Ecuador

Volcanoes and Central Andes: Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Chimborazo

Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, and Chimborazo offer three complementary experiences of the Ecuadorian Sierra. From the iconic volcano with its near-perfect lines and the lagoon nestled in the heart of a crater, to the vast mineral landscapes of the high mountains, each site offers a unique perspective on the Andes. Together, they form an itinerary defined by diverse landscapes, rugged terrain, and a gradual immersion into the power and natural beauty of Ecuador.

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Cotopaxi

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Quilotoa

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Chimborazo

Descriptions

Our other experiences in Ecuador

Our destinations

Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi is an iconic Ecuadorian stratovolcano rising to 5,897 meters, making it one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and a centerpiece of the Avenue of the Volcanoes in the central Andes. Located roughly 50 kilometers south of Quito, it is famous for its near-perfect conical shape and permanent glaciers. The surrounding national park offers gentle hikes around its base, spectacular viewpoints overlooking the cone and the Limpiopungo lagoon, and the opportunity for experienced climbers to attempt guided partial ascents. This is a must-visit destination to experience the sheer grandeur of the Ecuadorian Andes and explore its unique alpine landscapes.

Quilotoa

Quilotoa is more than just a volcano; it is a spectacular caldera holding a turquoise lagoon nestled at an altitude of nearly 3,900 meters in the Ecuadorian Andes. Formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano, this lagoon offers a striking contrast against the surrounding arid slopes. You can hike down the trail right to the water’s edge (a 45-minute to 1-hour walk), watch the lagoon’s shifting colors, or trek along the crater rim for unparalleled panoramic vistas. The surrounding region also provides a wonderful opportunity to explore authentic Andean villages and gain insight into local rural life, making this a deeply rewarding natural and cultural experience.

Chimborazo

Standing as Ecuador’s highest peak at approximately 6,263 meters, Chimborazo boasts a unique geographical distinction: its summit is the farthest point on the Earth’s surface from the center of the Earth.
This imposing, glacier-covered stratovolcano dominates the wildlife reserve of the same name near Riobamba.
The area offers panoramic treks up to alpine mountain huts, spectacular vistas over the Andes, and the chance to encounter native wildlife like vicuñas and wild horses. Even without aiming for a technical summit climb, exploring its slopes and high-altitude lakes is a powerful experience set against an almost lunar landscape.

Our other experiences in Ecuador

Ecuadorian Amazon: Yasuní, Cuyabeno

The Ecuadorian Amazon unfolds through two premier destinations: Yasuní, a global biodiversity hotspot perfect for deep immersion in primary rainforest, and Cuyabeno, renowned for its coastal lagoons and dugout canoe expeditions. Combining boat travel, short hikes, and rich tropical wildlife spotting, these reserves deliver a deeply authentic and spectacular Amazonian experience.

Cocoa farming and banana plantations

The Ecuadorian coast invites travelers into a fascinating agricultural journey centered on two of its most iconic products: cocoa and bananas. Through hands-on plantation tours, direct encounters with local farmers, and an inside look at cultivation and processing methods, these experiences provide a clear understanding of how chocolate begins and why these sectors remain vital to the region’s economy.

Eco-resorts on secluded islands, beaches, or lagoons

The coastal eco-resorts of Ecuador offer an ideal interlude between wild beaches, quiet lagoons, and gentle nature activities. A stay designed to recharge, explore preserved landscapes, and experience the Ecuadorian coast far from mass tourism.

The Galapagos Islands: navigation, marine wildlife observation

The Galapagos offer an unparalleled experience, beautifully weaving together marine wildlife encounters, island-to-island sailing, and pure relaxation by crystal-clear waters. Take time to unwind on a scenic boat deck as you cruise between volcanic shores, then slip into the ocean to track iconic Galapagos rays and marvel at the vibrant seabed. After trekking Ecuador’s high volcanoes or exploring the deep Amazon, this pristine archipelago provides you with the ultimate sanctuary to rest and recharge.

Otavalo Markets and Andean Crafts

The Otavalo market, around the Plaza de los Ponchos, offers an authentic immersion into Ecuadorian Andean life. Between wool and alpaca textiles, traditional patterns, and local crafts, the experience allows understanding the savoir-faire of the communities, learning to recognize the quality of the pieces, and discovering an essential cultural facet of the Andes.

Quito & Cuenca, colonial charm

Quito and Cuenca offer two complementary experiences of Ecuadorian heritage. Quito impresses with its listed historic center, its baroque churches, and its high-altitude panoramas, while Cuenca seduces with its calmer atmosphere, its cobblestone streets, and its colonial charm. Two ideal stages to discover the history, culture, and art of living of the Ecuadorian Andes.