Around Otavalo
A MUST-DO VOLCANO HIKE NEAR OTAVALO
This demanding hiking itinerary is a nice introduction to the high ecological diversity of the highlands of Northern Ecuador. The beautiful Cuicocha crater lake around, summit the Fuya Fuya peak and climb Imbabura volcano, will reward your efforts with stunning and ever-changing views. Enjoy a family homestay and experience the local indigenous culture. The region of Otavalo, just 2 hours north of Quito, offers top hiking options.
Duration: 3 Days
PRICE PER PERSON IN USD 2023- $88002 Pax
- $73103 Pax
- $56204 - 06 Pax
- $48Single Supplement
OVERVIEW
- – Day 1: Hike around Cuicocha Crater lake, 3500m and overnight in Otavalo
- – Day 2: Fuya Fuya volcano hike, 4279m and family homestay in San Clemente.
- – Day 3: Imbabura Volcano Climb, 4600m and return to Quito.
GENERAL INFORMATION
A previous acclimatization to the altitude is required. We recommend at least 2 nights in Quito or similar altitude.
- Private transportation
- English speaking hiking guide
- Accommodation based on double rooms
- Meals according to the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch or box lunch, D = dinner)
- Costs guide and driver
- Permits and entrance fees
- Walking poles if required
- All measures for bio security
- First aid kit
- Beverages
- Not mentioned meals
- Single supplement
- Lodging in Quito
- Hiking equipment
- Eventually tips
- Travel insurance
FULL ITINERARY:
Hike around Cuicocha Crater Lake, 3500 m and overnight in Otavalo
A private transfer will take you to the northern part of the equator where you hike around the Cuicocha Crater lake. This is a one of the most beautiful hikes in this part of the country. This introductory hike will last 4-5 hours and allow you to appreciate the diverse surroundings of this area. Enjoy the unique flora during the hike which includes a variety of orchids and bromeliads. Overnight stay in a nice country house, Las Palmeras, a charming Hosteria close to Otavalo
4 to 5 hours walk between 3100 and 3500 meters, travel time 4 hours, sleeping altitude 2600m (L-D)
Fuya Fuya volcano climb, 4279m and family homestay in San Clemente
After an early breakfast you travel to the Mojanda Lakes at 3700m where you will be surrounded by native vegetation of the Andean grasslands, named the Páramo. Fuya Fuya has two peaks and you will summit both of them and the access depends on your hiking experience. After this hike, you travel to an indigenous community named San Clemente which is located along the slopes of Volcano Imbabura. Here, local families have opened their homes and welcome tourists; it’s an opportunity for you to share cultures with a local family. Overnight at San Clemente community.
3 to 4 hours walk between 3700 and 4279 meters, travel time 2 hours, sleeping altitude 2800m (B-L-D)
Imbabura Volcano Climb, 4600 m and return to Quito
Imbabura is a beautiful, steep volcano. After traversing the paramo vegetation and rocky terrain, you will reach the first summit. During the last hour you will hike along the edge of the crater until you reach the main summit. Today’s ascent is more demanding, generally, both physically and technically, but also offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley and lakes. The path back is the same route. After this challenging hike our transport takes us back to Quito.
8 to 10 hours hike between 3500 and 4600 meters, travel time 3.5 hours (B-L)
