Trekking in Ecuador: Avenue of Volcanoes

Today we ease you in with an acclimatization hike. We start to the south of Quito, in Cotopaxi national park. We will partake in a moderate hike at 13,000 feet above sea level, while enjoying the views of Limpiopungo Lagoon. Keep an eye out for wild horses and condors on this two-hour jaunt.

After a break we slowly ascend to the Cotopaxi climbers’ refuge. The distance isnt far, but it will take us about 45 minutes, as the altitude will truly be felt. If weather permits, we can explore a bit and possibly visit the glaciers.

Overnight at Isinlivi Meals included: Lunch & Dinner

After Breakfast we will wind through the Andes to arrive at the volcanic hot springs of Papallacta. This can be a

fully relaxing day at the springs and spa, or we can mix in some easy to moderate hiking trails before you pamper yourself in the evening. Keep an eye out for condors, deer, and maybe a spectacled bear throughout the day. Papallacta is special place in the Andes, and for many visitors a true highlight of Ecuador. It can often be cold and rainy, which makes the pools that much more enjoyable.

Overnight at Papallacta Resort Meals included: Breakfast

After an early breakfast we will set off on a trail of seven miles. The paths we will follow were blazed by locals, meant for accessing remote communities and transporting goods. We will hike through impressive canyons and finish up with a climb to the crater rim of Quilotoa itself.

Get ready for a view that will take your breath away, quite literally. This crater lake is a special place in Ecuador. The caldera is what remains of the dacitic volcano, and the stunning imagery will stay with you forever.

Overnight at Hotel in Quilotoa Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

A warm and hearty breakfast starts us off, and then down we go. The trail down is just under a mile, and takes 15-20 minutes to reach the shores of the lagoon. Once on the bank, you can go for a swim or take a kayak across the turquois glass water.

This climb up is quite steep and takes about double the time as the descent. Don’t worry though, if you’re feeling a bit weary after all the trekking, the locals are standing by with their trusty pack mules if you want a lift.

In the afternoon we will arrive to Riobamba, the heart of Ecuador’s volcano country, and the base of the behemoth Chimborazo.

Overnight at Chimborazo Hotel Meals included: Breakfast

Today we will arrive to the infamous Chimborazo Volcano. With a summit of 6310 meters above sea level it’s the furthest point from the center of the earth, drawing international mountain climbers seeking to conquer the Ecuador’s tallest peak. We won’t be visiting the summit today, but we will head to the mountain’s first refuge, which is located on the edge of the glacier.

We’ll have a picnic lunch and have a chance to view Vicunas, hummingbirds, and condors.

In the afternoon we will arrive to the charming adventure town of Baños. We will take in some sites, and then soak in the hot springs that make this place famous. In the evening, treat yourself to a nice dinner and then off to the pub for a brew and reminiscing.

Overnight at Hotel in Baños Meals included: Breakfast

Today we will have the chance to visit some of Ecuador’s most impressive waterfalls, including Pailon del Diablo and Bride’s Veil. The town of Baños is considered the adventure capital of Ecuador. If you prefer, we can help arrange an adventure activity, such as rafting, horseback riding, ziplining, biking, or bridge-jumping. After lunch we set back for Quito.

Meals included: Breakfast