Los Algarrobos Park, located in Cumbayá, It has established itself as a key space for local residents, especially during school holidays. This place not only offers a natural environment dominated by carob trees and native vegetation, but is also a setting for recreational, educational and direct contact with nature activities for children, families and athletes.
The growing interest in outdoor activities This has led to more and more families and holiday camps choosing this park as a meeting point. The little ones especially enjoy exploring the riverside ecosystem. San Pedro River, participating in games, crafts and outdoor workshops, which fosters their curiosity and respect for the environment.
The recent presentation of the nature guides Developed by the Quito Zoo, these guides represent a commitment to transforming the experience of visiting urban green spaces. These guides, available in print, digital, and audio formats, were designed collaboratively with educators, illustrators, and families. They allow you to discover details of Los Algarrobos Park and its surroundings through sensory and observational approaches that encourage everyone, especially children, to rediscover urban biodiversity.
The first official activity with these guides took place in Los Algarrobos Park itself, where several families participated in interpretive tours and joined forces in a community gathering for the San Pedro River. These activities serve not only to learn about local flora and fauna, but also to raise awareness about the importance of caring for these natural sites, which are essential in a city that, despite having an average green area per inhabitant, still has unequal access in different neighborhoods.
El Chaquiñán and Los Algarrobos: the perfect combination for cyclists and hikers
The Chaquiñán is one of the most frequented routes by cyclists and walkers in the Cumbayá area, as it uses the old railroad track and crosses areas of lush vegetation, including the landscapes of Los Algarrobos Park. This route, which connects Cumbayá, Tumbaco, and Puembo, offers shaded paths and privileged views of the Ilaló Volcano, establishing itself as a healthy and recreational option during the holiday season.
Children and adults find in this environment the opportunity to disconnect from screens, Exercise and reconnect with nature. The monitoring and camping trips organized along the route and in adjacent parks are notable for their diverse range of activities: from hiking and games to exploring native flora and fauna or simply spending time with the family away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
In addition to public parks, the area's offering includes rural farms where children can experience farm work and live with animals, as well as private clubs that see an increase in activity in the summer, mainly in sports such as swimming and tennis.
In other neighborhoods like Puembo, the trend is different: during school holidays, many families move away, and those who stay opt for alternatives such as the public swimming pool or vacation courses organized by the local authorities. These programs include sports, cultural, and recreational activities, and allow Hundreds of children enjoy enriching experiences in contact with nature and the community.
The importance of green spaces and environmental education
Access to parks like Los Algarrobos is essential for the well-being of the population, especially for children and young people. Beyond their recreational function, these places are vital for developing healthy habits, environmental learning, and strengthening community ties. The variety of activities offered by both public institutions and civil society responds to the need to offer alternatives that promote diversity, play, and respect for the natural environment.
According to testimonies from neighbors and camp monitors, The response from families in recent years has been very positive, with significant participation and growing interest in taking advantage of what parks and ecological trails have to offer. Initiatives such as nature guides reinforce this movement and encourage more people to get involved in the conservation and appreciation of urban green spaces.
