CLOUD FOREST

Also conveniently close to Quito is the ethereal Cloud Forest. This area of natural beauty is not only home to one of the greatest concentrations of bird species in the world, but also for its enormous variety of butterflies. Nature lovers will discover a hugely diverse ecosystem that allows rare orchids, bromeliads and vines to flourish. Places to look out for include Maquipucuna, where sightings of the rare Andean spectacled bear have been recorded; Mindo, home to a number of species of hummingbird; and Bellavista, renowned for its colourful butterflies and orchids that line the myriad wildlife trails.