Ecuador Orchids

Ecuador has over 4,200 documented species of orchids within its borders and no one knows how many species are still unknown to science; in fact, many more still await recognition. The great variety of orchids within such a small country makes Ecuador a great place for those experienced in orchid touring as well as those with only a casual interest. Orchids can be found throughout the country, and here are few of the best places to look:

• The Mindo cloud forest offers an impressive variety of orchids and is located just 2 hours from Quito. Also in Mindo is the Jardin de Orquideas (Orchid Garden) which is located across from the sports stadium in town.

• If staying in Quito, the Botanical Garden located in Carolina Park is a great place to start exploring orchids. In addition to its collection of other plant species endemic to Ecuador, the garden has two orchid houses, one for cold climate orchids and the other for warm climate orchids. The Botanical Garden is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Weekends and holidays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Entrance is $3.50 for adults and $2.00 for children. A guided tour in English, French, or Spanish can be arranged at no extra cost, but you must call to arrange the tour. The number to call from in Quito is 3332516.

• The 1,500-acre El Pahuma Orchid Reserve (open daily from 8 am to 4 pm, entrance: $5) boasts a botanical garden displaying several hundred species of orchids. Even more species can be seen along one of the reserve’s 7 hiking trails of various lengths and difficulties. In addition, El Pahuma has a nature center and restaurant. The reserve is located just about an hour north of Quito and can be visited as a day trip, but the reserve also offers lodging if you would like to extend your stay. From Quito, travel north. Stay left when the road forks at Calacalí and travel 22.5 km further. The entrance will be on your left.

• The Orchid and Botanical Garden of the Center for the Conservation of Amazonian Flora located 3 km southeast of the city of Puyo offers a 2-3 hour guided walk through its restored forest in which you can see various other endemic Amazonian plants in addition to more than 350 species of Amazonian orchids. Entrance is $5 per person, $4 for groups of 4-8 or $2 for student groups.

• In the south of Ecuador is the Podocarpus National Park, which offers hiking and camping amidst an array of endemic flora and fauna as well as a system of 100 lakes and waterfalls. There are at least 63 identified species of orchids that can be found in the park, and the best time to visit is between September and December. Entrance passes cost $10 and are valid for 5 days. The park can be accessed through two entrances, one 15 km from the city of Loja and the other from the town of Zamora.

• Located 3km away from the city of Zamora is the Orquideario Palphinia where one can admire the great many varieties of orchids. Although there are other small orchid gardens in the city and its surroundings, this one is recommended. The cost to enter is $2.