Birdwatching Tour—Condor Experience 1 Day

An Authentic Birdwatching Tour Through Andean Landscapes and Majestic Condor Habitats

Embark on a unique birdwatching tour designed to showcase the best of the Andean highlands and the iconic Andean Condor. Your experience begins at 6:00am in Quito with a drive led by a certified birding specialist who introduces you to the region’s unique species and habitats.

Your first major stop is Tambo Condor Viewpoint, one of the most renowned places in Ecuador to observe the mighty Andean Condor in flight. Here, you’ll scan dramatic cliffs and open skies for condors; you can capture stunning photographs of these powerful raptors.

The journey continues to Mica Lagoon, a serene glacial lake surrounded by pristine landscapes. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you take a gentle walk along the lakeshore and immerse yourself in the wildlife-rich setting.

After exploring the lagoon, continue taking in the spectacular views of Antisana’s highland ecosystem. Your guide will share ecological insights and conservation stories that reveal the importance of this protected area and its wildlife.

Highlights

• Spot the majestic Andean Condor, one of South America's most iconic and rare birds
• Visit Mirador Isco, one of Ecuador's top condor-viewing lookouts
• Explore Tambo Condor or Chakana Reserve, prime condor nesting territory
• Discover Laguna de Mica, a high-Andean lake rich in waterfowl
• Comfortable round-trip transportation from Quito

Itinerary

1. Stop 1From Quito to Antisana - Condor Viewpoint

   

   The day begins with a departure from Quito, ascending into the majestic Andean highlands toward the Antisana paramo. Our first stop is the Isco Viewpoint, one of Ecuador's most privileged spots for observing the Andean Condor. The largest flying bird in the world. From this lookout, you'll watch these magnificent birds soar effortlessly over deep Andean valleys, a breathtaking spectacle of strength, freedom, and untouched nature. It's the perfect setting for wildlife photography and quiet, patient birdwatching, offering one of the best chances in South America to see a wild Andean Condor up close.

2. Stop 2Tambo Condor Reserve

   

   Tambo Condor is a charming highland lodge nestled in the páramo, just minutes from the entrance to Antisana National Park. Here, guests can enjoy an optional breakfast (at the traveler's own expense) surrounded by breathtaking Andean scenery. From the property's private viewpoint, visitors can scan the skies and surrounding cliffs with binoculars, spotting soaring Andean Condors and a variety of hummingbirds and highland birds that frequent the site's gardens

3. Stop 2Chakana Reserve

   

   Chakana Reserve  is a 2 option stop, home to one of Ecuador's most important Andean Condor populations — with up to 40 individuals recorded roosting and nesting on its cliffs. This 7,000-acre conservation area, protected by the Jocotoco Foundation, offers a privileged lookout where condors can sometimes be seen gliding at eye level. Beyond condors, keep watch for the Ecuadorian Hillstar hummingbird, Andean fox, white-tailed deer, and — with a bit of luck — the elusive Andean Spectacled Bear. Entrance fees and a mandatory local guide fee apply for this stop.

4. Stop 4La Mica Lagoon

   

   At La Mica Lagoon, we'll hike through a high-mountain landscape surrounded by the imposing páramo grasslands of the Antisana Volcano.

   During the hike, you'll admire the reflections of the mountains in the lagoon's crystal-clear waters and observe the native flora and fauna of the Andes, including birds and small mammals.

   The trail offers unique panoramic views, perfect for photography and enjoying nature in its purest form.

   After this experience, we'll stop for a delicious breakfast in a setting surrounded by natural beauty. Finally, we'll begin our return to Quito, taking with us the memories of a day filled with adventure, spectacular scenery, and the majesty of the Ecuadorian Andes.

   Meals: lunch

Prices per person