REFUGIO DE VIDA SILVESTRE PASOCHOA

1 hour's drive from Quito (45 km), at the foot of the Pasochoa volcano, lies the Pasochoa protected reserve, covering almost 500 ha. Created in 1986, this reserve covering the volcano's flanks and crater is dedicated to reforestation, scientific research and the preservation of flora and fauna. Various signposted itineraries can be followed. Trails range from 900 m to several kilometers, and last from 30 minutes to 8 hours, at altitude and with a guide. These trails allow you to familiarize yourself with the local flora and discover Ecuador's exuberant nature. If you're only here for a day, you can take the shorter trails (blue, red and yellow).

If you're more experienced, you can hike to the top of the volcano, whose peak rises to 4199 m (on average, allow 9h for the round trip). A good warm-up before climbing Cotopaxi. The climb can be made from the Refugio de Vida Silvestre (the reserve's side) or from the Central Hidroeléctrica side. The latter is easier, but the scenery is less interesting. If you take the path from the refuge (first option), you quickly reach 3,950 m and the landscape becomes rocky (so be careful if you want to go all the way to the summit!). During your hike to the top of the volcano, orchids, opossums, alders, pumas and polylepis (also known as paper trees) adorn the scenery. A beautiful park!