ECUADOR - APRIL 10-21 2026

Embarking on a herping expedition through Ecuador's Mindo cloud forest, the Chocó rainforest, and the Amazon's Yasuní National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to study and conserve some of the planet's most biodiverse and ecologically significant regions. To do it all alongside one of the world’s leading Herpetologists and Conservation Storytellers? Well, that’s just a recipe for perfection.

Mindo Cloud Forest: Nestled in the Andean foothills, Mindo boasts over 100 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the rediscovered Pinocchio anole (Anolis proboscis) and the Ecuadorian Toadhead viper (Bothrocophias campbelli). The area is renowned for its diversity of rainfrogs (Pristimantis spp.), many of which bypass the tadpole stage, hatching directly into miniature adults. Mindo is also home to over 550 bird species, making it a globally recognized birdwatcher's paradise. This includes a diverse range of birds, including hummingbirds, tanagers, and toucans. The area is also known for its high count of endemic montane birds. 

Chocó Rainforest: This region is a global biodiversity hotspot, harboring at least 127 amphibian species and 97 reptile species, many of which are endemic and threatened. Notable species apart from those listed in the itinerary below include the elegant stubfoot toad (Atelopus elegans), the horned marsupial frog (Gastrotheca cornuta) and Boulenger's least gecko (Sphaerodactylus scapularis).

Yasuní Biosphere Reserve: Situated at the intersection of the Andes, Amazon, and Equator, Yasuní is considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It holds world records for species richness, including 150 documented amphibian species and 121 reptile species within its boundaries. A single hectare can contain more tree species than are native to the continental United States and Canada combined, and up to 100,000 insect species.

Participating in such an expedition not only allows for the observation of extraordinary wildlife but also contributes to vital conservation efforts, directly supporting the protection of these unique habitats and the plethora species they harbor.

CHECK OUT THE FULL ITINERARY BELOW!

Jaime Culebras is a conservation researcher and photographer from Spain. Holding two master’s degrees in Conservation and Environmental Education, he is the co-founder of Photo Wildlife Tours, an ecotourism company that promotes and organizes nature and research trips in various countries.

Throughout his career, Jaime has led numerous scientific expeditions, publishing dozens of articles on conservation, ecology, biogeography, species rediscovery, systematics, and taxonomy. He has described 14 new species of amphibians, significantly contributing to global biodiversity knowledge. Jaime is also the resident researcher for Fundación Cóndor Andino, which has lead several conservation projects concerning the biodiversity of Ecuador.

With a deep interest in social and environmental justice, Jaime focuses his photography on endangered species and ecosystems. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as National Geographic and BBC Wildlife Magazine. He has also delivered workshops and lectures in several countries.