Private Tour Watching the Spectacled Bear

Exploring the elusive Spectacled Bear in its natural habitat is a thrilling opportunity for adventure-seekers. This exclusive private tour near Quito, Ecuador promises an intimate encounter with these shy creatures, led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide. Rising before dawn, you will venture into the lush Andes, supporting vital conservation efforts through a portion of the tour fee. After observing the bears, the experience continues at a nearby center to learn about their ecology and the challenges they face. With private transportation ensuring a personalized journey, this is an exceptional chance to witness the Spectacled Bear in its element.

About Your Stay

• This private ecotour offers an opportunity to observe the shy and endangered Spectacled Bear in its natural habitat in the Andes forests near Quito, Ecuador.
• The tour includes transportation, meals, and a donation to the Big Mammals Conservation organization, which supports habitat restoration and anti-poaching efforts for the bears.
• Participants will be accompanied by a bilingual certified naturalist driver guide who will provide insights into the bears’ ecology and conservation.
• The tour starts at 2:00 am to maximize the chances of bear sightings, and participants are advised to wear comfortable, sturdy footwear and dress in layers.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate, and there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

Overview of the Tour

The private tour of the Spectacled Bear, operated by Great Horned Owl Tours, offers a unique opportunity to witness these elusive creatures in their natural habitat near Quito, Ecuador.

The tour, priced from €270.24 per person, includes a bilingual certified naturalist driver guide, private transportation, a box breakfast, local lunch, bottled water, and a donation to Big Mammals Conservation.

The tour starts at 2:00 am, with pickup at the JW Marriott Quito. While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, and features a private experience with only your group.

Highlights of the Tour

One of the highlights of this private tour is the opportunity to witness the elusive Spectacled Bear in its natural habitat.

These bears are rarely seen, as they’re shy and live in the dense forests of the Andes mountains. Guests will have the chance to observe the bears’ behavior, from foraging for food to climbing trees.

The tour also includes a visit to a conservation center, where visitors can learn about the threats these bears face and the efforts to protect them.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the bears’ ecology and conservation.

Participants will leave with a newfound appreciation for this remarkable species and the importance of preserving its habitat.

Preparation for the Tour

How can travelers best prepare for this private tour to see the elusive Spectacled Bear? Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must, as the terrain can be uneven.

Dressing in layers is recommended, as the temperatures can vary significantly. Bringing a small backpack with snacks, water, and any necessary medications is advisable.

Travelers should be prepared for an early start, as the tour departs at 2:00 am to maximize sightings. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.

Ultimately, a flexible mindset and a sense of adventure will ensure an unforgettable experience on this private Spectacled Bear watching expedition.

Experience During the Tour

Travelers embark on their private expedition at the pre-arranged meeting point, where a bilingual certified naturalist driver guide greets them.

The tour begins at 2:00 am, as they set out in private transportation to search for the elusive spectacled bear. Along the way, the guide provides insightful commentary, pointing out the local flora and fauna.

After a box breakfast, they arrive at the bear’s natural habitat, where the guide leads them on a trek through the lush surroundings. With patience and keen observation, they may catch a glimpse of the majestic creature.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, having contributed to the conservation efforts of Big Mammals Conservation (BMC).

Conservation Efforts Supported

The tour operator’s partnership with the Big Mammals Conservation (BMC) organization enables travelers to directly contribute to wildlife protection efforts. A portion of the tour fee is donated to BMC, a local non-profit dedicated to safeguarding Ecuador’s endangered species, including the spectacled bear.

This donation supports critical conservation initiatives, such as habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, and population monitoring. By participating in this tour, travelers play an active role in preserving the spectacled bear’s fragile ecosystem and ensuring its long-term survival.

The tour’s focus on responsible ecotourism underscores the company’s commitment to balancing tourism with environmental stewardship.

Booking and Pricing Details

Booking this private Spectacled Bear watching tour is straightforward. Prices start from €270.24 per person, varying based on group size. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, enjoying the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour company also offers the lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.

Group Size	Price per Person
2 People	€270.24
3 People	€189.18
4 People	€151.34
5 People	€129.10
6 People	€113.07

The tour includes all necessary transportation, meals, and a donation to the Big Mammals Conservation (BMC) organization, making it a comprehensive and eco-friendly experience.

Logistical Information

As guests prepare for their private Spectacled Bear watching tour, they’ll have a 2:00 AM start time.

The tour begins with pickup at the JW Marriott Quito, where a bilingual certified naturalist driver guide wearing a tour company vest will meet them. The private transportation will take guests to the prime bear-viewing locations.

During the tour, a box breakfast and local lunch will be provided, along with bottled water. The tour ends back at the original pickup point.

Though not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate in this private excursion. Guests can secure their spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Private Tour?

This is a private tour, so the group size is flexible and varies based on the number of participants. There is no fixed group limit, as the tour is customized for each booking.

Can I Request a Specific Dietary Requirement for the Meals?

The tour operator allows guests to request specific dietary requirements for the included meals. Travelers should communicate any dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure the meals can accommodate their preferences.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

The tour operator recommends bringing binoculars, a camera, and comfortable hiking shoes. As this is an early morning tour, dressing in layers is also suggested to stay warm. No special equipment is required beyond typical outdoor attire.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement for participants. Children are generally welcome, though parents should consider the early start time and outdoor nature of the experience when deciding if it’s suitable for younger travelers.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Activities?

The tour duration and activities can be extended, but this may incur additional costs. Guests should consult with the tour operator about customizing the itinerary to meet their specific needs and preferences.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This exclusive Spectacled Bear tour offers an incredible opportunity to witness these elusive creatures in their natural habitat. With a private guide, early start, and support for conservation efforts, participants can expect an intimate and memorable experience. The combination of thrilling wildlife sightings and educational components makes this tour a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the Ecuadorian Andes.