El Altar Mountain

Overview

El Altar Mountain, also known as Capac Urcu, is a stunning stratovolcano located in the Sangay National Park of Ecuador. It is renowned for its distinctive crater formation and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

El Altar Mountain is significant for its geological features and its role as a protected area within the Sangay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Volcano Hiking

Location

Address

Morona-Santiago

Neighborhood: Sangay National Park

Coordinates

-3.216700, -78.216700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$5

Children

$3

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Clear views, fewer clouds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

4 hours

Recommended

1 day

Full Experience

2-3 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Wildflowers
• Clear trails

summer

Warm

• Clear views
• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool

• Fall colors
• Cool breezes

winter

Rainy

• Rainy landscapes
• Lush greenery

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book a guide
Check weather conditions
Carry enough water

What to Bring

essential

Hiking boots Water Rain jacket

seasonal

Warm layers Umbrella

not allowed

Drones Large backpacks

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate to high

• Altitude sickness
• Slippery trails

Medical facilities: First aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $5

guide $50

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

Hiking attire, Layered clothing, Sturdy hiking boots, Inappropriate footwear

Booking Tips

• 1 month
• Local tour operators
• 24 hours
• Guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sangay National Park App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail guides, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Mariscal Sucre International Airport, Quito

Distance: 250 km

Travel Time: 5-6 hours

Private transfer

$100 5 hours

Public transport

$20 6 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

Shared taxi

$5 1.5 hours

Private taxi

$30 1 hour

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Natural beauty and tranquility

Historical Significance: Important to indigenous communities

Insider Tips

Best views from the lagoon
Local guides know secret spots

Local Recommendations

• Try local fruit snacks
• Ask for guide Carlos

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Quechua

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Laguna de El Altar

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Stunning reflections

#Ecuador #Volcano #Hiking

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Protected zones

flash photography Not recommended

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited without permit

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Sangay Volcano

Distance: 30km

Walking: N/A

Type: Volcano

Coca River

Distance: 15km

Walking: 3 hours

Type: River

Reviews

4.7

Based on 500 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Hire a local guide"
"Start early"
"Bring plenty of water"

Contact Information

+593 3 2880581

info@parquesnacionales.gob.ec

www.sangayparque.com

Social Media

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