Leaving in the morning, we head towards the Cotopaxi National Park . After entering the park we visit the Lagoon of Limpiopungo at 3.880m where we go for a hike. Later we go to the parking site of the refuge at 4.650m and from here we will walk to the refuge José Rivas at 4.800m, because of the altitude this will take about an hour. We ascend to the beginning of the glacier (optional) to enjoy the views.
Afterwards, we will drive through the Andes to the village small village of Isinlivi where we will stay in our eco-friendly Hostal Llullu Llama.
Dinner
English speaking driver/guide
Pickup at the airport or in the valley areas
After breakfast we start our hike into the Toachi Canyon. First we go down into the river and back up to reach the road to Chugchilan. The hike will take around 5 hours and we will pass the fields and houses of the local people.
Tonight we will stay in the cosy Hostal Mama Hilda. Approx. trekking time 5 hours.
Hikers advise: Some people who are not from this region don’t know exactly how to deal with locals, especially if they ask for money, ‘caramelos’ (candy) or ‘regalos’ (gifts). You probably will meet local people when you are hiking around. These people obviously have less money than most western travellers. Our experience is that handing out change, pens, or candies to kids or grown-ups along the way is not a very wise thing to connect to these people, or to help them. Giving out of guilt or pity is a lose-lose situation, giving out of respect and friendship is a win-win.
Breakfast
Boxlunch
Dinner
Spanish speaking native guide
Heavy luggage transport
On the last day of our trekking we hike up to the Quilotoa Crater Lake. First down into the canyon and back up for about 4 to 5 hours. On the top you will be rewarded with beautiful views of the Quilotoa Lake. Approx. trekking time 6 hours.
After lunch our car will be waiting to take us back to Quito. We suggest a brief stop at Tigua to see some of the traditional artwork from the region which is a great spot for souvenir / present shopping – this Tigua art workshop belongs to family of the original artist of this unique art style so it is a better place to buy than in Quito / Otavalo (for example).
Hikers advise: Some people who are not from this region don’t know exactly how to deal with locals, especially if they ask for money, ‘caramelos’ (candy) or ‘regalos’ (gifts). You probably will meet local people when you are hiking around. These people obviously have less money than most western travellers. Our experience is that handing out change, pens, or candies to kids or grown-ups along the way is not a very wise thing to connect to these people, or to help them. Giving out of guilt or pity is a lose-lose situation, giving out of respect and friendship is a win-win.
Breakfast
Boxlunch
Spanish speaking native guide
Transfer to Quito (Spanish)
Dropoff at the airport or in the valley areas
