Paramo Journeys

Day 1: Quilotoa Lagoon 

Pick up: 06h45, Plaza Foch

Ever growing in popularity and understandably so, Quilotoa is a must-see when visiting Ecuador. This volcanic crater is filled with crystal-blue water and holds a special place in local indigenous mythology for being bottomless. Along the drive to reach the crater you will pass by local markets in Saquisili (Thursdays) or Pujilí (Sundays) where you will gain an appreciation for the indigenous way of life. You’ll also pass through the canyon of Zumbahua which makes for a great photo opportunity and close to there you will visit an indigenous family.
** Night in the Avenue of Volcanoes – Hostería PapaGayo

Day2: Horseback Riding

Meeting point: 09h00, Hostería PapaGayo

 Our horseback riding tour is a super way to experience the atmosphere of the Andes and gain views of the volcanoes. We offer well cared for horses which are well-trained and are ideal for novice to expert riders.

The tour begins with instruction in a safe enclosure with the help of an experienced guide, to allow riders to gain confidence with the horses. The trail begins from the Hosteria PapaGayo and heads toward the many volcanoes in the area such as Corazon and the Illinizas. From the trail you have great views of the famous Cotopaxi and Ruminahui. You can choose from a 2, 4 or 6 hour tour.

 ** Night in the Avenue of Volcanoes – Hostería PapaGayo

Day 3: Cotopaxi Biking

Cotopaxi National Park tour is an exciting day that begins with spectacular views of the unique Andean landscape in the “Avenue of the Volcanoes”. Inside the national park we hike up to the refuge which is situated at 4,810m on the Cotopaxi snowline. Depending on conditions we will then hike up to 5,000m where it can be possible to see the glacier. From there you will have spectacular views to the valley below and onto the surrounding volcanoes. After a safety briefing we commence our downhill descent on mountain bikes! There are two sections to the mountain biking, the first of which we recommend to experienced riders. The journey finishes at the beautiful lagoon at the base of Cotopaxi.

Back to Papagayo and after lunch, a transportation will pick you up and drive you to Baños.

**Night in Baños

Day 4: Baños Rafting

Soar down the Patate or Pastaza River with a combination of Class III and IV rapids. Feel the adrenaline rush as you soak your surroundings in the ecological paradise of Llaganates and Sangay National Parks. Choose from the half and full-day whitewater rafting packages we have available to suit your itinerary and experience level.