Cotacachi Cayapas
The Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve is located close to Otavalo. One of the National Parks in Ecuador. A reserve known for the Laguna Cuichocha. Because of a high altitude it offers different biological zones. The national park ranges between 200 to 4000 meters. Here you will find yourself within wasteland and a coastal tropical forest. Certainly, there is an impressive wildlife to discover: Jaguars, bears, monkeys, bats and even more to find. Further the protected area counts around 20.00 different species of plants and 500 species of birds. Thus, it offers one of the most biodiverse hotspots on the earth. One of the symbols of the National Park is the Andean Condor. So, if you are lucky you may see this majestic animal.
Pululahua
Also a must-see near Quito is the Pululahua Reverse. Another National Park in Ecuador.The reserve is around 3.500 ha big and just 30 minutes northwest of Quito. Mainly, the fertile crater it is used for agriculture. But there is a trail that leads you from the edge of the crater to the ground. If you are planning a trip to the Pululahua then do it in the morning!
You may also interested in our article about Horseback Riding in Pululahua
Cajas
The National Park El Cajas is one of the most spectacular and stunning regions of Ecuador. A wide land with 786 mountain lakes and small lagoons as well. Also it offers an elevation between 3.150 to 4.450 meters. Due to this you may see different animals and a terrific flora fauna. Around 157 different birds are to be seen. Further there are eight trekking tours and five easy trails to enjoy. The shorter trails are already great to have a nice view. Altogether is an ideal place to see between Cuanca and Guayaquil.
Podocarpus
Ecuador’s only national park in the southern Andes is the Podocarpus National Park. Due to the Podocarpus tree this specific name was given to this reverse. Also the altitude of this park ranges from 1,000 to 3,600 meters. Interestingly enough there are five vegetation zones within the nationalpark. Thus, a wide range of flora fauna and birds are to be seen as well. Between 560 and 800 species of birds. Further there are 14 lakes and various ponds. Do you know Ecuador’s national tree? It is called the chinchona or quinea. Back then it was used as a medicine against Malaria. This tree grows in the north of the park. You have the opportunity to enter the nationalpark from two places. The Cajanuma park station or the Bombuscara park entrance. Here are as well many trails for hiking.
Are you interested in the Andeans or in the National Parks in Ecuador? Have a look at SOLEQ.travel’s Ecuador Andes Tours. Furthermore, we assembled a list with 10 hidden Ecuador Tourist Attractions.Â
We have compiled some practical information on traveling to Ecuador and the Galapagos with kids – check out our Galapagos with Kids Tour and our Ecuador for Kids Tour.
