The Río Pita is born from the confluence of Hualpaloma and Carcelén, watercourses that form on the slopes of the Cotopaxi and Sincholagua volcanoes. Along its course, it receives the flow of several other rivers and countless streams, progressively increasing its discharge. Throughout its journey, the river reveals steep slopes, canyons, waterfalls, rapids, and breathtaking pools. Yet its greatest attraction remains the magnificent Gran Cascada del Río Pita, an impressive waterfall standing at approximately 60 meters high. It is also this cascade that people refer to when speaking of Río Pita.

The Gran Cascada del Río Pita, a gem of the Los Chillos valley

The Gran Cascada del Río Pita lies southeast of Quito, in the vast Los Chillos valley, just 15 kilometers from Sangolquí. It is a natural wonder that captivates not only through its breathtaking water flow, but also through the stunning ecosystem in which it nestles. This ecosystem is formed by diverse plant and animal species typical of the upper reaches of the Andean region.

During your hike to the waterfall, the region's magnificent primary and secondary forests will unfold before you. You will discover wild blackberries, pumamaquis, floripondios, bromeliads, ferns, and more. Birds are equally abundant in this area. You may also spot hummingbirds, thrushes, huiracchuros, doves, and owls.

An even more captivating sensation awaits you once you stand before the waterfall. Its deafening roar, refreshing spray, and the breeze generated by the cascade will simply enchant you. An atmosphere that feels quite extraordinary, enjoyed mere minutes from Quito.

The waterfall hiking trails

Three hiking trails are available to access this remarkable natural treasure.

La Grande Aventura

This is the longest of the three trails. It requires approximately 1 to 1.5 hours of round-trip hiking.

Mediana Aventura

This 90-minute round-trip hike allows you to see an attraction called "El Pirámide del Pita" (Pita's Pyramid), as well as other waterfalls such as Las Niñas and Arcoíris, which are fed by an underground river.

Pequeña Aventura

This short trail, lasting about 25 minutes round-trip, passes through a natural rock formation called "Mini Cotopaxi," whose conical shape has developed over time. Along the way, you will also discover several water pools formed by the river, where you can swim and relax.

When to visit Río Pita waterfall?

The best time to visit the Gran Cascada del Río Pita is during the dry season, which extends from June to September. During this period, the weather is dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 24°C. The trails are less muddy and less slippery, making the hike more enjoyable.

Note, however, that the waterfall is even more spectacular during the wet season, from October to May, due to its higher water flow. Nevertheless, the trails can be muddier and more slippery, and the risk of rain is higher.

By car from Quito

Take the General Rumiñahui highway toward the Los Chillos valley until the Redondel de El Colibrí roundabout, then take the General Pintag road heading north toward the airport. Drive on this road for approximately 5 minutes until the Cashapamba entrance before taking Antonio Tandazo street. After the village, continue straight on the paved road, alongside which vast eucalyptus forests stretch. You cannot get lost, as it is the only road. Continue until you reach the entrance to the Gran Cascada trail.

By bus from Quito

Head to the Playón de la Marín bus station, which serves the Los Chillos valley, and take the Marco Polo bus to Loreto, or take any bus heading to Sangolquí until the El Choclo monument. There, wait for the Coopérative Loreto bus heading to Loreto. Both buses take you to the Loreto sector, where you will find vans that you can rent to reach the waterfall entrance (Patichubamba hacienda). This costs 6 dollars (one-way).