Sangay National Park
General
The highest elevations of the park are the
Sangay (17,160 feet), the Altar (17,452 feet)
and the Tunguahua (16,457 feet). One of the
biggest attractions of this park is the hiking
and climbing possibilities, but for the three
biggest peaks is necessary good equipment.
There is a self-guided environmental education trail in the Proaño area (near Macas).
Some archeological sites have been found near the Pastaza River, and an extensive ceremonial
area 20 miles away from Macas, on the Upano River. Quichua and Achuar indigenous groups
inhabit the park.
Access
One of the ways to access the park is the road from Riobamba to Alao; 600 feet away from
Alao there is an entrance to the park. You can also get to the park from Baños (to climb
Tungurahua volcano) and from Candelaria (to access the beautiful Altar area).
Species
Mammal species are diverse, including paramo deer, spectacle bear and tapir. Among bird species,
there are king vultures, caracaras, condors and a variety of hummingbirds.
Plants
The pumamaqui, several grass species, cedar, laurel, guayacán, cecropia, ironwood palm and
mohogany are the most common species in the area.
