Mashpi Lodge, Mashpi Rainforest Reserve
Offering an unusual, unique and breathtaking location, Mashpi Lodge has been designed to present its guests with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Suspended in the cloud forest of the Mashpi Reserve, this enchanting destination is the epitome of sustainable luxury and recently featured in the BBC series, Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby. It is also a member of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. It's a springboard for exploring the biodiversity of the forest beyond, with a contemporary design which contrasts with the natural setting — vast floor-to-ceiling windows offer unparalleled views of the world beyond. And with captivating hummingbirds as your neighbours, you won’t want to miss one minute.
Keeping the creatures of the forest firmly outdoors, the towering two-storey Dining Room promises a stunning gastronomic experience with panoramic views. Drawing from the diversity of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine with a distinctly modern twist, the dishes on offer include fresh native ingredients found both on the coast and in the mountains, with the menu changing to reflect the season.
A must-try at this enchanting lodge in the sky is the exhilarating thrill of the Sky Bike. Racing through the canopy on a tandem bike suspended in zip-line style, take in the wonders of the forest, criss-crossed by waterfalls. With almost 400 species of birds to see, make sure you keep your eyes peeled for flashes of colour as you sail past.
Choose between a Wayra Room or Yaku Suite. In Kichwa, Wayra means 'wind' and Yaku translates as 'water' — the former are generous-sized rooms with captivating jungle views, and the latter come with a spacious bathroom including twin basins and a Philippe Starck-designed bathtub with views out into the forest.