Explore the Serenity of Yanacocha Biological Reserve
Discover the exquisite biodiversity and serene landscapes of Yanacocha Biological Reserve, a premier nature preserve near Quito, Ecuador.
Nestled in the breathtaking Andes near Quito, Yanacocha Biological Reserve presents a stunning array of biodiversity, captivating travelers with its lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife. This nature preserve is a sanctuary for numerous bird species and offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and tourists alike. With well-maintained trails and rich flora, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty that Ecuador has to offer.
A brief summary to Yanacocha Biological Reserve
- VCQ8+832, Unnamed Road, Quito, EC
- +593997101535
- Monday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings, especially for birdwatching.
- Dress in layers; the weather can change quickly in the Andean region.
- Bring a good pair of binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience.
- Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited within the reserve.
- Check the reserve's opening hours before your visit to plan accordingly.
Getting There
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Bus
From the city center (La Mariscal area), walk to the nearest bus stop on Avenida 6 de Diciembre. Take the Trolebus (line T3) towards El Chiche. Get off at the 'La Ofelia' station. From there, transfer to any bus heading towards 'Pifo' or 'El Quinche'. After about 30 minutes, get off at the 'Yanacocha' stop. From the bus stop, walk approximately 15 minutes uphill along the Unnamed Road to reach the Yanacocha Biological Reserve.
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Taxi
Find a taxi in the city center (La Mariscal area) or use a ride-hailing app like Cabify. Inform the driver to take you to Yanacocha Biological Reserve, located at VCQ8+832, Unnamed Road, Quito. The journey takes about 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in La Mariscal. Head east toward Avenida 6 de Diciembre, then continue on this road until you reach the 'La Ofelia' area. From there, follow the route towards the Unnamed Road leading to Yanacocha Biological Reserve. The ride will take about 1 hour and is recommended only for those comfortable with cycling in urban areas.