Llamas and Cotopaxi [Full Image]

In the Avenue of the Volcanoes

This tremendously varied trip showcases the best of Ecuador’s breathtaking natural environment, as we explore amongst the country’s towering volcanoes. After sightseeing in Quito, we travel to the area around Otavalo, where we complete a series of day-hikes; to the beautiful lake of Cuicocha and to the accessible viewpoint peaks, Fuya Fuya (4263m. / 13,986ft.) and Cubilche (3826m. / 12,552ft.). Cultural highlights of this part of the itinerary include visits to craft markets and the chance to ride on the colourful little Andean ‘train’ known as the autoferro. Heading south, we trek to the top of the active Gagua Pichincha (4794m. / 15,728ft.) and nearby Pasochoa (4200m. / 13,780ft.) and also hike up to the refuge on Chimborazo. Finally, after a free day in the delightful town of Banos, we end this superb Ecuadorean experience with 2 days in the Cotopaxi National Park, visiting the refuge high on the mountain and also trekking to the picturesque azure lagoon of Quilotoa.

Trip Guide
During this trip we will make ascents of a number of Ecuador’s volcanoes up to and beyond 4,000m. / 13,000ft. of elevation. For the most part this involves trekking on a mixture of terrain from local village tracks, along forest roads, through open grassland, and the occasional more rugged slope of scree or loose volcanic material. The average trekking time on each day’s hike is between 5 and 7 hours. We have given the trip the grade of MODERATE but it should be borne in mind that trekking at even moderately high altitudes does make extra demands, and you should have a good level of fitness before embarking on this trip. The optional ascent of Cotopaxi involves climbing moderately angled snow slopes (30 – 40 degrees) and requires the use of crampons and ice axe. You should only attempt this climb if you have previous winter walking experience using crampons and are familiar with the techniques of self arrest with an ice axe. For anybody wishing to make this ascent there will be an opportunity to brush up on these skills on the afternoon prior to the ascent.