Welcome to Ilinizas Ecological Reserve

Zone Description

Located in the Provinces of: Pichincha and Cotopaxi
Established: December 11, 1996 Resolution No. 066
Area: 149,900 hectares -370,398 acres
Altitude Range: 800 - 5,265 meters above sea level
Life Zones: bmhPM, bhPM, bhMB, BmhM, bpSA

Description of the Region:

This region includes the peaks of El Corazon and the Ilinizas which form a geological barrier in the western Andes where the humidity from the coast condenses. The principal tributaries of the Esmeraldas, Toachi, and Pilatón rivers originate here and flow through the remains of primary forests found in this region.

This area is home to a number of scenic attractions for visitors. However, there are insufficient facilities to meet tourists' needs. Nearby towns offer a few of the basic services necessary.