Nature & adventure Guided tours Tours Outdoor activities Outdoor sports Multi-day trips National parks Hiking UNESCO sites Volcano tours Sightseeing

Discover Ecuador’s Andes on a 3-day adventure from Quito. Explore Cotopaxi, admire Quilotoa’s crater lake, and walk near the majestic Chimborazo while enjoying real highland landscapes.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes
• Explore Cotopaxi National Park and hike to the José Rivas Refuge
• Visit the artistic community of Tigua and see their colorful paintings
• Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Quilotoa crater lake
• Discover the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve and see wild vicuñas

Description

Embark on a 3-day journey through the most iconic regions of the Ecuadorian Andes. This experience blends nature, culture, and scenic travel as you explore Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, and Chimborazo while observing real highland life along the way. Day 1: Cotopaxi – Highlands, Wetlands, and Rural Landscapes Your adventure begins heading south from Quito along the “Avenue of the Volcanoes,” where mountains like Rumiñahui and Pasochoa appear on clear days. As the city fades, the route passes agricultural valleys, potato fields, and small rural communities that reflect daily Andean life. Entering Cotopaxi National Park, the landscape turns into open páramo with golden grasses and volcanic soils. Your first stop is Limpiopungo Lagoon, ideal for a gentle walk to acclimatize and observe Andean birds, chuquiragua flowers, and views of Cotopaxi. Continue uphill toward the parking area and begin a short but demanding hike to the José Rivas Refuge. The sandy terrain and high altitude make the ascent challenging but rewarding, offering close views of the glacier and the volcano’s perfect cone. After descending, enjoy an included lunch. In the afternoon, travel to your Andean lodge, passing stone-fenced fields, alpaca herds, and rural farms. Overnight in a hacienda (dinner at your choice). Day 2: Tigua Art – Quilotoa Crater and Highland Communities After breakfast, drive through highland communities with terraced fields, quinoa crops, llamas, and sheep guided by local shepherds. Your first visit is Tigua, known for its colorful folk paintings. In the workshops, you’ll see pigments, leather canvases, and works in progress as artisans explain the stories and traditions behind their art. Continue along winding mountain roads toward the Quilotoa crater lake, passing deep valleys and rugged cliffs. From the viewpoint, admire the water’s shifting turquoise tones and walk part of the crater rim. Descending to the lake is optional and discussed with your guide. After lunch, head toward Riobamba, passing the Toachi canyon, stepped farmlands, and small villages. On clear days, mountains like Tungurahua and El Altar appear in the distance. Overnight in Riobamba with free time for dinner. Day 3: Chimborazo Reserve – Vicuñas and High-Altitude Landscapes The final day takes you to the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, home to wild vicuñas, llamas, and high-altitude birds. As you ascend, the landscape shifts to dry páramo with open horizons and mineral-rich soils. The snowcapped Chimborazo dominates the view, known as the closest point on Earth to the sun. Reach the Carrel Refuge and take a short walk to observe glacial remains, volcanic rock formations, and secondary peaks on clear days. After this final high-Andean experience, begin the return trip to Quito, completing a memorable journey through Ecuador’s central Andes.

Includes

Meals: 2 breakfasts and 3 lunches Accommodation (2 nights) Entrance fees: Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Lagoon and Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve Private tour with an English-speaking guide Activities mentioned in the program Private transportation

Important Information

• This tour takes place in high-altitude areas, which some travelers may notice. The hike to José Rivas Refuge is short but can be challenging due to elevation. At Quilotoa, descending to the lake is optional; alternative rim walks are available. Weather can change quickly—bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes. Bring some cash for souvenirs, local crafts, or snacks along the way, and inform your guide of any medical conditions or mobility concerns

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund