Begin your high-Andean birding adventure with a 05h30 pickup in Quito, heading east toward the páramo landscapes of the Antisana region. Our first stop is the Antisanilla Reserve, a prime nesting area for the Andean Condor. With luck, we’ll spot these iconic birds gliding along the cliffs, along with other highland raptors like the Carunculated Caracara (Curiquinga) and Variable Hawk. Hummingbirds and colorful highland species also frequent the area.

From here, we continue to Antisana National Park, a spectacular setting of rugged páramo, snow-capped peaks, and volcanic lakes. We’ll explore areas around Laguna de la Mica, where we may see Black-faced Ibis, Andean Lapwing, Silvery Grebe, and other high-altitude specialists. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer or possibly even spectacled bear as we scan the open landscape.

After a rewarding morning of birding, we stop for a well-earned lunch (not included) at a local lodge, perched with panoramic views of the valleys and cliffs—an excellent spot for one last glimpse of condors before heading back to Quito in the afternoon.