Pifo
An Andean village some thirty kilometers from Quito, Pifo is a strategic stopover on the route to Papallacta and the Antisana Ecological Reserve, offering sweeping views of Ecuador's sierra volcanoes.
Pifo is an Andean village located some thirty kilometers east of Quito, on the eastern slope of the Andes cordillera. A gateway to the Tumbaco valley and the routes leading to Papallacta or the Amazonian region, it primarily attracts travelers in transit or those seeking a peaceful starting point to explore the surrounding volcanic landscapes and nearby hot springs.
Quick facts
- Access from Quito: buses from Quitumbe or La Marín terminals to Pifo; journey of approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.
- Altitude: approximately 2,500 m — allow time for acclimatization if arriving from lower elevations.
- Suggested duration: half-day as a stopover, or as a base for a day trip to Papallacta.
What to see
Pifo's center revolves around a main plaza bordered by a modest colonial church and local shops. The surrounding landscape blends market gardens, eucalyptus groves, and sweeping views of the Antisana and Cotopaxi volcanoes on clear days. The road passing through the village runs past farms and haciendas typical of Ecuador's sierra region.
History and context
Pifo is one of the rural parishes in Quito's canton. Its position on the Quito–Baeza axis made it historically a relay stop on the colonial road connecting the capital to the Amazon. The village retains the understated architecture characteristic of Andean settlements in Pichincha province.
Highlights of a visit
The road to Papallacta
Pifo is the last significant village before the climb toward the Papallacta pass. The route offers panoramic views over high-altitude páramo grasslands and, on clear days, of the snow-capped Antisana volcano. It is one of the most spectacular Andean drives in the Quito region.
The local market
Pifo's weekly market brings together local producers and artisans from the valley. You'll find Andean vegetables, fresh cheeses, and sierra products — an immersion in rural Ecuadorian life away from the beaten path.
Photography tips
Morning light is ideal for photographing the volcanoes from the heights around Pifo. Antisana often clears in early morning before clouds move in. Avoid midday, which is typically overcast.
Location and access
Pifo sits on Route E35, the main Quito–Baeza highway. From Quito, allow approximately 45 minutes by bus or car. The village is also close to Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Tababela), making it a convenient stop on arrival or departure. Nearby destinations include Papallacta and its hot springs, as well as the Antisana Ecological Reserve.
Around the area
- Papallacta — high-altitude hot springs about an hour's drive away, perfect after a páramo hike.
- Antisana Ecological Reserve — protected area home to Andean condors and high-altitude landscapes surrounding the Antisana volcano.
- Tumbaco — residential valley close to Quito, with restaurants and artisan market.
- Quito — the capital, some thirty kilometers away, the natural starting point for exploring the entire region.
Frequently asked questions
Pifo is primarily a stopover or starting point. The village itself is modest; its appeal lies in its strategic position toward Papallacta, Antisana, and the Amazonian route.
Buses regularly depart from Quito's terminals (La Marín or Quitumbe) heading toward Baeza or Papallacta, with a stop in Pifo. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Yes, easily. Pifo lies directly on the way to Papallacta. A day trip from Quito allows you to visit both without difficulty.
The dry season (June–September) offers the best chances for clear skies to see the volcanoes. Outside this period, mornings often remain clear before clouds roll in.
Pifo sits at around 2,500 m elevation. If you're arriving directly from low altitude, plan a day or two to acclimatize before undertaking strenuous activities.
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