Mashpi Lodge Named in Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2013

  • April 19, 2013
Mashpi Lodge Named in Conde Nast Traveler’s Hot List 2013
The eco lodge nestled into its 3,200-acre reserve near Quito, Ecuador, has been named as one of Condé Nast Traveler's “Hot List” Best New Hotels of 2013, coming in 33 of 154 hotels on the list.

“High design in the high jungle – no thatched roofs here,” noted CNT editors of Mashpi Lodge, pinpointing “any of three Yaku suites, outfitted with Philippe Starck tubs facing a sea of ferns and bromeliads” as the best accommodations.

The editors went on to note that “earth-tone interiors and walls of glass blend with the landscape, a mix of rain and cloud forest,” and laid out a typical day: “Rise at dawn and take breakfast on the terrace with quetzals and toucans, then hop on an aerial bicycle and pedal through the forest canopy in search of orange-fronted barbets and crimson-rumped toucanets. Or board the 1.25-mile gondola system and float through the clouds to the far reaches of the reserve. At day's end, unwind with a fruit daiquiri in the glass-walled bar as fireflies put on a show. Foraged fruits and biodynamic veggies distinguish the menu.”

Situated at the heart of its reserve which extends between 1,800 and 4,500 feet above sea level, the Mashpi Reserve stretches across lowland floodplain forests and lower montane – or “foothill” – forest, a haven for biodiversity and little-studied by scientists. It's estimated a staggering 500 species of birds could inhabit the reserve, with over 300 identified so far. The Lodge has 22 rooms and myriad opportunities for experiencing the beauty of the rainforest. The project is deeply committed to protecting the local environment and population in a thoughtful and effective manner.

Rates at Mashpi Lodge start at $1,296 per person/double for 3-days/2 nights, including all meals, guided explorations (in English or Spanish), specialized lectures, rain ponchos, rubber boots, transfers from/to major hotels in Quito, and aerial canopy tram rides (upon completion).

For reservations or more information on Mashpi Lodge, please see www.mashpilodge.com or email Adriana Velasco at avelasco@mashpilodge.com.