Chakana Reserve has at least four rock outcrops where the presence of up to 40 Andean Condors (Vultur gryphus), has been recorded. The estimated wild population of Andean Condors in Ecuador is only about 150 individuals, which means that the condors residing in our reserve are crucial for the survival of this species.
The reserve is part of the buffer zone of the Antisana National Park, within the large conservation mosaic that includes the Sumaco-Napo Galeras National Park and the Cayambe-Coca National Park.
Chakana protects high-altitude grasslands and wetlands that are important water sources for nearby communities. Our artificial wetland project within the reserve aids in the recovery of páramo vegetation, serves as a freshwater reservoir, and provides a resting place for migratory birds.
In 2012, the reserve was declared an «Andean Condor Sanctuary» because more than 30% of Ecuador’s Andean Condor population rests in Chakana. With the support of our partners at the Fundación Cóndor Andino, we promote protection activities for the survival of this iconic species.
Other animals that can be observed in the reserve include: the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus), Andean Tapir (Tapirus pinchaque), Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), Ecuadorian Hillstar ((Oreotrochilus chimborazo), Carunculated Caracara (Phalcoboenus carunculatus), Andean Gull (Chroicocephalus serranus), Black-faced Ibis (Theristicus melanopis), Culpeo (Lycalopex culpaeus), Little Red Brocket (Mazama rufina) and Puma (Puma concolor).
As for the flora, notable species such as the high-altitude grasslands, chuquiragua (Chuquiraga jussieui) shrubs, sunfo (Clinopodium nubigenum), valeriana (Valeriana officinalis), chilca (Baccharis latifolia), sacha chocho (Lupinus pubescens) achupalla (Puya hamata), almohadillas (Azorella pedunculata) among other typical páramo species.
From Quito: Take the General Rumiñahui Highway, which leads you to the Valle de los Chillos. After passing, the San Luis Shopping continues until you reach the El Colibrí roundabout. From there, follow the E35 road towards the airport. After 10 minutes, you will arrive at the roundabout that directs traffic to Pintag or the airport. Take the road to Pintag. Pass through the central park of Pintag and then take the road that leads to the Chakana Reserve and the Antisana National Park. The Chakana Reserve is located 40 minutes from Pintag. On the road, you will find a sign indicating the entrance to the reserve.
Every day: Visits by prior reservation only.
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 visitors, residents, and the Andean community.
** Children from 3 to 11 years old
