Andean Condor, Giant and Sword-billed Hummingbirds, Ecuadorian Hillstar, Black-faced Ibis and Silvery Grebe are the order of the day, Plus possible Spectacled Bear. Potentially very cold - so layers needed - but sunny, clear days can be a dream, with easy terrain and unforgettable scenery!

A visit to Antisana reserve is the perfect day trip from Quito to a very scenic spot. The centerpiece of this nature reserve is Antisana Volcano, Ecuador’s fourth highest mountain; it towers 18,700 feet tall and is covered in massive glaciers that are hundreds of feet thick. Surrounded by “páramo” (a unique Andean grassland environment), Antisana is home to a wide variety of fascinating birds, including the Andean Condor, Black-faced Ibis, Silvery Grebe, and Carunculated Caracara. On the western entrance side of the reserve you can explore habitats of the higher reaches of the central valley where you might find Giant Hummingbird or Black-billed Shrike-Tyrant, while further east high elevation moorlands take over for better chances at Andean Lapwing, both species of cinclodes, and Paramo Pipit. Other fauna that make their home in the reserve include Puma, Andean Fox, White-tailed Deer, and even the elusive and extremely endangered Spectacled Bear, which we have seen with surprising frequency.

Arriving to the Reserve is part of the experience, as the drive affords spectacular views of the surrounding area, including Quito in the distance below the enormous Pichincha Volcano. We plan to have lunch in a traditional local restaurant facing the rock walls where the Condors nest. It is important to wear warm clothes – preferable peelable layers – as temperatures can vary, but it can be very cold, especially if windy or rainy!