Podocarpus National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot
Explore Podocarpus National Park, Ecuador: a biodiverse paradise with hiking trails, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife in the heart of the Andes.
Podocarpus National Park, nestled in southeastern Ecuador, is a megadiverse sanctuary stretching across the provinces of Loja and Zamora Chinchipe. Known as the 'Botanical Garden of America,' it protects over 4,000 plant species and diverse wildlife across varied ecosystems.
A brief summary to Podocarpus Park
- R336+RXF, Numambi, EC
Local tips
- Visit between September and December for the best weather and colors.
- Bring appropriate gear for hiking, including rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a richer experience and to spot more wildlife.
- Check with park rangers for trail conditions and safety information before embarking on a hike.
- Be aware that some areas may require pre-booked permits or have limited access.
Getting There
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Bus
From Loja, take a bus south towards Vilcabamba or Zamora. For the Cajanuma entrance, alight near the park entrance on the Loja-Vilcabamba road. For the Bombuscaro entrance, travel to Zamora and then follow local signs to the park. Bus fares from Loja to Zamora typically range from $2 to $4.
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Taxi
Taxis can be hired from Loja or Zamora to reach the park entrances. A taxi from Loja to the Cajanuma entrance will cost approximately $10-$15. From Zamora to the Bombuscaro entrance, expect to pay around $5-$10. Confirm the price before starting your journey.
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Walking
Once at either the Cajanuma or Bombuscaro entrance, walking is the primary way to explore the park's trails. From the Bombuscaro entrance, it's about a kilometer's walk to the park buildings where you pay the $10 entrance fee. Ensure you have appropriate footwear and supplies for hiking.
Discover more about Podocarpus Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Podocarpus Park
0.0 km
Explore Podocarpus National Park, Ecuador: a biodiverse paradise with hiking trails, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife in the heart of the Andes.
Ministerio de Turismo - Oficina de Zamora Chinchipe
14.4 km
Plan your adventure in Ecuador's Amazonian paradise: Find information, maps, and tips at the Tourism Office of Zamora Chinchipe.
INFOCENTRO MUNICIPAL ZAMORA CHINCHIPE
14.4 km
Your go-to source for local information and services in Zamora Chinchipe, Ecuador.
Gobernación de Zamora Chinchipe
14.5 km
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Hotel Wampushkar
14.5 km
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Malecón de Zamora
14.6 km
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Cantón Zamora
14.7 km
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Sultana del Oriente Zamora Chinchipe
14.7 km
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Consejo Nacional Electoral, Zamora Chinchipe
15.2 km
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zamora chinchipe
15.2 km
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Centro de Interpretación Cultural Shuar
19.6 km
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Hostería "El Arenal"
22.8 km
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Hostería Castillo Real Zamora- Hotel, Restaurante, Piscinas, Senderismo en Zamora Chinchipe, Ancas de Rana y Tilapias
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Abra de Zamora
32.3 km
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Parque de Vilcabamba
32.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Parque Nacional Podocarpus
12.9 km
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REFUGIO ECOLOGICO TZANKA
14.4 km
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Cascada El Aventurero
17.3 km
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Cascada EL PALTO
27.6 km
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Rumi Wilco Nature Reserve
31.7 km
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Podocarpus National Park
32.2 km
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Vilcabamba
32.8 km
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Jardín Botánico Reinaldo Espinosa
33.9 km
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Teleférico Loja
35.0 km
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Colinas del Pucará Park
35.0 km
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Recorrido Murales
36.1 km
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Plaza de San Sebastián
36.3 km
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Santuario Católico Eucarístico San Sebastián | Loja
36.3 km
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Independence Square "San Sebastian"
36.3 km
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Calle Lourdes
36.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Don Pepe
13.7 km
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El Parador Del Rio
13.9 km
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Semillas
14.2 km
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Café Cultural - Café & Cerveza Artesanal
14.5 km
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El Pirata Cordovez Zamora
14.6 km
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El Señor Encocado
14.6 km
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Oasis del Sabor
14.6 km
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Imperio Picadas y Micheladas
14.6 km
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Grill & Snacks Cafe Parrilla Restaurante Zamora
14.6 km
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Boulevard de Zamora
14.6 km
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Dayana Asadero Marisquería
14.8 km
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Casa Sandra
15.3 km
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Arkaico Bar Café
15.6 km
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EL SABOR CASERO RESTAURANT
18.8 km
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ANDER ROOFTOP
22.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
pintura 1 centro comercial zamora
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Tía Zamora
14.4 km
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Tienda Cristian
18.7 km
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Del Páramo
32.3 km
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Vilcaterra
32.4 km
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La Baguette Boulangerie
32.5 km
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Cerro Mandango
34.1 km
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El Cardenal Hotel.
35.2 km
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Tienda Santa Elena
35.3 km
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Bendita Shop
35.5 km
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Tienda Andres
35.5 km
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Planta de Producción de APEOSAE
35.5 km
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Supermaxi
35.7 km
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Zaruz
35.9 km
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EuroFashion_Loja
35.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stress Disco Bar
13.7 km
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Duque -Bar Cóctel Xpress
14.4 km
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Masharos Café Bar Karaoke
14.4 km
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COLORS COCKTAIL BAR
14.6 km
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El Teatro
14.6 km
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CASA CORONA
14.6 km
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La Maceta Resto Bar
15.7 km
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JHONN BAR (EXPERIENCE)
34.6 km
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La Sintética Bar
34.6 km
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D leo´s bar
35.8 km
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Taita Pacho
35.8 km
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Lovely Nights Disco Bar
35.8 km
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siembra pincheria bar
36.0 km
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Chill House
36.0 km
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Bar Orillas del Zamora
36.1 km
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