Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza

Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza is a protected area in Ecuador.

Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza at a Glance

Location
Southern Amazon & Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador, Central & South America
Coordinates
-3.813350, -78.535740
IUCN Category
IV
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
June to November for Galápagos. Year-round for Amazon and cloud forest.

Getting to Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza

Nearest airport: Taisha Airport (TSC), 196 km away.

Weather & Climate in Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza

The warmest temperatures in Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza occur in November, averaging 19.1°C (up to 23.2°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 17.4°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 168.7mm. Average humidity: 84.2%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 18.6°C (rainfall: 433.8mm)
  • February: 18.8°C (rainfall: 386.2mm)
  • March: 18.8°C (rainfall: 486.3mm)
  • April: 18.5°C (rainfall: 490.1mm)
  • May: 18.2°C (rainfall: 345.3mm)
  • June: 17.7°C (rainfall: 273.6mm)
  • July: 17.4°C (rainfall: 252.2mm)
  • August: 17.9°C (rainfall: 168.7mm)
  • September: 18.4°C (rainfall: 188.0mm)
  • October: 18.9°C (rainfall: 322.3mm)
  • November: 19.1°C (rainfall: 234.1mm)
  • December: 18.7°C (rainfall: 439.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza

The best months to visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza are September, November, January, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 18.63°C, rainfall 433.8mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 87.9%
  • February: Poor, temperature 18.79°C, rainfall 386.2mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 88.4%
  • March: Poor, temperature 18.76°C, rainfall 486.3mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 88.5%
  • April: Poor, temperature 18.49°C, rainfall 490.1mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 89.5%
  • May: Poor, temperature 18.21°C, rainfall 345.3mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 90.1%
  • June: Poor, temperature 17.67°C, rainfall 273.6mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 88.6%
  • July: Poor, temperature 17.38°C, rainfall 252.2mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 87.2%
  • August: Poor, temperature 17.85°C, rainfall 168.7mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 84.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 18.41°C, rainfall 188mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 84.1%
  • October: Poor, temperature 18.89°C, rainfall 322.3mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 85.1%
  • November: Good, temperature 19.12°C, rainfall 234.1mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 84.8%
  • December: Poor, temperature 18.73°C, rainfall 439.6mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 88.1%

Wildlife in Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza

Home to 28 recorded species including 8 birds of prey, 8 iconic birds, 7 waterbirds, 5 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza

Based on average temperature of 18.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 87%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 18°C weather
  • 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 Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza

10 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Southern Amazon & Cordillera del Cóndor

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ecuador

Travel advisory for Ecuador

Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza FAQs

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter at Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza, distinguishing it from other Ecuadorian protected areas?

As a 'Refugio de Vida Silvestre' (Wildlife Refuge), El Zarza is particularly known for its rich biodiversity, including various endemic bird species and amphibians unique to its cloud forest and paramo ecosystems. Visitors often have the chance to spot spectacled bears, pumas, and a wide array of colorful orchids and bromeliads within its actively managed conservation areas.

When is the best time of year to visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza for optimal wildlife viewing and trail conditions?

The dry season, typically from June to November, is generally considered the best time to visit El Zarza, offering clearer skies and more accessible trails for hiking and wildlife observation. During this period, animals are often more active and easier to spot near water sources, enhancing your chances of unique encounters in this uncrowded refuge.

What specific activities and facilities are available for visitors at Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza, given its low crowding level?

Due to its low crowding, El Zarza offers an intimate wilderness experience focused on guided nature walks, birdwatching, and photography along well-maintained trails. While basic visitor facilities are available, the emphasis is on immersive exploration of its pristine cloud forest and paramo ecosystems, often requiring a local guide for deeper insights.

How accessible is Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza for independent travelers, and what are the typical entry fees or tour costs?

Access to El Zarza typically involves travel to a nearby town like Zamora or Loja, followed by local transport, often requiring a 4x4 vehicle due to varying road conditions. Entry fees are generally modest, but hiring a local guide, which is highly recommended for navigation and wildlife spotting, will be an additional cost, contributing to the local community and enhancing your visit.

Beyond the moderate malaria risk, what other specific safety precautions or preparations should travelers consider for a visit to Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza?

Given the refuge's remote and uncrowded nature, it's crucial to travel with a local guide who knows the terrain and wildlife. Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including rain and cooler temperatures, by packing appropriate layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots, and always carry sufficient water and emergency supplies.

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.