Logo Inspiring Ecuador

Hiking in the Andes - the Avenue of Volcanoes 6 Days

6
days
FROM $999

Trip Type

Activity Level

Signal
Challenging

Service Level

Expedition Overview

Trek stunning landscapes, hidden communities, indigenous cultures and massive volcanoes. across the famous Avenue of Volcanoes

Itinerary

cotopaxi trekking

Begin 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. Concluding our day, we will drive to Isinlivi where we will spend the night.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Lunch. 

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 villages and indigenous people 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 cultural experience with the locals.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

 

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 neighboring communities. While trekking on this trail, it is common to see the traditional custom of exchanging goods with one another, bartering 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 the Quilotoa Lake. The majesty of this place will take your breath away.

Enjoy a beautiful picnic with the best views from the volcano and transfer 2,5 hours to lodge in a magical hacienda in the foothills of Chimborazo volcano.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

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 for 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.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.

Trek in Llanganates National Park for 6 hours, famous for its amazing landscapes and storied mystery. Legend has it that the Inca General Rumiñahui 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 Baños to spend the last night in this magical town.

Good opportunity to join the neighboring spa and get a nice massage after a day of trekking 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.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.

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 Quito City.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.
Departure Day

What to Expect

Accommodation: Hotel
Location: ecuador highlands
Season: year-round
Meeting Point: Quito
Trip Type: Land Tours
Activity: Trekking
Activity List
1
.- Cotopaxi Volcano Trek
2
.- Quilotoa Loop Trek
3
.- Cloud Forest Hiking
4
.- Pujili Market
5
.- Chimborazo Volcano Trek
6
.- Baños Hot Springs
Additional options
What is the food like?

Throughout the adventure, you'll be fueled by delicious local food, such potato soup, corn, fresh vegetables with plenty of local fresh tropical fruits. Lunch usually consists of nice picnic self-service in the mountains and local restaurants that serve traditional soup, main dish and juice, a warm and filling meal after a big day of adventure.

 
What is the accommodation like?

Ecuador Inland

During your days of trekking, you'll stay in local own charming hotels, llullullama Hotel, Casa De Luis Hotel, family own homestays like Mama Hilda and experience luxury haciendas such us: Hacienda Andaluza Spa Mountain lodge, they are all with excellent location and fantastic personalized service.

llullullama Montain Lodge

Andaluza experience Hacienda

Pre-Post Trip Accommodation

Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night

Transfers

Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person

General Specifications

STARTS
Hotel Dann Carlton  – Quito

Upon arrival on Day 1 - 08:00am

ENDS
Hotel Dann Carlton  – Quito

TRANSFERS

Your adventure begins in Quito on Day 1, at Dann Carlton Hotel at 8:00am when your host will meet our IE Guide and the group. We highly recommend to get thar oen day earlier and chel the extr services we provide extra nights. Your trip will end on day 7 at Quito by Dann Carlton Hotel hotel at 18:00 approximately.

To make your own way from Quito airport to the hotel accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.

What´s Included

✅ WHAT'S INCLUDED
Transportation

Private and comfortable land transportation

Accommodations

Based in double occupancy: 3+* hotel in Quito, 3 or 4-stars eco-hotel in Isinlivi, hostel in Chugchilan, hostel in Quilotoa, 5-star Andean lodge in Chimborazo.

Activities

Trekking in Agua y Vida and Isinlivi routes, 3-day trekking to Chugchilan and Quilotoa, hiking to the glaciers of Chimborazo highest volcano in Ecuador, watch vicuñas (camel similar to llama or alpaca), trek the Llanganates National Park, hiking the road of waterfall in Baños, soak in volcanic hot springs, cable-car ride in Baños, hike to Pailon del Diablo waterfall, salsa lesson, cultural experience with the local people, indigenous authentic market.

Meals

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 2 dinners

Gear

Hiking sticks

Guides

Certified AJ expert English-speaking adventure trip leader and local guides

Equipment

Walking Sticks.

🚫 WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Accommodation

Single Supplement USD 339

Airport transfers

Airport transfer (international flights)

Insurance

Travel & health insurance (mandatory)

Meals

Not described in the itinerary

Tips

For local guides, IE trip leaders & staff

What to bring?

What do I need to bring
Passport
Travel insurance
Airline tickets
Fleece top
Shirts/t-shirts
Pair of short
Pairs of long trousers
Pair hiking pants/track pants
Sport sandals
Watch or alarm clock
Quick dry clothing
Swimming suit
Tennis shoes
Hiking shoes
Money belt
Sunglasses
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, antihistamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking.
Credit or debit card
Buff
Rain jacket
Rain pants
Insect repellent
Day backpack 20 L. (with rain cover)
Flashlight or headlamp
Sun hat or cap
Pocket knife
Sun screen 60 SPF
Waterproof camera (if possible)
Personal water bottle 2L. or camelbak 2L.
Waterproof binoculars (if possible)
Winter hat
Winter jacket

FAQS

What is the minimum age for this trip?

8 years old as a minimum age.

What is the currency?

US American Dollars

What Travel Insurance do you recommend?

World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000

What vaccinations do I need?

For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.

What’s the weather like?

Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.

Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).

What Do I Do about drinking water?

The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.

How much should I tip?

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:

Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day

Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service

Expedition Overview

Trek stunning landscapes, hidden communities, indigenous cultures and massive volcanoes. across the famous Avenue of Volcanoes

Itinerary

cotopaxi trekking

Begin 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. Concluding our day, we will drive to Isinlivi where we will spend the night.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Lunch. 

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 villages and indigenous people 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 cultural experience with the locals.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

 

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 neighboring communities. While trekking on this trail, it is common to see the traditional custom of exchanging goods with one another, bartering 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 the Quilotoa Lake. The majesty of this place will take your breath away.

Enjoy a beautiful picnic with the best views from the volcano and transfer 2,5 hours to lodge in a magical hacienda in the foothills of Chimborazo volcano.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.    Dinner

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 for 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.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.

Trek in Llanganates National Park for 6 hours, famous for its amazing landscapes and storied mystery. Legend has it that the Inca General Rumiñahui 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 Baños to spend the last night in this magical town.

Good opportunity to join the neighboring spa and get a nice massage after a day of trekking 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.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.

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 Quito City.

Food & Accommodation

Hotel – Twin or Double
Breakfast.    Lunch.
Departure Day

What to Expect
Accommodation: Hotel
Location: ecuador highlands
Season: year-round
Meeting Point: Quito
Trip Type: Land Tours
Activity: Trekking
Activity List
1
.- Cotopaxi Volcano Trek
2
.- Quilotoa Loop Trek
3
.- Cloud Forest Hiking
4
.- Pujili Market
5
.- Chimborazo Volcano Trek
6
.- Baños Hot Springs
Additional options
What is the food like?

Throughout the adventure, you'll be fueled by delicious local food, such potato soup, corn, fresh vegetables with plenty of local fresh tropical fruits. Lunch usually consists of nice picnic self-service in the mountains and local restaurants that serve traditional soup, main dish and juice, a warm and filling meal after a big day of adventure.

 
What is the accommodation like?

Ecuador Inland

During your days of trekking, you'll stay in local own charming hotels, llullullama Hotel, Casa De Luis Hotel, family own homestays like Mama Hilda and experience luxury haciendas such us: Hacienda Andaluza Spa Mountain lodge, they are all with excellent location and fantastic personalized service.

llullullama Montain Lodge

Andaluza experience Hacienda

Pre-Post Trip Accommodation

Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night

Transfers

Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person

Ships & Deck Plans
Specifications

General Specifications

STARTS
Hotel Dann Carlton  – Quito

Upon arrival on Day 1 - 08:00am

ENDS
Hotel Dann Carlton  – Quito

TRANSFERS

Your adventure begins in Quito on Day 1, at Dann Carlton Hotel at 8:00am when your host will meet our IE Guide and the group. We highly recommend to get thar oen day earlier and chel the extr services we provide extra nights. Your trip will end on day 7 at Quito by Dann Carlton Hotel hotel at 18:00 approximately.

To make your own way from Quito airport to the hotel accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.

6
days
FROM $999
What´s Included
✅ WHAT'S INCLUDED
Transportation

Private and comfortable land transportation

Accommodations

Based in double occupancy: 3+* hotel in Quito, 3 or 4-stars eco-hotel in Isinlivi, hostel in Chugchilan, hostel in Quilotoa, 5-star Andean lodge in Chimborazo.

Activities

Trekking in Agua y Vida and Isinlivi routes, 3-day trekking to Chugchilan and Quilotoa, hiking to the glaciers of Chimborazo highest volcano in Ecuador, watch vicuñas (camel similar to llama or alpaca), trek the Llanganates National Park, hiking the road of waterfall in Baños, soak in volcanic hot springs, cable-car ride in Baños, hike to Pailon del Diablo waterfall, salsa lesson, cultural experience with the local people, indigenous authentic market.

Meals

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 2 dinners

Gear

Hiking sticks

Guides

Certified AJ expert English-speaking adventure trip leader and local guides

Equipment

Walking Sticks.

🚫 WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Accommodation

Single Supplement USD 339

Airport transfers

Airport transfer (international flights)

Insurance

Travel & health insurance (mandatory)

Meals

Not described in the itinerary

Tips

For local guides, IE trip leaders & staff

What to bring?

What do I need to bring
Passport
Travel insurance
Airline tickets
Fleece top
Shirts/t-shirts
Pair of short
Pairs of long trousers
Pair hiking pants/track pants
Sport sandals
Watch or alarm clock
Quick dry clothing
Swimming suit
Tennis shoes
Hiking shoes
Money belt
Sunglasses
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, antihistamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking.
Credit or debit card
Buff
Rain jacket
Rain pants
Insect repellent
Day backpack 20 L. (with rain cover)
Flashlight or headlamp
Sun hat or cap
Pocket knife
Sun screen 60 SPF
Waterproof camera (if possible)
Personal water bottle 2L. or camelbak 2L.
Waterproof binoculars (if possible)
Winter hat
Winter jacket
FAQS

What is the minimum age for this trip?

8 years old as a minimum age.

What is the currency?

US American Dollars

What Travel Insurance do you recommend?

World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000

What vaccinations do I need?

For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.

What’s the weather like?

Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.

Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).

What Do I Do about drinking water?

The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.

How much should I tip?

Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:

Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day

Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service