ECUADOR
Cloudforest and Spa’s – Tours & Travel

Tour duration for Cloud forest and Spa retreats are typically from 2 to 4 days in length, knowing the in and outs of your first and last day might help you with better insight when deciding the amount of time you want to commit visiting one of these retreats. Most of these retreats are typically reached in 2 to 4 hours with land transport; providing you with quick access from the Capital of Quito. If your retreat of choice is relatively close you might be able to fully participate in activities as of day 1; the last day of your tour will only include a short morning activity in some cases before exiting their facilities. Some retreats bundle and include transport in their packages, others will offer transport as a separate service.

With green and natural lush environments both the cloud and rain forest may appear to be the same, so what are the differences? I have already been to one forest, should i visit the other? The main difference as their names imply is rain & clouds, these unique and consistent weather conditions are attributed to the settings where they are found. Cloud forests hold a year round damp, cloudy and cool environment where many vegetation, birds, orchids and other wildlife can flourish. Rain forests have a significant amount of rainfall, tall canopy foliage, and a warm-humid environment where a diverse range of flora and fauna can be found. In some cases a mix of both forests can be found in Ecuadorian territory.

Cloud forests and Spa’s are the perfect destination to experience an authentic getaway tour in the wilderness and comfort of their retreats, some are incredibly well priced providing quick access with short time travel. Cloud forest retreats feature forests with rich vegetation, insects, birds, orchids, waterfalls and many other natural resources implying most of your activities will be outdoors, while Spa’s are characterized with a multitude of indoors services and facilities to pamper you throughout your stay. The line between these 2 magical retreats tend to blur at times with reserves such as Mashpi Lodge that have amazing facilities in the midst of the cloud forest, and Arasha Resort located in a tropical environment.

A normal level of fitness would be required to fully engage in scheduled activities by cloud forest retreats, these are in most cases tailored to guest needs where short to long trails can be arranged; and are grouped based on guests physical condition and in the order they enter the retreat. You will be part of regular walks and hikes during your stay in order to fully appreciate your natural surroundings. Spa retreats are more service focused on treatments, therapies, their facilities and other services they can offer you during your stay. Spa retreats will have activities where you can exit their premises and enjoy the surroundings, but are generally offered as a complimentary service and not part of your program like cloud forest packages would.