Yanacocha was created to protect the Black-breasted Puffleg (Eriocnemis nigrivestis), a critically endangered hummingbird with a very limited range. Studies concluded that it was necessary to preserve a large area of forest to safeguard this species.
As part of the habitat protection and restoration projects for the Black-breasted Puffleg, we have planted a forest of Polylepis pauta, along with native plants that grew in the reserve’s nursery or were acquired from the women’s community nursery in Alambi. These actions enrich the reserve´s ecosystem and ensure its long-term conservation.
In addition to the Black-breasted Puffleg, the reserve is home to other threatened bird species such as the Andean Guan (Penelope montagnii), the Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus), the Imperial Snipe (Gallinago imperialis), and the Giant Conebill (Conirostrum binghami). Other notable birds that can be observed: the Tawny Antpitta (Grallaria quitensis), Rufous Antpitta (Grallaria rufula), Undulated Antpitta (Grallaria squamigera), Chestnut-crowned Antpitta ( (Grallaria ruficapilla), as well as the Ocellated Tapaculo (Acropternis orthonyx), Sword-billed Hummingbird (Ensifera ensifera), Rainbow-bearded Thornbill (Chalcostigma herrani) and Great Sapphirewing (Pterophanes cyanopterus).
Among the mammals, emblematic species such as the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus), Culpeo (Lycalopex culpaeus), Western Mountain Coati (Nasua olivacea), Mountain Paca (Cuniculus taczanowskii), Northern Pudu (Pudu mephistophiles), Little Red Brocket (Mazama rufina), Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), and Puma (Puma concolor).
Additionally, five species of frogs and one reptile have been identified within the reserve.
The reserve’s flora includes genera such as Bomarea, Centropogon, Fuchsia, Macleania, and Palicourea, all of which are vital for the biodiversity and sustainability of this unique habitat.
Located at the entrance of the reserve, it offers a variety of delicious traditional dishes.
Yanacocha is located 45 minutes from Quito, on the western slope of the Pichincha Volcano. From Av. Occidental, take the Machala Avenue overpass and enter the Mena del Hierro neighborhood, heading toward Nono. Approximately 9 km into the route, after passing the Rundupamba Church, you’ll see a sign for the Yanacocha Reserve and a stone road that begins on the left side of the main road. Follow this road for 8 kilometers until you reach the Quito Municipal Drinking Water and Sanitation Company (EPMAPS) facilities, then continue for another 2 kilometers to reach the entrance of the reserve.
Every day: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Last visitor entry: 1:00 PM
All rates are in U.S. dollars
Type of visitors | Rate (per person) |
Foreign | $15 |
National* | $5 |
Elderly adults and children** | $2.50 |
* Special rates for national tourists, residents, and the Andean community.
** Children from 5 to 11 years old
