Avenue of the Volcanoes

The German explorer Alexander von Humboldt – the greatest scientific traveler who ever lived, according to Charles Darwin – is the brains behind the denomination ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’. We can only imagine how his curious mind soaked in the landscapes of two parallel mountain ranges running for over 300 km (200 miles) south of Quito. The cordilleras have an impressive seven peaks of over 5,000 meters (17,000 ft) in altitude.

We designed a three day getaway packed with indispensable volcano experiences and drives that are anything but monotonous (over the Panamerican Highway, secondary routes and windy country roads; observe nature’s color palette changing from the muted greens and yellow of the bucolic patchworks fields to the lush spectrum of greens of the tropical montane cloud forest).

Experience wise, it is, of course, quintessential you hike up to the refuge of the snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano, and even to the 5,000 meter/17,000 ft. point if you’re up for it (don’t worry, it’s still a hike and not a climb); and go horseback riding through the unique páramo ecosystem with the native chagras (a local word for cowboys). You’ll most likely see wild horses and llamas grazing these flatlands. Just don’t forget to admire today’s star volcano you hiked up earlier.

Local legend says the Quilotoa Crater Lake (a result of an implosion, rather than an explosion) is God’s eye to look up to heaven. What we know for sure is that this azure-colored lagoon has a heavenly allure. Spend the evening relaxing Andes style, at the hot springs located on a volcanic slope, overlooking the sunset over the valley until all the city lights below are lit.

At Ecuador’s adventure capital, Baños, we’ll get our blood pumping in one of three exhilarating experiences: white-water rafting down a local river, making our way down a local canyon surrounded by nothing but cloud forest, or ziplining through the tropical trees

PRIVATE TRIP

On this private trip, you’ll have our expert guide + transportation all to yourself and your travel party. Some activities have their own specilized guide on site. During those experiences, other travelers might also join your travel group, depending on the season.

DEPARTURE DATES

You can start any day of the year.

For local holidays or last minute bookings, please inquire about the availability before booking.

ACCOMMODATION

We care about responsible tourism and supporting local businesses. We’ve hand-picked small, comfortable tourist class hotels, run by friendly locals. The characterful hotels have passed the Takiri tests with flying colors. All rooms have a private bathroom. We assure you that all accommodations are clean and safe.

DEPARTURE OF THE TRIP

This trip starts and ends in Quito.

ACTIVITIES

Activities as mentioned
Equipment necessary for the acitivites
Our experts: local guides (English and Spanish speaking), 24/7 support from our team.
Meals: 2 x breakfast, 3 x lunch
Private transportation
Hotel accommodation

Travel Insurance
Meals not mentioned
Tips for guides
Personal expenses

Day 1: HIKING UP ACTIVE VOLCANO AND HORSEBACK RIDING

Morning: Leave the bustling metropolis of Quito behind for a three-day trip through the magical Andes region. Drive south along the Pan-American highway, 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. The páramo mountain vegetation is completely different from other parts in the Andes. Below the snow line, the land is covered by big and small grasses, shrubs and purple, and orange local mountain flowers. Break a sweat hiking up as close to the volcano’s conical perfection as we can. We’re only walking a distance of 1 km (0.62 mi), ascending 200 m (656 ft) to reach the cozy mountain hut at an altitude of 4,800 meters (15,750 ft), but it will take about 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).

Afternoon: 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 horseback ride through the national park with a chagra (a local gaucho). 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!

Evening: Stay at a local hacienda whose history is intertwined with some of South America’s most important political heavyweights: Simón Bolívar and Antonio José de Sucre.

Notes: Although going up the volcano takes some effort, it’s a hike not a climb. Normal walking/hiking shoes suffice. Both beginners and experienced riders can do horseback riding. The horses are small Andean horses, trained by the local cowboys.

Meals included: Lunch and dinner

Day 2: CRATER LAKE VOLCANO AND RELAXING AT VOLCANIC HOT SPRINGS

Morning: You’ve probably heard of exploding volcanoes, but today we’re visiting the imploded Quilotoa Volcano. Its peak collapsed, forming a strikingly gorgeous, azure-colored lagoon inside its caldera. We love observing overhead clouds’s shadow playfully painting the water’s surface every shade of blue: from aquamarine, turquoise, and teal over azure, to a deep midnight blue.It’s highly mesmerizing! Alternatively, kayak in the crater lake (not included). Hike back up to the village or rent a mule.

Afternoon: Ecuador is so culturally diverse, each region has its own gastronomy, aesthetics, art, and architecture. Today’s journey takes us through a very indigenous area, giving you some fundamentals insights. Notice how these indigenous people’s clothing, headpieces, ponchos, and jewelry differ from others you will encounter on your trip. On our commute over the windy country roads, we might have to halt now and again for lamas or sheep to cross. The mellow and corn yellows blend with the sage, olive, and seaweed greens of the countryside patchwork hilltop fields. Gradually we’re descending towards the gateway of the Amazon, the city of Baños. Observe the changing colors: from the Andean subdue to the crisp forest green of the cloud forest.

Evening: Late afternoon we’re heading to our pick for a relaxing evening: a mountain hot springs on the slopes of the volcano, overlooking the city. We’re taking you at the ideal moment to enjoy a picture-perfect sunset over the valley. Dinner at the restaurant is optional but recommended!

Meals included: Breakfast, snack, and lunch

Day 3: ADRENALINE RUSH IN THE GATEWAY TO THE AMAZON

Morning: Get ready for an adrenaline-rushed morning. Choose one of three activities:

White-water rafting down a local river. This is class III (intermediate) rafting, with plenty of excitement for newbies and for people with some rafting experience under their belt.

Canyoning: jump, and rappel down the pristine Rio Blanco waterfalls, surrounded by green, lush cloud forest.

Ziplining: get a bird’s eye perspective of the green cloud forest. Soar through the canopy, and experience and enjoy the expansive scenery. Divided over 6 cables, you’ll cover about 2,000 meters (6,560 ft.) (the longest cable is a whopping 550 meters (1,800 ft.) long).

Afternoon: We’ll be back in town in the early afternoon. The next few hours are yours to explore this adventure capital however your heart desires. Ask for our list of exhilarating recommendations, but we’ll reveal one here: the swing to the end of the world with a spectacular view of the active Tungurahua Volcano (the picture on the left was taken during an eruption in 2014). You really don’t want to miss this. Then we’re heading back to Quito, where we’ll arrive in the evening.

Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.

Do I need a visa to visit Ecuador?

Most travelers do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. You can check here if you need a visa.

What is the best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos?

Ecuador is great year-round! For the Galapagos, December to May offers warmer waters and calmer seas, while June to November is cooler but excellent for diving. Different species of animals are active depending on the time of the year so you’ll always be exposed to different species all year round.

Is Ecuador safe for tourists?

Generally, most of Ecuador is safe, but like any destination, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep an eye on your belongings. For more info about safe areas in Ecuador, you can read our blog.

More Faqs

     Excellent  
     Based on 116 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Lindsey B 
 2024-05-02
 
 
 Verified Couldn't have asked for a better experience, I just wish I could have been there longer!
My friend and I booked this 4 months before leaving- and we couldn't have made a better choice. The food was delicious, the tour guides spoke English l, the tour groups were small (some were even 1 on 1) and most importantly - we were taken care of from the moment we landed on Baltra to the moment we were leaving Baltra one week later. Our name was on the top of every excursion list every day, our rides were always on time, our travel agent (Alex) was responsive, attentive, caring and even showed up at our door to say goodbye. To have someone always ready and waiting for us before and after each excursion put us at ease. We did not have to worry about anything. We did suggest that they adjust their itinerary slightly for future travelers and Alex happily took it into consideration.
  
 
       
   B F 
 2024-04-23
 
 
 Verified The Galapagos experience
Our trip to the Galapagos was awesome and affordable. We traveled independently (not as a tour package) and stayed in fairly inexpensive, but nice, accommodations. The 3 towns we stayed in were all different from each other and were great to visit. The locals were very accommodating and friendly. Went on 2 snorkel trips that were a great experience. Snorkeled with sea turtles, penguins, sharks, and marine iguanas.. Great trip!!
  
 
       
   Paavo 
 2024-03-13
 
 
 Verified Best organised tour we've ever been on.
We had an incredible time on our Takiri tour in the Galapagos, it was the best organised tour we've ever been on. Positives 1. From before we even booked, they (Alex) had excellent communication via email. He replied quickly, understood all our questions and answered them clearly and in detail. This gave us the confidence we needed to book with them. 2. On the tour itself, one thing we found exceptional was that there was always someone taking care of us. I think we must have met over 20 different guides and drivers over the course of one week. But they always knew who we were and where we needed to go. We were never left alone. Even if it was just waking us 50 metres from the taxi to the dock, there was always someone showing us where to go. This gave us huge comfort and allowed us to relax and enjoy the holiday, knowing that if we needed to do something, someone would tell us. 3. When we were unsure about anything, we messaged Takiri (I think it's usually Alex) and they always replied quickly. They always knew exactly what was going on. This was also very comforting. We felt that they were fully in control and we could reach them if there would be any issues out in the field. 4. Even though what we booked was called the 'budget' tour, all hotels had AC and hot water, which was fantastic. The last hotel had a pool which was also a nice surprise. 5. They were flexible with our start dates and picked us up from the airport. 6. Alex sent a detailed itinerary in advance, this was a lifesaver. We kept reading it every day to know what to expect from the next day. It was very clear and neatly structured. It also had loads of vital information, such as which activities were included and which items we still need to pay for. 7. We were with a different group almost every day, which was very refreshing. It was also great that most of the groups were small. Sometimes it was just my partner and myself, which was incredible! Some tips 1. The Sierra Negra hike is 16km total, not 8km. 2. Overall, the timeliness was impressively good, considering you have to deal with both ‘island time’ and ‘latina time’. That being said, there were some occasions where we were given a rough pickup time from the hotel or perhaps a 30min range. If you don’t want to spend too much time waiting in the hotel lobby wondering when someone will come, I would recommend double checking with the guides (or Alex) the day before each activity what time exactly your next driver will be in the lobby. 3. After we landed we still had to pay for some small things, which was annoying e.g. a dollar for the water taxis, some dollars for the port fee, five dollars for the airport bus, etc. I’d recommend you have some small change easy to hand. There is also a $20 transit card which you pay for in Guayaquil airport before you leave for Galapagos and a $100 national park fee when you land in Galapagos. This is also mentioned in your itinerary. 4. Galapagos has a tipping culture. It would be best to educate yourself as to the amounts in advance and make sure to bring change.
  
 
       
   Fredrik B 
 2024-03-01
 
 
 Verified The trip that exceeded all expectations
Takiri Travel helped me to plan and realize my dream trip to Galapagos! They did a great job to tailor made an itinerary that answered all my wishes although I only had a few days for the trip. It was exactly what I was looking for and Takiri provided full support during my entire trip. Both the trip and my contact with Takiri exceeded all my expectations
  
 
       
   MSKfromBrooklyn 
 2024-01-08
 
 
 Verified great experience in the Galapagos
We had a great time. The hotels were excellent, the food delicious and the tour company very responsive to us. When we encountered a few problems along the way, they were on it immediately and helped to sort it. We highly recommend travel to Galapagos by land. It's a different way to see the islands than living on a boat, which didn't much appeal to us. Takiri is a young company, and they really go out of their way to make the experience a great one.
  
 
       
   Samantha 
 2023-11-25
 
 
 Verified Amazing, highly recommend
Takiri Travel is amazing, highly recommended! We are a couple in our 30s from California. My husband reached out to Takiri a week before our departure, and asked them to draft 7 night itinerary with highlights including hiking, diving, and snorkeling. Takiri staff immediately responded with an itinerary for an unforgettable trip in Galapagos that fits all our needs with VERY REASONABLE price. They listened to our requests and customized the trip. For example, I had two days doing snorkeling and birding while my husband went diving. They were even able to book a Gordon Rock dive for him which would normally be booked out months in advance. All the pickups were seamless. Staff were attentive. Lunch places were excellent (The Steak & Wine in Santa Cruz has excellent cuts for steak lovers). The hotel rooms were spacious and clean. Our guides were so knowledgeable and answered every question we asked: Astrid (Santa Cruz Island) has a degree in Biology and talked about neurology research in Frigatebirds; Erika (Isabela Island) identified all the birds during our Wetland Hike and taught us so much about Giant Tortoises and their behaviors. Hands down. The dive shop took spectacular videos for my husband he's still so stoked. I understand that a lot travelers prefer making their own plans, or have an impression that travel agencies are normally ripoffs. However, after chatting with individuals whom booked individual excursions, I realized our ROI with Takiri might be even better. Thank you Takiri Travel, especially the staff Alex, Alfredo and Kevin (Isabela Island) whom are kind and attentive, all the guides (Erika, Astrid, Alfredo Bologna, Darwin, Ricardo, Janeth) whom are truly passionate about their profession and the islands! I won't hesitate recommending them to fellow travelers. Sam & Adriaan
  
 
       
   Sunshine06357626048 
 2023-11-25
 
 
 Verified Very highly recommend!
This trip was amazing!! We had dreamed of going to the Galapagos for years and this lived up to and exceeded our expectations! Takiri took great care of us every step of the way without hovering. And the outings were perfectly planned! If we had a hike in the morning, they planned something easier on the feet for the afternoon. We saw and did soooo much, and every single guide was fabulous! Takiri was very responsive if we had requests or issues. We were able to order wet suits for the Los Tunnels trip, which we highly recommend doing. And when we had two members of the group who got very bad motion sickness on the ferry, Alex arranged for flights for them and made sure we knew about the hefty luggage charges for intra-island flights so we could avoid that.
  
 
       
   N B 
 2023-11-22
 
 
 Verified Well worth the money!
This was an excellent trip, and well worth the money! We stayed in great accommodations on Isobela and Santa Cruz Islands, were treated like gold by all of our guides and got to do so many more activities than we would have had we gone without a tour. The wildlife on the Galapagos are simply amazing!
  
 
       
   Mark B 
 2023-11-19
 
 
 Verified Great 8-9 day Galápagos Island experience
If you’re looking for an action packed, fully immersed 8-9 days in Galápagos Islands, land based, on a budget then look no further Takiri have arranged an awesome experience. In addition to this most evenings are free for you to choose your own thing if a bit of space is important too. Thanks Alex and team at HQ, as well as Kevin and team on the Islands, terrific job!
  
 
       
   Attarah 
 2023-10-05
 
 
 Verified Cotopaxi Hike & Horseback Ride
This tour was amazing! It's perfect if you have a limited amount of time to explore Ecuador. Our guide, Angel, was punctual and knowledgeable. During the drive to Cotopaxi, we learned a little of the history of Ecuador and the culture. We would definitely recommend this tour to family and friends.
  
 
  
  
 
 Showing our latest reviews