Drive into the high Andean wilds to watch condors wheel over glaciated ridges and alpacas graze beside Laguna La Mica. This private day trip from Quito mixes geology, wildlife viewing and practical, high-altitude trekking tips.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold wind pushes across the high páramo as your van climbs away from Quito; the road opens onto volcanic scree and a horizon cut by Antisana’s glaciated ridges. Early light finds condors riding the thermals, their wingspan stark against a cobalt sky, while alpacas graze along the salt-scoured edges of Laguna La Mica.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness; able to handle short walks on uneven, high-altitude ground and prolonged standing for wildlife watching.
Wildlife
History
Antisana’s highlands have long been used by indigenous and mestizo communities for grazing; its glaciers and wetlands historically fed downstream agricultural valleys and Quito’s water supply.
Conservation
The reserve protects fragile páramo and remaining glaciers; visitors are asked to stay on routes, avoid littering, and follow guides to minimize erosion and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Private Excursion to Antisana Ecological Reserve today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize Beforehand
Spend a day in Quito getting used to altitude; Antisana sits above 3,800 m and can trigger shortness of breath if you arrive from low elevation.
Layer for Rapid Weather Changes
Bring a windproof shell and warm mid-layer—the páramo shifts from sun to sleet quickly.
Bring Binoculars or Telephoto
Wildlife sightings (condors, deer, alpacas) are common but distant; optics make the experience worthwhile.
Respect Grazing Areas
Stay on trails and follow your guide to avoid disturbing alpacas, llamas and fragile soil crusts that protect páramo vegetation.
Windproof shell
Protects against strong winds and sudden rain common at high elevations.
Insulating mid-layer
Warm fleece or down for cold mornings and breezy viewpoints.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Essential for observing condors and distant wildlife without disturbing them.
Sturdy walking shoes
Low-ankle hiking shoes with grippy soles handle uneven dirt tracks and short grassy walks.