DAY 2 – Cotopaxi and Baños

• 6:00am wake up time.
• 7:00 am hotel departure.
• Heading south towards the Cotopaxi glaciered Volcano, located along the Avenue of Volcanoes – La Cienega., a 203 mile long valley between the major cordillera ranges. Massive and standing alone, these volcanoes provide brooding, snow-covered contrast to the green equatorial lushness. We see snow-capped summits, mystical brooks and rivers, terraced farmlands, small villages and fascinating cultures.
• At 19,347 ft above sea level, and rising majestically above the Andean mountains, the Cotopaxi Mountain is Ecuador’s highest active volcano – as well as being one of the most active volcanoes anywhere in Ecuador. Here we will experince 5 climates at once; the Ice Glacier, Paramo,Andean Temperate, Cloud Forest and the Rainfores – all seasons in one day.
• We reach the Cotopaxi national Park at 15,059 ft altitude, and from there we climb up by foot to about 16,500 ft altitude reaching José Ribas refuge at the foothill of Cotopaxi snow capped glacier where we observe its marveles from close by distance.
• It is a difficult trek of a very high altitude while climbing in a cold to freezy weather, but the chance to see its summet on a clear day from such proximity is worthwhile.
• At this altitude and inside the perimeter of the park chances are to observe a plethora of wildlife that attracts the naked eye. The infamous Condor is one bird life example as well as the orange faced Falcon (Carunculated Caracara) and Andean seagull viewed at 4000m and above. The typical mammals frequenting the park are the Andean fox named Colpeo, red brocket deer, Puma, and white-tailed deer, while at a lower elevation of the paramo, chances are to see wild horses and llamas.
• Going down the Cotapaxi Volcanoe throuh its various climates and as part of our X-treme challenge adventure, we will decsend the mountain riding mountain bikes on graveled surface.
• Driving from this point it will take 3 more hours to arrive Baños – The foothill town of Tungurahua Volcano, located a short distance from Puyo – the Gateway Town to the Amazon Jungle and the provincial capital of Pastaza.
• Arriving at Baños local hostel. Trip briefing for next day. Personal jungle Gear check and pre-flight instructions.

Accomodations: Accomodations: Baños Grand Rio hostel
Included Meals: Breakfast and lunch.

***Itinerary is subject to change. Alternate itineraries may be available***