Safari in Central Andes & Highlands

Compare Parks in Central Andes & Highlands

Ecosystem - Central Andes & Highlands

We love the sheer drama of Ecuador's Central Andes. The air is thin and crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and wild orchids from the cloud forests. We recommend venturing into the páramo, where the wind whips across vast, otherworldly grasslands dotted with frailejones plants. The sunsets here are sensational, painting the volcanic peaks in hues of orange and purple, a truly unforgettable spectacle.

Dominated by dramatic volcanic cones, steep valleys, and high altitude plateaus.

Getting There - Central Andes & Highlands

While Quito's airport is the most convenient international gateway, don't underestimate the charm of driving. The journey itself is part of the Andean experience, with roadside markets and breathtaking vistas. We always advise renting a sturdy vehicle, preferably with higher clearance, as some secondary roads can be rough, especially after rain.

Weather & Climate in Central Andes & Highlands

The warmest temperatures in Central Andes & Highlands occur in February, averaging 10.2°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 9.3°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 142.7mm. Average humidity: 82.5%.

Monthly Temperatures

• January: 9.8°C (rainfall: 289.5mm)
• February: 10.2°C (rainfall: 301.6mm)
• March: 10.0°C (rainfall: 357.3mm)
• April: 10.1°C (rainfall: 387.0mm)
• May: 10.2°C (rainfall: 342.1mm)
• June: 9.4°C (rainfall: 239.6mm)
• July: 9.3°C (rainfall: 196.1mm)
• August: 9.3°C (rainfall: 142.7mm)
• September: 9.5°C (rainfall: 148.8mm)
• October: 9.8°C (rainfall: 226.3mm)
• November: 9.9°C (rainfall: 203.9mm)
• December: 9.8°C (rainfall: 280.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Central Andes & Highlands

The best months to visit Central Andes & Highlands are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

• January: Poor, temperature 9.8°C, rainfall 289.5mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 87.6%
• February: Poor, temperature 10.2°C, rainfall 301.6mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 88.6%
• March: Poor, temperature 10°C, rainfall 357.3mm, sunshine 7.7 hrs, humidity 88.4%
• April: Poor, temperature 10.1°C, rainfall 387mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 88.4%
• May: Poor, temperature 10.2°C, rainfall 342.1mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 88.1%
• June: Poor, temperature 9.4°C, rainfall 239.6mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 86.5%
• July: Poor, temperature 9.3°C, rainfall 196.1mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 84.9%
• August: Poor, temperature 9.3°C, rainfall 142.7mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 82.5%
• September: Poor, temperature 9.5°C, rainfall 148.8mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 81.6%
• October: Poor, temperature 9.8°C, rainfall 226.3mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 85.2%
• November: Poor, temperature 9.9°C, rainfall 203.9mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 85.6%
• December: Poor, temperature 9.8°C, rainfall 280.3mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 88.8%

Recommended Packing List for Central Andes & Highlands

Based on average temperature of 9.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 86%.

• Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 10°C require warm insulation
• Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
• Binoculars - essential for every game drive
• Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
• Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
• Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
• Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
• First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
• Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
• Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Wildlife in Central Andes & Highlands

Home to 127 recorded species including 38 birds of prey, 32 iconic birds, 25 tropical birds, 21 waterbirds, 4 predators, 2 big herbivores.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ecuador

Travel advisory for Ecuador

Central Andes & Highlands FAQs

How can I best prepare for the high altitude when visiting Ecuador's Central Andes & Highlands?

To minimize the effects of altitude sickness, plan for a gradual ascent, spending a day or two in Quito (2,850m) before heading to higher elevations. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid alcohol and heavy meals upon arrival. Consulting your doctor about altitude medication like Diamox before your trip is also advisable.

What unique wildlife and plant life can I expect to encounter in the diverse ecosystems of Ecuador's Central Andes?

The Central Andes are home to remarkable species like the majestic Andean condor soaring above páramo grasslands and the elusive spectacled bear in cloud forests. You might also spot various hummingbirds, Andean foxes, and a rich array of unique orchids and bromeliads adapted to these high-altitude environments.

What types of adventure and cultural activities are popular in Ecuador's Central Andes, beyond typical safari game drives?

This region offers incredible opportunities for hiking and climbing active volcanoes like Cotopaxi, mountain biking down scenic trails, and exploring indigenous markets such as Otavalo. You can also enjoy horseback riding through haciendas, birdwatching in cloud forests, or relaxing in natural hot springs.

When is the best time to visit Ecuador's Central Andes & Highlands, and what kind of weather should I anticipate?

The dry season, typically from June to September and again from December to January, offers clearer skies and better conditions for hiking and volcano climbing. However, the Andean weather is highly unpredictable, so expect cool temperatures, strong sun, and potential rain showers year-round, making layers essential.

Are there specific safety considerations for exploring the active volcanoes and high-altitude trails in Ecuador's Central Andes?

For climbing active volcanoes or undertaking challenging high-altitude treks, it is highly recommended to hire experienced local guides who are familiar with the terrain and safety protocols. Always check current volcano activity alerts and ensure you have appropriate cold-weather gear, sturdy hiking boots, and sun protection for these exposed environments.

Recommended Books

• The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
• Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
• Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
• National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
• The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
• Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
• Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
• The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
• The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
• Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
• African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
• Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
• Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
• The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
• The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
• Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
• When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
• Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
• Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
• Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
• Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
• Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
• Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
• Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
• Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.