Morning: We’ll pick you up at your hotel in Quito, then drive south along the Pan-American highway (or Avenue of the Volcanoes), passing the extinct Pasochoa and snow-covered Antisana on our left, and the twin peaks of the Ilinizas on our right. All are volcanoes. We are taking the scenic secondary route through the uncommon páramo ecosystem of the Cotopaxi National Park.

We’ll hike about 300 meters (xx ft) over a distance of just 1 km (0.62 mi) to reach the cozy mountain hut at an altitude of 4,800 meters (15,750 ft). This will take approximately one hour. Hot chocolate in hand, gaze at the volcano’s snow-capped peak, the surrounding páramo and green patchwork of fields beneath, or spot even more volcano peaks in the distance. Sporty travelers can choose to hike up to the foot of the glacier (altitude: 5,000 meters/ 16,404 ft).

Refill those energy levels with a hearty lunch at our lunch spot while checking out the volcano’s north face through the panoramic windows.

Time to spot lamas and wild horses, during a 2 hour horse ride through the national park with a chagra (a local cowboy). You’ll find the landscapes are ever changing: green rolling hills through endless grasslands topped with ancient, human-size volcanic boulders. We’ll pass through verdant canyons, and small streams, and pass by an ancient inca fort!

Both beginners and experienced riders can do horseback riding. The horses are small Andean horses, trained by the local cowboys. 

About the Cotopaxi Hike: although it takes some effort, it’s a hike not a climb. Normal walking/hiking shoes will suffice. 

Meals included: lunch