3-Day Avenue of the Volcanoes Adventure Expedition – Immersive Andes Tour

Explore Ecuador’s Andean heart—where snowcapped peaks rise from golden páramo and turquoise crater lakes shimmer at high altitude. Inspired by Alexander von Humboldt, who first described this region as the “Avenue of the Volcanoes,” the journey reveals the landscapes that shaped his explorations. Enjoy soft adventure and culture: hike Cotopaxi’s slopes, ride horseback through wild páramo, learn ancestral weaving, explore Quilotoa, and feel the mist of Baños’ waterfalls. With handpicked stays and private guiding, this boutique expedition offers a slow, immersive experience through one of South America’s most spectacular regions.

Departure

All year round

Duration

3 days, 2 nights

Group Size

Up to 12 travelers

Travel-Style

small group adventure immersive expedition

Recommended Age

9+ years old

Adventure Pace

Moderate (tooltips: balanced pace, active but not extreme)

Included

2 nights accommodation, private transportation, guided activities, local project visits, bilingual guides, meals (tooltips: breakfasts and lunches), entrance fees, and gear for activities.

Not Included

airfare, travel insurance, dinners.

Takiri Tip

Add an extra day and visit Chimborazo volcano or hike the Pasochoa!

DAY 1 – COTOPAXI HIKE & HORSEBACK RIDING IN THE PÁRAMO

As morning light touches the Andes, you leave Quito and travel along the legendary Avenue of the Volcanoes toward Cotopaxi National Park. Crisp air and vast horizons welcome you as you hike toward the José Rivas Refuge—its rugged slopes and sweeping views revealing the raw power of this active giant. After warming up, a gentle horseback ride carries you across the páramo, where wild horses roam freely and hummingbirds flash between native shrubs. Surrounded by silence and open skies, you end the day in the Cotopaxi region for a peaceful evening in the mountains.

DAY 2 – SIGCHOS WEAVING WORKSHOP, QUILOTOA LAGOON & TRANSFER TO BAÑOS

The morning leads you through rural Sigchos, where a family weaving workshop opens its doors to share ancestral Andean techniques—hand-spun wool, natural dyes, and intricate designs passed down through generations. Continuing toward Quilotoa, you reach the edge of a breathtaking turquoise crater lake that glows beneath shifting mountain light. Enjoy the viewpoints or hike part of the rim trail before descending from the highlands into the lush valley of Baños. By evening, warm thermal waters and soft mist from nearby waterfalls invite you to unwind completely.

DAY 3 – WATERFALL ROUTE & SWING AT THE END OF THE WORLD → RETURN TO QUITO

Baños wakes to the sound of rushing rivers, the perfect backdrop for exploring the famous Waterfall Route. Walk to the roaring Pailón del Diablo, feeling the mist rise from one of Ecuador’s most powerful cascades, then continue to the Swing at the End of the World for sweeping views across deep Andean valleys and the Tungurahua Volcano. For thrill-seekers, an optional rafting upgrade on the Pastaza River adds a burst of adrenaline. After lunch, begin the scenic drive back to Quito, arriving in the early evening with the Andes still fresh in your memory.

This expedition is designed with intention: private guiding, curated cultural experiences, handpicked accommodation, and a balance of adventure and comfort. Our local expert tours create meaningful encounters with Andean communities, landscapes, and traditions, ensuring you experience Ecuador in a warm, authentic, and deeply personal way.

Is this private tour suitable for all ages?

Yes, this private experience is designed to be flexible and enjoyable for travelers of all ages. Because it’s a private tour, we tailor the pace, activities, and level of adventure to your needs, whether you’re traveling with young children or seniors. If you have specific mobility considerations or special requests, just let us know and we’ll customize the experience accordingly.

How challenging is the Cotopaxi hike?

The Cotopaxi hike is considered moderate—short but done at high altitude (around 4800 asl), which can make it feel tougher. Most travelers in good health can reach the refuge with plenty of breaks. Your guide will set a comfortable pace and monitor acclimatization.

Do you offer customized tours?

Yes, all our itineraries can be personalized up to your preferences and budget. Whether you want to upgrade your accommodations, extend your stay, or combine it with tours in Ecuador’s mainland or the Galapagos. You just need to contact us, and we’ll put together a trip for you.

What kind of boutique accommodations are used?

We use handpicked boutique lodges and haciendas known for comfort, character, and Andean charm. Expect fireplaces and scenic settings like the Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge in Cotopaxi, as well as cozy rooms and vibrant gardens like the Floresta Boutique Hotel in Baños. All properties offer warm hospitality, great food, and an authentic sense of place.

What’s the best season for visiting the Andes?

The Andes are great year-round, with the clearest, driest weather from June–September, when skies are crisp and volcano views are best. Temperatures are cool year-round—typically 45–65°F (7–18°C) depending on altitude—and nights can drop a few degrees. Light snowfall on Cotopaxi and higher peaks is most common in June–August, adding to the dramatic scenery.

What should I bring for this expedition?

Bring layered clothing for changing Andean temperatures, including a warm jacket, a raincoat, gloves, and a hat. Pack comfortable hiking shoes, a small daypack, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. For comfort, add swimwear for hot springs and any personal meds or altitude remedies.

From $ 670

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3-Day Avenue of the Volcanoes Adventure Expedition – Immersive Andes Tour

Tour Details

Itinerary