Jocotoco Foundation runs six reserves, four with tourist lodges (www.fjocotoco.org).

Reservations at the foundation's eco-lodges at Tapichalaca and Buenaventura should be made through the Jocotours website at www.jocotoursecuador.com/en. Jocotours also offers all-inclusive and custom reserve-tour packages.

At Tapichalaca Reserve, 50 miles south of Loja, the main lodge, Casa Simpson, is cozy, with a big living room and fireplace. A more secluded room option is also available. Rooms range from singles to triples. The house is equipped with Wi-Fi and a small library.

Buenaventura Reserve, 10 miles south of Piñas, has Umbrellabird Lodge at Buenaventura. It is in a beautiful area of temperate forest overlooking a valley. The patio is spectacular, with couches and a dining area, with excellent views of some of Ecuador's finest hummingbird feeders. Rooms range from singles to triples and are arranged in cabin formations.

Single beds at Tapichalaca and Buena­ventura start at $165 (includes meals and entrance to the reserve plus an additional $5/person contribution to conservation); Internet and laundry are additional. Guided birding tours are not included in the flat rate for a bed.

Washington Post