Located 1km south of Pacto Sumaco, the Wildsumaco Lodge makes a good base for climbing Volcán Sumaco. Set on a hilltop with panoramic mountain views, a wooden house with a deck serves as a gathering spot for guests, most of whom come for the birds, a unique mixture of cloud forest, foothill and Amazonian species. Booking ahead is mandatory.
Concrete rooms are simple but tasteful with wood floors, comfy beds, plenty of hot water and electricity. A web of trails starts at the lodge, providing access to the abundance of birds and wildlife. The price includes basic guide services; specialized bird guides can be requested in advance. The Swedish and American owners are conservation-minded and started the Río Pucuno Foundation (www.riopucunofoundation.org) to preserve forest in the area.
