Ecuador, South America

In South America, from the foot hills of the Andes Mountains of Ecuador, the river Malpelo winds down to the Pacific Coast forming a beautiful bay now called Playa Escondida (hideaway beach).  Truly off the beaten track with the nearest town fourteen km's away, we are assured of privacy, safety, a pristine beach, and gentle surf. The backdrop for this idyllic shoreline is an ecological refuge of 100 hectares.  Here we are dedicated to protecting the diverse flora and fauna of the semi-tropical forest from local hunters, logging, cattle and shrimp farming, not to mention commercial tourism; all forces which the threaten the fragile eco-system of this vital littoral. We welcome feedback from our visitors on how to improve and protect this very special beach, estuary, and forest. Come and experience the magic of one of the last frontiers on the Pacific Rim. The retreat currently has capacity for thirty people. Prices range from $8 to $10 US per person. There is a secluded area with lots of shade for camping, with showers. There are no cooking facilitates, but small campfires are allowed. Cost is $5 US for each camper. Children up to 10 years old pay half price for rooms or camping (see volunteers).

One can walk for kilometers exploring warm tidal pools full of marine life and marvel at dramatic rock formations with caves and tunnels carved by wind and waves.

*Lots for sale: ($25 to $45 US. per square meter)