The doors of the world slowly begin to open. Time to make careful choices, away from urban agglomerations and full of connection with nature. Sustainability counts many points in favor. Charm too as well as security. Want a good tip in the Ecuadorian jungle, a few hours from Quito?
It is impossible to resist the charms of Mashpi Lodge. One of the most sustainable buildings in the world, with spectacular architecture and fully in tune with the forest around it. Suffice to say that the lodge was chosen among the 10 Epic trips of 2019, received the award for best ecolodge in Latin America and is a member of the National Geographic Lodges of the World. It’s That simple!
This treasure is three hours from Quito, Ecuador and was born in 2001 on the initiative of a group of environmentalists who joined forces to buy a reserve in the incredible region of Choco, with the objective of protecting it from deforestation. The fauna has more than 400 species of birds, 120 of amphibians and reptiles and the flora is very rich. There are trails, observatories and a fun gondola called Dragonfly that floats high in the forest and makes you live an unusual experience.
In addition, the lodge is close to beautiful waterfalls and has yoga and meditation classes. Everything we need to wash our souls and quiet our hearts after this crazy pandemic that made us tremble.
Cucharillos Waterfall in the Mashpi Cloud Forest area of the Choco Rainforest, Ecuador
If you think you will find a simple environment with insects everywhere, you are very wrong. The rooms are luxurious, with contemporary design, all glass and designed to make you feel inside the forest, but surrounded by great comfort. There are only 24 accommodations. If you want to enjoy the forest through the glass windows, without leaving the room is your option, as Mashpi Lodge has reinvented the way you can experience nature. The cuisine is excellent, favoring ingredients from the Andes, including exotic cocktails.
This is one of those experiences that we deserve to live at least once in our lives, in contact with a very revered nature and surrounded by respect.
And since we are talking about Ecuador, take the opportunity to combine the trip with a few days in the Galápagos. But that is a topic for another detailed conversation, because it is also jaw-dropping.
XoXo and a great October to all of you.
