Trekking on the Volcanoes of the Andes
From the glaciers of Chimborazo to the Quechua markets of Otavalo, Ecuador reveals its Andean verticality.
Duration
12 days
From
€2,000/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
A trekking itinerary designed for hiking enthusiasts, discovering the spectacular landscapes of Équateur. On foot, we explore varied environments, from high-altitude plains to snow-capped peaks, passing through glacial lakes and picturesque villages.
We climb accessible volcanoes, reaching around 4,000 m, offering breathtaking panoramas over the Équateur Altiplano. The adventure continues with an ascent to the high-altitude refuges of Chimborazo and Cotopaxi, crossing the 5,000 m mark.
Beyond exploring the Andean giants, we dive into local history and traditions, with a visit to the Otavalo indigenous market, the colonial center of Quito, and a well-deserved moment of relaxation in the thermal town of Baños.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Quito and immersion in Otavalo
Upon your arrival at Quito International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide before heading towards Otavalo, an indigenous village nestled in the Imbabura region, in the north of the country.
As you stroll through the colorful alleyways, with hues reminiscent of the national flag, you will have the opportunity to make first contact with the Quechua Indians, whose traditions and artisanal craftsmanship have made the region renowned. An authentic introduction to Andean culture to begin this journey into the heart of Équateur.
Discovering Otavalo and its surroundings
On Saturday, Otavalo comes alive with its weekly market, where Quechua Indians, wearing their felt hats and traditional ponchos, descend from the hills to trade.
The morning is dedicated to exploring the animal market, local market, and handicraft market.
In the afternoon, an excursion to Laguna Cuicocha, located at 3,200 meters above sea level, on the slopes of the Cotacachi volcano. This crater lake 3 km wide offers a panoramic trail allowing you to admire unique landscapes and diverse flora.
A hike along the lagoon allows you to admire varied flora and spectacular panoramas of the Imbabura region.
Ascent of Fuya-Fuya Volcano
Lagunas De Mojanda → Fuya Fuya (4 263 m)
Fuya Fuya (4 263 m) → Quito
After a transfer from Otavalo, we reach the Mojanda lakes, the starting point of our climb.
We begin the ascent towards the Fuya-Fuya volcano, which peaks at 4,294 m. The trail, steep but accessible, takes us to the summit, where an exceptional panorama awaits us: the lakes below, the snow-capped Cayambe volcano across from us, and a succession of mountains on the horizon.
Return to Quito in late afternoon.
Ascent of Guagua Pichincha Volcano and Route to Cotopaxi
Quito → Pichincha Volcano (4 784 m)
Pichincha Volcano (4 784 m) → Illiniza lodge
Illiniza lodge → Chaupi
Leaving Quito, heading west to reach the gates of the Guagua Pichincha volcano, located about ten kilometers away. This active volcano reveals its fumaroles and sulfur deposits, evidence of its persistent activity.
After a gradual approach, we take a trail along the 6 km wide crater, until we reach the summit at 4,794 m altitude. There, a spectacular panorama unfolds before us.
With the ascent completed, transfer to the south, at the foot of the Cotopaxi volcano, for the next stage of the adventure.
Climb to the Illinizas Refuge
Chaupi → Illiniza Norte (5 126 m)
Illiniza Norte (5 126 m) → Chaupi
Transfer to the starting point of the hike, La Virgen, located at 4,020 m altitude. The ascent offers a spectacular panorama of the Avenue of Volcanoes, revealing the majestic peaks of the mountain range.
The refuge nestles in the ancient crater of the volcano, at the base of the two summits of the Illinizas:
Illiniza Sur (5,260 m), impressive with its glacier.
Illiniza North (5,116 m), characterized by its rock formations.
After this day at altitude, second night in our family lodge.
Trekking Ruminiahui
Baños → Parc National Cotopaxi
Parc National Cotopaxi → Rumiñahui (4 650 m)
Rumiñahui (4 650 m) → Parc National Cotopaxi
After breakfast, departure by vehicle towards the entrance of the Cotopaxi National Park, where our immersion into the Andean highlands begins. Upon arrival, the páramo plunges us into a spectacular landscape, dominated by Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on the planet with its snow-capped cone reaching 5,897 m. Across these vast grasslands, it is not uncommon to spot wild horses.
We take a ridge trail across the páramo, before climbing a rocky spur and scree to reach the ridges of Rumiñahui. Before us, Cotopaxi rises, crowned with eternal snows and fumaroles.
At the end of the day, short transfer to our mountain lodge.
Night at Tambopaxi.
Option:For those who wish, possibility of attempting the ascent of Cotopaxi. This day will then be devoted to rest and preparation for the glacier climb.
Exploration of Cotopaxi National Park
The Cotopaxi Volcano National Park opens its doors to us! Upon entering, the Andean páramo immerses us in a completely different landscape. We hike across lands of tall grasses sprawling at the foot of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on the planet, whose snow-capped cone reaches 5,897 m. It will not be uncommon to see wild horses in these high plateaus.
This day is dedicated to an in-depth discovery of the Cotopaxi Volcano National Park. At our own pace, we explore the Andean páramo, this high-altitude steppe with varied flora that stretches at the foot of Cotopaxi, whose glacial cone reaches 5,897 m.
We drive by vehicle to the high-altitude parking area, before beginning a 200-meter ascent on foot, leading us to the refuge situated at 4,800 m.
If weather conditions and desire allow, there is an option to continue to the Cotopaxi glacier, for an immersion in the heart of this spectacular glacial landscape.
Hiking around Quilotoa Lagoon and Route to Riobamba
Located at 3,914 m altitude, the lagoon Quilotoa is a crater lake formed over 800 years ago. Its 3 km diameter and 250 m depth make it one of the most spectacular sites in the region.
From the panoramic trail that runs along the lagoon, enjoy breathtaking views of the crater and surrounding landscapes.
The complete loop around the lagoon takes approximately 5 hours of hiking.
A trail descends directly to the lagoon, requiring approximately 1 hour for the descent and 1h30 for the ascent, which is more demanding.
At the end of the day, transfer to Riobamba to continue the itinerary.
Climb of Chimborazo and Route to Baños
Riobamba → Refuge Chimborazo
Refuge Chimborazo → Baños
Today's challenge: climbing the Chimborazo volcano.
From Riobamba, we take the car to reach the end of the track at 4,800 m. From there, we continue our journey on foot to the Edward-Whymper refuge at 5,000 m.
After an hour and a half of hiking, we reach the refuge considered to be the highest on the planet. Depending on the weather, our circuit for the day can extend to the Whymper needles at 5,300 m altitude. In the meantime, to catch our breath, a picnic is planned in this high mountain setting. Before us, we can see the trail that leads to the summit of Équateur's giant.
We set off again at the end of the day, heading towards the thermal town of Baños.
Relaxation in Baños
Visit to the thermal spa town of Baños. Located at 1800 meters altitude in a subtropical zone, the city features numerous hot water pools due to its proximity to Tungurahua volcano. In the morning, explore the tropical fruit plantations. Then enjoy a relaxing bath in the town's thermal springs.
Other outdoor activities are available as optional paid activities: paragliding, horseback riding or mountain biking, rafting, canyoning, bungee jumping, massages, spa, etc.
Return to Quito and Discovery of the Capital
After breakfast, a 3-hour transfer to Quito.
Nestled in the heart of lush hills, the Ecuadorian capital boasts a pleasant climate and rich historical heritage. Its colonial center, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals remarkable architecture through its churches and colonial buildings.
Among the must-sees:
The Church of the Company, a masterpiece of Baroque art.
The San Francisco Cloister, emblematic of the country's religious history.
The Cathedral, a witness to the city's colonial past.
For a breathtaking view of the city, head to the viewpoints, offering a spectacular panorama of Quito and its surroundings.
End of trip and departure from Quito
Depending on your international flight schedule, enjoy some free time in Quito before your transfer to the airport for departure.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International Flight Europe/Quito/Europe
- Meals and dinners mentioned as "Free" in the itinerary
- Drinks & Tipping
- Everything Not Mentioned in What's Included in the Price
Included
- Private vehicle very comfortable throughout the circuit
- Professional English-Speaking Tourism & Trekking Guide
- Accommodation: Base double room with breakfasts included in the accommodations mentioned in the itinerary or equivalent
- All meals and dinners included for the guide/driver. Full board except meals and dinners in Quito
- All entries to national parks and activities as mentioned in the itinerary
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 30 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
Les informations ci-dessous concernent les voyageurs ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen (EEE), de la Suisse et du Canada se rendant en Équateur dans le cadre d'un séjour touristique. Les règles d'entrée pouvant évoluer, nous vous recommandons de vérifier les informations auprès des autorités officielles avant votre départ.
Passeport
Pour entrer en Équateur, votre passeport doit être valide pendant toute la durée du séjour et comporter au moins une page vierge pour les tampons d'immigration.
Le document doit être en bon état (pas de pages détériorées, déchirées ou modifiées).
Séjour touristique sans visa
Les ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen, de la Suisse et du Canada bénéficient d'une exemption de visa pour les séjours touristiques.
À ce jour, cette exemption permet un séjour pouvant aller jusqu'à 90 jours par période de 12 mois sur le territoire équatorien.
Les autorités peuvent également demander :
un billet de sortie du territoire (vol retour ou continuation),
une preuve de ressources financières suffisantes pour la durée du séjour,
une adresse d'hébergement en Équateur.
Santé et vaccinations
Aucun vaccin n'est obligatoire pour entrer en Équateur pour les voyageurs en provenance d'Europe ou du Canada, sauf en cas d'arrivée depuis un pays à risque de fièvre jaune, auquel cas un certificat de vaccination contre la fièvre jaune peut être exigé.
À titre préventif, il est recommandé de se renseigner auprès d'un médecin ou d'un centre de vaccination avant le départ, notamment concernant :
la fièvre jaune (recommandée pour certaines régions du pays, notamment en Amazonie),
la typhoïde,
l'hépatite A et l'hépatite B.
Voyage avec des enfants
Les mineurs doivent être titulaires de leur propre passeport valide couvrant la durée du séjour.
Dans certains pays européens, lorsqu'un mineur voyage sans l'un de ses parents, une autorisation de sortie du territoire peut être exigée selon la réglementation du pays de résidence. Les autorités équatoriennes peuvent également demander des documents justifiant la situation familiale du mineur.
Autres nationalités
Les conditions d'entrée peuvent varier selon la nationalité. Les voyageurs concernés doivent se renseigner auprès de l'ambassade ou du consulat de l'Équateur de leur pays de résidence.
Pour participer à nos voyages, il est fortement conseillé d'être assuré en assistance-rapatriement et frais médicaux à l’étranger.
Votre agence locale vous encourage à prendre connaissance du contrat spécifique élaboré avec notre partenaire CHAPKA ASSURANCES et AXA ASSISTANCE.
Pour souscrire à une assurance, connaître les garanties et les tarifs, suivez le lien ci-dessous.
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Choisissez la formule qui vous correspond le mieux:
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Spécifiques à nos voyages, nous suggérons fortement d’y souscrire.
Si vous choisissez de souscrire à l’une de ces formules, la convention détaillant l’ensemble des garanties et les modalités de déclaration du sinistre sont disponibles sur le site Internet de l'assureur.
Votre agence locale en aura connaissance, mais seul le participant est responsable du respect des procédures de déclaration de tout sinistre. Le participant doit donc conserver cette convention avec lui pendant toute la durée de son voyage.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
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Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Non, les ressortissants français peuvent séjourner jusqu'à 90 jours en Équateur sans visa. Passeport valide au moins 6 mois après l'entrée et billet retour exigés. Une assurance voyage est obligatoire à l'entrée. Confirmez les conditions à jour auprès du consulat avant le départ.
Rendez-vous dans la section Mes Voyages pour retrouver tous vos projets.
Vous pouvez envoyer un message à votre hôte directement depuis le Salon de Thé.
Pour un voyage sur mesure de qualité, comptez entre 160 et 280 euros par jour et par personne, incluant hébergement, repas, transports internes et guide francophone. Les vols internationaux (900-1300 euros A/R) sont en supplément. Les Galápagos représentent un budget à part (croisière ou navigation entre îles).
Vos documents sont accessibles dans l'onglet Documents de votre voyage.
Absolument. Nous adaptons chaque circuit au profil des voyageurs. Pour les familles, nous privilégions des rythmes détendus, des hébergements familiaux, des activités ludiques et pédagogiques, et des transferts privés confortables. Nos guides locaux francophones savent capter l'attention des enfants avec des anecdotes adaptées à leur âge.
C'est simple. Vous échangez avec notre équipe locale pour définir vos envies, votre budget et vos dates. Vous recevez une proposition d'itinéraire détaillée sous 48 heures. Vous ajustez ensemble chaque détail jusqu'à la version parfaite. Vous confirmez et partez l'esprit tranquille. Votre agence locale reste disponible 7j/7 pendant toute la durée du voyage.
En cas d'urgence, contactez immédiatement votre agence locale.
Le paiement s'effectue généralement en deux fois.
Notre agence fait partie du réseau Nomadays, immatriculé en France. Vous bénéficiez de la garantie APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) qui couvre 100% de vos fonds. Paiement sécurisé, assurance rapatriement incluse, et assistance francophone 24h/24 sur place pendant tout votre séjour.
Let's talk about your adventure — Andean Sierra
Accomplice in Ecuadorian adventures, based in Quito
Ecuador is a country where you can shift between completely different worlds in just a few hours. It's this constant diversity—between volcanoes, forests, villages, and encounters—that still fascinates me today.
— Carole
