Ecuador is home to 11 incredible national parks, each offering a glimpse into the country’s breathtaking diversity. My wife and I were amazed by the variety of landscapes we encountered—from towering mountains and dense rainforests to serene coastlines and volcanic craters. These parks truly have something for everyone, whether you’re looking to hike, swim, bike, or simply marvel at the unique wildlife.
During our trip, we had the chance to visit a few of these parks, each leaving us with unforgettable memories. Below is a list of Ecuador’s national parks—take a look and see which ones might inspire your own adventure!
Cotopaxi National Park
Located across the provinces of Pichincha, Napo, and Cotopaxi, Cotopaxi National Park quickly became one of the highlights of our trip to Ecuador. Just a two-hour drive from Quito, it’s perfect for a day trip, but my wife and I decided to extend our visit with an overnight stay at a charming hacienda-style lodge. The cozy ambiance and spectacular views made it an unforgettable experience.
The park’s centerpiece is the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, which towers at an impressive 5,897 meters (19,347 feet). For adventure seekers, climbing Cotopaxi is an incredible opportunity, but proper preparation is key. My wife and I made sure to acclimatize to the altitude beforehand, even taking ChlorOxygen for a couple of weeks before our trip. It made a noticeable difference in how we handled the elevation. The effort was well worth it, as the panoramic views from the park left us completely awestruck.
Cotopaxi National Park offers so much more than just its iconic volcano, and my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring its other highlights. One of our favorite spots was the scenic Limpiopungo Lake, where we took a leisurely hike surrounded by stunning landscapes and even spotted a few wild horses grazing nearby. It was the perfect place to pause and snap photos that captured the park’s natural beauty.
For those craving more adventure, the park also offers mountain biking down the volcanic scree slopes—a thrilling activity we’ve already added to our bucket list for our next visit. History enthusiasts will appreciate visiting Pucará Del Salitre to explore the fascinating ancient Incan ruins tucked away in the park.
We were lucky with the weather, but for the clearest views of Cotopaxi and its surroundings, the dry and windy season from mid-July to early October is the ideal time to visit. The crisp air and vibrant landscapes during this period make the experience even more magical.
El Cajas National Park
Location: Azuay province
El Cajas National Park, located less than an hour from Cuenca in Azuay province, was one of the most peaceful and breathtaking places my wife and I visited in Ecuador. It’s a beloved escape for locals, and we quickly understood why. The rugged peaks, shimmering lakes, and mix of moorland and cloud forests create a setting that feels straight out of a storybook. As we strolled by the lagoons, we spotted Andean ducks gliding across the water and mountain gulls soaring above—a serene moment we won’t forget.
What fascinated us most about El Cajas was its unique geography. Positioned along the continental divide, the park feeds rivers that flow eastward to the Amazon and westward to the Pacific. This natural divide supports an incredible variety of habitats, and it felt like every corner of the park was alive with diverse wildlife. It’s the kind of place that leaves you in awe of Ecuador’s natural beauty.
Yasuni National Park
Location: Pastaza and Orellana provinces
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Established in 1979 and recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Yasuni National Park left my wife and me absolutely awestruck. Known as one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth, this park is where the Andes, the Amazon rainforest, and the equator converge—a rare combination that creates a haven for an incredible array of plant and animal species. Walking through this lush environment, it felt like we were stepping into another world.
To visit Yasuni, we booked a stay at an Amazon lodge, which turned out to be one of the most immersive experiences of our trip. The excursions included serene river journeys and guided rainforest hikes, where we marveled at the vibrant wildlife around us. From colorful birds and curious monkeys to unique plants we’d only ever seen in documentaries, Yasuni offered an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the Amazon. It’s a place that truly showcases the magic of Ecuador’s natural heritage.
Podocarpus National Park
Location: Loja and Zamora provinces
Podocarpus National Park, near Ecuador’s southern border with Peru, was a highlight of our journey through the country’s diverse landscapes. Known as “The Botanical Garden of America,” it boasts Ecuador’s only native conifer species, all part of the Podocarpus family, and features 50 glacial lakes that took our breath away. Recognized as a Ramsar site and Biosphere Reserve, the park’s extraordinary plant and wildlife diversity made it feel like we had stepped into a living museum.
We entered the park through Loja, where shorter trails gave us a wonderful introduction to the region’s unique flora and fauna. The trails were manageable yet rewarding, perfect for a relaxed day of exploring. On another visit, we hope to explore the eastern entrance near Zamora, where the warmer climate promises an entirely different ecosystem. The idea of contrasting two such distinct environments within the same park is one of the reasons Podocarpus felt so special to us.
Machalilla National Park
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Location: Manabi province
Established in 1979, Machalilla National Park was one of the most diverse and fascinating places my wife and I visited in Ecuador. Designed to protect both the natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the region, the park offers a mix of dry and foggy forests, beautiful coastlines, beaches, and marine waters. For us, it was the perfect blend of nature and history.
We spent time in the town of Agua Blanca, where we explored a museum showcasing ancient ruins that revealed the area’s rich cultural history. The highlight, though, was the sulfur-rich lagoon, which locals claim has health benefits. Taking a dip in its mineral-rich waters was a unique and refreshing experience.
Another unforgettable moment was our trip to Isla de la Plata, an uninhabited island within the park. We hiked one of the five trails and were rewarded with incredible bird-watching opportunities, spotting frigates and the famous blue-footed boobies up close. It was a magical place that combined adventure with the chance to appreciate Ecuador’s remarkable biodiversity.
Galapagos National Park
Location: Galapagos Islands
Galapagos National Park, Ecuador’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the crown jewel of our trip. Spanning 97% of the Galapagos Islands, it includes 21 islands, 18 of which are significant, and an expansive marine area of 17,000 square miles (45,000 square kilometers). The sheer scale and diversity of the park left my wife and me in awe.
We loved hiking some of the park’s most iconic spots. On San Cristobal Island, we tackled the trail to Cerro Tijeretas, enjoying spectacular views of the coast and a chance to spot frigatebirds gliding overhead. On Isabela Island, walking to the Wall of Tears was both scenic and humbling, with its historical significance adding depth to the journey.
One of our most memorable stops was the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz. It was fascinating to see the efforts to preserve the Galápagos Giant Tortoises and learn about Darwin’s work that revolutionized our understanding of natural selection.
The islands are a living showcase of unique and endangered species, like Marine Iguanas, Galápagos Penguins, and the iconic tortoises. We flew in from Guayaquil and stayed several days, giving us enough time to soak in the natural beauty and unforgettable wildlife encounters that the Galapagos are famous for.
Sangay National Park
Location: Tungurahua, Chimborazo, and Morona Santiago provinces
Founded in 1979 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Sangay National Park was one of the most striking places my wife and I explored on Ecuador’s mainland. Stretching between the Amazon Basin and the towering Andes, the park’s vastness and diversity made it a true natural wonder.
We were amazed by the variety of landscapes—from rugged mountain ranges and glaciers to lush rainforests and serene meadows. Dominated by the Andes, the park features the active Sangay and Tungurahua volcanoes, as well as the extinct El Altar volcano, which added an extra sense of adventure to our visit.
What stood out most was the incredible biodiversity. We learned that the park is home to critically endangered species like the Mountain Tapir and the Spectacled Bear, creatures we’d only ever read about. In the moorlands, we marveled at plants uniquely adapted to the cold, like bunch grasses and cushion plants, which thrive in areas enriched by volcanic ash. It was fascinating to see how life constantly adapts in such a dynamic environment, with ongoing ecological succession creating new habitats. Sangay National Park left us deeply impressed by Ecuador’s resilience and beauty.
Cayambe Coca National Park
Location: Sucumbios, Pichincha, Napo, and Imbabura province
Cayambe-Coca National Park was a fascinating stop during our journey through Ecuador, as it bridges the Amazon Basin rainforest with the highlands surrounding the majestic Cayambe volcano. The park’s rich biodiversity amazed my wife and me, offering the chance to see spectacled bears, Andean condors, and even armadillos. We didn’t spot all of these elusive animals, but the sheer number of species—116 amphibians, 70 reptiles, 395 birds, and 106 mammals—left us in awe of the park’s incredible wildlife.
What made our visit even more special was learning about the indigenous communities that call the park home. The Quechua of Oyacachi and the Cofán of Sinangoé have lived here for generations, preserving their traditions while coexisting with this protected environment. It was inspiring to witness the harmonious relationship between the people and nature.
One of the most memorable highlights for us was the orchid reserve along the Cascada San Rafael trails. Lovingly curated by Edgar Guerrero, this unique spot showcases orchids he rescues from the wild, planting them on a slope and studying the perfect conditions for each to thrive. Walking through the reserve felt like stepping into a living artwork, and it’s a must-see for any nature lover visiting Cayambe-Coca.
Llanganates National Park
Location: Tungurahua, Pastaza, Napo, and Cotopaxi provinces
Llanganates National Park was one of the most enchanting places my wife and I visited during our time in Ecuador. A breathtaking mix of cloud forests, montane forests, lagoons, and páramo moors, the park felt like a dreamscape. With over 200 lagoons scattered across its wetlands, it’s no surprise that the park was designated a Ramsar Wetland in 2008. The serene beauty of these lagoons was a highlight of our adventure.
The park is steeped in mystery, famously linked to the legend of the Llanganates Treasure, which Inca general Rumiñahui is said to have hidden somewhere in its vast expanse. While we didn’t go searching for treasure, the allure of the story added an extra layer of intrigue to our visit.
One of the park’s most popular spots is Cerro Hermoso, a stunning mountain peak standing at 4,571 meters. Though we didn’t climb it, the views from nearby trails were unforgettable. Seeing Ecuador’s unique paper tree forests and lush, broad-leaved plants up close was a reminder of the incredible biodiversity this park protects. Llanganates truly felt like a place where history and nature collide in the most magical way.
Yacuri National Park
Location: Zamora Chinchipe and Loja provinces
Yacuri National Park, nestled along Ecuador’s border with Peru, was a serene escape that my wife and I found truly captivating. Spanning the provinces of Loja and Zamora Chinchipe, it forms part of the Podocarpus-El Condor Biosphere Reserve, showcasing a remarkable variety of ecosystems. From its cloud forests to brush plains and 46 stunning high-altitude lakes, Yacuri felt like a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
We were particularly fascinated by the park’s role as a vital water source, encompassing the headwaters of two major water basins: Chinchipe-Mayo to the east and Catamayo-Chira to the west. Walking through the park, we marveled at its geological diversity. The western slopes revealed rugged andesitic lavas and rhyolite, while the eastern side was adorned with shimmering quartzites and gneisses. It was like walking through a natural geology exhibit.
The lush landscape, dotted with lagoons, streams, and bogs, had a tranquil charm. Grasses and mosses thrived in the wet, boggy areas, while Polylepis trees created a striking contrast on the nearby slopes. Seeing thick layers of lichens clinging to the rocks added to the park’s raw, untouched beauty. Yacuri left us with a sense of peace and appreciation for Ecuador’s lesser-known treasures.
Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park
Location: Sucumbios, Orellana, and Napo provinces
Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park was a true highlight of our Ecuador adventure, offering a stunning variety of landscapes that felt like stepping into a dream. From the majestic Sumaco volcano and the rugged Galeras mountains to lush cloud forests and tranquil lagoons, the park seemed to have it all. Although we didn’t hike to the volcano itself, we learned about the three refuges available for trekkers: El Mirador, the one near Wawa Sumaco crater lake, and Pava Yacu—all offering unique experiences for those up for the challenge.
As nature enthusiasts, my wife and I were thrilled to explore what is considered a birdwatcher’s paradise. With 280 recorded bird species—and likely many more yet to be discovered—it felt like every turn revealed another avian wonder. Even though we’re not expert birdwatchers, spotting vibrant species flitting through the trees was a memorable highlight.
The park is also a sanctuary for rare wildlife, and while we didn’t have the luck to spot them all, just knowing that giant anteaters, cougars, mountain tapirs, and spectacled bears roam these untouched areas made the experience feel magical. Sumaco Napo-Galeras left us in awe of Ecuador’s rich and still-mysterious biodiversity.
Conclusion
Ecuador’s breathtaking biodiversity left a profound impression on my wife and me, and it was heartwarming to see how deeply Ecuadorians value their natural heritage. Each of the 11 national parks we explored felt like a testament to their dedication to preserving the country’s stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. These parks aren’t just protected areas—they’re sanctuaries that ensure future generations can experience the same awe and wonder we felt.
After immersing ourselves in the beauty of these parks, we realized how much more there is to discover in Ecuador. Each visit left us inspired to keep exploring, and we can’t wait to return someday to uncover even more of this incredible country.
Planning trip to Ecuador?
My wife and I rented a car for 15 days and traveled from the northern part of Ecuador to the south, visiting amazing cities like Quito, Otavalo, Baños, Cuenca, and Guayaquil. Along the way, we explored iconic places such as Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Lake, and many more breathtaking destinations.
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