Quito , Ecuador

Antisana and Condors Watching Day Trip

Active

(34 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit Antisana Volcano just on a short and interesting drive from Quito. Discover this still unknown natural destination on a day tour, at the fourth highest volcano of Ecuador, watching Andean Condors from a very close distance, unforgettable landscapes and many other exotic creatures, with the most experienced local tour guides, and make your experience in Quito a very fantastic adventure with your family! Go out of the beaten path with us during your journey in Ecuador, and spot as many wild animals in the Andes Mountains as you can!

Available options

Antisana and Condors Watching Day Trip

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Private transportation

Naturalist certified English speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Antisana is a stratovolcano of the northern Andes of Ecuador. It is the fourth highest volcano of the country (5.753 m - 18,874 ft), and is located 60 kilometers southeast from Quito. It is a perfect volcanic cone, compound by two volcanic cones; the oldest one was eroded by an old glacier. Your tour guide will pick you up at 7:00 a.m. from your hotel in Quito, and then he will drive you straight through the eastern mountain range, until the village of Pintag, where you start to drive uphill way to the Ecological Reserve.

At 3.810 meters (12,500 ft), you have big opportunities to spot very interesting fauna, like eagles, carunculated caracaras, white tail deer, foxes, and of course the majestic Andean Condor, considered the largest flying bird of the world and one of the rarest species that probably had survived since the age of the mega beasts (10.000 years approx.)!

You will take a hike through the Andean slopes until the Mica Lake (4.050 m - 13,287 ft), product of the end of the last ice age, in order to have a better view of the volcano and to watch beautiful water birds like Andean lapwings, Andean gulls, Andean coots, Andean ducks, and black-faces ibis, that curiously live in Chile and only in the Antisana Volcano in Ecuador!

After your unbelievable experience in the best Condor's territory of Ecuador, you will drive again back downhill way to the Isco canyon, where the nests and cliffs where condors sleep are! Enjoying more views of these spectacular birds, you will have a traditional and tasty lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying the company of different species of hummingbirds.

You will be back to your hotel approximately at 4:00 p.m. End of this spectacular day at the Ecuadorian Andes!

What's not included

Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Camera, sunscreen lotion, cap or hat, gloves, sun glasses, binoculars, backpack or handbag, comfortable hiking boots, walking shoes or tennis shoes, T-shirt or long sleeves shirt, long trousers, wind breaker or waterproof jacket, warm sweater, and some cash (US dollars) for snacks or drinks.

9 C° - 18 C° / 48,2 F° - 64,4 F

It is responsibility of every traveler that he/she is adequately insured against personal accidents and medical expenses during his/her trip to Ecuador, as well as having travel cancellation and baggage insurance to protect him/her.

Our guides and drivers will follow vehicle cleaning and personal care protocols, with disinfectant products during the tour.

Important notes

Important outfits: Camera, sunscreen lotion, cap or hat, gloves, sun glasses, binoculars, backpack or handbag, comfortable hiking boots, walking shoes or tennis shoes, T-shirt or long sleeves shirt, long trousers, wind breaker or waterproof jacket, warm sweater, and some cash (US dollars) for snacks or drinks.

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park

50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest

80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs

65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.