El Refugio de Intag

Cloud Forest Retreat • Intag Valley, Ecuador

A Retreat in the Clouds

Welcome to Ecuador's Hidden Cloud Forest

Escape to a place where the soundtrack is rushing water and birdsong, where mist drifts through trees draped in orchids and moss, and every trail leads to a new discovery.

Nestled beside the Toabunchi River in Ecuador's spectacular Intag Valley, El Refugio de Intag is a peaceful cloud forest retreat surrounded by private reserve land, an organic coffee farm, and miles of hiking trails. Whether you're a passionate birder, an avid photographer, or simply seeking a quiet place to reconnect with nature, El Refugio offers an authentic experience far from crowds and noise.

❋ Extraordinary Birding

More than 250 species of birds have been recorded on the property! Wake to hummingbirds outside your window, watch colorful tanagers from the dining room, or spend the morning searching forest trails for toucans, woodcreepers, antpittas, and the elusive Andean Cock-of-the-Rock.

❋ Beautiful Cloud Forest

Explore lush forests filled with orchids, bromeliads, towering trees, waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams. Every season brings new blooms, butterflies, and wildlife.

❋ Peace & Quiet

No traffic. No crowds. Just fresh mountain air, the ever-present sound of the river, and star-filled nights (when it’s not cloudy - you are in the cloud forest after all!).

❋ Comfortable Lodging

Choose from our 3 charming guest houses tucked among gardens and forest, each designed to provide a comfortable base for exploring one of Ecuador's most biodiverse regions. Breakfast is included with every stay.

How It Works

Browse our upcoming events to find the one that feels right for you. We host events year-round.
Sign up and pay a deposit to reserve your spot. Then pay the remainder at a later date. You can receive a refund up to 60 days before the Retreat.
After booking, we'll send you a Welcome Packet with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.
We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from Ecuador as soon as possible. Once you arrive at the airport, everything else is included!
Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.

Our next retreats:

Cloud Forest Writing Retreat

Birds and Bordado