Reserva Biológica El Quimi

Reserva Biológica El Quimi is a protected area in Ecuador.

Reserva Biológica El Quimi at a Glance

Location
Southern Amazon & Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador, Central & South America
Coordinates
-3.451719, -78.391650
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 Reserva Biológica El Quimi

Nearest airport: Taisha Airport (TSC), 155 km away.

Weather & Climate in Reserva Biológica El Quimi

The warmest temperatures in Reserva Biológica El Quimi occur in October, averaging 17.8°C (up to 21.0°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 16.3°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in December with average rainfall of 264.8mm. Average humidity: 87.3%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 17.2°C (rainfall: 327.9mm)
  • February: 17.3°C (rainfall: 300.2mm)
  • March: 17.2°C (rainfall: 486.0mm)
  • April: 17.1°C (rainfall: 392.1mm)
  • May: 16.8°C (rainfall: 458.0mm)
  • June: 16.4°C (rainfall: 414.5mm)
  • July: 16.3°C (rainfall: 427.0mm)
  • August: 16.9°C (rainfall: 276.3mm)
  • September: 17.5°C (rainfall: 274.4mm)
  • October: 17.8°C (rainfall: 332.4mm)
  • November: 17.8°C (rainfall: 304.6mm)
  • December: 17.3°C (rainfall: 264.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Reserva Biológica El Quimi

The best months to visit Reserva Biológica El Quimi are September, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 17.18°C, rainfall 327.9mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 87.3%
  • February: Poor, temperature 17.29°C, rainfall 300.2mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 88.3%
  • March: Poor, temperature 17.23°C, rainfall 486mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 89.5%
  • April: Poor, temperature 17.14°C, rainfall 392.1mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 88.4%
  • May: Poor, temperature 16.81°C, rainfall 458mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 90%
  • June: Poor, temperature 16.37°C, rainfall 414.5mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 88.1%
  • July: Poor, temperature 16.29°C, rainfall 427mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 85.7%
  • August: Poor, temperature 16.91°C, rainfall 276.3mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 80.6%
  • September: Good, temperature 17.53°C, rainfall 274.4mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 79.8%
  • October: Poor, temperature 17.77°C, rainfall 332.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 83.4%
  • November: Poor, temperature 17.77°C, rainfall 304.6mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 84.6%
  • December: Poor, temperature 17.33°C, rainfall 264.8mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 87.3%

Wildlife in Reserva Biológica El Quimi

Home to 35 recorded species including 12 birds of prey, 9 iconic birds, 8 tropical birds, 6 waterbirds.

Recommended Packing List for Reserva Biológica El Quimi

Based on average temperature of 17.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 86%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 17°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 Reserva Biológica El Quimi

2 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Southern Amazon & Cordillera del Cóndor

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ecuador

Travel advisory for Ecuador

Reserva Biológica El Quimi FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Reserva Biológica El Quimi for optimal wildlife viewing and weather?

The ideal time to visit El Quimi generally aligns with Ecuador's dry season, typically from June to September, when trails are more accessible and wildlife viewing can be clearer. However, as a biological reserve, the cloud forest environment can offer unique experiences year-round, with the wet season bringing lush vegetation and different species activity.

Given its IUCN Category IV status, what specific types of wildlife and unique ecological features can I expect to encounter at Reserva Biológica El Quimi?

As an IUCN Category IV area focused on habitat and species management, El Quimi is dedicated to protecting specific biodiversity, likely including endemic Andean cloud forest species. Visitors can expect to see a rich variety of birds, potentially spectacled bears, and unique flora, all within a carefully managed ecosystem designed for conservation.

With a moderate malaria risk, what specific health precautions should I take when planning a trip to Reserva Biológica El Quimi?

Given the moderate malaria risk, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip. Additionally, always use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under mosquito nets if available to minimize exposure to mosquito bites.

How does the extremely low crowding level (1/5) at Reserva Biológica El Quimi impact the visitor experience, and what kind of activities are best suited for this tranquil environment?

The exceptionally low crowding level at El Quimi ensures a deeply immersive and intimate nature experience, allowing for undisturbed wildlife observation and photography. This tranquil environment is perfect for quiet guided hikes, birdwatching, and connecting with nature without the distractions of large groups.

What are the typical logistical considerations, such as accessibility and estimated costs, for visiting Reserva Biológica El Quimi?

Accessing El Quimi typically involves travel to a regional hub in Ecuador, followed by local transport which may include 4x4 vehicles due to its remote location. While specific costs vary, expect to budget for entry fees, local guides (often mandatory and highly recommended for safety and wildlife spotting), and basic accommodation options within or near the reserve.

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.