Mini stay / English speaking guide
Region to visit : Andes
Activities:
Hiking – Sightseeing and environmental discovery
Level
Moderate * From 70 $
The Guagua Pichincha, or Little Pichincha in Kichwa (4,784 m), is one of Ecuador’s eight active volcanoes. Its ascent is an excellent training hike for altitude acclimatization. Overlooking the city of Quito, the Pichincha offers not only a unique panorama of the Avenue of the Volcanoes, but also a dramatic view into its crater and fumaroles.
Program
Departure from Quito at 8:00 a.m. in a private vehicle towards the village of Lloa. We will drive up to an altitude of 4,000 meters. From there, we will begin an approximately 2-hour hike to reach the Pichincha Refuge, located at 4,550 meters above sea level and built by the Civil Defense.
Snack during the hike. We will walk along the crater until reaching the summit at 4,784 meters, from where, depending on visibility, we may observe the volcano’s permanent activity with its fumaroles. Magnificent views of the crater.
Return to Quito in the afternoon.
Hiking time: 4 hours
Type of terrain: dirt trails and rocky paths in the upper part of the volcano, with occasional snow
Customize this trip :
Let us know your desire changes and suggestions and we´ll send you a proposal
| Base 2 People | 90 $ |
| Base 3 People | 80 $ |
| Base 4 People | 70 $ |
Transportation in a private vehicle
English-speaking guide
Picnic (bottled water)
Entrance to the refuge
Personal expenses
Extra drinks
Tips
Departures every day
Departures are confirmed with a minimum of 2 participants
Precautions
Due to the type of terrain and the altitude, as well as the reduced oxygen levels, participants must inform the guide of any symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, excessive sweating, vomiting, or pain in the abdomen or chest. These symptoms are related to altitude sickness. Once informed, the guide will take the necessary measures to ensure your well-being and safety.
Note
The program may be cancelled or modified if the minimum number of participants is not reached, if weather conditions, or other exceptional circumstances affect the proper operation of the tour. In the event of a natural disaster, social or political issues, road closures, or other unforeseen situations, we will seek an alternative solution while trying to alter the program as little as possible. Otherwise, a partial refund will be issued, deducting any expenses already incurred.
General Information and Requirements
Minimum age: 10 years
Required physical condition: good physical condition
Experience required: none
Altitude: from 3,900 to 4,784 meters
Difficulty level: moderate
Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours
Total program duration: 7 hours
Type of terrain: dirt trails, volcanic ash, rock, and occasional snow
Elevation gain: 900 meters
Climate: partly cloudy with possible isolated showers, especially between March and May. From December to January, there is a possibility of snowfall. The rest of the year is drier with moderate winds
Location: Western Cordillera
Required clothing: gloves, hat, waterproof jacket and pants, thermal clothing, good hiking boots
Recommended personal equipment: small backpack, trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen