Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve

Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve is a protected area in Ecuador.

Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve at a Glance

Location
Northern Pacific Coast, Ecuador, Central & South America
Coordinates
-0.103839, -80.131190
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
June to November for Galápagos. Year-round for Amazon and cloud forest.

Getting to Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Jumandy (TNW), 303 km away.

Wildlife in Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve

Home to 49 recorded species including 18 waterbirds, 12 birds of prey, 9 iconic birds, 6 tropical birds, 1 primates, 1 marine & freshwater.

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve

1 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Northern Pacific Coast

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ecuador

Travel advisory for Ecuador

Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve FAQs

What unique wildlife species can I expect to encounter within the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve?

The reserve is renowned for its high biodiversity, especially endemic species of amphibians and reptiles found in its cloud forest ecosystems. Visitors often spot howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and various bird species like toucans and parrots, along with elusive jaguars and ocelots. It's an excellent destination for birdwatching and observing unique cloud forest fauna.

When is the optimal time of year to visit the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve for the best wildlife viewing and weather conditions?

The dry season, typically from June to December, offers the most comfortable weather for exploring with less rain and clearer trails. While wildlife is present year-round, the drier months can make spotting certain species easier as they congregate around water sources. However, the wet season (January-May) brings lush vegetation and active amphibian life.

Given the moderate malaria risk, what specific health precautions should I take when visiting the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve?

It is highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip, as the risk is moderate in this region of Ecuador. Additionally, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if available. Staying hydrated and protecting against sun exposure are also important.

What kind of visitor experience can I anticipate at Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve, especially considering its low crowding level?

With a crowding level of 1/5, you can expect a very tranquil and intimate experience, often feeling like you have the reserve to yourself. The focus is on immersive nature walks, birdwatching, and guided hikes through diverse ecosystems rather than traditional safari drives. This allows for deep engagement with the natural environment and excellent photographic opportunities without distractions.

How accessible is the Jama-Coaque Ecological Reserve, and what are the typical entry fees or tour costs?

The reserve is located in the Manabí Province of Ecuador and is typically accessed via roads from Manta or Portoviejo, often requiring a 4x4 vehicle depending on the season and specific entry point. Entry fees are generally modest, ranging from $5-15 USD for foreign visitors, with guided tours costing extra depending on duration and inclusions. It's advisable to arrange transport and guides in advance, especially during peak times.

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.