Antisana is renowned for being one of the best places in Ecuador to observe the Andean condor, the world's largest flying bird. The cliffs at Peñas del Isco serve as nesting sites, and visitors can often see these majestic birds soaring overhead. The reserve has recorded up to 35 Condors perching on various cliffs, making it a prime location for sightings . 

With over 400 bird species, Antisana is a haven for birdwatchers. Notable species include the Ecuadorian Hillstar, Giant Hummingbird, Black-faced Ibis, and Carunculated Caracara. Hummingbird feeders near Tambo Condor attract species like the Shining Sunbeam and Sword-billed Hummingbird. 

 Beyond birds, Antisana is home to diverse wildlife, including spectacled bears, pumas, white-tailed deer, and wild horses. The reserve also hosts 73 mammal species and 61 species of amphibians and reptiles. 

 Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a hiking enthusiast, or someone seeking to connect with nature, Antisana Ecological Reserve provides a rich and diverse experience just a short drive from Quito. 

Warm clothing, waterproof gear, sunscreen, binoculars for birdwatching, and hiking shoes. 

Hotel Pick-up from Quito or Airport (2,800 msl) 

At 7:00 a.m., your guide will pick you up from your centrally located hotel in Quito or from the airport. Then, we will head southwest of the city. After one hour and a half of driving we will arrive in the Entrance of the Antisana Reserve. We will take the fastest route to leave from Quito or the airport.

Departure to the Eastern Andes: (3,000 msl)

We will begin the trip crossing the city of Quito and passing through the Tumbaco Valley, until we reach the parish of Pintag, where we will make a short stop to purchase provisions for the trip. 

Condor Lookout: (3,300 msl)

At this lookout, we will have the opportunity to observe the Lord of the Andes. We recommend bringing binoculars. This lookout is located in front of a cliff where the Condor usually sleeps or nests. To try to observe the Condor, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning. This activity will also depend on the weather conditions. 

We usually observe a group of condors arriving to rest after searching for food in the surrounding area. They perch for no more than 10 or 15 minutes, giving us the opportunity to observe them resting. However, they can also be seen gliding near the canyon at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level. 

The length of the visit will depend on the behavior of the Andean Condor, as they frequently return to this spot. The weather is also an important factor. The Condor always waits for warm air currents so it can glide.

Estimated visit time is 45 minutes

Antisana Grassland: (3,800 msl)

The "Antisana Grassland" refers to the páramo surrounding the Antisana Volcano, located in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. This area, part of the Antisana Reserve, is known for its rich biodiversity and for being home to iconic species such as the Andean Ibis, Lapwings, Andean Gulls, Paramo Pipit, Chesnut-winged Cinclodes, Plain-Capped Ground-Tyrant among others. 

Estimated visit time is 45 minutes

Tambo Condor - Bird Observatory (3,300 msl)

Here, you can observe different species of hummingbirds, such as the giant hummingbird, and other species, at the birdbaths. They also have a restaurant where you can purchase lunch and take a well-deserved break.

The species that we can find in this place are the following: Shining Sunbeam, Sparkling Violetear, Spectacled Redstart, Black Flowerpiercer, Great Sapphirewing, among others. 

Estimated visit time is 90 minutes

After this, we will return to Quito or airport according to your requirement. The tour lasts approximately 6 hours.