of all the wonders of the cloud forest: the omnipresent hummingbirds, the dense primary vegetation, or the overwhelming number of orchid species.

All of this was guided by attentive and knowledgeable people who are truly dedicated to the spirit that Santa Lucía carries.

Special thanks to Noé and Edi for their wise guidance, to Mauricio for the hard and meaningful days we worked together, to Nely for ALL the food and the goodbye cake, and especially to Leyder, my friend, who gave me comfort and friendship that I really needed and appreciated."

Thank you, Adam, for your dedication, friendship, and love for this forest. Santa Lucía will always be your home. 💚

#SantaLucíaExperience #VoluntariadoConPropósito #CloudForestMagic #VolunteerInEcuador #ConservationJourney #BosqueNublado #OrchidLovers #HummingbirdsEverywhere #ChocóAndino #VoluntariadoInternacional #NatureConnection #SantaLucíaVolunteers

🐦🌿 Penelope montagnii: A winged secret of the cloud forest

In Santa Lucía, a misty trail walk may reward you with the sight of the Sickle-winged Guan (Penelope montagnii), a lesser-known yet ecologically vital bird species.

🔍 Did you know this bird plays a key role in forest regeneration?
By feeding on fruits and dispersing seeds, it acts as a gardener of the cloud forest.

📸 Spotting it is a privilege… and a reminder of why we protect these ecosystems.

🟢 If you love birds and nature, visit Santa Lucía and see why this paradise is worth preserving.

💬 Have you seen this species before? What’s your favorite bird encounter?

#SantaLucíaExperience #AvesDelBosqueNublado #PenelopeMontagnii #AviturismoEcuador #BirdwatchingParadise #CloudForestBirds #NatureMatters #Conservación #EcuadorBirds #SickleWingedGuan

🐦🌿 Penelope montagnii: A winged secret of the cloud forest

In Santa Lucía, a misty trail walk may reward you with the sight of the Sickle-winged Guan (Penelope montagnii), a lesser-known yet ecologically vital bird species.

🔍 Did you know this bird plays a key role in forest regeneration?
By feeding on fruits and dispersing seeds, it acts as a gardener of the cloud forest.

📸 Spotting it is a privilege… and a reminder of why we protect these ecosystems.

🟢 If you love birds and nature, visit Santa Lucía and see why this paradise is worth preserving.

💬 Have you seen this species before? What’s your favorite bird encounter?

#SantaLucíaExperience #AvesDelBosqueNublado #PenelopeMontagnii #AviturismoEcuador #BirdwatchingParadise #CloudForestBirds #NatureMatters #Conservación #EcuadorBirds #SickleWingedGuan

🌿✨ Meet our team: Gloria, the heart of Santa Lucía’s logistics ✨💚

At Santa Lucía, every team member plays a crucial role in keeping everything running smoothly. Today, we introduce you to Gloria, our administrative assistant, whose dedication and organization keep the reserve operating efficiently. 📑📝

But Gloria is more than efficiency and planning… her warmth and kindness are essential to Santa Lucía. She brings a special touch of care and joy that makes our team feel like a family. 💚🤗

Gloria is the key communication link with our local suppliers, ensuring that every product we acquire meets the highest quality standards. From fresh ingredients for our kitchen to essential supplies for daily operations, her dedication keeps everything running smoothly. 🌱✨

📍 If you visit Santa Lucía, behind every well-prepared detail, there’s a touch of Gloria.

#EquipoSantaLucía #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #Logística #TrabajoEnEquipo #SantaLucíaExperience
#SantaLucíaTeam #SustainableTourism #NatureLovers #CloudForestMagic #BehindTheScenes #turismocomunitariosostenible #birdwatchingphotography #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation #TurismoComunitario #Conservación #SustainableTravel #SantaLucíaExperience

🌿✨ Meet our team: Gloria, the heart of Santa Lucía’s logistics ✨💚

At Santa Lucía, every team member plays a crucial role in keeping everything running smoothly. Today, we introduce you to Gloria, our administrative assistant, whose dedication and organization keep the reserve operating efficiently. 📑📝

But Gloria is more than efficiency and planning… her warmth and kindness are essential to Santa Lucía. She brings a special touch of care and joy that makes our team feel like a family. 💚🤗

Gloria is the key communication link with our local suppliers, ensuring that every product we acquire meets the highest quality standards. From fresh ingredients for our kitchen to essential supplies for daily operations, her dedication keeps everything running smoothly. 🌱✨

📍 If you visit Santa Lucía, behind every well-prepared detail, there’s a touch of Gloria.

#EquipoSantaLucía #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #Logística #TrabajoEnEquipo #SantaLucíaExperience
#SantaLucíaTeam #SustainableTourism #NatureLovers #CloudForestMagic #BehindTheScenes #turismocomunitariosostenible #birdwatchingphotography #NatureLovers #SustainableTourism #Conservation #TurismoComunitario #Conservación #SustainableTravel #SantaLucíaExperience

🌺 Bromeliads: treasures of the cloud forest 🌿✨

At Santa Lucía, every step through the mist reveals a new wonder… like this vibrant bromeliad blooming quietly beneath the canopy. Its colors, shape, and function — everything about it brings life!

Bromeliads are more than beautiful plants. They collect rainwater, host insects and amphibians, and play a vital role in maintaining the forest’s balance.

📸 Did you know many bromeliads grow on trees without harming them? They’re epiphytes — silent companions of the forest.

💬 Would you like to see them up close? Visit Santa Lucía and discover the magic of our cloud forest.

#SantaLucíaExperience #Bromelias #BosqueNublado #Epífitas #Conservación #TurismoSostenible #ChocóAndino #ReservaNatural #EcuadorSilvestre #FloraDelBosque #NaturalezaViva #BiodiversidadEcuador #EducaciónAmbiental

🌺 Bromeliads: treasures of the cloud forest 🌿✨

At Santa Lucía, every step through the mist reveals a new wonder… like this vibrant bromeliad blooming quietly beneath the canopy. Its colors, shape, and function — everything about it brings life!

Bromeliads are more than beautiful plants. They collect rainwater, host insects and amphibians, and play a vital role in maintaining the forest’s balance.

📸 Did you know many bromeliads grow on trees without harming them? They’re epiphytes — silent companions of the forest.

💬 Would you like to see them up close? Visit Santa Lucía and discover the magic of our cloud forest.

#SantaLucíaExperience #Bromelias #BosqueNublado #Epífitas #Conservación #TurismoSostenible #ChocóAndino #ReservaNatural #EcuadorSilvestre #FloraDelBosque #NaturalezaViva #BiodiversidadEcuador #EducaciónAmbiental

🌿✨ Francisco: the heart and music of Santa Lucía ✨🎶

If anyone embodies the spirit of Santa Lucía, it’s Francisco, or as we all call him, Pancho. He is the biggest dreamer among the founding members, the one who believed it was possible to protect the cloud forest and create a place for conservation, education, and sustainable tourism.

🌱 Santa Lucía started as a dream, and today, Francisco has seen it come to life.

Every protected tree, every research project, and every trail explored carries a part of his vision. His passion for nature has inspired generations to follow in his footsteps. 💚

But Pancho didn’t just dream of conservation… he has also been the musical soul of Santa Lucía. 🎶 With his guitar, he has filled the reserve with songs, making every gathering among friends, volunteers, and visitors unforgettable.

💬 If you've been to Santa Lucía, do you remember a song Francisco played? Share your story with us.

#ElCorazónDeLaConservación #MúsicaEnLaNaturaleza #SantaLucíaExperience #HistoriaViva #turismocomunitariosostenible #SustainableTourism #Conservation #CloudForest #TurismoComunitario #Conservación #SustainableTravel #NatureConservation
#ConservationHero #SantaLucíaDream #NatureMusic #CloudForestMagic #SustainableTourism #turismocomunitariosostenible

🌿✨ Francisco: the heart and music of Santa Lucía ✨🎶

If anyone embodies the spirit of Santa Lucía, it’s Francisco, or as we all call him, Pancho. He is the biggest dreamer among the founding members, the one who believed it was possible to protect the cloud forest and create a place for conservation, education, and sustainable tourism.

🌱 Santa Lucía started as a dream, and today, Francisco has seen it come to life.

Every protected tree, every research project, and every trail explored carries a part of his vision. His passion for nature has inspired generations to follow in his footsteps. 💚

But Pancho didn’t just dream of conservation… he has also been the musical soul of Santa Lucía. 🎶 With his guitar, he has filled the reserve with songs, making every gathering among friends, volunteers, and visitors unforgettable.

💬 If you've been to Santa Lucía, do you remember a song Francisco played? Share your story with us.

#ElCorazónDeLaConservación #MúsicaEnLaNaturaleza #SantaLucíaExperience #HistoriaViva #turismocomunitariosostenible #SustainableTourism #Conservation #CloudForest #TurismoComunitario #Conservación #SustainableTravel #NatureConservation
#ConservationHero #SantaLucíaDream #NatureMusic #CloudForestMagic #SustainableTourism #turismocomunitariosostenible

🌙🐾 Cuniculus paca: Silent guardian of the night 🌿✨

The paca, a shy, nocturnal mammal, wanders through the forests of Santa Lucía under the cover of darkness. With its robust body and spotted fur, it’s a rarely seen but ecologically important species.

🔍 Though elusive, the paca plays a vital role:
🌱 Seed disperser: contributes to forest regeneration by burying fruits.
🦔 Key species: part of the food chain for larger predators.
🍃 Ecosystem health indicator: its presence signals a well-preserved forest.

📷 Thanks to camera trap monitoring at Santa Lucía, we continue to learn about this species and protect its habitat.

💬 Want to see more of our hidden wildlife? Let us know!

#Paca #CuniculusPaca #BosqueNublado #Conservación #SantaLucíaExperience #FaunaSilvestre #GuardianesDelBosque
#PacaWildlife #CloudForestFauna #SeedDisperser #NocturnalWildlife #ForestGuardians #CameraTrapResearch

🌙🐾 Cuniculus paca: Silent guardian of the night 🌿✨

The paca, a shy, nocturnal mammal, wanders through the forests of Santa Lucía under the cover of darkness. With its robust body and spotted fur, it’s a rarely seen but ecologically important species.

🔍 Though elusive, the paca plays a vital role:
🌱 Seed disperser: contributes to forest regeneration by burying fruits.
🦔 Key species: part of the food chain for larger predators.
🍃 Ecosystem health indicator: its presence signals a well-preserved forest.

📷 Thanks to camera trap monitoring at Santa Lucía, we continue to learn about this species and protect its habitat.

💬 Want to see more of our hidden wildlife? Let us know!

#Paca #CuniculusPaca #BosqueNublado #Conservación #SantaLucíaExperience #FaunaSilvestre #GuardianesDelBosque
#PacaWildlife #CloudForestFauna #SeedDisperser #NocturnalWildlife #ForestGuardians #CameraTrapResearch

🌿🔬 Santa Lucía: Where science climbs to the treetops 🌳✨

📽️ In this video from 2008, we see one of Santa Lucía’s greatest friends, Mika, skillfully climbing a towering tree in our reserve. His goal? To explore the biodiversity within epiphytic, bromeliads and install canopy camera traps.

📸 The outcome? Amazing photos of olingos, elusive arboreal mammals, and fascinating insect diversity hidden in the treetops. A glimpse into the secret world of the cloud forest canopy!

🌎 Santa Lucía remains a living research center, protecting over 720 hectares of cloud forest — a perfect place for discovery and scientific exploration.

💬 What else might be hiding up there? If you're a researcher, student, or nature lover… this forest is calling you. 🌳🔍

#SantaLucíaExperience #CloudForestScience #TreeClimbingResearch #BiodiversityEcuador #CanopyEcology #ForestExploration #InsectDiversity #OlingoSpotting #ArborealResearch #ScientificDiscovery

🌿🔬 Santa Lucía: Where science climbs to the treetops 🌳✨

📽️ In this video from 2008, we see one of Santa Lucía’s greatest friends, Mika, skillfully climbing a towering tree in our reserve. His goal? To explore the biodiversity within epiphytic, bromeliads and install canopy camera traps.

📸 The outcome? Amazing photos of olingos, elusive arboreal mammals, and fascinating insect diversity hidden in the treetops. A glimpse into the secret world of the cloud forest canopy!

🌎 Santa Lucía remains a living research center, protecting over 720 hectares of cloud forest — a perfect place for discovery and scientific exploration.

💬 What else might be hiding up there? If you're a researcher, student, or nature lover… this forest is calling you. 🌳🔍

#SantaLucíaExperience #CloudForestScience #TreeClimbingResearch #BiodiversityEcuador #CanopyEcology #ForestExploration #InsectDiversity #OlingoSpotting #ArborealResearch #ScientificDiscovery

🌿 Out of the forest... to keep learning!
On April 3rd, the Santa Lucía Forest School Club left our parish for the very first time to enjoy an educational adventure in the city.

👣 We visited the Gustavo Orcés Science Museum, thanks to the collaboration between the Universidad Politécnica Nacional, the Museum, Santa Lucía Reserve, and the CACOA Environmental Education Commission .

🔬⚙️🌎 It was a day full of discovery and excitement. Our young participants and educators explored, asked questions, and deepened their connection with science and nature.

🙏 Special thanks to Medical Implants, especially Alexander Vasconez and Edison Molina, for their generous support in providing food for the group.

🙌 Thank you to all the people and institutions who believe in transformative, community-based environmental education.

📽️ Hit play and join us in this unforgettable experience!

#BosqueEscuelaSantaLucía #EducaciónAmbiental #MuseoGustavoOrcés #SalidaEducativa #SantaLucíaExperience
#CACOA #NiñezYJuventud #CuriosidadCientífica #Conservación #RedDeBosquesEscuela #TurismoSostenible
#MedicalImplants #SantaLucíaComunidadViva #TurismoSostenible #turismocomunitariosostenible #SustainableTourism #Conservation #SustainableTravel #WildlifeProtection #NatureConservation #ForestSchool #CACOA #EnvironmentalEducation #Volunteering

🌿 Out of the forest... to keep learning!
On April 3rd, the Santa Lucía Forest School Club left our parish for the very first time to enjoy an educational adventure in the city.

👣 We visited the Gustavo Orcés Science Museum, thanks to the collaboration between the Universidad Politécnica Nacional, the Museum, Santa Lucía Reserve, and the CACOA Environmental Education Commission .

🔬⚙️🌎 It was a day full of discovery and excitement. Our young participants and educators explored, asked questions, and deepened their connection with science and nature.

🙏 Special thanks to Medical Implants, especially Alexander Vasconez and Edison Molina, for their generous support in providing food for the group.

🙌 Thank you to all the people and institutions who believe in transformative, community-based environmental education.

📽️ Hit play and join us in this unforgettable experience!

#BosqueEscuelaSantaLucía #EducaciónAmbiental #MuseoGustavoOrcés #SalidaEducativa #SantaLucíaExperience
#CACOA #NiñezYJuventud #CuriosidadCientífica #Conservación #RedDeBosquesEscuela #TurismoSostenible
#MedicalImplants #SantaLucíaComunidadViva #TurismoSostenible #turismocomunitariosostenible #SustainableTourism #Conservation #SustainableTravel #WildlifeProtection #NatureConservation #ForestSchool #CACOA #EnvironmentalEducation #Volunteering

🌿✨ Daniel, a volunteer who left his mark in Santa Lucía ✨🔨

From Germany to the heart of the cloud forest, Daniel joined Santa Lucía as a volunteer in January 2025. His enthusiasm and dedication played a key role in improving our reserve.

🏵️ One of his greatest contributions was building baskets for the orchidarium, helping our orchids grow in a better-supported environment. He also assisted with important maintenance tasks, putting his effort into every detail.

🛠️ Volunteer work is an essential part of Santa Lucía. Every person who visits and dedicates their time helps us continue improving and protecting this unique place.

🙏 Thank you, Daniel, for your hard work and energy! 💚

📩 Would you like to be a volunteer at Santa Lucía and be part of this conservation project? Contact us for more information!

#VoluntariadoEnSantaLucía #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #Orquideario #SantaLucíaExperience
#VolunteerAtSantaLucía #SustainableTourism #CloudForest #OrchidConservation #NatureLovers

🌿✨ Daniel, a volunteer who left his mark in Santa Lucía ✨🔨

From Germany to the heart of the cloud forest, Daniel joined Santa Lucía as a volunteer in January 2025. His enthusiasm and dedication played a key role in improving our reserve.

🏵️ One of his greatest contributions was building baskets for the orchidarium, helping our orchids grow in a better-supported environment. He also assisted with important maintenance tasks, putting his effort into every detail.

🛠️ Volunteer work is an essential part of Santa Lucía. Every person who visits and dedicates their time helps us continue improving and protecting this unique place.

🙏 Thank you, Daniel, for your hard work and energy! 💚

📩 Would you like to be a volunteer at Santa Lucía and be part of this conservation project? Contact us for more information!

#VoluntariadoEnSantaLucía #TurismoSostenible #Conservación #Orquideario #SantaLucíaExperience
#VolunteerAtSantaLucía #SustainableTourism #CloudForest #OrchidConservation #NatureLovers

🔥✨ As vibrant as the sunrise: the Flame-faced Tanager ✨🔥

Have you ever seen one? This striking bird with its fiery orange face and colorful plumage is a gem of the Ecuadorian cloud forest. At Santa Lucía, it's a favorite among birdwatchers and nature lovers.

🌿 Quick facts about this species: 🟡 Feeds mostly on fruit and insects
🌎 Found between 1,200 and 3,000 meters elevation
👀 Easily recognized by its “flaming” face!

Spotting one reminds us why protecting this vibrant forest is so important.

💬 Would you like to see it in person here in Santa Lucía?

#FlameFacedTanager #BirdingEcuador #TangaraCariflamigera #SantaLucíaExperience #CloudForestBirds #ColorfulBirds #NatureConservation #BirdsOfSouthAmerica #Aviturismo #BirdLovers

🔥✨ As vibrant as the sunrise: the Flame-faced Tanager ✨🔥

Have you ever seen one? This striking bird with its fiery orange face and colorful plumage is a gem of the Ecuadorian cloud forest. At Santa Lucía, it's a favorite among birdwatchers and nature lovers.

🌿 Quick facts about this species: 🟡 Feeds mostly on fruit and insects
🌎 Found between 1,200 and 3,000 meters elevation
👀 Easily recognized by its “flaming” face!

Spotting one reminds us why protecting this vibrant forest is so important.

💬 Would you like to see it in person here in Santa Lucía?

#FlameFacedTanager #BirdingEcuador #TangaraCariflamigera #SantaLucíaExperience #CloudForestBirds #ColorfulBirds #NatureConservation #BirdsOfSouthAmerica #Aviturismo #BirdLovers

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

Follow us on Instagram

@santaluciaecuador

bottom of page