It was created in memory of Hanne Bloch, who contributed to the protection of remnants of montane cloud forest in the southwest of Ecuador. Initially, this reserve was acquired with funds donated by the Bloch family. Today, it is managed by the Jocotoco Foundation in cooperation with the Arcoiris Foundation.
It is crucial for the conservation of endemic montane species in the Tumbes region, including the Rufous-necked Foliage-gleaner (Syndactyla ruficollis), the Gray-headed Antbird (Ampelornis griseiceps), the Piura Hemispingus (Hemispingus piurae), and the Black-cowled Saltator (Saltator nigriceps).
During the dry season, this area serves as a refuge for birds from lower lands, especially the Ochre-bellied Dove (Leptotila ochraceiventris). It also hosts high-altitude species such as the White-throated Screech Owl (Megascops albogularis) and the Undulated Antpitta(Grallaria squamigera). Additionally, two beautiful hummingbird species can be found: the Rainbow Starfrontlet (Coeligena iris) and the Purple-throated Sunangel (Heliangelus viola).
Other restricted-range birds present in Utuana include the Chapman’s Batará (Thamnophilus zarumae), the Jelski’s Chat-Tyrant (Ochthoeca jelskii), and the Bay-crowned Brushfinc (Atlapetes seebohmi).
The Peruvian Sheartail (Thaumastura cora) and the Black-crested Tit-Tyrant (Anairetes nigrocristatus) have only been recorded in this part of Ecuador. Furthermore, the first recorded sighting of the Rusty-breasted Antpitta (Grallaricula ferrugineipectus) was made here, a species that has only been observed in three other locations besides Utuana.
This area is vital for the protection of montane cloud forests, which are on the brink of extinction.
From Macará: Take the Macará – Sozoranga – Utuana route. It’s approximately a 50-minute drive. Once you arrive in the town of Utuana, take the dirt road on the right. After 300 meters, you’ll see a welcome sign from the Jocotoco Foundation.
From Loja: Take the road toward the Catamayo Valley and continue along this route until you reach the city of Cariamanga, about 103 kilometers away. Head west to reach the town of Utuana and take the dirt road on the right. After 300 meters, you’ll find a welcome sign from the Jocotoco Foundation.
Every day: Visits by reservation only.
Rates are in US dollars
Type of visitors | Rate (per person) |
Foreign | $15 |
National* | $5 |
Older adults and children** | $2.50 |
* Special rates for national visitors, residents, and the Andean community.
** Children from 5 to 11 years old
