The mountainous labyrinth of Llanganates National Park is fabled in legends and obscured by mystery. Ancient chronicles tell a story of hidden Inca treasure. This gold treasure was to be paid to the Spaniards as ransom for the Inca king, but when it was known he had already been killed, more than 1000 men quickly carried the gold to Llanganates to secret it away from the Conquistadors. Since colonial times, famous explorers and treasure-hunters have launched numerous expeditions in an effort to find the legendary treasure, but without success. In fact because of the inhospitable environment and infamous fog banks many of the treasure seekers have never returned...
Unlike many of the other mountainous regions of Ecuador, Llanganates is not of volcanic origin, but is rather the result of tectonic plate movement. The area is characterised predominantly by Páramo (grassy and marshy Andean Highlands) and is home to the condor, tapirs and the spectacled bear. Its highest point is the top of Cerro Hermoso at 4570m. Because of its inaccessibility and foggy weather, this extraordinary region is relatively unknown. Join Surtrek as they pioneer new trails in this legendary area of lost Inca treasure.
All tours into the Llanganates National Park are individually organized according to your requirements. Nevertheless even to get just a first impression of this beautiful mountain range we recommend a minimum of 3 days starting/ending in Quito. For a serious research of the area you should calculate with a minimum of 8+ days.
