Hi Dave:
I used their services, as well as stayed a few days at their Quito lodge back in '06 I believe was the year. For me very handy as the Continental flight out of Houston, while nonstop, arrives at 11 pm (if youre lucky...) so it is impratical not to overnight somewhere in or very near the city.
The Quito lodge is very nice, perched on a hillside overlooking the city, with comfy rooms and landscaped, multi-level garden walks. Birding, at least for the couple of days I was there, in retrospect was only so-so, but hey this was my first trip to Ecuador and everything was a lifer anyway.
I contracted w/ the San Jorge folks for transportation and guide service. I was accompanied by the owner's son, a very affable youngster who knew the birds fairly well. It was just me, and I arranged the tour to visit west slope hot spots. Not sure how this is handled now, but while in the Mindo area I had another guide, the gentleman who owns the "Mindo Orchids" gardens, forget his name at the moment.
This was before their other lodges were built, some were only in the planning stages I believe, but the Milpe one was at least being framed at the time as I recall when we passed by the installation and it was pointed out to me. I suspect their organization and crews are more fleshed out by now, but they may still use local guides as opposed to dedicated company men.
I have very fond memories of the lodge in Quito, and would recommend a night or two there to unwind, acclimate to the climate, and pick up a few lifers.
regards,
UTC