Podocarpus National Park lies in Loja Province, in the south of Ecuador, South America. It is one of the most biodiverse protected areas in the country, and visitors come for its cloud forests and high páramo, two landscapes that change quickly with altitude and weather.
What you will see
The park protects a wide range of ecosystems, and its plant life is especially rich, with more than 4,000 species recorded. Many of its plants and animals are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else, which makes the park a notable place for anyone interested in nature and wildlife. Its cloud forests are often damp and misty, while the páramo offers open grassland and a very different feel.
Why it matters
Podocarpus is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a designation that recognises its importance for conservation and for the balance between nature and the people who live nearby. Visiting is a way to see that work up close.
Planning your visit
- Location: Loja Province, Ecuador
- Best suited to: nature lovers, birdwatchers and botanists, and walkers who enjoy changing scenery
- Contact: +593-7-257-1534
Because the park spans a range of altitudes, bring warm, layered clothing and waterproofs, as conditions can shift during the day. The surrounding Loja area gives you a base for exploring the region before or after your time in the park.