Walking Tour at Papallacta

Daily Tour

{:fr}Andes{:}{:es}Andes{:}{:gb}Andes{:} Tour Guide: Guide anglophone

Mini stay / English speaking guide
Region to visit : Andes

The hike from the highest point of this reserve, which is home to a wide variety of plant life, wildlife, and a very distinctive Andean páramo, crosses a magnificent area of mountain lakes. The day ends with an unforgettable swim in the village’s thermal waters.

Activities to do:
Hiking – Tourism and environmental discovery

Level Medium * From 65 $

Itinerary

Located 1.5 hours northeast of Quito, the village of Papallacta is renowned for its volcanic thermal waters originating from the Antisana Volcano, within the Cayambe-Coca Reserve. The hike starts from the highest point of this reserve, which is home to a wide variety of plant life, wildlife, and a very distinctive Andean páramo, and crosses a magnificent area of mountain lakes. The day ends with an unforgettable swim in the village’s thermal waters.

Program – Departure any day from the city of Quito

Departure from Quito around 7:00 a.m. towards the village of Papallacta (approx. 1.5-hour drive). Crossing the “La Virgen” mountain pass, then continuing by vehicle up to 4,000 meters to the Las Antenas sector. Start of the hike, passing several high-altitude lakes: first Sucus Lake at 4,000 m, then Parcacocha Lake at 3,950 meters (the largest lake in this reserve). From this point, the descent follows rivers and small lakes to the next reserve control point, located 5 km from the village of Papallacta. Picnic lunch during the hike. Swimming in the village’s thermal waters. Return to Quito in the late afternoon.

Hiking time: approximately 4 to 5 hours
Terrain type: dirt trails, possibly muddy
Elevation gain/loss: 750 meters

Rates

2 People	120 $ Exclusive Tour ( Without other participant)
2 People	90 $ Shared Tour (Searching others participants)
3 People	90 $ Exclusive Tour/ 80 $* Shared Tour*
4 People	65 $