Pay a visit to the snow-capped volcano of Antisana for a look at one of the most impressive sights in the Andes. Amid the landscape of sheer cliffs and peaks, you can find a sanctuary of wild Andean condors and get to know the wildlife that dominates the Ecuadorean highland.

Set out from Quito early in the morning for the drive along the foothills of the volcano. Once you reach a small village near the base, start up to reach the entrance of Hacienda Antisana and get a look at the volcano's magnificent basaltic gorge.

As you ascend into the wetlands of the mountainous high country, you can see the tundra plants that thrive in the páramo and watch for birds like the carunculated caracara and black-headed ibis. Watch for Andean rabbits and white-tailed deer as you hike out to look out at the Antisana glacier.

Next, take a ride up to Micacocha Lake, where you have the chance to watch the gulls and speckled teals who frequent the Andean water systems. Your guide points out local flora like the cushion plant, ranunculo plants, gentians, and more; make sure to watch the sky for a condor circling high overhead before the time comes for your ride back to Quito.