Introduction Attractions Projects		Volunteer!		Dry Forest Ecology Manabí Coast Reforestation
Plants Wildlife Archaeology		Volunteer!		Maps People Contact Us

Introduction to the Reserve

The Lalo Loor Dry Forest Reserve protects 200 hectares (approx. 500 acres) of tropical deciduous forest, south of the town of Pedernales in the Pacific coastal province of Manabí, Ecuador. This forest lies in a transition zone between the very wet forests to the north and the very dry forests to the south. As such, the Lalo Loor Dry Forest is incredibly diverse, having representative species from both kinds of habitat. In fact, this particular forest reserve is considered by many experts to be one of the most unique and pristine locations in the entire region! Ceiba recently signed a conservation agreement with the reserve's owner, Sr. Lalo Loor, to protect the forest and develop the site as an educational and tourist destination. This brand-new reserve project is progressing rapidly, so please return to this page for more details.

Volunteer in the Dry Forest

The Lalo Loor reserve presents many exciting opportunities for volunteers. Help us recuperate forest by working in our reforestation plot. We offer ongoing environmental education and community development programs -- if you speak Spanish well and plan on a longer stay, your help will be invaluable. The reserve's EcoCenter needs constant attention and updating of informative displays. Participate in ongoing research projects tracking the recuperation of wildlife, or assessing the potential impact of tourism on resident howler monkeys to better manage visitors. Maintain trails and signs, including the brand-new Three Forests trail that will connect the Loor reserve to several other forests. Live under the palms, fall asleep to bird songs, and wake up to monkeys overhead, what could be finer?! Visit our volunteer page to apply!

Contact and Reservations

Visitor's to the reserve are welcome at any time; however if you plan to stay overnight at the reserve please contact Ceiba's office in the United States or in Quito to make a reservation. The biological station has room for up to 24 people, with all meals provided. We offer reasonable rates for day and overnight visitors, researchers and volunteers.