Lumbisí

Lumbisí is a thermal, soaring and hike-and-fly site at 2,939 m near Quito, Ecuador, flying on northeast through southeast wind. Two separate operating areas share the mountain: an aeropark takeoff and landing, and a second area used by a local flying group that's free but limited to single-seat, solo pilots. The official landing, Aterrizadero de Lumbisí, is a grassy clearing in the middle of the forest — the site's old landing strip has been closed and this replaces it. It sits a little further from launch and isn't visible from the takeoff, which adds to the demands of the approach; local guidance is clear that the landing has become tricky enough that it isn't recommended for novice pilots, and even intermediate pilots should only fly it with instructor support. The aeropark side has restrooms, a camping area and a barbecue spot, which makes it a reasonable base for a longer flying day near the capital.

Launch & conditions

Two separate areas operate on the mountain — one at the aeropark, the other run by a local flying group that's free but limited to single-seat, solo pilots. The site flies on northeast through southeast wind.

Local rules & hazards

The landing has grown difficult enough that it isn't recommended for novice pilots, and intermediate pilots should only fly it with instructor support. There are two flying areas with separate small fees — one charges for both takeoff and landing, the other is free but restricted to solo, single-seat pilots.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Lumbisí, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Lumbisí with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.