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A HIKE BETWEEN
ANTIZANA-SINCHOLAGUA-COTOPAXI
Sincholagua rises on the eastern
side of this river (Rio Pita), and forms the culminating
point of a long ridge running northwards from Cotopaxi,
which dies out in the basin of Chillo, and in a manner
may be said to extend to the east and north-east until it
meets the western slopes of Antisana.
Edward Whimper, 1892.
The paramo near Antizana is more varied
than usual. Flowering PUYA plants are plentiful,
providing nectar to the many hummingbirds, and there are
even some rather subdued looking FRAILEJONES. Animals
such as the Tailed Deer, Mountain Tapir, Puma, and
Spectaled Bear have been sighted in this area. Antizana
itself is a splendid sight with its four peaks covered
with blue glaciers.
Suggested itinerary:
| Day
1. |
Departure
from Quito to the east on a road enriched by a
spectacular landscape, we will cross a 4,100 m
(13,452 ft) pass and immediately descend to
Papallacta village, where we will set up our
campsite. There will be some time to enjoy its
natural hot springs, the best in Ecuador. Dinner
will be served. |
| Day
2. |
After
breakfast we will pack our gear onto horses, then
we will head southeast following the flanks of
Rio Tambo on a boggy trail, until we arrive at
Laguna Volcan, where we will set up our campsite.
Dinner will be served. |
| Day
3. |
The
day will begin with a rather long, interesting
uphill hike, until we reach a long flat area on
the western flanks of Antizana. A wide variety of
wild flowers and plants as well as birds
including The Great Condor can be seen. Campsite
by a fresh water stream, dinner. |
| Day
4. |
Today
we will continue southeast on a gentle trail,
towards Sincholahua peak. Both Antizana and
Cotopaxi will catch our attention showing us its
best profiles. Some birds of pray as well as
large herds of sheeps will be seen. Campsite and
dinner. |
| Day
5. |
After
breakfast we break down our campsite and prepare
ourselves to hike up in the direction of the
saddle betwen Sincholagua and Cerro Chico and
immediately descend to the shores of Rio Pita,
where we will set up our campsite. |
| Day
6. |
Breakfast.
After crossing Pita River we will reach Cotopaxi
National Park, at which point we will head
soutwest to Limpios' Valley where our vehicles
will be waiting for us to take us back to Quito. |
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Trekking in Ecuador: Condor