Avenue Of The Volcanoes-Trekking Expedition

Today, is an acclimatization day, where you can take it as easy or as adventurous as you like. You can rest and become adjusted to the high elevation of Quito at 2850 meters (9359 ft). If you are feeling fine, you will have the chance to explore and experience the beautiful streets of Quito at your own pace. You can spend your day exploring the old town of Quito and the surrounding area. or you can visit the "Mitad del Mundo" and stand on both sides of the world at the same time! Please be back at your hotel for the trek briefing with your guide at 6pm. At this time, you will meet your guide to discuss the details and questions you may have regarding the trekking adventure ahead of you over the next days!

We begin today's adventure by driving south on the Pan American highway for about 2 hours, this area is known as The Avenue of Volcanoes, it was named this by the famous German Explorer Alexander Vond Humboldt, who spent time trekking the Ecuadorian volcanoes. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy views of volcanoes like Cayambe, Antisana, Pichincha, Illinizas, Pasochoa, and Corazon. We will begin our trek by hiking the sierra climate around the Limpiopungo lagoon (13000 ft/3800 m) on the foothills of the Rumiñahui volcano. From here, we have the best views of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world. There is also the possibility to see wild horses, wild bulls, and some bird species. If the weather conditions permit, we will attempt to trek to the base camp at 16000 ft. (4876 m). Concluding our day, we will drive to Isinlivi where we will spend the night. 

Trekking time: 2 hours on flat terrain around Limpiopungo lagoon, elevation: 3850 meters

(12,631 ft) , elevation gain 300 meters (1,000 ft) distance 5 miles.

The charming Andean Mountain landscapes will inspire us today on a trek along the Toachi Canyon for 13.5 km (8.4 mi). Experience stunning views of small Ecuadorian villages and indigenous people, in their day-to-day life, working in the fields. We will hike down to the canyon of the Toachi River and then back up to the main road that will take us to Chugchilán, a small town located in the middle of the Quilotoa loop. Here we will find our Eco-house accommodation, and in the afternoon, we can explore the village with the great opportunity to gain a bit of local cultural experience with the wonderful people of this region.

Trekking time: 2 hours downhill from 10,810 ft. (3295 m) to the Toachi River at 9,500 ft (2896 m) and then 2 hours uphill to Chugchilán at 10,498 ft. (3200 m)

Early in the morning after breakfast, we will start our hiking adventure for 11 km (6.9 miles) on small trails blazed by the mountain people and still used by locals to transport products and to travel across the canyons to reach the neighboring communities. While trekking along this trail, it is common to see the traditional custom of exchanging goods with one another, and the bartering system that is still being utilized today. We will venture down into impressive canyons to later climb back up to the top of the crater rim, where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Quilotoa Lake. The majesty of this place will take your breath away. Enjoy a beautiful picnic with the best views from the volcano and then transfer 2,5 hours to lodge in a magical hacienda in the foothills of Chimborazo volcano.

Trekking time: 1 hour downhill from 10,498 ft. to the Toachi River at 9,800 ft. and then 2 and a half hours uphill to 13,000 ft. After, 1 hour and a half on flat terrain. Total steps: 27,518

Early in the morning, we will drive through valleys and farming villages to reach the Chimborazo Volcano, the highest mountain in Ecuador with an elevation of 6310 m (20702 ft) above sea level; whose summit is the furthest point from the center of the earth on the entire planet. On a clear day, the majestic peak of Chimborazo dominates the view for many kilometers. Visiting this spectacular national park includes a short hike of 0.9 km (0.57 mi) to reach the elevation of 5000 m (16404 ft) where the glacier begins. On the hike, we will try to spot a few of the animals that inhabit this volcanic climate such as the Andean condor, cara-cara, hummingbirds, and the timid wild Vicuñas. Once extinct in Ecuador, they were reintroduced into the wild and are now protected; this beautiful animal is related to the alpacas and llamas. A delicious picnic will be organized at the base camp before we leave.

Trekking time: 1.5 hours uphill from 15,748 ft. to 16,732 ft. and then 45 minutes downhill the same way back. 

Trek in Llanganates National Park for 6 hours, famous for its amazing landscapes and storied mystery. Legend has it that the Inca General Ruminahui has a large sum of gold hidden somewhere in the Tungurahua Mountain range. Start the hike at 3,200m (10,498 ft) above sea level and travel upwards to 3,600m (12,024 ft). See a variety of changes in vegetation while trekking to higher elevations. Expect stunning views of the Tungurahua Volcano and the Sangay Volcano (if visibility is good). After this beautiful trek, we will return to Banos to spend the last night in this magical town. This is a good opportunity to join the neighbor spa and get a nice massage after a day of trekking with the moon-like landscape of Chimborazo and drive on to the tropical town of Baños. In the evening we can soak in the famous hot springs of Baños and experience the thriving nightlife of this town.

Baños is a town well known for its spectacular location right at the foothills of the active Tungurahua volcano and is an excellent place for outdoor activities including: horseback riding, canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and rafting. It is one of the most popular and important tourist spots in the country, you will find many Ecuadorian families vacationing here. One look at this delightfully green mountain town and you will know why. Surprisingly, it is pleasant and unspoiled. This morning we will hit the road of the waterfalls. The first stop will be at the Bride´s Veil waterfall, where we will take the Tarabita (cable car) to get across the Pastaza River. Then, we will hike down for one hour to the Pailon del Diablo waterfall, the second highest in Ecuador. After a day full of adventures in the cloud forest, you will enjoy the scenic ride returning us to Baños City.

Today you can enjoy a free day in Baños. Enjoy a relaxing massage, including reflexology and aromatherapy (60 minutes per person)

For the rest of your day, you will have free to choose one of the many options that Baños City offers.

You will have an early pick up from your hotel in Baños to return to Quito airport, to take your international flight back home. This marks the end of this incredible trekking journey to the Avenue of The Volcanoes, in Ecuador!