Podocarpus

The southeastern tip of Ecuador is an exceptionally biodiverse area. The Podocarpus National Park (Parque Nacional Podocarpus) created there stretches from 900 to 3600 m above sea level. Thanks to this, you can admire a huge cross-section of vegetation, and the landscape itself is also incredibly diverse. All because it is the meeting place of four ecological systems : Northern Andes, Southern Andes, Amazon and the Pacific.

Podocarpus, Ecuador - © Brate

It is estimated that about 40% of all plants occurring there are endemic species. There are also a lot of animals, including between 600 and 800 species of birds, and pumas, tapirs, deer and other smaller or larger mammals. Of course, you can find here a lot of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. The Los Miradores route that crosses the Loja, Vilcabamba and Malacatos valleys is very popular. Many routes also lead to lakes, of which there are over 100 in the park.

For whom?

Podocarpus is quite a niche attraction in Ecuador. Therefore, if you are looking for a place where you will be able to cut yourself off from civilization and lose yourself in the beauty of nature, this national park will be the perfect proposition for you. It is also an excellent direction for ornithologists and botanists.