Itinerary
- Day 1
Quito to Chilcapamba
Leave Quito early in the morning and drive to the trailhead at 3,000m elevation. Your hike takes you through rural farmland where you'll pass traditional Andean houses scattered across the landscape. The trail moves into the valley that runs between Sicncholagua and Pasochoa peaks, and from there you'll walk alongside waterfalls and sections of native forest. The Pita River runs through parts of this route, adding water sounds to your trek. You'll finish the day at Chilcapamba Lodge, which sits at 3,487m.
- Start point
- Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador (Hotel, 07:00 - 08:00)
- Meals
- Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Moderate uphill hike through casa de campo and Andean houses
- Hike through valley between Sicncholagua and Pasochoa Peaks
- View waterfalls and Andean Forest along Pita River
Landmarks Sicncholagua Pasochoa Pita River Cotopaxi National Park - Day 2
Pita River Canyon to Tambopaxi
Start before sunrise and take a short 20-minute drive to Pita River Canyon where the main trek begins. Your 5 to 6 hour hike moves through Andean forest and follows the Pita River downstream. Along the way you'll see geological features including ancient lava flows, remnants from Cotopaxi's volcanic past. The trek wraps up in the late afternoon when you reach Tambopaxi Lodge for the evening.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Activities
- Trek through Andean Forest (5-6 hours)
- Hike along Pita River border
- View ancient lava flows from Cotopaxi eruptions
Landmarks Pita River Canyon Cotopaxi 
- Day 3
Cotopaxi and Ruminahui to Quito
Morning brings a 4 to 5 hour hike at the base of Cotopaxi and Ruminahui mountains where the terrain features native highland plants throughout. You'll make your way to Limpiopungo Lake, a spot where Andean wildlife congregates, particularly various bird species that inhabit the area. After breaking for lunch, the return drive to Quito takes you back by late afternoon.
- End point
- Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador (Hotel)
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch
Included Activities
- 4-5 hour hike at base of Cotopaxi and Ruminahui mountains
- View native highlands flora
- Visit Limpiopungo Lake and observe Andean fauna and birds
Landmarks Cotopaxi Ruminahui Limpiopungo Lake
