Why this route is ideal if you are in Quito
Real proximity and easy road
The Píntag Route is only 1 hour by car from Quito, making it a perfect option for a day trip. The road is easy to navigate, so you won’t have any problems getting there.
Quick Tip
- Leave early: To make the most of your day, leave Quito early in the morning.
- Use GPS: Although the road is easy, it’s always helpful to have a GPS or map app on hand.
A day that combines culture, viewpoint, and mountain in the Andean Route of Píntag
This route offers a unique mix of experiences:
- Culture: Visit the Andean village of Píntag and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage.
- Viewpoints: Enjoy panoramic views from the Peñón del Itsco, a volcanic viewpoint.
- Mountain: Explore the Antisana Ecological Reserve and marvel at its mountainous landscapes.
Tomorrow in Píntag: Andean village, viewpoint, and photos with fresh air
Peñón del Itsco: the volcanic viewpoint of the route
As you head towards Píntag, be sure to make a stop at Peñón del Itsco. This place offers incredible views of the Antisana volcano and its surroundings.
Entrance and organization
There is no cost to enter Peñón del Itsco. However, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
What to do
- Take short hikes around the area to get different perspectives of the volcano.
- Take photographs from various angles to capture the majesty of Antisana.
When taking photos, look for elevated or open places where you can include both the paramo and the volcano in the frame. This will give your images a sense of grandeur and spaciousness.
Laguna La Mica: the mirror of Antisana and source of water for Quito
Next, head towards Laguna La Mica. This lagoon is known as the mirror of Antisana due to the impressive reflections that can be seen in its calm waters.
How to get there and what the entrance is like
The entrance to Laguna La Mica is located near the Antisana Ecological Reserve. There is a small fee to enter the protected area, but it is worth it for the beautiful landscapes that await you.
What to see: birds, paramo, and reflections in the Antisana Ecological Reserve
While you are at La Mica, keep your eyes wide open to spot birds. This reserve is home to various species, including flamingos and wild ducks. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding paramo and capture stunning reflections of the volcano in the calm waters of the lagoon.
What to bring
- Camera: Don’t forget your camera to immortalize the magical moments you will experience here.
- Binos or binoculars: If you are a bird lover, bring along a good pair of binoculars to observe them up close.
Afternoon: local food at Tambo Cóndor, birdwatching, and return to Quito without staying up late
As your day progresses, head to Tambo Cóndor to enjoy a delicious lunch with a view. This place offers typical Ecuadorian dishes prepared with fresh and local ingredients.
Lunch with a view: Tambo Cóndor
Not only will you enjoy a tasty meal here, but you will also have stunning panoramas while you eat. Be sure to try their signature dish: cuy asado (roasted guinea pig), a traditional delicacy in this region.
Birdwatching and photos: look for the Andean condor and the black-faced ibis
After lunch, take advantage of this opportunity for birdwatching. The surroundings are natural habitats for both Andean condors and black-faced ibises. Be patient while you wait; these majestic birds can suddenly appear above you or fly over the nearby valleys!
As your adventure comes to an end, start your journey back to Quito without rushing or staying up late. You will be able to return home feeling rejuvenated after exploring this beautiful corner of the world!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The Andean route of Píntag begins at the Central Park of Píntag, passing by the Peñón del Itsco, a volcanic rock formation and natural viewpoint, and culminates at Laguna La Mica, a reservoir fed by the Antisana rivers that supplies Quito.
Access is easy from the Central Park of Píntag and suitable for all vehicles. However, private transportation is recommended for greater comfort if you do not have your own car.
At Laguna La Mica, you can enjoy walking trails, photography, and wildlife observation, including Andean condors and black-faced ibises. Additionally, you must register upon entering the reserve and pay the corresponding entrance fee.
It is recommended to wear warm and waterproof clothing, such as a poncho or waterproof sweater, as well as hiking boots for medium to long walks due to the changing weather and terrain of the high Andean moorland.
Lunch can be enjoyed at Tambo Cóndor, a lodge/restaurant with a view of the valley that offers local dishes such as trout, corn, and Andean potatoes. The average cost is between USD 10-20.
It is recommended to start the return in the afternoon to take advantage of daytime visibility and avoid driving at night in rural areas, thus ensuring a safe trip to Quito.
