Commence your adventure by driving southeast of Quito (beginning at 8:00 AM) to the captivating region of Sigchos, located in the southern part of Latacunga city. Your journey will lead you from Sigchos to Isinlivi, guiding you through the scenic Toachi Canyon (approximately 3-4 hours). This canton is rich in traditions, culture, and natural landscapes. Following an immersive experience of learning and exploration, enjoy a delicious lunch before proceeding to the lodge for further relaxation.

*Maximum altitude: 2,934 m. (9,262 ft.) 

• Activity: Exploring. Hiking.
• Transport: Bus. Car.

Following breakfast, your day kicks off with a hike (activities begin at 8:00 AM) along dirt trails and narrow secondary roads. En route, relish the pleasure of immersing yourself in some of the most breathtaking and privileged views of the Andes in Ecuador. You’ll traverse through charming villages such as Isinlivi and Chugchilan. These quaint towns rely on agriculture and cattle farming, producing quinoa, potatoes, and corn, and raising horses, mules, chickens, and guinea pigs. Upon reaching the Toachi Canyon, indulge in a picnic before ascending to Chugchilan.

*Distance: 11.9 Km. (7.39 mi) 

• Activity: Exploring. Hiking. Sightseeing.
• Transport: Bus. Car.

Today marks one of the most significant challenges of the expedition (activities commence at 8:00 AM), but it is also poised to be one of the most rewarding days! Following a strenuous hike and considerable effort, your perseverance will be rewarded with panoramic 360-degree views from the summit of the Quilotoa Crater Lake, a mesmerizing turquoise gem nestled in the Andes. This volcano holds sacred significance for the indigenous people, not only due to its awe-inspiring power but also serving as inspiration for local artists in many of their art pieces. After lunch, you will embark on a drive to Riobamba, where you will spend the night.

*Distance: 11.2 Km. (6.95 mi.)

• Activity: Exploring. Hiking. Sightseeing.
• Transport: Bus. Car.

In the morning, savor a delightful breakfast before setting out for the Chimborazo reserve (activities commence at 8:00 AM). This unique location is the habitat of thousands of vicuñas, smaller relatives of llamas easily identifiable by their red coats as they roam the slopes of the volcano. Chimborazo’s summit holds the distinction of being considered the highest point on Earth when measured from the planet’s core. Its proximity to the Equator places it closer to space than Everest! While the hike will be brief, it will be challenging, reaching an elevation of almost seventeen thousand feet. Following lunch, your journey continues to Baños, an ideal spot for drinks and salsa dancing.

*Distance: 2.77 Km. (1.72 mi.)

• Activity: Exploring. Hiking. Wildlife-watching.
• Transport: Bus. Car.

Today’s adventure begins with a journey to the border of the lush Amazon Basin (activities commence at 8:00 AM). Immerse yourself in a captivating hike through a beautiful forest leading to the Pailon del Diablo, a powerful cascade. This waterfall creates a picturesque gorge with an overhanging bridge, providing a unique opportunity to experience its magnificence not only beside the falls but also from above. In the afternoon, a visit to La Casa del Árbol awaits, renowned for its swing offering breathtaking views of the valley in Baños and the Tungurahua volcano. Optional activities like zip-lining or shopping will also be available during this time.

• Activity: Exploring. Hiking. Sightseeing.
• Transport: Bus. Car.

On the final day of this thrilling adventure, you’ll journey back north to Cotopaxi National Park (activities commence at 8:00 AM). The Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes on Earth, awaits. Its perfectly conical shape, set against the backdrop of other volcanoes, is a mesmerizing sight. The park is also a habitat for horses and bulls, occasionally seen trotting about. Upon reaching the National Park, a trek upwards to the base of the glacier awaits, reaching an elevation of nearly 17,000 feet! In the afternoon, your journey concludes as you drive back to the meeting point in Quito, bringing an end to your Hiking Ecuadorian Andes Tour.

*Distance: 3.15 Km. (1.95 mi.)

Activity: Exploring. Hiking.

• Transport: Bus. Car.