Sangay National Park
Morona Santiago
Sangay National Park, located in Ecuador's Morona-Santiago and surrounding provinces, is a remarkable natural reserve spanning diverse ecosystems from tropical rainforests to high-altitude páramo moorlands. It encompasses two active volcanoes, Tungurahua and Sangay, as well as the extinct El Altar volcano. The park's terrain ranges from 900 to 5,319 meters above sea level, including glaciers, wetlands fed by 327 lakes, and volcanic landscapes. Its fertile volcanic soils and varied habitats support over 3,000 species of flowering plants and more than 430 bird species, including the iconic Andean Condor and Andean Cock-of-the-rock. The park also shelters endangered mammals like the mountain tapir and spectacled bear, making it a vital refuge for Andean wildlife. Recognized by UNESCO since 1983 for its outstanding biodiversity and geology, the park faced threats in the 1990s but has since been removed from the World Heritage in Danger list. Sangay's complex ecology and geological features offer visitors an unparalleled experience of Ecuador's natural heritage.
Planifiez votre voyage en Équateur avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: The best time to visit Sangay National Park is during the dry season to maximize hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Due to its vast size and rugged terrain, it is recommended to arrange guided tours in advance and secure necessary permits. Visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions across elevations and consider purchasing tickets or permits ahead of time if required. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or local residents, so inquire locally. Proper gear, including hiking boots and rain protection, is essential for exploring the park's diverse environments safely.
Faits intéressants
- •Sangay National Park contains two active volcanoes, Tungurahua and Sangay, and one extinct volcano, El Altar.
- •The park spans elevations from 900 to 5,319 meters, including glaciers and one of Ecuador's largest páramo moorlands.
- •It hosts over 3,000 species of flowering plants and more than 430 bird species, including the Andean Condor and Andean Cock-of-the-rock.
- •The park is a vital refuge for endangered species such as the mountain tapir and spectacled bear.
- •In 2013, a new species of shrew opossum, Caenolestes sangay, was described from specimens collected in the park.
Histoire
Sangay National Park was established to protect its unique volcanic and ecological landscapes, including the active Sangay and Tungurahua volcanoes and the extinct El Altar volcano.
It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 due to its exceptional biodiversity and geological significance.
However, by 1992, the park was listed as endangered because of illegal poaching, grazing, road construction, and encroachment.
Conservation efforts led to its removal from the endangered list in 2005, reflecting improved protection and management of this critical natural area.
Guide du lieu
Tungurahua Volcano
An active volcano known for its frequent eruptions, Tungurahua offers dramatic volcanic landscapes and opportunities for observing volcanic activity from safe vantage points.
Sangay Volcano
One of Ecuador's most active volcanoes, Sangay dominates the park's landscape with its imposing presence and ongoing geological activity.
El Altar Volcano
An extinct volcano featuring rugged terrain and remnants of ancient volcanic activity, El Altar is notable for its historical geological significance within the park.
Páramo Ecosystem
High elevation moorlands that cover one of the largest regions in Ecuador, the páramo supports unique flora and fauna adapted to cold, wet conditions.
Wetland System
Fed by 327 lakes, the wetlands span over 31.5 square kilometers and provide critical habitat for aquatic species and migratory birds.
Contact
Téléphone: (07) 270-2368