Parque Nacional Cayambe-Coca

Cayambe Coca National Park: Ecuador’s Hidden Wilderness of Waterfalls and Volcanoes

If you’re searching for a destination where misty cloud forests meet towering volcanoes and pristine alpine lakes, look no further than Cayambe Coca National Park. Located in the northern Andes of Ecuador, this vast protected area spans over 400,000 hectares, covering parts of the provinces of Pichincha, Imbabura, Napo, and Sucumbíos. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for breathtaking landscapes, this park offers some of the most diverse ecosystems and dramatic scenery in the country.

🏞️ Why Visit Cayambe Coca National Park?

• Marvel at the towering Cayambe Volcano, the third highest peak in Ecuador at 5,790 meters, and the only snow-capped volcano directly on the equator.
• Explore diverse ecosystems, from páramo grasslands and cloud forests to pristine lagoons and high-altitude wetlands.
• Discover powerful waterfalls like San Rafael Waterfall (formerly Ecuador’s largest waterfall) and the stunning Dué Waterfall.
• Spot unique wildlife, including spectacled bears, Andean condors, mountain tapirs, and a rich variety of hummingbirds.
• Relax in the natural thermal baths of Papallacta, surrounded by lush mountains and misty valleys.

📍 How to Get There

The park is accessible from multiple entry points. From Quito, the most popular access is through the Papallacta Pass, just a 1.5-hour drive east of the city. You can also enter through the towns of Cayambe or Baeza for alternative routes. Public buses connect to these towns, but hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour is recommended for exploring deeper into the park.

🗺️ Top Things to Do in Cayambe Coca National Park

• Climb Cayambe Volcano: For experienced mountaineers, summiting Cayambe is an unforgettable challenge with spectacular views from the equator’s highest glacier.
• Visit the Papallacta Hot Springs: Soak in the thermal pools surrounded by misty mountains—a perfect way to relax after a day of hiking.
• Hike to Lagoons and Waterfalls: Explore scenic trails leading to hidden lagoons like Laguna San Marcos and waterfalls cascading through dense forests.
• Wildlife Watching: Bring binoculars to spot rare Andean wildlife, including the elusive spectacled bear and a variety of endemic bird species.
• Explore the Páramo: Trek through Ecuador’s high-altitude grasslands and marvel at the otherworldly landscapes filled with frailejones and unique flora.

📅 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September, when hiking conditions are more favorable, and skies are clearer for mountain views. However, the park’s ecosystems thrive year-round, and the cloud forests and páramo have a mystical beauty even during the rainy season from October to May.

💡 Travel Tips

• Dress in Layers: Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes. Be prepared for cold temperatures and sudden rain.
• Acclimate to the Altitude: Many areas of the park sit above 3,000 meters. Take time to acclimate if you’re not used to high altitudes.
• Bring Cash: ATMs are scarce near the park entrances, and most small communities prefer cash payments.
• Consider a Guide: Trails aren’t always well-marked, and a local guide can enrich your experience with knowledge of wildlife and ecosystems.
• Practice Responsible Tourism: Leave no trace, stick to marked trails, and respect the fragile environment and local communities.

📸 Final Thoughts

Cayambe Coca National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience the wild beauty of Ecuador’s highlands. From volcanic peaks to serene lagoons and thermal springs, every corner of this park offers a new discovery. Whether you’re conquering the heights of Cayambe or soaking in the soothing waters of Papallacta, this hidden gem will leave you in awe of Ecuador’s natural wonders.