Antisana volcano
Ice and summits.
Stefan Weigel — CC BY-SA 4.0 · David C. S. — CC BY-SA 4.0 · David C. S. — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Miguel Ibáñez ch0p1n — CC0
A mountain reserve south-east of Quito around the ice-capped Antisana volcano, over 5,700 metres high, with white summits and glaciers spilling above the broad grassy páramo plains. It is one of Ecuador's wildest and quietest landscapes, far from the crowds. The road climbs from farming valleys into the páramo of golden grasses and small lakes, best known being Micacocha, whose water mirrors the volcano on a clear day. Waterbirds and Andean geese gather near the water. The reserve is one of the best places in Ecuador to see the Andean condor, the largest flying bird of prey, soaring over the slopes, along with mountain deer, caracaras and hawks. Its lower forests shelter rare animals such as the spectacled bear and the mountain tapir. No public transport reaches it, so go by car or on a tour, and register at the gate. The altitude here is high, so acclimatise in Quito for a few days first, walk slowly and bring warm clothes.
Ice and summits.
The volcano mirrored.
Golden grasses.
South-east of Quito via Píntag, about two hours by car
Yes, it is one of Ecuador's best places for them; chances are best on a clear morning with binoculars.