A spectacular day visiting one of the highest active volcanoes in the world (5897m) and exploring the Andean grasslands (paramo) of the incredible national park. In the morning you will visit the picturesque Limpiopungo Lake favored by water birds and learn more about the area the small park museum. Afterwards, the car will take you up to the parking lot from where you can hike up to the first refuge to experience this volcano up close. This is a steep hike for about one hour with amazing views.
Tour duration: 7-8 Hours / Type: This is a privately organized tour
Overnight at La Cienega, one of the oldest and most elegant colonial haciendas in the country.
Warm clothes (including hat, scarf and gloves), and waterproofs are recommended for this tour. Also, remember that it's important to drink lots of water and stay hydrated while at high altitude.
English speaking driver/guide
Pickup from the airport or valley area
Quilotoa is a real highlight of your tour that will literally take your breath away! An emerald green Laguna inside the crater of an active volcano with steep jagged cliffs and views straight down the entire valley of volcanoes (on a clear day), as well as amazing landscapes along the drive through what is sometimes referred as the Grand Canyon of Ecuador.
The trek into the crater to the lake shore is very popular. There is a possibility for an optional mule ride out (approx. 10$) for those with tired limbs. At the shore you can also rent a kayak to explore the lake and fumaroles. The village of Quilotoa is also an interesting crafts center.
There is also time for an interesting stop at the Tigua art workshop to meet the Toaquiza family and admire some impressive local artwork with impressions of life in the Andes.
From here you head back down into the valley to visit the town of Baños- famous for its hot springs and relaxed vibe. If the weather is clear you will be able to see the smouldering peak of Tungurahua Volcano, and at night you can witness the lava explosions (not guaranteed, depends on the local weather and activity levels of the volcano).
Warm clothes (including hat, scarf and gloves), and waterproofs are recommended for this tour.
The village of Quilotoa is set at 3,800m so remember to stay hydrated throughout the day to help avoid the effects of the altitude. It can also be very windy and cold, so be prepared. In the Quilotoa community there are nice restaurants serving local food.
An early start takes you further south down the Avenue of the volcanoes to explore the Chimborazo National Park - trekking routes here are flexible depending on your level of fitness, and with luck you might get to see the cute vicuñas (member of the llama family).
We then head back up the Avenue of the Volcanoes to return you to Quito.
Warm clothes (including hat, scarf and gloves), and waterproofs are recommended for this tour. Also, remember that it's important to drink lots of water and stay hydrated while at high altitude.
Breakfast
Private transport (Spanish)
English speaking guide (tour)
Dropoff to the airport or valley area
