I had three days in the Quito Area between destinations and decided to stay at the Santa Lucia Cloud forest lodge. I wanted to get out of the city and go somewhere that was beautiful interesting and Ecuadorean. I liked the idea of going to the cloud forest and of staying at a lodge owned and operated by a local... More

This hike-in lodge is a wonderful way to see the cloud forest 2-3 hours from Quito. The setting is beautiful as the lodge sits on top of a hill and has views in all directions. When we were there we had only sun (unusual) and saw some amazing sunsets. A variety of hikes - some easy and some strenuous -... More

This isolated hike-in lodge is a couple of hours from Quito by bus but a world apart. It's on the slopes of the Andes in the cloud forest and is blessed with beautiful vistas, friendly staff (although it's helpful to have some Spanish; the more the better for full enjoyment of the experience) and hikes of differing lengths and difficulty... More

We really liked the cloud forest hikes. I'm a bromeliad and tropical plant fiend, so it was of particular interest. Our cottage had the coolest view of the forests rolling out away from us, simply spectacular view. The food is a bit too vegetarian-based, but the taste was acceptable.

This is the first place I've traveled that compelled me to join and post on Trip Advisor. Just two hours from Quito, the Santa Lucia lodge is a beautiful getaway that I would recommend to anyone going to Ecuador. Yes, you do have to hike to the lodge, but it's a pretty easy going trek and donkeys haul your stuff.... More

Two nights was not enough in this beautiful and stimulating environment. It took me 2 1/2 hours to get up the hill (not a long hike but a steep one) and I would do it again to be part of this special experience - and stay longer. We met scientists and local community members, enjoyed great meals, and gorgeous birds.... More

My husband and I recently spent two nights at Santa Lucia. Getting there is half of the adventure, and the final leg of the journey is a two hour uphill hike, but it is very worth the effort. We hiked in the mornings - once with a guide from the reserve - and relaxed and enjoyed the serenity in the... More

This place is not for the lazy traveller. To see its wonders, you have to hike up and down paths in often wet weather. However, what you see is definitely worthwhile! The area is beautiful and there is exceptional wildlife - the "cock of the rock" mating ritual and we even saw a spectacled bear. The community basis and small... More

This was a great experience from the very start. Mules carried our bags up to the lodge on the mule trail as my husband and I followed our guide up to the lodge on the main trail. The walk in was about 1.5 to 2 hours all uphill. We were prepared for a very rustic experience, but what we got... More