Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa is a protected area in Ecuador.

Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa at a Glance

Location
Central Andes & Highlands, Ecuador, Central & South America
Coordinates
-0.443113, -78.502960
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
June to November for Galápagos. Year-round for Amazon and cloud forest.

Getting to Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Internacional Jumandy (TNW), 123 km away.

Big Five in Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Mountain Lion.

Weather & Climate in Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

The warmest temperatures in Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa occur in May, averaging 11.6°C (up to 17.3°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 10.9°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in September with average rainfall of 60.8mm. Average humidity: 68.4%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 11.2°C (rainfall: 116.9mm)
  • February: 11.6°C (rainfall: 142.1mm)
  • March: 11.1°C (rainfall: 181.1mm)
  • April: 11.2°C (rainfall: 236.4mm)
  • May: 11.6°C (rainfall: 193.5mm)
  • June: 10.9°C (rainfall: 130.0mm)
  • July: 11.4°C (rainfall: 65.5mm)
  • August: 11.5°C (rainfall: 60.9mm)
  • September: 11.6°C (rainfall: 60.8mm)
  • October: 11.4°C (rainfall: 127.2mm)
  • November: 11.2°C (rainfall: 112.9mm)
  • December: 11.2°C (rainfall: 151.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

The best months to visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa are July, August, September, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 11.19°C, rainfall 116.9mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 80.6%
  • February: Poor, temperature 11.55°C, rainfall 142.1mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 82.2%
  • March: Poor, temperature 11.1°C, rainfall 181.1mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 83.3%
  • April: Poor, temperature 11.18°C, rainfall 236.4mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 83.2%
  • May: Poor, temperature 11.59°C, rainfall 193.5mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 81.1%
  • June: Poor, temperature 10.9°C, rainfall 130mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 78.4%
  • July: Good, temperature 11.42°C, rainfall 65.5mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 72.2%
  • August: Good, temperature 11.54°C, rainfall 60.9mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 69.4%
  • September: Good, temperature 11.56°C, rainfall 60.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 68.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 11.37°C, rainfall 127.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • November: Poor, temperature 11.2°C, rainfall 112.9mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 79.5%
  • December: Poor, temperature 11.15°C, rainfall 151.8mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 82.8%

Wildlife in Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

Home to 47 recorded species including 14 birds of prey, 13 waterbirds, 12 iconic birds, 4 tropical birds, 3 predators, 1 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

Based on average temperature of 11.3°C, typical conditions, humidity 78%.

  • Layered clothing - recommended for 11°C temperatures
  • Fleece or warm jacket - essential for cool mornings and evenings
  • 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

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa

28 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Central Andes & Highlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ecuador

Travel advisory for Ecuador

Refugio de Vida Silvestre y Bosque de Proteccion Pasochoa FAQs

What unique wildlife can I expect to see at Refugio Pasochoa, particularly for birdwatching enthusiasts?

Refugio Pasochoa is renowned as a critical habitat for the Andean Condor, offering excellent opportunities to spot this magnificent bird in its natural environment. Beyond condors, the refuge boasts over 130 bird species, including various hummingbirds, tanagers, and the rare Black-breasted Puffleg, making it a prime destination for serious birdwatchers.

When is the best time of year to visit Refugio Pasochoa for hiking and optimal views of the volcano?

The dry season, typically from June to September, offers the most favorable conditions for hiking the trails of Pasochoa and enjoying clear views of the surrounding Andean peaks, including the volcano itself. During these months, rainfall is minimal, and skies are generally clearer, enhancing both trekking safety and photographic opportunities.

What types of activities are available at Refugio Pasochoa besides wildlife observation, and what should I expect regarding trail difficulty?

In addition to exceptional birdwatching, Pasochoa offers several well-maintained hiking trails ranging from easy interpretive walks to more challenging ascents towards the volcano's crater rim. Expect varying terrain, from cloud forest paths to open páramo, with some trails requiring moderate fitness and appropriate gear for altitude and potentially muddy conditions.

What are the typical entry fees and accessibility options for Refugio Pasochoa, and are there any specific safety precautions for high-altitude trekking?

Entry fees for Refugio Pasochoa are generally modest, contributing to its conservation efforts, and can be paid upon arrival at the park entrance. While accessible by private vehicle or organized tours from Quito, visitors should be prepared for high altitudes (up to 4,200 meters) by acclimatizing beforehand, staying hydrated, and being aware of symptoms of altitude sickness.

How does Refugio Pasochoa contribute to conservation, and what role do visitors play in supporting these efforts?

Refugio Pasochoa is a vital protected area primarily focused on conserving the last remnants of humid montane forest in the inter-Andean valley and protecting the Andean Condor population. Visitor entry fees and responsible tourism directly fund park maintenance, anti-poaching efforts, and educational programs, ensuring the long-term survival of its unique ecosystem.

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.