Conserving the Andean Condor

Our Commitment at Vaya is more than just talk. One of our main goals is to help create a strong positive incentive to preserve the natural habitats in the destinations our travelers visit.

If you’ve journeyed to Ecuador with Vaya before, it’s likely that you have heard about our support of the non-profit organization, the Galo Plaza Lasso Foundation, and Condor Huasi, the conservation center at Hacienda Zuleta. Founded in 1995, this community-focused initiative has been involved in various projects, including a summer school for the youth of the Zuleta community, an embroidery initiative, and, notably, the conservation efforts focused on the great Andean Condor (and spectacled bear, too). Right now, it is these magnificent, winged creatures who need our help the most.

Condor chick being weighed

Condor Huasi, a conservation center located at the century-old Hacienda Zuleta, stands as Ecuador’s sole condor breeding facility. It currently houses two breeding pairs: Coya and Tarishka, and Ayu and Inti. Over the past eight years, they’ve successfully nurtured numerous chicks, who have grown into juveniles. Whenever possible, these juveniles have been transferred to other rescue centers, including the National Condors Group. However, for the program to sustain its success, there’s a pressing need to provide larger enclosures for the pairs, particularly Coya and Tarishka, before their upcoming breeding season. This expansion also aims to alleviate the tensions between the pairs, thereby enhancing the survival prospects of their future offspring.

In addition, they hope to build a new enclosure for the juvenile condors who will continue to call Zuleta home. Together with the expansion for Coya and Tarishka, the total project is estimated at $17,500. Collaborating with several other organizations and thoughtful individuals, Vaya Adventures has joined the efforts to raise the necessary funds. These improvements are poised to make a significant impact, further bolstering the conservation endeavors for this iconic – and endangered – Andean species.

Condor in Ecuador

Fundraiser by Clark Kotula: Expanding the Condor Enclosures at Hacienda Zuleta (gofundme.com)