The Amazon has various natural and cultural attractions. In the previous articles of Responsible Travel it was possible to learn a little more about Yasuní and Cuyabeno. However, for this occasion, we will focus on an attraction that is valued by foreign visitors and tourists, the Ecological Antisana Reserve.
ECOLOGICAL ANTISANA RESERVE
Located in the provinces of Pichincha and Napo at 1,400–5,728 mts. This reserve is characterized by having 120 thousand hectares, which are home to magical sites as well as the biodiversity of its flora and fauna. Most of this is found in the Amazon.
In situ, the reserve presents a climate varied between cold, temperate, and subtropical. The temperature ranges from 3 to 17 ºC depending on the altitude. The most important attraction is the volcano that has the same name as the reserve. This has an altitude of 5,758 meters.
HOW TO GET THERE
Being between two provinces, the reserve is easily accessible. From Quito, take the Sangolquí-Píntag road. From the central park of Píntag, continue along the road towards the Antisana volcano (suitable for all types of vehicles) until you reach the La Mica checkpoint, which is 35 kilometers and 45 minutes away (from Píntag).
RELEVANT ASPECTS
- Antisana Volcano: It is a stratovolcano; the last eruption dates back to 1802. The volcano suggests that it has two peaks; however, it is only one. It is a volcano considered difficult level because, often, it is draped behind a cloud poncho.
- Chakana Reserve: This private place is located near the Antisana Reserve. Its objective is to protect the most important roosts and nests of Andean condors in Ecuador and northern South America.
- Condor watching: Being the logo of the Reserve a condor, this place has the largest number of animals of this species. The Antisina is home to approximately 150 animals. As for the nests, they can be seen on the Isco rock and the Chakana reserve.
- Mica´s lagoon: located within the reserve. It is of glacial origin (volcano mirror) and is currently dammed, providing water to the City of Quito.
- Biodiversity: the reserve has 418 species of birds, 73 of mammals, and 61 of amphibians and reptiles.
- Pads: These plants are tiny and develop in dense colonies, creating a microclimate slightly warmer than the surrounding environment (which is usually very cold). Therefore, a “biothermal dome” is created that generates a minimal but continuous flow of heat to shelter the developing roots and stems.
- Humboldt House: It is a rustic house that is located on the slopes of the volcano. This place shows and symbolizes the study that Alexander carried out and the dedication he established to climb the volcano.
- The following activities are allowed in the reserve: taking photographs, walking, biking, climbing, setting up camp, and practicing fishing.
EXPERIENCE IN THE ANTISANA ECOLOGICAL RESERVE
The Antisana ecological reserve provides a diversity of activities that captivate both adventurers and those who want a more intense bond with nature. From mountain climbing and bird watching to landscape photography, every experience in the park reminds us of the value of preserving these unique ecosystems.
Chagras overnight in the Paramo in the furthest corners of the ranch to then drive the cattle towards the ranch the following day for the annual round-up.
Yanahurco Hacienda (Ranch) – largest privately owned ranch in Ecuador (35,000 Hectares)
Base of Cotopaxi Volcano
Los Andes
ECUADOR. South America
