Great Leaf

LA ESPERANZA FOREST PROJECT

RE-CONNECT

“La Esperanza” Forest is an exciting project located in the Ecuadorian Chocó region, in Manabí, combining conservation, ecological restoration, and sustainable development. Initiated in 2020 in collaboration with Anelio Loor, a forest guardian for over two decades, this project has unveiled threatened species such as howler monkeys and new types of trees. This biodiversity sanctuary, isolated from other forests, plays a vital role in preserving the health of many species and providing essential ecosystem services.

The project focuses on three key pillars:

  1. Ecological Restoration: This includes the reproduction and planting of native plants, reforestation of areas damaged by livestock, and continuous monitoring to improve practices. Creating connectivity corridors is a goal to strengthen landscape resilience.
  2. Education and Community Work: Promoting training for local communities in agroforestry, agroecology, ecological restoration, bio-entrepreneurship, and ecotourism.
  3. Scientific Research: The project also contributes to scientific knowledge about biodiversity, ecology, animal behavior, and restoration processes, supporting its other areas of work.
 

Project funding comes from international funds, individual and corporate donations, collaborations with universities, and volunteer efforts. This sustained growth is due to the generosity of companies and institutions from various sectors of society, either through one-time donations or the development of institutional projects contributing to the achievement of restoration and community development goals around this magical forest.

“Re-connect” is a project aimed at improving the connection between green areas within urban zones. It began in September 2022 with the Biological Corridor in Quito, Ecuador, connecting Rumipamba and La Carolina parks. This corridor has been created using existing green spaces and adding green infrastructure such as rain gardens, pollinator gardens, green roofs, and living tree pits.

Nature conservation in the city is crucial because this green infrastructure not only addresses urban issues like biodiversity loss and poor air quality but also provides recreational and environmental education spaces.

The project actively involves the community in environmental education activities and plantings in intervened spaces. Additionally, biodiversity information is collected through citizen science.

“Reconnect” is made possible through the joint efforts of the Great Leaf Foundation and Nativus, funded by the Environmental Fund and the Environment Secretariat of the Municipality of Quito. Collaboration from professionals, institutions, and companies such as the Quito Zoo, Fonag, Quito Vivarium, Rumipamba Archaeological Park, DHL, and San Gabriel School has been essential.

The project can continue with the ongoing support of companies and institutions that can make donations or collaborate on institutional projects to restore and increase urban biodiversity. Join the change, and be part of Reconnect!

How to help

If you want to be part of these initiatives, you can support us by collaborating with the following donation packages in USD or simply contributing any amount of your choice.

Seed Donor Package

$ 25
00
  • 1 tree planted and monitored for 1 year in Bosque La Esperanza or...
  • 3 plants to enrich pollinator gardens in Quito's biodiversity network.

Leaf Donor Package

$ 110
00
  • 5 trees planted and monitored for 1 year in Bosque La Esperanza or...
  • 15 plants to enrich pollinator gardens in Quito's biodiversity network.

Hope Donor Package

$ 220
00
  • 10 trees planted and monitored for 1 year in Bosque La Esperanza or...
  • 30 plants to enrich pollinator gardens in Quito's biodiversity network.

Want to visit ?

La Esperanza Forest Project

Re - Connect

Everyone is welcome to explore the natural wonder of Bosque La Esperanza, a reserve located in the heart of the lush Ecuadorian Chocó Forest. This biodiversity sanctuary offers visitors from all around the opportunity to immerse themselves in the richness of the region’s flora and fauna. With winding trails through exotic landscapes and an abundance of wildlife, including the chance to see howler monkeys, a species currently endangered. We invite you to ask your travel advisor to include a 2-day, 1-night visit, during which you can enjoy exciting guided walks, informative conservation talks, and the thrilling opportunity to explore the nursery, restoration plot, and participate in tree planting. A journey that promises not only to be an unforgettable adventure but also a significant contribution to the preservation of this natural treasure. Join us on this journey of discovery and connection with the beauty and importance of Chocó’s biodiversity!

We encourage you to ask your travel advisor for the fascinating opportunity to explore the research and native plant production space in the Reconnect project. In this educational journey, you will have the chance to delve into an explanatory tour revealing the intricate details of the work done in the nursery, as well as the diversity of native species cultivated with dedication. This space, located in Puembo, just 45 minutes from the bustling city center, offers a unique experience to understand the valuable process of local flora restoration and conservation. Enjoy this enriching opportunity and immerse yourself in the beauty and purpose behind the preservation of native plants in the Reconnect project.

If you want to donate...

Thank you for considering donating! Your generosity makes a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most. To streamline the donation process, we have enabled a secure payment link that you can use to make your contribution quickly and easily.

*The donation packages mentioned above do not include additional fees charged by platforms such as WeTravel or PayPal.

For voluntary donations, please contact us to generate a personalized payment link. Also, if you prefer to make a donation via bank transfer, feel free to get in touch.

Additionally, we understand that some donors prefer to contribute directly to charitable organizations without intermediaries. If this is the case for you, we would be delighted to provide you with the direct contact information for the foundations, allowing you to communicate with them directly and coordinate your donation.

Please feel free to reach out to us at mariapaula@egt.ec to obtain the contact details of the organizations you wish to contribute to directly or to address any questions you may have.

We appreciate your generosity and commitment to the well-being of the community. Every donation counts and makes a difference!

Ainda não consegue encontrar o que procurava?

Envie-nos uma mensagem e teremos todo o prazer em ajudá-lo a encontrar o passeio perfeito para você

Get in touch
Hello ????????
Can we help you?
Sunchaser Photography
Sunchaser Photography

Just left us a 5 star review

Responsible Travel Ecuador provided excellence in all areas of the trip. Jazmin provided excellent advice, and itinerary planning based on my stated goals of observing specific wildlife! Excellent, will do business with them again in the future!

Sunchaser Photography dezembro 10, 2024
google

This agency helped us plan a memorable trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Cynthia was our coordinator, she was timely and professional with all communication and detailed from beginning to end. Cynthia was able to include everything we wanted to experience and open to our feedback to help create the final itinerary. The daily excursions were great, especially in Ecuador where we had Danny as our guide and Luis as our driver. Luis was safe and timely in all transportation and Danny went above and beyond at every step. At one point I wasn't feeling well and Danny went out of his way to find me some medicine. Danny was also extremely knowledgeable on everything.. history, the agriculture, the people.. 10/10 guide! Overall a great agency to work with!

Carmen Chegoz novembro 16, 2024
google

Ha sido un viaje maravilloso, bien organizado, muy seguro, el guía Sebastián categoría premium sabe de todo, amable, responsable y maneja el coche de maravilla, prudente y ciertamente excepcional para su juventud. Yo repetiré viaje con esta agencia y haré Amazonia. Violeta Miguel

Violeta Mi novembro 11, 2024
google

Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador…

Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador was extremely helpful, efficient and attentive. She found me an excellent offer for a cruise in the Galapagos and we thoroughly enjoyed our trip. Everything went smoothly and I can highly recommend Monica. She took care of every detail.

Marianne Jenni novembro 6, 2024

Cruise to the Galapagos

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga outubro 5, 2024

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga outubro 5, 2024
google

Uma viagem inesquecível, onde tudo saiu conforme o esperado, sem falhas ou qualquer contratempo. Tudo, desde a recepção até o final foi um exemplo de competência e organização admiráveis. Equador não é um destino como outros, e no nosso caso teve roteiros variados, como uns dias na Amazônia, Cruzeiro para visitar as ilhas mais distantes de Galápagos e visita às principais ilhas. Bastante coisa pra ser organizada mas deu tudo certo. Galápagos foi incrível, a conexão com a natureza foi perfeita e eu só tenho a agradecer a Gabriela Cadena que conseguiu captar exatamente o que a gente queria e colocou no nosso roteiro tudo com maestria. Recomendo a agência e a Gabriela sem medo de errar.

Noilves Pelisser setembro 29, 2024
google

One of the best trips of my life

One of the best trips of my life! I absolutely loved Ecuador and the variety of landscapes it offers (from the coast to the Andes and the Amazon rainforest). The trip was very well organized and made easy for us. The guides were all very knowledgeable and generally helped us have a great time. Would absolutely repeat.

Laura Sopeña Álvarez setembro 22, 2024

Genial, atención personalizada por parte de Santiago ( nuestro agente) desde el inicio hasta el fin del tour super preocupados por como se desenvuelve el viaje. Los recomiendo

Juan David Vaca agosto 26, 2024
google

Excelente experiencia, agencia seria, disponible y cumplidora. Reservamos un crucero en Galápagos y la atención de Jazmín ha sido estupenda en todo momento, super recomendados.

francesco agosto 26, 2024
google

A HUGE thank you to Responsible Travel and our wonderful coordinator Gabriela for making our August visit to the Galapagos and Amazon absolutely amazing! Gabriela catered the trip to our specific family's needs and capabilities, and every logistical step went very smoothly. The accommodations were top-notch, as were the local guides in each destination. We saw every animal we were hoping to see, and then some! We felt so secure and cared for in the hands of Responsible Travel that I've already recommended our exact itinerary to four additional families. This trip was incredible!!

Kristy Croushore agosto 25, 2024
google

Excelente y personalizado servicio por…

Excelente y personalizado servicio por parte de Cynthia. El crucero fue fenomenal así como vuelos, traslados, guías y comidas. Sin sorpresas.

Enric Sol agosto 21, 2024

Servicio impecable, Cynthia nos acompañó durante todo el proceso de reserva, enviándonos información actualizada y resolviendo todas nuestras dudas vía WhatsApp casi al momento. Tanto los guías como los vuelos, crucero, comidas, traslados y actividades fueron perfectos. Muy recomendable para evitar sustos y despistes y conocer Galápagos con total comodidad.

google

Effective, honest, and creative agency!

We could not be happier with our experience with this agency. The service provided by Maria Jose, who was our trip coordinator, was outstanding from day one. She made sure to understand our goals and vision for the trip, and was patient enough to work through multiple itinerary versions until we finalized it together. The chose the correct hotels, routes, and activities based on what we spoke about, and the guides/personnel on the ground that they reserved for us were trustworthy, puntual, and very knowledgeable. Every day they checked in on us with a text, to make sure that everything was going accordingly, which is a sign of excellent service. I highly recommend working with Maria Jose/Tamer and the entire Responsible Ecuador Travel team - I will do so for my next trip as well. 5/5, thank you!

Jose Garcia agosto 12, 2024

Great memories

Mónica was always for us available, all the staff of Galaxy Orion were really great and we had wonderful days in the boat and in Galapagos. Many thanks for all

Teresa Behrend agosto 12, 2024

Mi viaje con Responsible Travel

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho agosto 4, 2024

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho agosto 4, 2024
google

Cynthia my contact of the agency Responsible Travel resolved all my doubts and questions of the trip. She keep me informed about muy bookings and updates of my itinerary. Also she ensure that everything went well.

Patricia Uribe agosto 3, 2024
google

Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard…

Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard the Bonita yacht was the best decision I could have made while visiting Ecuador. It was an incredible experience that I will be thinking about until I am able to come back again. I want to thank my wonderful agent Anthony for his help in booking. He is very knowledgeable and ensured that the planning process was a breeze. Anthony checked in with us every step of the way to make sure that we were prepared and comfortable throughout the whole trip. I also want to thank the wonderful crew: Cris, Diana, Cap. Joffre, Diego, Carlos, Marcos, Marcelo, Jairo, Chef Homar, and Chef Danny. Without them, the trip would not have been as amazing and unforgettable as it was. Cris was an awesome, patient, and fun guide that explained the history and fun facts of the island very well! Chef Homar and Chef Danny cooked all our delicious meals and Chef Homar even shared with us a lesson in salsa dancing! Diana made sure that everyone was taken care of and the rest of the crew made sure that everything was smooth sailing! I can tell that this crew is really close and that they enjoy working together! I cannot recommend this experience enough, from the blue footed boobies, to the giant tortoises, to swimming with the hammerhead sharks! I hope to come back one day and bring my family and when I do, I will make sure to book with Anthony again at Responsible Travel Ecuador!

Adi Parreno junho 27, 2024

Stunning experience

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico maio 31, 2024

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico maio 31, 2024
google

I highly recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador. They are very professional and flexible to organize the perfect trip for you.Gabriela organized the trip for us to mainland, Amazon and Galapagos islands and she was excellent.She did everything for us and the entire itinerary was a unique experience. Our guide Wellington on the mainland was very helpful and knowledgeable and we really enjoyed our time with him!! We enjoyed every activity and will definitely return in the future to this beautiful country!!

George Liskas fevereiro 15, 2024
google
Andres Garzon fevereiro 3, 2024
google

Gaby did an incredible job helping me plan a trip to Yasuni National Park, Quito, and the Galápagos Islands. She took all of the stress out of finding good guides and all of the logistics involved in flights, lodging, transportation, and all of the other planning aspects of a big two week trip. Excellent communication with fast responses any time I had questions leading up to and during the trip as well. Highly recommend!

Adam Conard dezembro 13, 2023
google

The best of the best!

Amazing experience! Definitely recommended.

Dave Khandros dezembro 1, 2023

Ethic, friendly and professional company

They are a super friendly and professional company that, as their name says, is working in an ethical and green way, which is super important in these times.

Carla Mazzini dezembro 1, 2023

Paul our agent was wonderful; very friendly and went above and beyond to help us organise a dream holiday.

Bess Murray novembro 4, 2023
google

Les Galapagos c'est le paradis !

Notre voyage aux Galapagos était super bien organisé, les jours avec visites autant que le temps libre ! Les hôtels choisis par l'agence étaient très confortables et accueillants, et les guides sur place super accueillants ! Aucun problème ... donc toute la famille n'a eu qu'à en profiter!

Douglas outubro 7, 2023

I planned a trip to South America at the last minute, and Gaby was incredible! She created an amazing itinerary with me where I was able to go to Quito, the Galapagos islands, and Cuzco Peru. It was a truly unforgettable trip, and I would strongly recommend that you consider Gaby for your next South American adventure. She can help as little or as much as you need and is extremely responsive. I am a big fan of hers now!

Gigi Z outubro 5, 2023
google

Cuentan con paquetes muy buenos y se adaptaron a mis necesidades para viajar en crucero a galápagos

Andrés Perugachi agosto 31, 2023
google
Felipe Villegas agosto 25, 2023
google

Gran tour en barco de última hora

Fue una reserva de última hora de un tour en barco por Galápagos y nos ayudaron en todo momento. Grandes profesionales y el tour fue maravilloso

David B. julho 19, 2023

Outstanding service

Responsible Travel Ecuador helped us find the outfit that met our needs in our visit to Galapagos. Interaction with our agent was easy and effective. She was really responsive and provided us with all the information we needed - also suggestions for further visits in Ecuador's mainland. I definitely would recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador for any travel needs in that beautiful country.

Nuria julho 17, 2023

Una experiencia inolvidable con Responsible Travel: Descubriendo la magia de Ecuador

Responsible Travel es una agencia de viajes que ha dejado una huella imborrable en mi corazón. Recientemente tuve la oportunidad de explorar las maravillas de Ecuador a través de su excelente servicio, y no puedo dejar de elogiar su enfoque responsable y comprometido con la sostenibilidad. Desde el momento en que me puse en contacto con ellos, su equipo demostró una gran atención y pasión por brindar experiencias auténticas y respetuosas con el entorno local.

Gabi Ramos junho 29, 2023

Fantastic Experience!

I did multiple family treks with this company and the service is impeccable. Staff always has a smile and big energy to inspire you to expand your horizons. A big shout to everyone and thank you for such a wonderful experience!

Daniel Larrea junho 27, 2023

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va…

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va ser a L' Ecuador amb aquesta experimentada empresa que em ajudar abans, durant i despres del viatge. Totalment recomendada

Santiago Cardenas junho 27, 2023

Exceptional trip to Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

Excellent & professional services! Highly recommended.

Alexander junho 27, 2023
Emilia Assa abril 12, 2023
google

We have booked a two day tour to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, a 5 days tour in the amazonia and also arranged some private transfers with the team. I have discussed everything with Lucia who has been very helpful, always answering on time and providing the best options. Would recommend the travel agency.

Iulian Petcu março 5, 2023
google

By chance I happened to connect with Responsible Travel and I am glad I did. My agent was Estefania “Stefi” Puga and I could not have had a more attentive and responsive person arrange my travel plans. I am a nature lover with a special interest in birds. Stefi arranged a trip that included 3 lodges over 6 nights, transportation, guides, tours and other features and made it all easy. In addition I received messages regularly before I began the trip to check on details and assure me that all will be well. During the trip she checked in daily to see if everything was ok. It was a pleasure to work with such a caring and attentive agent. If I return to Ecuador, I will call Stefi.

Lee Burton fevereiro 27, 2023
google

Great time- Great Service

Great time- Great Service

leejburton fevereiro 27, 2023
tripadvisor

12 unforgettable days in Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands

12 unforgettable days in Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands

Skjavel fevereiro 19, 2023
tripadvisor

Effortless Amazonian adventure

Effortless Amazonian adventure

Tom Contos fevereiro 9, 2023
tripadvisor

wonderful

wonderful

Chihiro A janeiro 22, 2023
tripadvisor

Once in a lifetime trip to the Galapagos

Once in a lifetime trip to the Galapagos

LJH janeiro 17, 2023
tripadvisor

Galapagos islands day tours

Galapagos islands day tours

Joanna J janeiro 9, 2023
tripadvisor

Excellent

Excellent

Jiří B janeiro 9, 2023
tripadvisor

I had an amazing 3-week tour in Ecuador (continent and Galapagos islands) thanks to this team! The country is very beautiful, no doubt, but the guides were amazing, very professional and provided great information. The hotels chosen by the agency were very good. I am very grateful for this experience! Thank you!

Bárbara Martins janeiro 1, 2023
google

3 week tour in Ecuador continent and Galapagos islands

3 week tour in Ecuador continent and Galapagos islands

Barbara M janeiro 1, 2023
tripadvisor