In the province of Pichincha, northwest of Quito, lies the Chocó Andino de Pichincha Biosphere Reserve. The Chocó Andino region includes the humid lowland forests of the Chocó-Darién ecoregion as well as the northern Andean montane forests. The biosphere reserve is home to about 270 mammal species, 210 reptile species, 200 bird species and 130 amphibian species. Exploring nature here therefore means discovering both different types of forest and a diverse array of wildlife. These approximate figures give a concrete sense of the range of animal groups recorded.
Forests and Biodiversity
Mindo offers another perspective on the province’s natural environment: the town lies at an elevation of 1,250 meters above sea level and is considered a natural landmark of Pichincha province. More than 500 bird species can be observed throughout the area around Mindo. Mindo Nambillo Forest is considered one of the places with the greatest biodiversity in the world. Birdwatching and the forest’s biological diversity thus offer two distinct points of interest for nature lovers. As you plan your explorations, you can decide whether you want to focus primarily on birdlife or on the forests.
Archaeology Across Different Periods
Cochasquí Archaeological Park was built between 850 BC and the Spanish conquest in the 1530s. The site covers 85 hectares and includes 15 pyramids and 21 tolas, or burial mounds; it also has museums and a botanical garden. Its construction spans a period reaching far back into the past and up to the beginning of the Spanish conquest. The pyramids, tolas and other features of the park offer several ways to explore the archaeological site.
Rumicucho offers a different historical perspective: Pucara de Rumicucho and “Stone Fortress” are also names for this site. It was built in the 15th century during the Inca Empire and has five large stone terraces. At the equinox, the terraces form a line running from east to west toward the sun. At the Museo de sitio Tulipe in the Chocó Andino Reserve, six pools take center stage; according to current understanding, they served religious purposes. This qualified interpretation is part of their history: their religious use is a current finding, not an absolute certainty.
Quito and Cayambe: Culture and Cuisine
Quito’s historic center is considered the best-preserved and least-altered historic center in Latin America. Another Quito experience is the Teleférico cable car: it reaches 4,050 meters, and its 18-minute ride takes you to Cruz Loma on the slope of the Pichincha volcano. These two details offer different points of reference: the historic center on the one hand, and a ride with a clearly stated duration and elevation on the other.
Cayambe has its own cultural landmark, too. On October 2, 1995, the Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural and the Ministry of Education declared the city a Heritage City. A culinary treat is the combination of freshly baked bizcochos, Queso de Hoja and hot chocolate, which makes for a gastronomic experience in Cayambe. The city thus brings together a dated distinction and a specific combination of local foods.
Explore on Two Wheels
For novice cyclists, the El Chaquiñán route is another way to discover Pichincha. Its 22-kilometer trail passes through Cumbayá, Tumbaco and Puembo and is suitable for beginners. The route can therefore be described by two clear features: its length and its suitability for beginners. As route conditions can change, check the latest conditions before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Mindo, Pifo, Pedro Vicente Maldonado, Sangolqui, Nanegalito, Del Salitre, Tumbaco, Cayambe, Tandayapa, Puembo, San Miguel De Los Bancos, Tabacundo, Machachi, Checa, San Joaquín, Hacienda Tambillo Alto, Parroquia Nono, Gualea, Secas.
For the main travel overview: Ecuador.
