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HS17 Pasochoa Park (1 day -daily) Drive east towards the Chillos valley. Then we'll head south through the striking "Avenue of the Volcanoes", arriving in the park which is only 40km. South of Quito, situated in the area of the extinct Pasochoa volcano, whit its typical highland Flora and Fauna Short walk and return to Quito. HS18 Sumbahua Paramo-Quilotoa Lagoon (1day-daily) *Geographical and cultural tour. Drive south to Latacunga along the magnificent central valley which is sheltered by two parallel ranges of high mountains, many of which are volcanoes. From here we'll take old road to Zumbahua-one of Ecuador's most beautiful mountain panoramas. After lunch we'll continue towards magnificent Quilotoa, where we can observe this ancient, eroded volcanic crater, famous for the lake found within. Views of the lake and surrounding mountains are excellent when the weather is good. HS19 Cotopaxi National Park (1day-daily) *Breathtaking scenery from the world's highest active volcano. After an early morning drive east towards the Chillos Valley, we´ll head south, along the "Avenue of the Volcanoes", viewing the spectacular and breathtaking high plains surrounding the magnificent snow capped Cotopaxi, the earth's highest active volcano (19347ft/5897m), whit possibilities of seeing the Andean Condor. After lunch in the Limpiopungo valley (12540ft/3800m) we'll ascend to El Parqueadero (15180ft/4600m). from this point we'll hike for about an hour to El Refugio, the volcano's refuge lodge (15840ft/4800m). A short walk from here will take us to the nearest glacial. You'll know why we call this experience "Nature's finest thrill". Return to Quito HS20 Papallacta Hot Springs-San Rafael Waterfall (2days-daily) Drive east towards the Oriente, viewing the spectacular and breathtaking high plains. Arrive in Papallacta, a small village located in the central highlands (3200m) know for its natural hot spring where we'll be able to swim. Continue driving down the hill for about 3 ½ hours up to 2000m asl. A short walk from here will take us to admire the impressive San Rafael waterfall (150m high). Camp. After breakfast on day 2 we'll take a short walk to observe the Flora and Fauna of the cloud forest. HS21 Chimborazo volcano. Alausí-Huigra by train (2days-daily ) *Masterpiece of volcanic creation. Its summit is the sun's closest on earth. Drive south, along the "Avenue of the Volcanoes", viewing the spectacular and breathtaking high plains. On the way we'll visit the village of Guano, a well know rug and tapestry center. We'll continue to wards Riobamba and then to the Chimborazo refuge lodge (4800m). Chimborazo volcano is the highest peak of the Ecuatorial Andes. Stay Overnight in Riobamba. Early morning drive to the Indian Village of Alausi, from where we'll take a thrilling train ride to Huigra. On the way we'll take a train ride on the impressive mountain know as the Nariz del Diablo (The Devil's Nose), a sheer wall of rock, to the branch railroad station of Sibambe. Drive back from Huigra to Quito. HS22 Vilcabamba. (4days-exc Sun) Fly south to Loja. Transfer to Vilcabamba, a small town know as the "Valley of Longevity", due to the age of many of the inhabitants ( over 100 years old). During our stay we'll visit the major places of interest such as the Orquid Place. Hikes, horses rides, etc. This tour is specially designed for Nature Lovers who want to relax and contemplate nature naturally. On day four, Flay back to Quito. HS23 Mindo (3days-daily) Northwest of Quito, ranging from high agricultural moorland to subtropical and tropical forest is Mindo, land of the cock of the rocks, the toucan barbet, plate-billed mountain toucan, gold-headed quetzal, etc. During our stay we'll take walks in the could forest to admire the great diversity of plants and animal species which make this area one of Ecuador's most beautiful protected places. Last day, return to Quito. HS24 Baños (3days-daily) Drive south along the "Avenue of the volcanoes" to Baños, which is considered the most charming tow of Ecuador and its hot therapeutic springs are famous throughout the country. It is the gateway to the Amazon river basin, a land of orchids and waterfalls at the base of the Tungurahua volcano. We'll also visit the "Salasacas, a native community who specialize in textiles and tapestries. Optional bike and horse rides. |