Refugio Los Volcanes

Los Volcanes is a private reserve in a bowl of forest surrounded on almost all sides by red sandstone domes and towers rising several hundred metres, the eroded remains of an old formation, and the name comes from their shape rather than any volcanic origin. It sits at around a thousand metres against the southern boundary of Amboró, in the transition between Andean cloud forest and lowland forest, which gives it a very high bird count including species from both zones. Access is a steep rough track off the main road followed by a river crossing on foot or by vehicle depending on the water, and there is a simple lodge and camping. Trails run to viewpoints on the domes and along the river.

What you actually see

• Red sandstone towers - the domes ringing the forested valley.
• Transition forest - Andean and lowland species meeting.
• A strong bird list - the reason most visitors come.
• River crossings - the ford on the approach to the reserve.

When to go

April to October, the dry season, when the river is low enough to cross and the track passable. The wet months can cut access entirely. Birds are active early in the morning.

Honest expectations

Access requires a four-wheel drive and a river crossing that can be impassable after rain; guests are sometimes stranded. The lodge is simple and must be booked. Trails are steep and muddy. There is no phone signal.

Nearby

Samaipata lies west; Amboró park is north.