The Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager is distributed in the Andes from south-west Venezuela, through Colombia, Ecuador and Peru to western Bolivia. See the distribution map at Natureserve.

It is found near the treeline in upper montane forest, woodland and shrubbery mostly at between 2,600 metres and 3,500 metres.

It is very distinctive with its scarlet belly and patch behind the ear. Note also the blue wing patch and rump.

It feeds mainly on fruits but also on flowers, nectar and insects.