The park is home to remarkable wildlife diversity, including 500+ bird species, 100+ mammal species, and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Notable mammals include the mountain tapir, spectacled bear, jaguar, and various monkey species. The park serves as a crucial habitat for endangered species like the giant otter and wool-headed tapir. Bird species include the Andean condor, cock-of-the-rock, and various hummingbirds. The park's varied elevation zones support distinct fauna communities, from tropical species in the lowlands to specialized high-altitude animals in the páramo.
Sangay National Park hosts an extraordinary diversity of plant life with over 3,000 documented species. The vegetation zones range from tropical rainforest to high-altitude páramo ecosystems. Notable species include the endangered mountain tapir's food source Polylepis trees, various orchid species, and endemic bromeliads. The park features extensive bamboo forests, cloud forest with abundant epiphytes, and high-altitude cushion plants. The páramo zones contain unique adaptations like the fuzzy Espeletia pycnophylla, while the lower elevations support diverse tropical hardwood species and medicinal plants traditionally used by indigenous communities.
The park's geology is dominated by three active volcanoes: Sangay, Tungurahua, and El Altar. Sangay Volcano, standing at 5,230m, is one of Ecuador's most active volcanoes with near-constant eruptions. The landscape features dramatic geological formations including glacial valleys, lagoons, and extensive lava fields. The park spans multiple geological zones, from the eastern foothills of the Andes to Amazon basin lowlands, creating a remarkable variety of geological features including deep canyons, waterfalls, and glacial formations. Recent volcanic activity has continuously reshaped the terrain.
Sangay National Park was established in 1979 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 due to its exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance. The park's territory has been home to indigenous communities for centuries, particularly the Shuar people in the eastern regions. Archaeological evidence suggests pre-Columbian settlements in the area, with ancient trails crossing through what is now parkland. The park's boundaries were expanded in 1992 to include more diverse ecosystems, growing from its original 271,925 hectares to its current size of approximately 517,765 hectares.
Key attractions include the three active volcanoes, particularly the perfectly conical Sangay Volcano with its frequent eruptions. The park contains over 322 lakes and lagoons, with the stunning El Altar crater lake being a highlight. The Pastaza and Palora river systems create spectacular waterfalls and rapids. Unique geological features include the 'Planchón del Altar,' a massive rock wall, and numerous thermal springs. The park's accessibility varies greatly, with the western section being more accessible for tourism while the eastern regions remain largely pristine and challenging to reach. Several pre-Incan archaeological sites and traditional indigenous territories add cultural significance to the natural wonders.
Sangay National Park experiences diverse climatic conditions due to its dramatic elevation changes (from 900m to 5,230m). The eastern lowlands are characterized by a tropical humid climate with annual rainfall exceeding 3,000mm and temperatures between 18-22°C. The highland areas above 3,000m feature a cold páramo climate with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 10°C. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly around the volcanic peaks, with frequent rainfall, mist, and occasional snowfall at higher elevations. The best visiting period is from December to January when weather tends to be more stable.
Ecuador
-1.9830°, -78.3330°
1979
5177
Sangay National Park features three active volcanoes including the namesake Sangay volcano. The park spans multiple ecosystems from glaciers to tropical rainforest, with exceptional biodiversity. It protects numerous endangered species and contains important archaeological sites from pre-Columbian cultures.