Cordillera del Cóndor

The Cordillera del Cóndor is a mountain range in the eastern Andes at the interface between the Amazon basin and Andean highlands, stretching along the border region of Peru and Ecuador. The area is characterized by steep ridges, cloud forest and exceptionally high biodiversity, including many endemic plant and animal species.

Limestone and sandstone geology creates rugged escarpments, caves and isolated habitats that support unique ecosystems and have attracted biological research and conservation efforts. The region has been subject to contested border claims and saw armed clashes in the 1990s; since then parts of the cordillera have been the focus of conservation initiatives.

The cordillera lies on the upper Amazonian slopes between southern Ecuador and northern Peru, occupying remote, forested terrain that is accessed from regional towns on either side of the border.

• Biodiversity and history: The range is an upland area on the eastern side of the Andes with steep, forested ridges and notable biodiversity, and it was the focus of territorial conflicts between Ecuador and Peru in the late 20th century.

Access is by river and dirt track from towns on the Amazonian side; final approaches typically involve local river travel and guided jungle treks. Travel arrangements are best made from nearby regional centres such as Tena (Ecuador) or the Peruvian Amazon towns, with local guides and permits.

• Parts of the Cordillera del Cóndor are in disputed border areas; travel with local permission and an experienced guide.
• Biodiversity here is high-bring binoculars and insect repellent and respect protected areas.
• Plan longer travel times: roads are few and often unpaved; river crossings can be seasonally impassable.