Avenue of the Volcanoes Tour: Quilotoa, Baños and Chimborazo in 3 Days

This Avenue of the Volcanoes tour takes 3 days and 2 nights through the Quilotoa crater lake, the waterfalls of Baños and Chimborazo, the highest volcano in Ecuador. Prices start at $470 per person.

Enjoy an adrenaline-filled tour with stunning scenery on the Quilotoa, Baños, and Chimborazo Tour | 3 days and 2 nights.

This tour is perfect if you want to disconnect, breathe fresh air, and reconnect with nature, all without straying too far from Quito. It all begins in the capital, where we set off along the incredible Avenue of the Volcanoes. Along the way, you’ll feel the energy of the páramo; the combination of mountains, open skies, and wildlife make it one of the most special places in the country.

On our first day, we visited Quilotoa Lagoon, one of those places that looks like something straight out of a postcard. Walking along the rim of the crater, viewing the turquoise water from above, or even walking down to the shore is an experience that connects you with something bigger. It’s one of those landscapes you won’t forget.

Next, we continue to Banos de Agua Santa, a town full of charm and adventure. Here you can try extreme sports or simply relax in the famous hot springs while listening to the sound of the waterfalls. The baths exude a vibrant energy, with green mountains and a warm welcome.

And to top it all off, the third day takes us to the impressive Chimborazo Volcano, the closest point to the sun from the center of the Earth. It’s not only a stunning place for its height but also for the walk among vicuñas, the icy wind of the páramo, and the views that make you feel like you’re on another planet. Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast or just want to experience the grandeur of nature, this place will take your breath away.

This tour isn’t just a trip; it’s a collection of moments you’ll remember forever. Three days, three unique places, one incredible adventure through the heart of Ecuador.

Highlights

• Discover Quilotoa Lagoon, Ecuador’s most magical crater, and immerse yourself in its incomparable beauty.
• Experience the adrenaline rush or relax among the mountains in Banos, a place where nature never rests.
• Touch the sky from the point closest to the sun. Feel the immensity of Mount Chimborazo and walk among clouds, vicuñas, and otherworldly landscapes.
• We will live with local communities to learn about their way of life and traditions.

Itinerary

1. Day 1Quilotoa Lake Tour

   

   Esta aventura comienza en la comunidad indígena de Zumbahua. En el camino, visitará una casa andina tradicional, construida con materiales locales como adobe, paja y piedra. Allí, los habitantes indígenas compartirán su forma de vida ancestral, técnicas agrícolas y la cultura kichwa. A continuación, llegará a la laguna Quilotoa, una joya natural formada en un cráter volcánico. El color turquesa de sus aguas varía según la hora del día y las condiciones climáticas. Aquí, podrá descender hasta la orilla de la laguna Quilotoa para disfrutar de actividades como kayak o simplemente relajarse y contemplar el impresionante paisaje.

   Overnight: Hotel La FlorestaMeals: lunch

2. Day 2Holy Water Banos

   

   On our second day, we will start by exploring the surroundings of Baños de Agua Santa. Our first stop is the famous La Casa del Árbol, home to the iconic “Swing at the End of the World,” where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Tungurahua Volcano and the surrounding valleys. Next, we continue along the scenic Ruta de las Cascadas, which follows the Pastaza River. One of the highlights is the breathtaking Pailón del Diablo, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Ecuador. We will also visit other beautiful waterfalls such as Agoyán Waterfall and Manto de la Novia, where you can enjoy a cable car ride across the river canyon, taking in panoramic views and lush tropical landscapes.

   Overnight: Hosteria La AndaluzaMeals: breakfast, lunch

3. Day 3Chimborazo Volcano

   

   To conclude this incredible adventure, we'll visit the majestic Chimborazo volcano, the closest point on Earth to the sun, at 6,263 meters above sea level. We'll depart early for this Andean giant and, after a three-hour hike, ascend to Refuge 4845, where we'll begin an exciting climb to Refuge 5042. Along the way, we'll enjoy snow-capped landscapes and reach the mystical Laguna Cóndor Cocha, a sacred place that, according to legend, is the refuge of the Andean condor. After enjoying this unique high-altitude experience, we'll descend to share a well-deserved lunch (not included) and begin our return journey to Quito, thus concluding a trip filled with nature, culture, and adventure.

   Meals: breakfast

Prices per person