Antisana National Park is one of Ecuador’s outstanding attractions, which you can fully enjoy on a daytour. Situated in the foothills of the eastern Andes, it spans 120,000 hectares. Among its most captivating features is Antisana Volcano, towering at 5758 meters. Nestled at the volcano’s base lies Laguna de la Mica, adding to the park’s allure. However, the highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the observation of the Andean Condor. This park is the only place in Ecuador with the largest condor population.
Attractions of Antisana National Park on a day tour.
To reach Antisana National Park on a daytour from Quito, you take the Pifo route, then pass through the town of Pintag before reaching the park entrance checkpoint. Along the journey, you can appreciate spectacular volcanic lava rock formations from the last eruption.
On the route to Laguna de la Mica, the landscape becomes breathtaking; to the west, you can see the Sincholagua and Cotopaxi volcanoes, while to the east lies the majestic Antisana volcano.
Passing by Hacienda Guaytara, the road narrows, and to one side, there’s a large cliff where condors nest. Then, the road continues through a green and fertile valley. Further ahead, a sign announces the arrival at the Antisana conservation area.
Continuing the journey, the landscape becomes stunning as you observe a vast open plain. This is where you start to see birds. In my visits to this place, Curunculated Cara-Cara have been the most predominant birds in the landscape.
If the day is clear, one is left in awe at the sight of Antisana covered in snow. Generally, the volcano is visible in the early morning hours. By midday, it starts to be covered in thick clouds. Then, in the afternoon, it clears up again.
Laguna de la Mica
After enjoying the mesmerizing views along the valley, you reach the entrance checkpoint for the lagoon. Since it is located within the protected area of Antisana National Park, several trails are available for exploration around the lagoon on a full-day tour. The most common trail is Micaloma, spanning approximately 3 kilometers. The hike starts gently and gradually ascends until reaching the Condor Viewpoint at 4000 meters. From this vantage point, you can appreciate Antisana Volcano and, on the other side, Laguna de la Mica. It’s time to pay attention, as you’ll often see condors gliding across the meadow before disappearing behind the snow-capped peak.
I recommend a private driver to visit Antisana National Park. Travelers can do this trip in a single day. However, you can also choose one of my itineraries for a more complete adventure. Don’t miss this incredible adventure!
For more detailed information about hiring a private driver to accompany you throughout your trip, do not hesitate to contact me