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Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve
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The Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve is a vital protected area in Ecuador, spanning the provinces of Chimborazo, Bolívar, and Tungurahua. Established on October 26, 1987, it covers an extensive area of approximately 58,560 hectares, surrounding the massive Chimborazo and Carihuairazo volcanoes. The reserve's primary mission is the management and conservation of the unique páramo ecosystem and its native wildlife, most notably the vicuñas. These wild camelids were successfully reintroduced to the region in 1988 from Peru and Chile after local extinction, and their population has since flourished under protection. The landscape is characterized by high-altitude moorlands and deserts located between 3,800 and over 6,000 meters above sea level. In addition to vicuñas, the reserve is home to llamas, alpacas, and diverse bird species such as the Andean condor and the Ecuadorian hillstar hummingbird. For the local indigenous communities, the reserve holds immense cultural value, serving as a site for sustainable natural resource use and the spiritual veneration of the Chimborazo as a sacred mountain.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Cruz del Arenal · Tambo Inca · Antiguo refugió n°3
- Nearby: Saquisilí (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 12 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 12 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 124 | 146 | 162 | 162 | 129 | 111 | 89 | 75 | 67 | 109 | 113 | 113 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best travel time is from June to September when temperatures are milder and vicuñas graze in the higher areas. From December to February it is colder, but the snow-capped peaks provide a spectacular backdrop.
Best time of day
Early morning, animals are most active and the light is good for photos. Late afternoon often brings clouds that create dramatic skies while animals are still visible.
Etiquette
Keep a minimum distance of 20 meters from vicuñas and other animals to avoid causing stress. Feeding or touching animals is prohibited, and dogs must be kept on leash.
What to bring
Warm clothing is essential as temperatures can drop significantly even during the day. Binoculars help observe animals from a distance, and a camera with a telephoto lens is recommended for mountain landscape shots.
Getting there
The reserve is located on the Chimborazo volcano and is accessible via a dirt road from Riobamba. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, and entry is through a control gate at the reserve entrance.
What to expect
Vicuñas are shy and may flee quickly if approached; stay calm and use cover. The high altitude (above 4000 m) requires acclimatization; avoid rapid movements and drink plenty of water.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve was officially established on October 26, 1987.
- It protects a total land area of 58,560 hectares.
- Vicuñas were reintroduced to the area in 1988 from Peru and Chile.
- The elevation in the reserve ranges from 3,800 to 6,263 meters.
- It is home to the only wild population of vicuñas in all of Ecuador.
- The reserve encompasses the peaks of Chimborazo and Carihuairazo.
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Sights in the town Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve (7)
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Frequently asked questions
Which animals can be observed here?
The main attraction is the vicuña, but you can also see condors, paramo foxes, and hummingbirds.
How much is the entrance fee?
Entrance to the reserve is free, but visitors must register at the control point.
Is the location family-friendly?
Yes, but the extreme altitude requires caution for children and the elderly.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season from June to September provides the clearest views of the volcano.
Are there toilets in the reserve?
Yes, basic sanitary facilities are located at the visitor center and near the refuges.
Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve: where is it located?
Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve is located in Ecuador.
Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cruz del Arenal, Tambo Inca, Antiguo refugió n°3.
Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve is a vital protected area in Ecuador, spanning the provinces of Chimborazo, Bolívar, and Tungurahua.
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Nearby cities
Riobamba
Often called the Sultana of the Andes, surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes.
Guaranda
The city of seven hills, nestled in the steep valleys of the Ecuadorian Andes.
Saquisilí
Saquisilí is an authentic Andean town famous for hosting one of the most vibrant and expansive indigenous markets in Ecuador every Thursday.
Azogues
A colonial city in the Andes known for its majestic Franciscan church.
Latacunga
A colonial town near the Cotopaxi volcano, known for the Mama Negra festival.
Gualaceo
The gateway to the east from Cuenca, known for hand-woven ikat textiles and leather goods.
La Maná
A canton where the tropical climate meets the foot of the Andes, known for its waterfalls.
Quito
The high-altitude capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial historic center.
History & landmarks
Alausí
Alausí is a charming heritage town in the Andes, globally famous as the starting point for the dramatic "Nariz del Diablo" train journey.
Pujilí
Pujilí is a picturesque town in the Cotopaxi province, renowned for its indigenous markets and vibrant Corpus Christi celebrations.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Dew
A spectacular church built directly into the steep cliffs above the small town of Biblián.
Cañar
Cañar is an Andean town renowned for its vibrant indigenous culture and its proximity to Ingapirca, Ecuador's most important Inca ruins.
Temple of the Fatherland
A massive museum and monument on the slopes of Pichincha, where the decisive battle for Ecuador's independence took place.
The Treehouse
A famous wooden observation deck with a swing dangling over a deep canyon near the Tungurahua volcano.
Nature
More places
Chimborazo
Chimborazo is the highest mountain in Ecuador and the farthest point on Earth from the Earth's center.
Chimborazo Cement Plant
One of the largest cement plants in the country, playing a crucial role in the construction sector of the Andean region.
Iglesia de la Balbanera
The oldest Catholic church in Ecuador, built from volcanic rock to mark the first Spanish village in the country.
El Altar
El Altar is an extinct volcano whose collapsed caldera forms nine sharp peaks that enclose a stunning lagoon.
Carihuairazo
A heavily eroded volcanic caldera located in the immediate vicinity of the massive Chimborazo.
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Ilinizas Ecological Reserve
A spectacular nature reserve with mist-shrouded forests and twin peaks, ideal for wildlife.
Ingapirca
The largest and best-preserved Inca archaeological site in Ecuador, famous for its Temple of the Sun.
Illiniza
The Illinizas are twin volcanoes in the Andes; Illiniza Sur is glacier-covered and technical, while Illiniza Norte is a rocky peak.