Mini stay / English speaking guide
Region to visit : Andes
Activities to do:
Hiking – Tourism and environmental discovery
Level 
Medium * From 70 $
The Pichincha massif, located west of Quito in the Western Cordillera, is made up of several hills and two volcanoes. From oldest to most recent: Loma de las Antenas, Cúndur Guachana, Rucu Pichincha volcano, Cruz Loma, Padre Encantado, and Guagua Pichincha volcano.
We offer you this hike to climb the active Guagua Pichincha volcano (4,784 m) as well as the Rucu Pichincha volcano (4,696 m). Overlooking the city of Quito, they provide a unique panorama of the Avenue of the Volcanoes.
Program
Altitude: between 4,000 and 4,784 meters.
Adequate acclimatization in Quito or the surrounding area is recommended, as the hike takes place above 4,000 meters in a magnificent mountain landscape.
Departure from Quito early in the morning toward the village of Lloa. We will ascend to 4,000 meters. Then, an approximately 2-hour hike leads to the Pichincha refuge at 4,550 meters altitude, built by Civil Defense. We will skirt the crater until reaching the summit at 4,784 meters, from where — depending on visibility — we may observe the volcano’s constant activity and fumaroles. Magnificent view of the crater. We then continue toward Rucu Pichincha to climb its 4,696-meter summit. Picnic lunch during the hike.
Descent toward Quito’s cable car at 3,900 meters altitude on the heights above the city, where we will enjoy a beautiful view of Quito. Return to Quito in the late afternoon.
Walking time: 6 to 7 hours.
Terrain type: dirt and rocky trails 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
Private vehicle transport
Cable car
Mountain guide
Box lunch
Personal expenses
Extra drinks
Tips
Departures every day
Departures are confirmed with a minimum of 2 participants
Precautions:
Due to the terrain and altitude, as well as reduced oxygen levels, participants must report any symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, excessive sweating, vomiting, or pain in the abdomen or chest. These symptoms are related to altitude sickness, and once informed, the guide will take the necessary measures to ensure your well-being and safety.
Note:
The program may be canceled or modified if the minimum number of participants is not reached, or if weather conditions or other exceptional circumstances affect the proper operation of the trip. In the event of natural disasters, social or political issues, road closures, or other situations, we will seek an alternative solution while trying to alter the program as little as possible; otherwise, a partial refund will be issued after deducting incurred expenses.
General information and requirements:
Minimum age: 10 years
Required physical condition: Good fitness
Experience required: None
Altitude: From 3,900 to 4,784 meters
Difficulty level: Moderate
Walking time: 5 to 6 hours
Total program duration: 7 hours
Terrain type: dirt trails, volcanic dust, rock, and occasional snow
Elevation gain: 900 meters
Climate: Partly cloudy with possible isolated rain, especially between March and May. From December to January snowfall is possible; the rest of the year is drier with moderate winds.
Location: Western Cordillera
Required clothing: gloves, hat, waterproof jacket and pants, thermal layers, good hiking boots.
Recommended personal equipment: small backpack, trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen.
Fiche technique du programme
