Discover the Majestic Andean Condor

High above 4,000 meters in the breathtaking eastern range of the Ecuadorian Andes, the Andean condor glides effortlessly through the sky. This magnificent bird—one of the largest scavengers on Earth—is a true symbol of the Andes and a rare sight that leaves visitors in awe.

Protected within the stunning landscapes of Cayambe Coca and Antisana National Parks, the condor can often be seen soaring over cliffs and open skies. Each day, it sets out in search of carrion, feeding on animals that have been part of the natural cycle for over a week.

The Andean condor's life rhythm is slow and majestic. With a very low reproductive rate, the female lays just one egg every two to three years, carefully nesting on high canyon walls.

Spotting a condor in the wild is a highlight for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and photographers alike. It’s not just a bird—it's an unforgettable part of the Andean experience.

Pick up from your hotel in Quito: 2,800 msl 

You will be picked up by your Professional Guide/Driver from the hotel you are staying. Our guide will guide you and explain how all the programmed activities will be carried out.

The pick up time will be at 4:00 a.m.

We will depart from Quito heading east. We will cross the entire valley and climb the eastern foothills until we reach the village of Pintag. The parish of Pintag owes its name to the fact that this warrior resisted the Inca invasion with his people. From there we will start our entrance to the Antisana National Park. 

Historical Fact about Pintag town: 

Píntag, as an indigenous leader, is recognized for his courageous defense of his territory against Inca expansion, especially during the reign of Huayna Cápac.

It is said that, after being captured, Píntag chose death by starvation rather than submission, and his skin was used to make a drum, a symbol of his resistance.

The area, which was already inhabited, adopted his name as a tribute to this local hero. During the colonial period, the Dominican Order evangelized the area, and the Virgin of the Rosary became Píntag's patron saint.

Condor´s view point: 4,000 msl / 13,000 feet

The perfect place to see and photograph the Andean Condor. From a natural viewpoint you can observe where Condors descend after foraging for food.  To observe the Andean Condor from this place it is advisable to bring binoculars, telescope or a camera with a lens of at least of 200, 300, 400 or 600mm.  

This site will give you a privileged view of the canyon, and above all, you'll be able to see condors emerging and landing from the canyon walls. This site has become a true sanctuary for the Andean condor.

We'll be located just a few meters from the cliff, allowing us to photograph the Condor in a unique way.

The Antisana Grassland: 3,600 msl / 11,800 feet: 

The Antisana Grassland refers to the páramos and highland areas of Antisana National Park, a protected area in the Andes mountain range between the provinces of Napo and Pichincha in Ecuador. This ecosystem is characterized by its mountainous landscape, with Andean forests and páramos, and is known for being home to a significant population of birds such as the Andean Ibis and other species.

Tambo Condor (Hummingbird observatory and restaurant):

Perfect time for a break. A magical place to see the largest hummingbird in the world. The species that can be found are: Eared Pigeon, Sparkling Violetlet, Tyrian Metaltail, Bright Sunbeam, Large Sapphire, Giant Hummingbird, Andean Gull, Black-breasted Buzzard, Caracara carunculata, Tawny Antbird, Great Thrush, Black Redstart, Cinereous Conebill, Black Flowerpiercer, etc.

Back to Quito at 1 p.m.