Mashpi Lodge
A super modern eco-lodge suspended in the mist
- 20 rooms
- Three suites
- Jacuzzi
- Outdoor terrace
- Restaurant and bar
- Lounges
- Expedition room
- Spa treatments
- Nature and wildlife trails
- Waterfalls and rivers to swim in
- Orchid gardens
- 2km aerial tram
Set into one of the planet’s most important bio-regions, the futuristic Mashpi Lodge powered with 100% hydroelectricity really is a “contemporary cocoon in the clouds”.
Praised for its ecological and contemporary design by being nominated for the likes of Wallpaper’s Design Awards, Mashpi’s steel and glass creation sits amongst 3,200 acres of pristine rainforest on a bluff that commands stunning views over the lush valleys, cloud forests and hills of the Tumbez-Choco-Darien bio-region (otherwise known as the Chocó).
The 20 rooms and three suites are spacious and simply modern in decoration, with floor to ceiling windows that keep your attention on what’s outside rather than what’s in.
The restaurant has been thoughtfully constructed with two-storey high ceilings and windows for walls so again you feel constantly in touch with the forest, whilst dining on local produce from exotic fruits blended with more savoury dishes and organic ingredients to home made chocolate. There is also a terrace with pergola roof for incredible views over the jungle canopy, perhaps spotting one or two of its creatures.
Daily wildlife expeditions and nature excursions are led by the lodge’s team of Ecuadorian biologists and things like wellington boots and rain ponchos are provided.
The aerial tram from the lodge allow for deeper daily explorations into the forest, and comes with an observation tower and Life Centre which has butterfly farms and terrariums for a really close up look to these species. Hikes, bathing in waterfalls and rivers are very much part of the Mashpi experience too.
Serving the community
Mashpi simply would not exist without its collaboration with the local community. From the very beginning, they have sought to work hand-in-hand with those living in the areas surrounding the reserve, promoting a unique program in which locals, as well as lodge employees, become shareholders in the enterprise. Mashpi presents countless job opportunities to members of the neighbouring communities, including professional training and English classes. These same locals will go on to share their unparalleled knowledge of the surrounding lands and wildlife.
Guides, lodge staff and the team of para-biologists, for example, might tell you of how they used to work as hunters, loggers or miners on the same land during the days before the project. Their relationship with Mashpi shows how this approach has brought about transformation.
More than a hotel
When arriving at Mashpi Lodge, you will begin an experience of more than simply just five-star hotel in an exquisite location, you will also be setting foot in what is a research station at the forefront of protecting the rainforest.
Before the construction of the lodge was even completed, the Mashpi project hired a biologist to carry out an ambitious research project. The biologist was tasked with discovering as much as possible about the diverse ecosystem which thrived within the 1,200 hectare Mashpi Reserve. The information that the biologist gathered became part of the lodge’s conservation and resource management strategy, allowing the lodge to address its concept of sustainable tourism and forest preservation.
Whatever you want your luxury tour or safari itinerary to include, we’ll create something fully bespoke for you… and only you.