Bosque Protegido San Juan

Bosque Protegido San Juan is a protected area in Ecuador.

Bosque Protegido San Juan at a Glance

Location
Northern Andes & Cloud Forests, Ecuador, Central & South America
Coordinates
-0.197939, -78.518166
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
June to November for Galápagos. Year-round for Amazon and cloud forest.

Getting to Bosque Protegido San Juan

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Jumandy (TNW), 142 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Alfonso Bonilla Aragón (CLO), 479 km away.

Weather & Climate in Bosque Protegido San Juan

The warmest temperatures in Bosque Protegido San Juan occur in September, averaging 11.7°C (up to 18.7°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 10.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in September with average rainfall of 74.7mm. Average humidity: 68.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 11.1°C (rainfall: 373.6mm)
  • February: 11.3°C (rainfall: 424.4mm)
  • March: 11.0°C (rainfall: 613.0mm)
  • April: 11.1°C (rainfall: 502.9mm)
  • May: 11.3°C (rainfall: 260.2mm)
  • June: 10.7°C (rainfall: 169.2mm)
  • July: 10.8°C (rainfall: 89.0mm)
  • August: 11.4°C (rainfall: 77.4mm)
  • September: 11.7°C (rainfall: 74.7mm)
  • October: 11.4°C (rainfall: 296.5mm)
  • November: 11.1°C (rainfall: 358.9mm)
  • December: 11.1°C (rainfall: 426.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Bosque Protegido San Juan

The best months to visit Bosque Protegido San Juan are July, August, September, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 11.07°C, rainfall 373.6mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 83.5%
  • February: Poor, temperature 11.26°C, rainfall 424.4mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 84.9%
  • March: Poor, temperature 11°C, rainfall 613mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 86.2%
  • April: Poor, temperature 11.1°C, rainfall 502.9mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 85%
  • May: Poor, temperature 11.31°C, rainfall 260.2mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • June: Poor, temperature 10.66°C, rainfall 169.2mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 79.7%
  • July: Good, temperature 10.82°C, rainfall 89mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 73.4%
  • August: Good, temperature 11.36°C, rainfall 77.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 69.8%
  • September: Good, temperature 11.69°C, rainfall 74.7mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 68%
  • October: Poor, temperature 11.4°C, rainfall 296.5mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 79.1%
  • November: Poor, temperature 11.09°C, rainfall 358.9mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 83.8%
  • December: Poor, temperature 11.13°C, rainfall 426.1mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 85.3%

Wildlife in Bosque Protegido San Juan

Home to 46 recorded species including 16 iconic birds, 14 birds of prey, 11 tropical birds, 5 waterbirds.

Recommended Packing List for Bosque Protegido San Juan

Based on average temperature of 11.2°C, typical conditions, humidity 80%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 11°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Bosque Protegido San Juan

48 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Northern Andes & Cloud Forests

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ecuador

Travel advisory for Ecuador

Bosque Protegido San Juan FAQs

When is the optimal time of year to visit Bosque Protegido San Juan for wildlife viewing?

The dry season, typically from June to November, offers the best conditions for exploring Bosque Protegido San Juan. During these months, trails are more accessible, and wildlife is often easier to spot near water sources. This period also generally provides clearer skies for photography.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter at Bosque Protegido San Juan in Ecuador?

Bosque Protegido San Juan is home to diverse Andean wildlife, including spectacled bears, pumas, and various species of monkeys. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the array of endemic and migratory birds, such as the Andean condor and several hummingbird species. Keep an eye out for unique amphibians and reptiles specific to this Ecuadorian cloud forest ecosystem.

Given the moderate malaria risk in Bosque Protegido San Juan, what specific health precautions should I take?

Visitors to Bosque Protegido San Juan should consult their doctor about antimalarial medication before traveling, as the area has a moderate risk. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if available. These measures are crucial for preventing mosquito bites.

What kind of visitor experience can I expect at Bosque Protegido San Juan, especially regarding crowds?

You can anticipate a relatively tranquil and immersive experience at Bosque Protegido San Juan, as it typically experiences low to moderate crowding. This allows for more intimate wildlife encounters and a peaceful exploration of its natural beauty. Guided hikes are recommended to fully appreciate the unique flora and fauna without feeling rushed.

What are the typical entry fees and how accessible is Bosque Protegido San Juan for independent travelers?

Entry fees for Bosque Protegido San Juan are generally affordable, usually ranging from $5-15 USD for foreign visitors, though prices can vary. While accessible by public transport to nearby towns, arranging private transport or joining a guided tour from cities like Quito or Guayaquil is often recommended for convenience and direct access to the park entrance.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.