Drive 65 km east of Quito into high páramo and then down into dripping cloud forest on this full-day tour. Expect condors and paramo vistas at Papallacta Pass and hummingbird chaos at Guango, with an optional soak in Papallacta hot springs to finish.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You turn east out of Quito and the asphalt thins to a ribbon through high Andean grasslands; the air sharpens and the skyline rearranges itself into volcanic teeth. At Papallacta Pass the páramo opens—low tussock grasses, peat soils and wind that seems to push you forward—while Antisana and neighboring peaks puncture the clouds. On clear mornings condors and hawks wheel above the pass; below, the road threads down into the green, dripping world of Guango Cloud Forest where hummingbirds claim the understory with frantic, glittering motion.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; short hikes on uneven ground and prolonged time at altitude require steady walking ability and acclimatization.
Wildlife
History
The corridor sits within the Cayambe-Coca protected area and sits on historic highland grazing routes used by indigenous and mestizo communities; the region’s hot springs long served local therapeutic traditions.
Conservation
The páramo is a key water reservoir and sensitive to overgrazing and climate change—stay on trails, avoid disturbing nesting birds and follow guides’ instructions to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Papallacta Pass - Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before the trip
Spend a day or two in Quito or lower elevations to reduce altitude sickness risk—the pass sits above 3,300 m.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens
Birding highlights like Andean Condor and Torrent Duck are often distant—optics improve sightings and photos.
Prepare for variable trail conditions
Trails at Guango can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain—sturdy footwear and gaiters help.
Plan the hot-springs add-on for tired legs
Finish late afternoon with a soak at Papallacta Hot Springs if available—reserve time and toiletries.
Waterproof shell jacket
Wind and sudden mountain rain are common—waterproof outerwear keeps you dry and warm.
winter
Sturdy hiking shoes with grip
Trails range from packed dirt to muddy, rocky sections around Guango and along the river.
Binoculars (8–10x)
Essential for scanning condors at the pass and watching hummingbirds without disturbing them.
Warm insulating layer (fleece/down)
Temperatures drop quickly at high elevations; a warm mid-layer is important between hikes.