The Ecuador Inca Trail is a historic route that was used by the Incas to connect their empire from what is now Ecuador to Peru. The trail stretches over 200 kilometers and passes through various landscapes, including the Sangay National Park. It starts from the Inga Pirca archaeological site in southern Ecuador and ends at the Ingapirca ruins near Cuenca. The trail is renowned for its natural beauty, archaeological sites, and cultural significance. It is a popular trekking destination for adventurers who seek to explore the Andean highlands and learn about the history of the Inca civilization.
The Sangay National Park is a vast protected area that spans over 500,000 hectares, encompassing the high Andean mountains, cloud forests, and tropical rainforests of Ecuador. The park is known for its breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems.
As the Ecuador Inca Trail crosses through Sangay National Park, trekkers can expect to encounter a variety of landscapes and natural features. They will pass through lush cloud forests filled with orchids, bromeliads, and ferns, as well as open highlands dotted with alpine meadows, Andean grasslands, and paramo wetlands. Along the way, they may also see towering volcanoes, including Sangay and Tungurahua, and catch glimpses of the Amazon Basin in the distance.
In terms of wildlife, Sangay National Park is home to a vast array of species, including some endangered and endemic ones. Among the mammals that can be spotted along the trail are spectacled bears, pumas, mountain tapirs, deer, and various monkey species. Bird enthusiasts will also have a field day as the park is home to over 500 bird species, including Andean condors, eagles, toucans, and hummingbirds.
However, it’s worth noting that the wildlife along the trail may be difficult to spot as the animals are often elusive and shy. Additionally, trekking in the park requires a permit and should be done with a licensed guide who can provide insight into the flora and fauna of the area while ensuring minimal disturbance to the natural habitat.
Cost:
$425 per person
Min 2 hikers
Overview
The trail is renowned for its natural beauty, archaeological sites, and cultural significance. It is a popular trekking destination for adventurers who seek to explore the Andean highlands and learn about the history of the Inca civilization.
