8-DAY ECUADOR TREKKING THE AVENUE OF VOLCANOES
$1706.58
per person
Availability: 12 places
TRIP OVERVIEW Take a hike through the Ecuadorian Andes while discovering an incredible world of breathtaking landscapes, hidden communities, indigenous cultures, and towering volcanoes. These features and more come together to shape the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes in Ecuador’s highlands. This trekking adventure along the narrow trails used by local mountain inhabitants will take you deep into Andean culture and its way of life. Unique Experiences: Explore the mythical Llanganates National Park and search for the hidden treasure of the Incas. Admire the stunning glacier of the highest summit measured from the center of the Earth.
Day 1
ARRIVAL IN QUITO CITY
Meet your trip leader AJ and your group at 6:00 PM. Welcome to Quito! The largest and best-preserved colonial city in the Americas, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. The city is considered the Cultural Capital of South America and is located on the equator in a valley at the foot of the Pichincha volcano. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the day exploring Quito’s old town and its surroundings. ADVENTURE JOURNEYS can help organize a day tour (request in advance). In the evening, one of our travel leaders will meet you in the hotel lobby for a welcome briefing at 6:00 PM. At this time, we will discuss details and any questions you may have about the adventure. Our first day is an acclimatization and information day. Quito city arrival SERVICES INCLUDED Accommodation: Hotel Wyndham La Quinta or similar. Meals included: None.
Day 2
TREKKING IN COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK
Begin by hiking the Sierra climate around the Limpiopungo lagoon (13,000 ft / 3,800 m) on the foothills of the Rumiñahui volcano. From here, we have the best views of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world. There is also the possibility to see wild horses, wild bulls, and some bird species. Concluding our day, we will drive to Isinlivi where we will spend the night. Trekking time: 2 hours on flat terrain around Limpiopungo lagoon. Elevation: 12,631 ft Elevation gain: 1,000 feet Distance: 5 miles Total steps: 15,345 Trekking in Cotopaxi National Park SERVICES INCLUDED Accommodation: Llullu Llama Lodge or similar. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3
TREKKING THROUGH THE TOACHI CANYON TO CHUGCHILAN
The charming Andean mountain landscapes will inspire us today on a trek along the Toachi canyon for 13.5 km (8.4 mi). Experience stunning views of small villages and indigenous people working in the fields. We will hike down to the canyon of the Toachi River and then back up to the main road that will take us to Chugchilán, a small town located in the middle of the Quilotoa loop. Here we will find our Eco-house accommodation, and in the afternoon, we can explore the village with the great opportunity to gain a bit of cultural experience with the locals. Trekking time: 2 hours downhill from 10,810 ft (3,295 m) to the Toachi River at 9,500 ft (2,896 m), then 2 hours uphill to Chugchilán at 10,498 ft (3,200 m). Total steps: 25,481 Trekking through the Toachi Canyon SERVICES INCLUDED Accommodation: Hostal Mama Hilda or similar. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4
TREKKING TO QUILOTOA
Early in the morning after breakfast we will start our hiking adventure for 11 km (6.9 miles) on small trails blazed by the mountain people and still used by locals to transport products and to travel across the canyons to reach neighboring communities. While trekking on this trail, it is common to see the traditional custom of exchanging goods with one another, bartering is still being utilized today. We will venture down into impressive canyons to later climb back up to the top of the crater rim, where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Quilotoa Lake. The majesty of this place will take your breath away.
Enjoy a beautiful picnic with the best views from the volcano and transfer 2.5 hours to lodge in a magical hacienda in the foothills of Chimborazo volcano.
Trekking time: 1 hour downhill from 10,498 ft to the Toachi River at 9,800 ft, then 2.5 hours uphill to 13,000 ft. After, 1.5 hours on flat terrain.
Total steps: 27,518
SERVICES INCLUDED
- Accommodation: Hostería Andaluza or similar.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 5
TREK TO CHIMBORAZO BASECAMP
Early in the morning, we will drive through valleys and farming villages to reach the Chimborazo Volcano, the highest mountain in Ecuador with an elevation of 6,310 m (20,702 ft) above sea level — its summit being the furthest point from the center of the Earth on the entire planet. On a clear day, the majestic peak of Chimborazo dominates the view for many kilometers.
Visiting this spectacular national park includes a short hike of 0.9 km (0.57 mi) to reach the elevation of 5,000 m (16,404 ft) where the glacier begins. On the hike, we will try to spot some wildlife such as the Andean condor, caracara, hummingbirds, and the timid wild Vicuñas. Once extinct in Ecuador, vicuñas were reintroduced into the wild and are now protected — these beautiful animals are relatives of the alpaca and llama. A delicious picnic will be organized at the base camp before we leave.
Trekking time: 1.5 hours uphill from 15,748 ft to 16,732 ft and then 45 minutes downhill back.
Total steps: 14,974
- Accommodation: Casa de Luis or similar.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 6
TREK IN THE LLANGANATES NATIONAL PARK
Trek in Llanganates National Park for 6 hours, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and legendary mystery. According to folklore, the Inca General Rumiñahui is said to have hidden a vast treasure of gold somewhere in the Tungurahua mountain range.
The hike begins at 3,200 m (10,498 ft) above sea level and climbs to 3,600 m (12,024 ft), passing through diverse vegetation zones. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Tungurahua and Sangay volcanoes.
After this magical trek, return to the vibrant town of Baños. You’ll have the opportunity to unwind in a local spa with a relaxing massage or soak in the famous hot springs. In the evening, experience Baños’ lively nightlife.
SERVICES INCLUDED
- Accommodation: Casa de Luis or similar.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 7
HIKE TO THE ROAD OF WATERFALLS AND RETURN TO QUITO
Baños is a vibrant town nestled at the foothills of the active Tungurahua volcano, renowned for its natural beauty and adventure activities such as horseback riding, canyoning, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and rafting. A favorite getaway for many Ecuadorians, Baños offers lush mountain landscapes and a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
In the morning, embark on the famous “Ruta de las Cascadas” (Waterfall Route). The first stop is the Bride’s Veil waterfall, where you’ll ride a Tarabita (cable car) across the Pastaza River. Then, enjoy a one-hour hike to the Pailón del Diablo waterfall — the second highest in Ecuador — where you’ll experience the sheer power of nature.
After this adventure-filled day in the cloud forest, relax during the scenic return journey to Quito.
Trekking time: 45 minutes downhill from 5,249 ft to 4,950 ft, then 1 hour uphill. Total steps: 13,000.
SERVICES INCLUDED
- Accommodation: Hotel Wyndham La Quinta or similar.
- Meals included: Breakfast.
Day 8
DEPARTURE
Today marks the end of our adventure. It’s time for your international departure. As you leave Ecuador, take with you not only your photos and souvenirs but also unforgettable memories and a piece of your heart. This enchanted land will be waiting for your return.
We wish you a heartfelt “buen viaje” — safe travels and see you again soon!
SERVICES INCLUDED
- Meals included: Breakfast.
