FLORA AND FAUNA

The called paper trees or polylepis forests are the most noted trees in the area. We also find pajonales, chuquiraguas, chochos del monte, puyas and small yellow flowers.

In the reserve, there is a plant called "rabbit ears" that has perfectly adapted to the harsh weather and the inhospitable land.

Potatoes, barley and chochos are grown in the area although the animals introduced in the atmosphere have naturally altered the flora of the place. Scientific studies reveal that there are 82 species which are good for therapeutical uses. Ferns, matapalos, tachuelos, alisos and orchids grow in the woods, located in the western side of the reserve.

Spectacled Bears, pumas and deer are some of the animal species that are native to this reserve.

The ecological reserve Ilinizas offers very beautiful natural attractions to visitors. But it is necessary to say that this reserve does not have adequate infrastructure. Some places can only offer the basic services. Plus, some settlers live inside the protected area making the reserve difficult to handle.

Lastly, if you are determined to admire a beautiful and unique landscape, you can venture to go inside the crater of the Quilotoa or reach the summit of the Iliniza. The background of the moors and the remote figure of the Cotopaxi are enough reasons to make Ilinizas unforgettable.