Cayambe town, volcano and ecological reserve

Cayambe is 45 minutes north of Quito. This quiet village, famous for its milk and biscuit production, is the gateway to the snowcapped mountain of the same name. One of its traditions is the celebration of the San Pedro and San Pablo festival in June.

Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve

Covering over 400,000 hectares in area the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve is located in the provinces of Pichincha, Imbabura, and Sucumbíos. Its main attraction is the snowcapped peak of Cayambe volcano. Towering 5,790 m above sea level, Cayambe attracts mountaineering buffs from all over the globe. Those not bent on climbing to the dizzying altitudes of Cayambe flock to the Reserve to hike around its many lakes and through its vast forests. Moreover, the hot springs of Papallacta, which lie at the park’s entrance just two hours from Quito, are another very popular destination, especially on weekends.